VOLUME 21 NUMBER 38
FREE
JANUARY 2, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
King Center to present forum honoring work of MLK
A
s part of the 2016 King Holiday Observance, The King Center is hosting ‘The Beloved Community Talk: The Race Factor & Rights vs. Responsibilities.’ The forum will take place on Saturday, Jan. 9, 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., in the center’s Yolanda D. King Theatre for the Performing Arts, at 449 Auburn Ave., Atlanta. The national King Holiday will be observed on Jan. 18. Bernice A. King, CEO of The King Center and youngest child of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Coretta Scott King, is encouraging the community to participate in the upcoming forum, saying it will “provide a space for having difficult, yet needed conversations, with attention to deconstructing systems and issues, not on attacking people.” In addition to Bernice King, scheduled panelists and presenters at the event include the Rev. Willie Bolden, a foot soldier who worked alongside Dr. King during the Civil Rights Movement; Arno Michaelis, a former white supremacist who now shares his reformed “Life After Hate;” Matthew Platt, assistant professor of Political Science at Atlanta’s Morehouse College; Tracie Berry-McGhee, therapist, motivational speaker, author and founder of SistaKeeper; B. Mitchell King, East Regional Manager for Georgia Power, a sponsor of the experience; Nancy Lee Grahn, actress and political activist; Aidan Thomas Hornaday, a teen speaker and musician on a mission to share the necessity and joy of giving with all ages; Brendan Lee, educator and activist for Baltimore youths; and Dave Soleil, nonviolence educator and founder of the Sudbury School of Atlanta. Seating is limited for “Beloved Community Talk.” Registration is $20 and includes lunch. To register, visit: www.bidpal.net/tkcbelovedcommunitytalk.
GPC, GSU merger to create state’s largest college Valerie J. Morgan
T
he New Year will bring a new college ready to serve Georgia—one that will be the largest in the state. Georgia Perimeter College (GPC) is slated to merge its five campuses with Georgia State University (GSU) and become an academic unit with GSU. The official unveiling ceremony will be held on Jan. 13 at 10 a.m. at GPC’s Clarkston Campus. The consolidation of GSU and GPC will make it the state’s largest higher education institution, with more than 50,000 students. GPC has 20,000 students enrolled on its five campuses and online classes. The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) Commission on Colleges approved the consolidation plans on Dec. 8 to create the combined institution. The approval represents the final step needed for the
University System Chancellor Hank Huckaby
Board of Regents to review and grant authorization for the merger of the two-year Georgia Perimeter with its 20,000 students. The board is scheduled to review the final consolidation plans at its Jan. 6 meeting. University System Chancellor Hank Huckaby said in a statement the merger is expected to enhance student success. “Georgia State is a recognized national leader in improving student success and will be able to apply its best practices to a broad student body from across the state,” said Huckaby. “Combining these attributes with Georgia Perimeter College’s leadership in provid-
Dr. Peter Lyons, GSU Mark Becker
ing access to students across the metro area presents a significant opportunity to improve student success. I thank the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges for its thoughtful assessment and approving, once again, a new University System institution.” The new Perimeter College will continue its mission of offering associate degrees, while the main campus of GSU will continue its mission as a research institution. Dr. Peter Lyons, GSU’s associate provost for institutional effectiveness and a professor of social work in
the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, will serve as the new vice provost and dean of the new Perimeter College. Lyons has spearheaded the university’s move to a single authoritative data system, redesigned the academic program review and administrative unit review processes and led the university through various accreditation-related initiatives. He was interim dean of the Byrdine F. Lewis School of Nursing and Health Professions and developed and coordinated the consolidation plan for GPC and Georgia State. “Peter is passionate about Perimeter’s mission and looks forward to working with his colleagues to make this consolidation a stunning success,” said GSU President Mark Becker. With the merger, the number of institutions in the University System of Georgia will be reduced from 30 to 29.
DeKalb Tax Commissioner Claudia Lawson honored as she retires
By Valerie J. Morgan
A
fter serving nearly four decades with DeKalb County, Claudia G. Lawson is retiring as the county’s tax commissioner. “I’m going to enjoy life. I will visit my family in Miami, travel and just take it easy,” said Lawson, who officially leaves her position on Dec. 31. Tears trickled down Lawson’s cheeks as her staff held a surprise reception for her on Dec. 29 at the Tax Commissioner’s Office. She was joined by her husband, twin daughters, son-in-law and granddaughter. The staff presented Lawson with an arrangement of red roses, a plaque honoring her service and a photo memory book capturing highlights of her career, which span 36 years with the county. “When I started my career with the county, we didn’t even have a CEO for the county. We didn’t get our first CEO until Manuel Maloof was elected (in 1984),” said Lawson. “Eugene Adams
was tax commissioner when I started.” Lawson began her career in the Tax Commissioner’s Office in the vehicle registrations division in 1979. She opened the first satellite office in 1986 at South DeKalb Mall, working her way up the ladder until she became the county’s first female and black tax commissioner in 2006 when Tax Commissioner Tom Scott died. She
was elected to the position in 2008 and re-elected for a second, four-year term in 2012. Lawson said she has seen a great transformation in the Tax Commissioner’s Office over the years and is proud to have been a part of it. “I remember when everything was See Lawson retiring page 9
PAGE 2 •JANUARY 2, 2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Cosmetic & General Dentistry Recline in Comfort & Watch TV During Your Treatment !!
Mon- Thurs 8am-5pm Every other Friday 8am-5pm
New Patients Welcome! Power Bleaching- Zoom Invisible Braces (Invisalign) Dental Implants Tooth-Colored Fillings Crown & Bridges Porcelain Veneers Low- Radiation X-Rays Amber Jenkins Dabney ,DDS
www.beautifulsmiledds.com
!
Se Habla Espanol!
8200 Mall Parkway , Suite #155 Lithonia, GA 30038 • (770) 484-4051 Shops at Turner Hill Plaza (Across from Panera Bread Company)
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com
Lithonia mayor to highlight new developments in State of City Address
GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com
JANUARY 2,2016 • PAGE 3
Lithonia leaders to be sworn in on Jan 4.
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Alaina J. Coats Chelsey Derks Amber Pittman ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com
Deborah Jackson Granite Crossing is the proposed apartment complex for low to moderate-income families that will be built at the defunct Lithonia Plaza near the Wayfield Foods grocery store in downtown Lithonia. Rendering provided by the city of Lithonia.
concerned about the project because they are apartments, fter the swearbut I think it’s going to be a ing-in ceremony, good move for the city. It’s Mayor Deborah going to change the face of Jackson will give a “State of downtown. We’re working The opinions expressed by the City” address to update with the developer to make writers and contributors are not the community on the city’s sure that it looks attractive.” necessarily those of the publisher accomplishments and projects Wendover was one of 33 or the newspaper’s advertisers. that are under way. developers selected statewide No portion of this newspaper “One of the biggest new for the low-income housmay be reproduced in any form things happening in Lithonia ing tax credits awarded by without the written permission of is the re-development of the the Georgia Department of the publisher. city-owned portion of the Li- Community Affairs. Jackson We reserve the right to reject thonia Plaza on Main Street, said 75 applicants competed material and advertisements we where there will be a housing for the tax credits and Lithodeem inappropriate. project for 75 Workforce nia was one of the areas that apartments,” said Jackson. came out on top to be selectOn Common Ground News “We’re excited about the ed. P.O. Box 904 redevelopment because it will “Lithonia was considered Lithonia, GA 30058 provide affordable housing unique because the plaza is a (678) 526-1910 for working families.” brownfield that would have People will pay no more to be restored. A drycleaner than 30 percent of their once existed on the site,” News 24/7 @ incomes for the new apartJackson said. www.ocgnews.com ments, Jackson said. The Jackson said the city’s units are meant for low-inproximity to MARTA bus come to moderate-income stops and having sidewalks earners such as teachers and also were pluses that were public safety workers, Jackconsidered for the tax credits. son said. The portion of the plaza that Wendover Housing is owned by the city is comThe Atlanta NAACP will Partners is developing the prised of about 80,000 square hold its annual Jubilee Day in apartment complex, which feet on three acres, roughly observance of the Emancipation half of the plaza, Jackson Proclamation on Friday, Jan. 1, 11 will be called Granite Crossa.m., at Jackson Memorial Baptist ing and will be comprised of said. The other half of the Church, 524 Fairburn Road, NW; one, two, and three-bedroom property is owned by Safari Atlanta, where the Rev. Gregory family apartments. Enterprises, Inc. A. Sutton is the senior pastor. “Some people were “Before construction Tyrone Brooks, former state On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties.
By Valerie J. Morgan
A
Atlanta NAACP to celebrate Jubilee Day
representative and a veteran of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), will be honored for his life of service. Brooks is currently chairman of the Moore’s Ford Bridge Movement, working to solve the ongoing mystery and brutal killings of July 25, 1946 that occurred at the Moore’s Ford Bridge in Monroe, GA. “As our country struggles with decisions that affect the rights of others around the world, we are pleased that one of our own, Tyrone Brooks, has given so much to the rights of those among us. Brooks continues to be on the battle field,” said Charles Mason, who served as the Atlanta NAACP’s chair for this year’s celebration. Atlanta NAACP President Richard Rose said the celebration is especially significant in Atlanta, the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement. “The first day of another year reminds all of us where we have come from and where we have to go. Let us come together to thank God for the NAACP and what it has meant to the African American community throughout this country and especially in Atlanta, the seat of one of the most successful African American communities in the world,” Rose said. For more information, contact the NAACP local office at 404525-0580.
begins, the building must be demolished and the environmental work must be done. I’m hoping by late spring that the construction will begin,” Jackson said. “We’ll have a new reference point, besides Wayfield Foods, once the project is completed.” Granite Crossing will be the newest housing built in the city since Terraces at Parkview, another apartment complex, was built in 2009. Jackson said she also plans to give an update on a new urban farm that is coming to the city as a partnership formed with the DeKalb Board of Health and two nonprofits: Action-Not Words, Inc. and Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture. The city and the Board of Health held a groundbreaking ceremony on Dec. 18 for the community farm, which will be located at the Lithonia City Park, near the city’s amphitheater. “The farm will connect residents with locally-grown food as well as give students at Lithonia Middle School a chance to get involved with learning to plant and grow food,” Jackson said. “We’re anticipating kicking off the farm by May or June.”
Shameka Reynolds
T
Fred Reynolds
he inauguration of Lithonia’s mayor and two City Council members will be held on Jan. 4, 6:30 p.m., Lithonia City Hall, 6920 Main St. DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Gregory A. Adams will perform the swearing-in ceremony. Mayor Deborah Jackson, and Council member Shameka Reynolds, who were re-elected to second four-year terms will be sworn in, as well as Fred Reynolds, who is serving his first year as an elected official. Fred Reynolds and incumbent Shameka Reynolds, who are cousins, emerged in November as the top vote-getters in the city’s at-large, three-way race for the two open seats on the City Council. The Rev. James C. Ward, pastor of Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church, will provide the opening prayer for the inauguration. The community is invited.
Freedom rider Hank Thomas to keynote Jubilee celebration DECATUR — Original Freedom Rider Hank Thomas will join the DeKalb NAACP in observing the 153rd anniversary of the Emancipation Proclamation. Thomas will keynote the 2016 Jubilee Day Celebration, which begins on New Year’s Day at 10 a.m. at Rainbow Park Baptist Church, 2941 Columbia Drive, Decatur. The annual celebration marks President Abraham Lincoln’s issuance of the Emancipation Proclamation in September 1862, freeing slaves in all territories that were at war with the Union. The legislation took effect on Jan. 1, 1863 and became known as Jubilee Day. The DeKalb NAACP is looking forward to welcoming Thomas. The civil rights leader was a 19-year-old student at Howard University when he participated in the Freedom Rides, which were held to desegregate public transportation in the South and test a
court case. The rides lasted from May to Nov. 1961 and included more than 400 blacks and whites who risked their lives to challenge the South’s Jim Crow segregation laws. Police in the South considered the actions of the Freedom Riders as criminal and allowed mobs to attack them before arresting them. Thomas was arrested 22 times for his active attempts at bringing equality to blacks during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The community is invited to attend the Jubilee Celebration and hear from a living legend. In addition to his work as
a Civil Rights leader, Thomas served in Viet Nam and received a Purple Heart for his service. A Marriott franchisee, Thomas has owned and operated as many as four hotels. He also has owned McDonald’s, Burger King and Dairy Queen restaurants. A resident of Atlanta, Thomas has served on the boards of the Apex Museum, the Butler Street YMCA and he is a life member of the NAACP. For more information on the Jubilee Celebration, contact Dee Smith at naacpdek@comcast.net or 404-2418006.
PAGE 4•JANUARY 2, 2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Health Insurance marketplace enrollment assistance available
Coming Up
Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2977 LaVista Road, Decatur will The DeKalb County Public Library System will hold a series of enrollment sessions for those who would like to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace. Anyone who needs assistance when shopping for health insurance for 2016 are invited to attend on Jan. 2, 7, 14, 16, 21 and 28. Interpretation services for refugees who do not speak English will be available on Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., and Saturdays, 10 a.m.—5 p.m., at Clarkston Library, 951 N. Indian Creek Drive, Clarkston during the month of January. Licensed navigators will be on site to help register and enroll refugee patrons in plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace under the Affordable Care Act. For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary.org or call 404-508-7175.
New movie series offered at DeKalb library branches
Gwinnett Braves invites you to Sunday food truck event
T
he Gwinnett Braves welcomes you to its weekly Sunday Supper Food Truck event, which will be held every Sunday through March at Coolray Field, the official home of the Gwinnett Braves, 2500 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville. The food trucks will operate from noon4 p.m. on Jan. 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31. The Braves have hosted this event during its off season since 2013. The line-up usually features about four or five food trucks such as Chay J’s New Orleans Candies, LLC, known for its award-winning gourmet pretzels and pralines; Mac the Cheese Truck, popular for its mac bowls including the BBQ Mac and the Buffalo Mac; Bull Pen Arepas, known for its overstuffed Venezuelan arepas; The Fry Guy; and Island Chef Cafe. A portion of the proceeds from the food trucks will help benefit the Atlanta Braves Foundation, a non-profit that supports community organizations and their programs within the metro-Atlanta area.
ATLANTA
Enjoy a recently-released, blockbuster movie at the DeKalb County Public Library. Check with branches for movie title or see dekalblibrary.org for the free events. Saturday, Jan. 2: 2-4 p.m., Redan-Trotti Library, 1569 Wellborn Road, Lithonia, 770-482-3821. Saturday, Jan. 9: 2-4 p.m. Stone Mountain-Sue Kellogg Library, 952 Leon Street, Stone Mountain. 770-413-2020. Friday, Jan. 15, and Saturday, Jan. 16: 2-4 p.m., Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. 770-482-3828. Saturday, Jan. 23, 2-4 p.m. Covington Library, 3500 Covington Highway, Decatur. 404-508-7180.
Dunwoody Police to hold free car seat safety class The Dunwoody Police Department is hosting a free car seat safety class on Jan. 14, 1 to 3 p.m., the department,41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 100. Families expecting a child or those who have children riding in rear-facing car seats are encouraged to attend. Certified child safety seat technicians will teach the class and topics include Georgia law for car seats, selecting the appropriate car seat for children and correct installation for rear-facing car seats. Space is limited. RSVP by Jan. 11: 678-382-6918 or at carseatcheck@ dunwoodyga.gov.
GWINNETT
Volunteers needed for MLK Day of Service
In the spirit of the MLK Day holiday, the Gwinnett Coalition for Health and Human Services, in partnership with Volunteer Gwinnett and the Gwinnett Neighborhood Leadership Institute will host the third annual Mix, mingle and enjoy an evening out with Atlanta’s Network Under 40 Martin Luther King Jr. Great Day of Service volunteer event. The Day of Service will be held Jan. 18, 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers can on Jan. 14, 6 to 9 p.m., at the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, 980 Briarcliff sign up as individuals or groups to participate. Visit the web site to register: Road, NE, Atlanta. Network under 40 is a group of motivated young professionals who want www.volunteergwinnett.net. to make smart business connections in order to become better entrepreneurs and better business leaders. The organization was started in 2011 and Poll workers needed for busy upcoming elections meets once a month at various social settings in the metro-Atlanta area. No membership is necessary to attend events. The mixer will take place on the first floor of Callanwolde Fine Arts The Gwinnett Voter Registrations and Elections Division needs dedicated citizens to serve as paid poll officials for the busy 2016 election Center. General admission is $12 and complimentary appetizers will year. Successful poll officials demonstrate patience, enjoy working with be served. There also will be a concession stand offering alcoholic and people, take direction well, possess basic computer skills, and are detailnonalcoholic beverages. Valet parking will be available for $5. oriented. Those who are interested in applying should visit www. gwinnettcountyjobs.com and select the Elections Poll Official position. DEKALB
Network Under 40 to meet at Callanwolde
Stan Watson, Admiration Lodge to host job fair Are you looking for a job? Want to start a new career this new year? DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson and Admiration Lodge #25 are presenting a Career Fair and Job Expo on Jan. 20, 1 to 5 p.m., at the Community Achievement Center, 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. Job seekers are encouraged to dress for success and prepare to meet representatives from a variety of career industries law enforcement, transportation, logistics and customer service. The event will mark the second job fair hosted by Admiration Lodge # 25 and Watson. More than 300 people are expected to attend, said the lodge’s Worshipful Master Miguel Ramos. “Over 150 job seekers showed up last year and we expect to exceed that with over 300 this year as more employers have agreed to come,” said Ramos. The job fair is free to attend. Candidates are encouraged to bring copies of their resume. Some employers will be hiring on the spot. A $50 gift card will be given to the 250th person to arrive.
iPhone, iPad and iPod basics offered at Stonecrest Library Get technologically savvy this year with your iPhone, iPad, iPod and with Apple’s iOS operating system. Cathral Jones will instruct the class on the fundamentals of iPhone, iPad, and iPod usage on Saturday, Jan. 9, 10-11:30 a.m., at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. The class, which is limited to 10 participants, is free. To register or for more information, call 770-482-3828.
Detention Pond Workshop set The Department of Water Resources will host a free detention pond maintenance workshop for residents to learn how to care for detention ponds in their neighborhoods. The workshop will be held on Thursday, Jan. 7, 6 p.m., at the Norcross Human Services Center, 5030 Georgia Belle Court. Attendees from unincorporated Gwinnett, city of Lilburn or city of Peachtree Corners may qualify for a maximum 5 percent credit on their stormwater utility fee for the following year. Space is limited. Register in advance by providing your name, address, and phone number to dwrsreggwinnettcounty.com or call 678-376-7193.
ROCKDALE
Morning Motivators to meet Jan. 20 Start your morning off with inspiration and ambition. Join the Morning Motivators twice a month as they meet to network and collaborate with other business professionals in the Conyers area. The group meets on Wednesday mornings to come up with creative ways to gain and exchange business referrals and references to help grow and strengthen their businesses. The event is free. The next meet date will be Jan. 20, 8:30-9:30 a.m., at 2375 Wall Street, Suite 140, Conyers. For more information, contact the event coordinator Scott Hartsell at 404-7546387.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
JANUARY 2, 2016 • PAGE 5
Doris K. Wells Heritage Festival set for January Rockdale employees give back through Stuff the Box campaign
County Public Library. Other programs include a celebration of Somali culture, a performance by the Atlanta Chinese Dance company and an exhibit of art objects from Oaxaca, Mexico. The Festival celebrates the rich diversity of cultures in DeKalb County and seeks to raise awareness and appreciation for that rich diversity through events featuring art, music, dance, crafts and informational programming. It began in 2014 as an expansion of ne Day in January” the Kwanzaa Awareness Festival, begun over 30 years ago by the late is a fascinating Doris Wells, DeKalb’s first Afriexhibit of black can-American librarian. The festiand white photographs taken on val was renamed in her honor this January 15, 1969 by college stuseason. dent Horace Henry in Atlanta. The Festival events in January will photos chronicle the first ceremony also include “Embrace Our World” honoring the birthday of Dr. Martin programs at the Decatur Library. Luther King, Jr., held nine months The programs in January, aimed after his death at Ebenezer Baptist at families, will focus on Japanese Church and include pictures of Dr. King’s family and important leaders culture and will include storytelling, book discussions and crafts. of the Civil Rights Movement. Funding for the series is provided The exhibit will be on display by the Decatur Craft Beer Festiall during January 2016 at the val grant and the DeKalb Library Stonecrest Library, 3123 KlondFoundation. ike Road in Lithonia. It is one of For more information about the a number of compelling programs festival, visit dekalblibrary.org or scheduled for January as the Doris pick up a program schedule at your K. Wells Heritage Festival continlocal branch. ues into the New Year at DeKalb
“O
Two home invasion suspects charged with murder
Jeffery Price
Two more men have been arrested in connection with the fatal shooting of a 23-year-old man during a home invasion that took place the day after Christmas in Decatur. Jeffery Price, 23, and Quenterius Brown, 22, were arrested by the DeKalb Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Unit and charged with murder in the Dec. 26 home invasion of two men. In addition, Brown, Jalon McNease, 17, and Octavious Johnson, 26 also were charged in the incident, said Major Steve Fore.
Quenterius Brown
Marcus Wilder, 23, was shot and killed on Dec. 26 when he walked in on intruders inside his home at the East Perimeter Pointe Apartments in the 4900 block of Treecrest Parkway, Fore said. Wilder arrived at his apartment around 8:30 a.m. He died at the scene, police said. Wilder’s roommate, Adrian Johnson, also 23, had been attacked and robbed by the armed men at about 4:30 a.m. during the invasion. Johnson went to DeKalb Medical, where he was treated for a laceration, Fore said.
Members of Rockdale County Human Resources and Prevent Child Abuse Rockdale show off some of the boxes that will be given to homeless women and children. Pictured L-R: Barry Good, Vonda Echols, Shonda Hollingsworth, Doris Patterson, Meredith Hutcheson and Tasha Henderson.
Rockdale County government employees participated in their first “Stuff the Box” initiative to close out the 2015 United Way campaign to benefit homeless women and children in Rockdale. The boxes will help about 30 homeless families during this holiday season. Along with the “Stuff the Box” effort, county officials and employees raised more than $5,000 during the 2015 United Way campaign. For nearly two weeks, the Rockdale County Human Resources Department collected shoe boxes stuffed with personal care and hy-
giene items for women and children including: tooth brushes and tooth paste; shampoo and conditioner; soap; combs and brushes; socks; deodorant; rain ponchos; activity books and crayons; and toys and games. “This was a 10-day effort culminating in the bulk of donations given to Prevent Child Abuse Rockdale, and the remaining balance to Rockdale Emergency Relief,” Rockdale HR Deputy Director Doris Patterson said. “The response was overwhelmingly positive from various different departments in the County.”
PAGE 6 •JANUARY 2, 2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Davis Middle School students to showcase art work at Georgia Capitol By Chelsey Derks
CONYERS—Two Davis Middle School students have been selected to showcase their art in the 2016 Capitol Art Exhibit – the premier event of Youth Art Month. Jasmine Patrick, a seventh grade student, and Emma Mosley, a sixth grader, were both selected to be featured in the event co-sponsored by the Georgia Art Education Association (GAEA) and the Secretary of State’s Office. The event is the largest student display in the state and aims to highlight the creative ability of Georgia’s scholars, making it a perfect fit for Patrick and Mosley. Mosley, who is multi-talented in the arts, drew inspiration from her music skills. The middle schooler, who plays saxophone, used acrylic paints to capture the instrument. She was thrilled when she heard she was being recognized in the showcase. “Art is my passion and the Capitol Art Exhibit is an honor,” she said. “My sister actually had her work displayed the last two years so I am following in her artistic footsteps.” Patrick agrees. The mixed-media artist used colored pencils and acrylics to create a vibrant peacock that reminded her of a similar piece she saw at the High Museum of Arts. “I felt very proud of myself for achieving such a big accomplishment and I also was very thankful to be at a high level at such a young age,” she said.
Jasmine Patricker, a Rockdale County 7th grader who created this mixed media piece, was influenced by a work of art she saw at the High Museum.
The Capitol Art Exhibit marks just one accomplishment Patrick is honored for this year. She’s also one of 10 students across the entire state selected to participate in the Artist in Residence program on Feb. 10. It’s a fairly new part of the art exhibit that allows students to work in their chosen media, acrylic paint in Patrick’s case, as legislators and guests view the artwork during the opening reception. GAEA’s Capitol Art Exhibit Chairs received a record number of nominations for the program this year and considered cre-
ativity, subject matter, control of the medium used, and overall esthetics during the selection process. Patrick impressed the judges with her artist statement that read, “Art to me is a creative way to express how you feel and how YOU change the world.” “I found out about the Artist in Residence program when my teacher asked me if I would like to participate,” Patrick said. “When she asked me, I felt like I was honored with such an amazing opportunity and I also felt very confident because I had family and friends by my side to
Emma Mosley, who is in sixth grade, used her saxophone to inspire her to create this painting.
support me.” Patrick’s mother, Rasheed, is elated to support her daughter. She believes these programs are about more than art. “It promotes the skills needed for all students to be successful,” Rasheed Patrick said. “I feel it will contribute to their academic achievement and student success.” The girls’ Visual Arts Instructor, Kathleen King, shares the sentiment. She was selected to have her art in the Capitol Art Exhibit when she was a student
in DeKalb County Schools nearly 24 years ago. During her 17 years of teaching, she has encouraged many students to participate in the prestigious event. “Programs like this allow the children to have memorable experiences in the arts,” King said. “It helps to shape them as art advocates and allows the public to see the creativity of our kids. My students are able to develop and foster an appreciation for all the arts and know that the arts connect us all.” King also attributes student success to the supportive school system and administrative staff at Davis Middle School. The school has transformed into a fine arts specialty school, The DMS Academy of Performing and Visual Arts. The school gives children the chance to explore and flourish in dance, theatre, strings, visual arts, digital arts, choral and band. King believes they’re acknowledging the importance of fostering a child’s creative side. Both girls say they recognize the importance of the arts already. “It allows you to express yourself in your own way and no one else can say anything is wrong about it because it’s only YOUR opinion that matters in art,” Patrick said. The Capitol Art Exhibit will be held from Jan. 25 until Feb. 19 in the lobby of the Floyd Twin Towers across from the Capitol. A reception will be held Feb. 10, 4 to 5:30 p.m.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
People
TO CONTACT US
BY PHONE: 678-526-1910 BY FAX: 678-526-1909 BY E-MAIL: EDITOR@OCGNEWS.COM VISIT ONLINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
JANUARY 2, 2016 • PAGE 7
Movers & Shakers in the Community
Kanika Greenlee appointed new Keep Atlanta Beautiful Executive Director
Kanika Greenlee
A
tlanta Mayor Kasim Reed announced that Kanika Greenlee will serve as the new executive director for Keep Atlanta Beautiful, an entity which partners with government, private industry and local community groups to empower residents to
sustain cleaner and greener environments in Atlanta. In this new role, Greenlee will collaborate with community partners to develop programs to increase recycling, as well as encourage residents to embrace the Adopt-A-Spot Litter Reduction Program and participate in city beautification projects. Legislation was recently passed to place Keep Atlanta Beautiful under the Department of Public Works’ purview and Greenlee will report directly to Public Works Commissioner Richard Mendoza. As an Atlanta native, Greenlee has worked in government and the
Advertise in the Marketplace. Call On Common Ground News 678-526-1910 Visit ocgnews.com
Stress or Physical Pain?
At Full Body Rejuvenation Center our staff offers the most effective quality health care to satisfy every individual's personal needs. Our combination of chiropractic therapy and physiotherapy allow us to focus on the physiological, as well as the biomechanical aspects of the body. Dr. Smith encourages you to come in and begin your healthy approach to pain management, weight loss or stress relief!
Chiropractic Treatment Physiotherapy Your path to Natural Health Bring in this ad and receive a
complementary chiropractic consultation
FULL BODY REJUVENATION CENTER 3636 Panola Rd, Ste B
MOST MAJOR INSURANCES AND OBAMA CARE ACCEPTED!
Lithonia, GA 30038
nonprofit sector for more than 15 years. She previously served as the Director of Programs and Development at the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation where she managed and developed statewide programs for the organization’s 78 local affiliates on litter prevention, waste reduction, water resource management, recycling and gardening. “Kanika Greenlee has more than a decade of experience in strategically identifying solutions which result in communities becoming cleaner and greener,” said Mayor Reed. “I look forward to what Ms. Greenlee can accomplish in this
dedicated role, where she can focus on building and sustaining more beautiful communities throughout Atlanta.” “It is an honor to join Mayor Kasim Reed’s administration to inspire and educate Atlantans to take actions every day to improve and beautify their communities,” said Greenlee. “We envision an Atlanta where every neighborhood is clean, green and a beautiful place to live. I look forward to working with community partners to get residents engaged in making a difference.” Greenlee is a graduate of Clark Atlanta University.
PAGE 8 •JANUARY 2, 2016
DDS releases updated 2016 Parent/ Teen Driving Guide An updated version of the Department of Driver Services (DDS) Parent Teen Driving Guide will be available online at www.dds.ga.gov and at licensing centers statewide beginning this January. The award-winning publication, along with its digital version, partners with AAA the Auto Club Group as a sponsor to ensure that the publication remains a valuable and costfree resource for parents and teens. The public/private partnership with AAA greatly enhances efforts to keep Georgia’s roads safer by educating teen drivers and by allowing DDS to utilize the cost savings for other important driver services programs. “AAA is a great corporate partner with a proven history of commitment to highway safety including the importance of training teen drivers,” said DDS Commissioner Rob Mikell. “With the help of sponsor funds, DDS is able to incorporate the latest research and technology into this tool which satisfies Georgia’s six-hour-mandatory behind-the-wheel instruction.” The Parent/Teen Driving Guide is powered by the Layar application technology. This free, mobile app
gives additional digital content that readers can engage by using smartphones or tablets. It contains live hyperlinks to expand content and further enhance the user experience. The guide also utilizes QR Code technology throughout the publication to provide additional resources and videos for customers. The online companion version is fully searchable, includes live hyperlinks to expanded content, ability to email particular pages and one click printing. The interactive component engages teens who are technologically savvy. All customers are urged to visit the DDS website at www.dds.ga.gov for information about online licensing and reinstatement services. It is important to plan ahead before visiting the DDS by completing and submitting the necessary Application to DDS before arriving https:// online.dds.ga.gov/onlineservices/ preapply/login.aspx. In addition, customers may print a detailed list of all mandatory requirements to prove identity, residency and Social Security Number http://www.dds. ga.gov/SecureID/default.aspx.
Like Us On Facebook: WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
New grant to target Teen Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program Driver education for high school students has received a boost by way of a $47,000 grant from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety (GOHS). Department of Driver Services (DDS) Commissioner Rob Mikell said the grant award will be used to fund one staff member who will provide direct support to more than 1,000 driver education instructors throughout the state who are over the Georgia Alcohol and Drug Awareness Program (ADAP). The course is designed to increase awareness among teens of the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol while operating a motor vehicle. “We are grateful for the help and support received from GOHS to address the risks associated with operat-
ing a motor vehicle while impaired,” said Mikell. “This partnership allows us to bring this important program to teen drivers throughout the state and ultimately make our roads safer.” By law, teens under the age of 18 are required to complete ADAP in order to obtain their Class D Georgia driver’s license. Last year, 136,718 students completed ADAP at their high school, as part of a driver training course. An additional 14, 189 took it online using eADAP. DDS also offers a free online ADAP component for parents. For more information on teen driving requirements, visit www.dds. ga.gov or for driving safety information, visit www.georgiahighwaysafety. org.
Braces for Children & Adults • Free Consultation
• Low Monthly Payments Starting at $89 • Metal and Clear Braces for Children & Adults • Invisalign Certified • Saturday Appointments Available Upon Request
770-482-7400 8200 Mall Parkway, Suite B 200, Lithonia, GA 30038 M-F 8:30am to 5:30 • www.Lithoniabraces.com
Dr. Jamal A. Duval, DDS, MS
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
JANUARY 2,2016 • PAGE 9
Atlanta officials urges resident to recycle class at city-supported facility
Lawson retiring continued from page 1
In response to local recycling companies increasingly rejecting glass materials for recycling, Atlanta City Councilmember Carla Smith is encouraging city residents to take their glass items to The Center for Hard to Recycle Materials (CHaRM), a city-supported recycling facility located at 1110 Hill Street, S.E. CHaRM is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. until 4 p.m., and on Saturdays, 8 a.m. until 4 p.m., except holidays. The facilty accepts glass bottles and food grade glass jars. The drop-off facility has an easilty accessible location and it accepts a wider range of items than typical curbside recycling, Smith said. The facility was created through legislation drafted by Councilmember Smith and her colleague, Alex Wan. “It’s important that we do our part to free our landfills of non-biodegradable waste,” Smith said. “A growing number of recyclers in metro Atlanta are refusing to recycle glass to cut costs and opting to take the material to local landfills and that’s greatly disappointing.” “Strategic Materials, located in southwest Atlanta is our processor (http:// www.strategicmaterials.com/) is happy to support CHaRM,” said Peggy Whitlow Ratcliffe, CHaRM’s executive director. “We are already bringing additional containers to the center to receive Atlanta’s glass recyclables.” According to their website Strategic Materials processes glass into clean, manufacturable product. A complete list of the items (including glass bottles and food grade glass jars) that CHaRM accepts can be found at http://livethrive.org/charm/items-accepted/ For more information about ChaRM, visit http://livethrive.org/charm/
Educate Georgia Summit set at the State Capitol State Rep. Valencia Stovall (D-Lake City) will host the Educate Georgia Summit Monday, Jan. 25, and Tuesday, Jan. 26, at the State Capitol. During this two-day education summit, state officials, educators, parents, business and community leaders will converge on Capitol Hill to discuss the future of education in Georgia. The summit will also feature the State of Education Luncheon with keynote addresses from Gov. Nathan Deal and State Superintendent Richard Woods. “The future of education in our state has been top of mind for many stakeholders, and our goal is to offer a platform for productive conversations on how we address today’s challenges and unlock new ideas for the future,” said
Rep. Stovall. This free summit will include interactive working groups on topics such as Quality Basic Education Funding and College and Career Readiness. Attendees will also participate in “lunch and learn” sessions and have the opportunity to attend the complimentary State of Education Luncheon to hear from a panel of experts on changes in education in Georgia and across the country. Introductory sponsors include: American Federation for Children, Chick-fil-A Foundation, McGuire Woods, The Mabra Firm, Educators First, Georgia Restaurants Association, and Graduation Achievement Charter High School.
on paper. We had typists who typed up the applications. It was very antiquated. If anything was misfiled, there was heaven to pay,” Lawson said. “We went to a computerized system in the 1980s and things were so much better.” Under Lawson’s leadership, DeKalb’s tax office became the first in the state to implement an imaging system for property tax and motor
vehicle records. Permanent records also were stored by computer. Lawson was recognized by the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners at its Dec. 15 meeting, the board’s final meeting for 2015. Members of the board praised her for her years of service. Lawson said Irvin J. Johnson, chief deputy tax commissioner, has been sworn in as her successor.
PAGE 10•JANUARY 2, 2016
Business News
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
SBA’s My Brother’s Keeper video series inspires young entrepreneurs
T
he U.S. Small Business Administration’s My Brother’s Keeper Initiative has unveiled a new video series featuring six successful millennial entrepreneurs. Hosted by Mike Muse, the SBA MBK Millennial Entrepreneur Champion., the six-part video series, “ Biz My Way,” highlights millennial entrepreneurs in professions ranging from technology to fashion and music. The series features digital innovator Reggie Miller; technology investor Jason Mowatt; celebrity trainer Ehinomen “Hollywood Hino” Ehikhamenor; Being Latino founder Lance Rios; Chef Maxcel Hardy; and Beyoncé’s stylist and designer, Ty Hunter, who launched the series in November. My Brother’s Keeper is President’s Obama’s initiative to empower young people, particularly young men of color, to improve their life outcomes and overcome barriers to success. The MBK Millennial Entrepreneurs Champion initiative formally began in June 2015, when SBA Administrator Maria Contreras-Sweet charged Mike Muse with establishing partnerships and joint collaborations with American com-
panies that would elevate awareness around entrepreneurship. Additionally, he was tasked with developing programming to unite millennials with industry experts in an effort to help shift various lifestyle categories of business in a more inclusive direction. In the documentary style videos, each entrepreneur reveals their paths to entrepreneurship. In the first video, Ty Hunter revealed his transition from working in the healthcare industry to fashion. Hunter speaks candidly about his personal brand, his successes, his fears and his work with Beyoncé. https://youtu.be/oLK3A_UX85A Upcoming MBK videos include: Ehinomen Ehikhamenor – Released Dec. 17 Ehinomen Ehikhamenor, known as “Hollywood Hino” is a Nigerian-born former professional boxer and personal trainer to a star-studded roster of athletes and recording artists. He shares his story about bypassing standard career options (doctor, lawyer, engineer) and a life-changing decision that led to a pursuit beyond the ring. https://youtu.be/EYyA27oXHDA
6
Lance Rios - Release date Jan.
Lance Rios is the founder of Being Latino, a leading Hispanic social media marketing firm and who Forbes called “one of the Latino sphere’s most interesting innovators.” Rios shares how his knowledge of the bilingual, bicultural Latino population in the United States propelled him to start Being Latino - a passion project that ultimately turned into a full-fledged multi-million dollar company. Reggie Miller - Release date Jan. 13 Reggie Miller is founder of Iced Media and leads digital, social and mobile strategies for some of the industry’s most trusted brands and Fortune 500 companies. He reveals his secrets for creating a successful digital marketing firm. Maxcel Hardy - Release date Jan. 20 Maxcel Hardy is a private chef, author and philanthropist who went from NBA hopeful to cooking for NBA players and the private aviation industry. Chef Max proves the recipe for success is part passion with a dash of belief and persistence.
Jason Mowatt - Release date late January Jason Mowatt is a millennial venture capitalist and former investor in the successful Trillectro music festival. His backing, coupled with his passion for technology and social media, helped position Trillectro as Washington, D.C.’s first music festival to bridge hip-hop, electronic, R&B and indie rock. The “Biz My Way” video series is available on SBA.gov and www. BizMyWay.com, a multi-media, socially enabled, digital content platform that allows users to follow the day-to-day journey of Mike Muse and the initiative. About the MBK Millennial Entrepreneur Champion On June 19, 2015, Mike Muse was appointed as the SBA My Brother’s Keeper Millennial Entrepreneur Champion. Together, with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Muse will provide education, exposure, support, and coaching to help entrepreneurs create businesses that benefit themselves and enrich their communities.
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
JANUARY 2, 2016 • PAGE 11
CLASSIFIEDS SERVICE Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs. A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters. Call for free estimates at 404-281-6503. UCP Tours, weekly casino trips, $35 every Monday, senior day at the creek 50 or older. $15 free play/food $10 for play reservation 404-9833597.
MINI MALL 7173 Covington Hwy, Lithonia, GA 30058
ALL EVENT FACILITY
• Parties
• Church Meetings
• Seminars • Business Meetings • Wedding • Graduation Parties
Free Banquet Hall! Monday-Thursday only Community Events, Non-Profit, For Profit Events.
A$20 -$125 per hourA
Hair Salon
MINI MALL Booth Rental $50 1st Month
A $500 MOVES YOU IN A 678-755-5955
A Sisterlocks explosion happening in tucker & surrounding areas!!! Call Brenda (certified) for a free consultation: 770-725-0024.
CALL TODAY!
Exp 1-31-16
On Common Ground News Marketplace DEKALB COUNTY
INTERIOR DESIGN
RESTAURANTS
770-484-3355 2910 EVANS MILL ROAD, LITHONIA, GA
WEEKLY LUNCH SPECIAL
DECORATING DEN INTERIORS
FULTON COUNTY
GWINNETT COUNTY
CATERING
BEAUTY SUPPLIES
INSURANCE
ROCKDALE COUNTY
®
BARBARA ELLIOTT & JENNIFER WARD WOODS 917 Main Street, Stone Mountain GA
(770) 498-7780 • www.decdens.com/belliott
PHOTOGRAPHY
BEAUTY SALONS
ACCOUNTING
REAL ESTATE
Visit these advertisers @ OCGNEWS.COM Want to spotlight your business? 678-526-1910
PAGE 12 •JANUARY 2, 2016
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM