VOLUME 22 NUMBER 42
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JANUARY 28, 2017
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Deal announces opening of new I-75 South Metro express lanes
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he new I-75 South Metro express lanes will officially open to motorists on Saturday, Jan. 28. The reversible, barrier-separated lanes along I-75 South and I-675 South in Henry and Clayton counties will be toll-free the first 14 days for motorists with a Peach Pass. Gov. Nathan Deal said the freebies for Peach Pass holders is being provided to encourage commuters to utilize the express lanes. “The I-75 South Metro express lanes will provide much-needed congestion relief for motorists who commute through one of Metro Atlanta’s most heavily-traveled corridors,” said Deal who announced the opening along withState Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) Executive Director Chris Tomlinson and Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) Commissioner Russell McMurry. Said Deal: “This is the first of several express lane projects under construction or design for the next decade, and these investments will significantly improve the transpor-
tation network for Georgians. I look forward to working with SRTA and GDOT to make the commute of our citizens quicker and safer while reinforcing our position as the No. 1 state in which to do business.” The I-75 South Metro express lanes include approximately 12 miles of added capacity, with reversible lanes extending from SR 155/McDonough Road to SR 138/Stockbridge Highway. The two lanes are barrier-separated from the general purpose lanes and will ease congestion to and from Atlanta during the heaviest traffic hours. “This weekend, motorists in the corridor will have their first chance to try the brand new Express Lanes, and we hope that many will use this as an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the system,” said McMurry. “We know that it may take some time for motorists to try this mobility option but we also know that there will be early adopters and an immediate benefit to Xpress Bus riders. Georgia has more Express Lanes under development across the metro area to help provide consistent
travel choices for those who chose to use them. It is very exciting to have the I-75 South Metro system opening this weekend.” The toll rates for the I-75 South Metro express lanes are set by the SRTA Board and will range from $0.10 to $0.90 per mile, with a minimum toll charge of no less than $0.50 per trip. Toll prices automatically adjust based on demand and traffic conditions in the corridor in order to maintain free-flow travel trips through the lanes. “The dynamic pricing model has proven to be an effective method of making sure that the lanes perform at the level customers expect,” said Tomlinson. “The toll prices will help to ensure that the customers who choose the Express Lanes will have a reliable trip option when they need
it to get where they need to go on time.” Vehicles with no more than two axles or up to six wheels may use the express lanes with a valid Peach Pass or a pre-paid toll account in Florida or North Carolina. Public transit buses, registered vanpools and emergency response vehicles may use the lanes toll-free with a valid Peach Pass. All other vehicles, including motorcycles and electric vehicles, are required to pay a toll to use the express lanes. To open a Peach Pass account, visit SRTA’s website at PeachPass. com. Peach Pass accounts may also be opened in person at the Department of Driver Services Customer Service Center in Locust Grove or the SRTA offices at 47 Trinity Ave. S.W., Atlanta.
Rep. Hank Johnson secures ranking DeKalb commissionmembership of Transportation & ers approve funding for Old General Motors Infrastructure subcommittee jurisdiction over agencies and Transit, which has responsibility Plant redevelopment programs promoting economic for the development of national
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ongressman Hank Johnson, who represents Georgia’s Fourth District, announced Jan. 24 that his appointment on the powerful House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) has resulted in a leadership role. Johnson was unanimously voted by his colleagues to be the leading Democrat on the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management, which conducts oversight of programs addressing federal management of emergencies and natural disasters –including oversight of Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – and some aspects of Homeland Security. The subcommittee also has
development in communities suffering economic distress and has jurisdiction over public buildings, federal real estate programs and the Public Buildings Service (PBS) of the General Services Administration (GSA), which is the civilian landlord of the federal government. “Being a member of T&I and these important subcommittees is going to better position me to advocate for the good people of the Fourth District and Georgia to help bring economic development and transportation infrastructure projects to our state and region,” said Johnson. “Having a seat at the leadership table will allow me to be the voice in Washington for the world’s busiest airport, MARTA and the economic and infrastructure development needs for our great state and the entire Southeast.” Johnson is now the only Democrat from Georgia on the committee. Johnson’s other subcommittee assignments include the Subcommittee on Highways and
surface transportation policy, including policies related to the construction and improvement of highway and transit facilities, of safety and research programs, and regulation of commercial motor vehicle operations. Within this scope of responsibilities, the Subcommittee has jurisdiction over many U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) programs and modal administrations. As a member of the Subcommittee on Aviation, Johnson will help oversee all aspects of civil aviation, including safety, infrastructure, labor, commerce, and international issues. All programs of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), except for research activities, are within the purview of the Subcommittee. The Aviation Subcommittee is also traditionally the lead subcommittee with jurisdiction over the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), the federal agency responsible for investigating civil aviation accidents and other transportation accidents.
The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously Jan. 24 to approve a plan to assist in the redevelopment of the former General Motors plant in Doraville. Under the terms of an intergovernmental agreement with the city of Doraville, DeKalb County would allocate up to $180 million in infrastructure improvements including roads and utilities. The funding would come from the anticipated tax revenue in a tax allocation district (TAD), which encompasses the former automobile production facility, which closed in 2008. “I want to express the full and complete support by the administration for the acceptance of this intergovernmental agreement between Doraville and the county,” said DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond. “We believe that the Assembly project is one that will have a tremendously positive impact, not just in DeKalb County, but throughout the metro Atlanta region.” Projects to be funded by DeKalb County’s TAD funding include a covered street to the Doraville MARTA station, $58.3 million; streets and utilities, $33 million; 1,500 public parking spaces, $30 million; grading and water detention, $17 million; campus square, $15.3 million; concrete demolition and foundation removal, $6.9 million; West Avenue, $5.1 million; engineering and design fees, $4.4 million; remediation, $4 million; previously completed work, $2.9 million; park furnishings and amenities, $2 million; and fees, $1.5 million.
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“Brazen” thief targets lunch and dinner patrons in Conyers CONYERS—He looks like a businessman. But Conyers police say don’t be fooled by the shirt and tie. That’s just part of his MO. The dressed-up suspect has been breaking into parked vehicles right in the open. He hit several vehicles at Longhorn steakhouse in Conyers during lunch and dinner between Jan. 5-16. “He’s very brazen. He set the alarm off in one vehicle and that didn’t stop him. He continued going through the belongings inside,” said Conyers Police Sgt. Kim Lucas, who said police are examining video surveillance from the restaurant showing the suspect. Lucas said the suspect has taken electronics and firearms left inside the vehicles he has burglarized. “He uses some kind of punching device so no windows are shattered. Some of the victims don’t even realize their cars have been broken into until after they drive off and spot things missing,” Lucas said. “He parks and then he just goes about breaking into cars while the patrons are inside eating.” The thief is described as a black male, medium to heavy set, pear shaped, low Afro, goatee, wearing a shirt and tie. He is driving a clean gray/silver 2010-2012 Volkswagen CC
or Passat CC. A $4,000 reward is being offered for tips leading to the suspect’s arrest. Any information should be sent to Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta. The tipster will remain anonymous. For more information, call: 404-577-TIPS. To see a video of the actual incidents, go to YouTube: https://youtu.be/flhwg1IQzvM.
DeKalb sells surplus airport property to Brookhaven for greenspace DeKalb County commissioners unanimously approved to sell a 33-acre surplus airport tract to Brookhaven for nearly $6 million at the board’s Jan. 24 meeting. “It is a reflection of our collaboration with Brookhaven to give them something that they needed and give us the opportunity to release the latent value of the property to fund other improvements,” said Commissioner Jeff Rader, whose district contains the property. Approximately seven years ago, the Peachtree DeKalb Airport decommissioned a runway that only was being used for less than half of a percentage of the airports flights. Airport and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) officials decided that the cost to maintain the runway was too much for that volume. On that property, hangars were installed to generate more income and accommodate additional aircraft. As a result of the runway’s decommission, a 33-acre wooded tract, located at 2951 Skyland Drive, became surplus property. FAA regulations require that when airport property becomes surplus, it is to be sold at fair market value and the proceeds be returned to the airport’s enterprise fund.
Lithonia daycare provider sentenced to prison for critically injuring baby A former Lithonia daycare provider accused of critically injuring a child in her care has been sentenced to 15 years behind bars following her conviction by jury trial. Jurors returned guilty verdicts against 59-year-old Evelyn Bruce-Mighty, owner of Angela’s Little Daycare in Lithonia, on charges of aggravated battery and two counts of cruelty to children in the first degree last Friday. On May 16, 2014, a 16-month old boy was rushed from BruceMighty’s daycare center to the hospital after suffering an unexplained trauma to his head. The victim underwent emergency brain surgery and was comatose for more than a month. Though the exact cause of the child’s injuries are still unknown, medical experts testified they were consistent with abusive head trauma often associated with falls from great heights and shaken baby syndrome. The victim, now 4 years old, survived his injuries but still suffers
Evelyn Bruce-Mighty
from related medical issues. DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Asha Jackson sentenced Bruce-Mighty to 30 years to serve 15, with the balance on probation. The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorneys Oto Ekpo and Mirna Andrews assigned to the Crimes Against Children Unit, with assistance from DA Investigator Tina Fleming. Detective J. Menefee of the DeKalb County Police Department led the initial investigation.
City officials in Brookhaven expressed interest in the property being preserved for greenspace and agreed to purchase it at the appraised value of $5.7 million. “The City of Brookhaven is fulfilling its promise to keep Brookhaven green and vibrant,” said Mayor John Ernst. “At 33 acres, this purchase represents one of the largest continuous green space acquisitions inside the Perimeter. Our thanks to Jeff Radar and all the commissioners, CEO Mike Thurmond and staff at DeKalb County for the ability to preserve this gem in our city for current residents and for future generations.” Brookhaven officials have agreed to deed restrictions that would maintain the property in perpetual use as greenspace. Additionally, residents of unincorporated DeKalb County will have the same level and cost of access to the property as Brookhaven residents. “This is an example of how we have cooperated with one of our cities to increase greenspace in the county and provided them that opportunity at a very reasonable cost,” Rader said. “We have also been able to provide another $5.7 million for improvements to our airport facility. So it’s a win-win for both sides.”
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Coming Up
GWINNETT
Compiled by Mackenzie N. Morgan.
Snellville writer’s group helps budding writers Join the Centerville Writer’s Group, Thursday, Feb. 2, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Centerville Community Center, 3025 Bethany Church Road, Snellville. Receive structured feedback in a critique format. All genres are welcome and there is no pre-registration required. The cost is $1 per person per meeting (in exact cash, no coins). Free for first time visitors only. Please email the group coordinator at cammie927@ yahoo.com for more class information.
Story time at Bethesda pool set for Feb. 3
ATLANTA
Atlanta Street car offers guests free rides Re-discover Atlanta and ride the Atlanta streetcar free of charge Tuesday, Jan. 31, 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Celebrate and explore some of Atlanta’s most vibrant urban neighborhoods. Take a selfie on the Jackson Street Bridge or take a stroll through the Martin Luther King, Jr. Historic district. The free fare program runs monthly on the last Tuesday of each. For more information, visit streetcar.atlantaga.gov.
Interfaith community to celebrate faiths The Annual World Religion Day celebration is set for Saturday, Feb. 18, 2 p.m., at the Dunwoody Public Library, 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Rd., Dunwoody. Since 2011, the city of Dunwoody Baha’i community, with the participation of many great friends in the interfaith community, gather to celebrate each other’s faiths and religious and spiritual traditions. Each community will present a form of art and/or a description/vignette of their respective faith. For more information, call (770) 512-4640.
Peacebuilders camp seeks summer counselors Peacebuilders Camp at Koinonia Farm is seeking counselors for its summer camp. Peacebuilders is an overnight summer camp in rural South Georgia where youths ages 11 to 14 spend a week together learning how to work toward peace and justice. If you are seeking a way to build a society with more generosity, caring, and kindness then you should apply to be a counselor at Peacebuilders Camp this summer. Apply by March 1, send a cover letter and resume to For more information, visit www.peacebuilderscamp.org .DEKALB
DeKalb Board of Health offers free Rapid HIV Testing The DeKalb County Board of Health is offering free and confidential Rapid HIV Oraquick testing, with same-day results. No registration required. Wednesday, Feb. 8 and 22: 1 to 5 p.m. Clarkston Library, 951 N. Indian Creek Drive, Clarkston. 404-508-7175. Monday, Feb. 27, 1 to 5 p.m., Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore Street, Decatur. 404-370-3070.
Senior spa day set at Scott Candler Library Celebrate Valentine’s Day early and enjoy a relaxing mini massage by a licensed massage therapist Wednesday, Feb. 8, 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Scott Candler Library, 1917 Candler Road, Decatur. The program is open to first 15 participants. To register, please visit the branch or call 404-286-6986.
Join the Bethesda Park Aquatic Center for story time at the pool on Friday, Feb. 3, 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville. Families are invited to enjoy story time at the pool featuring the popular children’s book “Swimmy” by Leo Lionni. Children are welcome to swim and engage in activities based on the book. All pool rules apply. All ages are welcome, however pre-registration is required. The cost is $6 per person for Gwinnett residents (children under age 3 are free). Call 678-277-0880.
ROCKDALE
“Love Framed in Black and White” to be presented at Nancy Guinn Library The Nancy Guinn Memorial Library will host a free program on Saturday, Feb. 4, 2 to 4 p.m., 864 Greet St., Conyers. Paula Wright will present a powerful story of love, race, and courage entitled, “Love Framed in Black and White.” Wright, a seventh-generation member of the Ramey family, will share how her inheritance of a treasure of family photos led to the discovery of a forbidden love story between a young white confederate soldier and a slave girl not owned by his family. It is a story that reveals the true meaning of courage and the power of love against almost insurmountable odds. All ages are welcome. To RSVP, register with the Adult Services Department by calling (770) 388-5040.
Discover Point Church to host free sign language classes Enjoy a fun evening of learning American Sign Language on Tuesday, Jan. 31, 7 to 8 p.m., at Discover Point Church, 1605 Highway 138 SW, Conyers. Classes are free and open to the public age 13 and up.
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Join Rockdale Commissioner Sherri Washington for tea and concerns Rockdale County Commissioner Sherri Washington will host her first “Tea Talk” on Feb. 7, 9 to 9:45 a.m., at Awake Coffee Community, 862 Main St., Conyers. Washington is holding the informal meeting with constituents just ahead of the Board of Commissioners’ meeting to hear concerns and suggestions. Washington said she plans to hold the Tea Talks on the first and second Tuesdays at the Sherri Washington coffee shop. “I hope that residents will talk about their needs in the community: for example, having more parks and recreation facilities. During the budget cycle, they may want to discuss budgetary issues,” said Washington. “It’s just a way to remain engaged with the community, to get their feedback, and for me to answer any questions they may have.”
Civic Engagement 101 set at Stonecrest Library Learn about civic engagement and how to bring changes to local issues such as traffic signals or state issues, like health care reform. Community organizers and county and state representatives will explain the structure of government and discuss best practices for communicating successfully with municipal, county and state representatives. The meeting will be held on Saturday, Feb. 18, 2 to 3 p.m., Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. 770-482-3828.
Hearing set for Stonecrest City Council candidate Mary-Pat Hector The DeKalb Board of Registration and Elections has scheduled a hearing to consider a challenge of the qualifications of Mary-Pat Hector to hold the office of Stonecrest City Council, District Post 4. The hearing is set for Thursday, Feb. 9, 4:30 p.m., at the board’s office, 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 300, Decatur. It was rescheduled after Hector asked the date to be changed from Friday, Jan. 27. Candidate George Turner Jr. is challenging Hector’s age to serve. Turner said in a letter to the board that Hector is 19. The board must determine if Hector must be 21. There are 20 candidates running for office in the new city of Stonecrest. Elections are scheduled for March 21.
JANUARY 28, 2017 • PAGE 5
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Celebrating the Legacy of a General
housands of family and friends from near and afar attended the homegoing celebration for New Birth Missionary Baptist Church’s Bishop Eddie L. Long on Jan. 25, 2017. The crowd packed the church to say farwell and pay their respects to his wife, Elder Vanessa Long, the Long children, grandchildren and other family members. The long-time pastor of the mega church in Lithonia, Georgia died after courageously battling an aggressive cancer. He was 63. During the six-hour celebration, which was streamed live over the internet, dozens of leaders and others remembered the good deeds that Bishop Long did in the community--from being the largest faith-based donor of blood donations for the American Red Cross and a faithful benefactor to Hosea Feed the Hungry to buying Championship rings for high school football and basketball teams and sending off a local school’s band to the Rose Bowl Parade. Those who gave testimonials recalled that Bishop Long was a man who freely gave, making down payments for homes and appliances to single mothers, providing cars to those who had no transportation, and serving as mentors to business people and ex-offenders alike. “Bishop Long’s life was a life lived for others. He was one of the most generous persons I have ever met,” said the eulogist, the Rev. Neil C. Ellis, presiding Bishop of Global United Fellowship in Nassau, Bahamas. Ellis, who delivered a poignant message. said Bishop Long emptied himself as spiritual leaders and Christians should and he admonished those who spoke ill of controversies surrounding Bishop Long. “Say what you wish. Eddie L. Long died empty. Please, people, let him alone now. Please let my friend rest in peace,” Bishop Ellis said during his remarks. Bishop Long not only impacted the local
Xernona Clayton
community. His ministry made a profound impact worldwide. He launched a weekly international prayer line that reached 3.5 million people throughout 97 nations. Through his “Taking Authority” broadcast that aired weekly in 120 countries on Trinity Broadcasting Network, he reached 2.6 billion viewers. The tributes at the celebration were made in person, by videos, through proclamations and resolutions, songs and liturgical dance. Bishop Long’s wife remembered him as a husband and father, a man a fun-loving man who imparted wisdom even when he was playing around the house. “Bishop could be so much fun.. He was so silly. His favorite thing was to make turkey burgers but he would impart wisdom to the kids while he was cooking,” said Vanessa Long during tributes paid by familt members. She talked about how much Bishop Long would be missed but assured the congregation, it was well prepared to carry on his legacy. “We’re going to get back to the business of ministry. We’re going to serve the community,” said
Former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes
Elder Long. Among the dignitaries who attended were former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes, Congressman Hank Johnson, Xernona Clayton founder of the Trumpet Awards, Deion Sanders, professional football and baseball player, DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond,Dr. Ralph Simpson, DeKalb County Regional Superintendent for Region V, Thomas L. Battles, Jr., grand pole march of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., and George R. Hamilton chairman of North Carolina Central University Board of Trustees. The Rev. Kenneth Pearman of Poconos, PA gave the invocation. The Holy Scriptures were read by the Rev. Gary Oliver (Old Testament) and the Rev. C. Carl Smith (New Testament). The Rev. Stephen A. Davis of Birmingham, Alabama led the congregation in the consolation scriptures. Recording gospel artist Dottie Peoples, the Rev. William Murphy, the Rev. Byron Cage, Penny Ray and the New Birth Memorial Choir were among those who ministered through musical selections.
Dottie Peoples
Deion Sanders
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JANUARY 28, 2017 • PAGE 7
Reflections on Bishop Eddie L. Long
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ishop Eddie L. Long was truly a man ahead of his time. He came to Atlanta as a young man seeking to find his vision in the spiritual world. He already had the wisdom and vision of a seasoned spiritual minister. Much like a seasoned farmer who knew how to nourish the seeds of growth on a spiritual farm, Bishop Long knew how to nourish the seeds of growth in the religious community and he took a church of the few and within a few years grew their hopes and spirit to a church of thousands. The Bishop didn’t just spearhead the concept of prosperity within the church, he did it throughout the community. He preached, taught and sowed the seeds of prosperity by encouraging his membership and the community to do for others through leadership and examples. It was a common occurrence during his Sunday Services that he would usually seek out someone of great need and find ways of helping them. Sometime it was a family that was homeless, or a single mother with children and without food or rent money. Sometimes, it would be a family without a vehicle or without means to get to work. Bishop Long would set the example by helping that person himself, then, he would call upon the congregation to give whatever they could. He would follow that gesture by reminding all to not judge the recipients by their ability to manage what they just received, but to pray that God will lead them to play it forward with gifts and blessings to others. His messages would be punctuated with the phrase: “Watch This,” meaning pay close attention, something is coming. Back in the early nineties, I had the opportunity to work Bishop. I served as the Chief Deputy Commissioner of the State Department of Juvenile Justice. Bishop Long served as a State Board Member of the Department. He was appointed by Gov. Roy Barnes and the Commissioner was Eugene P. Walker. Bishop Long took his appointment seriously and he was a champion of the rights and welfare of the youths who were the ward of the system. He worked to ensure that the department provided the security, the treatment, education and overall support that the youths in the juvenile justice system required. He championed a project called “Project Destiny, one that was created as an outreach ministry within his church. It was an exceptional program designed to assist the youths who were without a high school diploma or certificate or without any training or skill to secure work. Within the past year and a half, Bishop Long learned of my daughter’s (Donna Coleman Stribling) political campaign for DeKalb County Solicitor General. He immediately sent a campaign contribution and his best wishes. Upon her victory, he sent his congratulations and more importantly, he expressed his congratulations again to me for our family success Bishop Eddie Long was indeed a mountain of a man, a spiritual man, a role model for service to our youths through the church and the community.
Elder Vanessa Long
Son Edward Long
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Champion Theme 8th graders take drama on the road
he 8th Grade drama class at DeKalb County’s Champion Theme School, under the direction of Drama Teacher Joy Hammond, performed monologues for the youths of Lucious Sanders Recreation Center. The program, sponsored by the Rotary Club of South DeKalb in conjunction with the recreation center, was held at the Bruce Street Senior Center in the city of Lithonia. Pictured in the photo are students from the 8th grade year-long drama class at Champion Theme School and their teacher, Joy Hammond; South DeKalb Rotary members Ceasar Gaiters, Patricia Seals and Willie Hinton; and Lithonia Mayor Deborah A. Jackson. The Champion Drama Club will be performing its annual production at the end of March at the Art Station in downtown Stone Mountain.
Gwinnett’s Lindsey Jorstad is honored by National Afterschool Association
Gwinnett County Community Services Outreach Manager Lindsey Jorstad has been named a 2017 Next Generation of AfterSchool honoree by the National AfterSchool Association for her work on several wellness initiatives. While serving as the Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Health and Wellness Coordinator, Jorstad collaborated with Eastside Medical Center in launching a countywide wellness program, and helped expand GCPR partnerships with several community organizations, including Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Strong4Life, Gwinnett Medical Center, and Gwinnett County Public Schools. Jorstad also coordinated large annual community events, such as a Youth Sports Expo, which included sessions on concussion and head injury, the Out of School Time Expo, and two Afterschool Alliance National Lights On Afterschool rallies. In summer 2016, Lindsey spearheaded a healthy habits outreach to more than 3,475 summer campers, and worked with the Gwinnett Park Foundation and aquatic staff to provide swimming lessons to
more than 430 children. “I want to be a positive influence within the out-of-school time community and continue to break barriers of program activities, parent resources, staff training and community partnerships,” Jorstad said. “I hope my commitment to recreation, wellness, and access to innovative health serves within out-ofschool time programs challenges my community to take advantage of new opportunities and expand advocacy for afterschool.” The National AfterSchool Association is the membership association for professionals who work with children and youth in diverse school and community-based settings to provide a wide variety of extended learning opportunities and care during out-of-school hours. Jorstad was selected from a field of 125 by a committee appointed by NAA. “The National AfterSchool Association believes that quality afterschool programs provide positive child and youth development and meet a critical need for keeping kids safe and families productively
employed,” said Gina Warner, president and CEO of NAA. “At the heart of successful afterschool programs are the contributions these leaders make in shaping the next generation of the afterschool field.” An estimated 10.2 million children participate in afterschool programs each year and the industry employs an estimated 850,000.
Governor honors 14 high-performing DeKalb schools
Fourteen schools in the DeKalb County School District were recognized for generating some of the best student achievement statewide in 2016. The 2016 Single Statewide Accountability System awards, given by the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement, is a listing of Georgia schools that have exhibited high student performance or academic growth as measured by the College and Career Ready Performance Index (CCRPI) from the three most recent school years. Awards are given for performance student performance and/or academic growth. The rating system is awarded by percentile compared to other schools in the state: bronze (93rd percentile), silver (95th percentile), gold (97th percentile), and platinum (99th percentile). High performing DCSD campuses, including awards in greatest gains and academic growth, respectively, include:
• Austin Elementary School (platinum growth, platinum performance) • Cedar Grove High School (silver growth) • DeKalb Early College Academy (gold growth, platinum performance) • DeKalb PATH Academy Charter School Silver (silver growth) • DeKalb School of the Arts (silver growth, platinum performance) • Dunwoody Elementary School (bronze performance) • Dunwoody High School (bronze growth) • Indian Creek Elementary School (platinum growth) • Kittredge Magnet School (platinum performance) • Laurel Ridge Elementary School (gold growth) • Montgomery Elementary School (bronze performance) • Oak Grove Elementary School (silver performance) • Vanderlyn Elementary School (gold performance)
Rockdale seeks volunteers for 2017 SPLOST Oversight Committee Rockdale County Government is seeking qualified volunteers to serve on the 2017 Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) Oversight Committee as the current SPLOST nears an end. Interested county residents must apply by Feb. 7. County Clerk Jennifer Rutledge will work with the Board of Commissioners to review applications. Those who are selected to serve will receive a notification letter by March 1. The voters of Rockdale approved the new
SPLOST to fund transportation projects, public safety facilities, water resources and other needed improvements for the Conyers-Rockdale community. The 30-citizen committee of volunteers will meet quarterly to prioritize and oversee the completion of projects that will receive the new round of SPLOST funding. Members on the SPLOST Oversight Committee can also actively take part in SPLOST subcommittees – Communication, Finance, Fire and E911,
Parks and Recreation, Sheriff and Jail, Transportation, and Water – which meet at separate dates and times. Applications for those who would like to serve on the new committee are available at: http://bit. ly/2j93pOF or the Board of Commissioner’s Office, 962 Milstead Ave, Conyers. For more information, contact Jennifer Rutledge at 770-278-7009 or at jennifer.rutledge@rockdalecountyga.gov.
Georgia Lottery raises record profits to support education The Georgia Lottery Corp. announced that fiscal year 2017 first-half and second-quarter profits have reached the highest since the lottery’s inception in 1993. The profits for the first half of fiscal year 2017 soared to $541 million – $24.5 million ahead of last year’s record. Second-quarter profits transferred to the State Treasury’s Lottery for Education Account will amount to $267.4 million, surpassing last year’s second-quarter transfer by more than $4.8 million. This brings the total raised by the Georgia Lottery for
educational programs to more than $18.1 billion since the lottery began. The Georgia Lottery’s record first half follows a record fiscal year. In fiscal year 2016, Georgia Lottery profits for education surpassed the billion-dollar mark for the first time in a single fiscal year with nearly $1.1 billion raised. The first half of the Georgia Lottery’s fiscal year spanned from July 1, 2016 to Dec. 31, 2016. Fiscal year 2017 first-half profits also include funds generated from
coin operated amusement machines (in Georgia. Since its first year, the Georgia Lottery Corp. has returned more than $18.1 billion to the state of Georgia for education. All Georgia Lottery profits go to pay for specific educational programs, including Georgia’s HOPE Scholarship Program and Georgia’s Pre-K Program. More than 1.7 million students have received HOPE, and more than 1.4 million 4-year-olds have attended the statewide, voluntary prekindergarten program.
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JANUARY 28,2017 • PAGE 9
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ARC appoints six new board members
ARC appoints six new board members DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond and Rockdale County Chairman Oz Nesbitt are among the six new board members the Atlanta Regional Commission has welcomed aboard. In addition to Thurmond and Nesbitt, the ARC on Jan. 25 also swore in: • Mike Boyce, chair, Cobb County Commission • Romona Jackson Jones, chair, Douglas County Commission • Eric Maxwell, chair, Fayette County Commission • June Wood, chair, Henry County Commission “We’re excited to welcome these new members to the ARC Board,” said ARC Board Chair Kerry Armstrong. “We’ve got a busy year on tap as the Atlanta region continues to grow and change. I look forward to the insights and energy that these members will bring to the table.” Armstrong also appointed the following board officers: • Vice Chair: Kasim Reed, mayor, City of Atlanta • Secretary: Charlotte
Nash, chair, Gwinnett County Commission • Treasurer: Bob Reeves, citizen member, District 3 • Parliamentarian: Julie Keeton Arnold, citizen member, District 12 The 39-member ARC Board consists of the county commission chairs from each of the 10 member counties, the mayor and a council member from the City of Atlanta, and a mayor from each of the 10 counties with the exception of Fulton, which has two mayoral representatives, one from North Fulton and one from South Fulton. The board also includes a representative from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and 15 citizen members selected by the board’s elected officials. Elected officials serving on ARC Board: Buzz Ahrens, chair, Cherokee County Commission; Clark Boddie, mayor, City of Palmetto; Mike Boyce, chair, Cobb County Commission; Eric Clarkson, mayor, City of Chamblee; Eric Dial, mayor, Town of Tyrone; John Eaves, chair, Fulton County Commission;
Georgia Sen. Gloria Butler elected co-chair of the Women’s Caucus State Sen. Gloria Butler (D – Stone Mountain) was recently elected to serve as co-chairwoman of the Woman’s Caucus. Butler represents Senate District 55, which includes portions of DeKalb and Gwinnett counties. “I am excited about being involved in an organization that brings female legislators together to promote the interests of Georgia’s women,” said Sen. Butler. “Women are a crucial and underserved group in our state and nation. I look forward to working for and with women to create change on every level that will positively affect our lives and the lives of all Georgians.” Butler serves as the vice chairwoman for the minority caucus. She also serves as the Secretary of the Urban Affairs and Ethics Committees and as a member of the Health and Human Services, Rules, State and Local Government Operations, Transportation and Urban Affairs Committees.
Antioch- Lithonia MBC presents heart health forum and fellowship On Saturday, Feb. 4, Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church, 2152 Rock Chapel Road, Lithonia, invites you to come out and learn about heart health and nutrition. There will be food, fashion, fellowship and door prizes. A heart healthy meal will be served. Admission is free. For additional information, call the church at 770-482-1277.
Women’s financial literacy workshop set Jan. 28 Vickie Elisa, White House panel member for the USA 10th Conference on Aging, and Primerica will present “Smart Women and Money,” a twohour workshop on understanding money management, how to grow your money and how to build future wealth for your children. The interactive workshop will be held on Saturday, Jan. 28, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Mount Zion AME Church, 2977 LaVista Road, Decatur. There will be workshop materials, snacks and raffle prizes. A $10 donation is requested for Mount Zion AME Church. To register, call 678-476-3791 or for more information, email: vickie_elisa@yahoo.com.
Nancy Harris, mayor, City of Duluth; Steve Hutchison, mayor, City of Hampton; Romona Jackson Jones, chair, Douglas County Commission; Eric Maxwell, chair, Fayette County Commission; Randy Mills, mayor, City of Conyers; Ceasar MitchMichael Thurmond Oz Nesbitt ell, president, Atlanta District 5; Dennis Burnette, District City Council; Charlotte Nash, chair, 15; Rob Garcia, District 13; Mike Gwinnett County Commission; Oz Houchard, District 6; Liane Levetan, Nesbitt, chair, Rockdale County District 7; Mark Mathews, District Commission; Willie Oswalt, may14; Mickey McGuire, District 11; or, City of Lake City; Kasim Reed, Amol Naik, District 4; Bob Reeves, mayor, City of Atlanta; Rick RobDistrict 3; Donna Sheldon, District erts, mayor, City of Ball Ground; 8; Steve Stephens, District 2. Rochelle Robinson, mayor, City of The Atlanta Regional CommisDouglasville; Michael Thurmond, sion (ARC) is the official planning CEO, DeKalb County; Jeff Turner, agency for the 10-county Atlanta chair, Clayton County CommisRegion including Cherokee, Clayton, sion; Steve Tumlin, mayor, City of Cobb, DeKalb, Douglas, Fayette, Marietta; Jere Wood, mayor, City of Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and RockRoswell; June Wood, chair, Henry dale counties as well as the City of County Commission. Atlanta and 72 other cities. The Citizen members serving on Atlanta Regional Commission serves ARC Board: Brant Aden, District as a catalyst for regional progress by 10; Kerry Armstrong, District 9; Julie Keeton Arnold, District 12; Ed- focusing leadership, attention and planning resources on key regional die Ausband, District 1; Kip Berry, issues.
Anytime Notary Call to schedule your appointment 678-468-6852
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JANUARY 28,2017 • PAGE 11
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