October 17, 2015 by On Common Ground News

VOLUME 21 NUMBER 29

FREE

OCTOBER 17, 2015

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

Crowd packs Lou Walker Senior Center town hall

DeKalb ICEO Lee May

By Joshua Smith

hunderous applause filled the room as DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May walked into the packed Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia for a town hall meeting, his first in a series of scheduled meetings to address the findings in the Bowers-Hyde report examining government corruption. The reception was a stark contrast from a meeting attended by about 75 people at the Maloof Auditorium in downtown Decatur on Oct. 8. Although May canceled attending, DeKalb Commissioner Nancy Jester, who is calling

for May’s resignation as a result of the recently released corruption report, said the meeting would go on without May, and she held the meeting herself. She was joined by several people who wore T-shirts calling for May to step down. The climate, though, was different at the Oct. 13 meeting in South DeKalb where many among the estimated 250 attendees cheered May on, encouraging him to hang in there. Some supporters held signs: “Stay Strong May” and “We Believe in Lee.” May started his discussion off by apologizing for hiring former Georgia Attorney General Mike Bowers and special investigator Richard Hyde to root out corruption in DeKalb. The investigation is one that has dogged May, who has come under heavy criticism for spending taxpayer dollars to conduct a special investigation that some say could have been performed by existing agencies. The Bowers/Hyde report, which included allegations against May, cost taxpayers $850,000 and May said that while it was “salacious,” the report shed no new light on corruption in the county. He said it mainly focused on “p-card” spending (the use of county purchasing cards), which county officials already knew about. The misuse of “p cards” came to light as a result of a WSB-TV investigation exposing former commissioner

The crowd sat attentively as DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May discussed his take on corruption and other issues the county is facing. Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Elaine Boyer’s misuse of her p card. Boyer pleaded guilty to federal charges of bilking taxpayers of more than $85,000 in a scheme that included using her p card. She was sentenced in March to 14 months in prison for the scheme, which included her husband, John Boyer, who also went to prison. May said he expected Bowers to find problems beyond the misuse of p cards. “I take full responsibility. I have to

own up to that mistake. I felt like it was necessary to have this report to weed out corruption but I regret who I brought in to do it,” said May. “They released findings to the media hours before I could even see them. I regret hiring them. Their actions caused the very distraction I was trying to avoid.” See Supporters page 6

Oakhurst Medical celebrates the fight against breast cancer By Joshua Smith

akhurst Medical Center’s Rockdale County location was painted in pink as NFL players and community leaders came together on Oct. 13 to share stories, celebrate survivors and raise awareness for breast cancer. Janice Morris, who heads up community outreach at the center in Conyers, said the event was a great success.

L-R Dee Dawkins-Haigler, Janice Morris

“It was phenomenal. The goal was to reach as many women as we could. We were able to give 22 free mammograms to women and reach dozens more with education about breast cancer, risks and the importance of screenings,” said Morris. “What really touched me was that one wom-

an who was in her forties who came to the event and tackled her fear of getting tested for the first time. Those are the kind of things this event was all about.” State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, who is a breast cancer survivor, said she was very excited to be a part of the event. Dawkins-Haigler, who represents Georgia’s House District 91, says about eight and a half months ago, in the

middle of legislation at the Gold Dome she received her diagnosis from her physician. “I did not give up. I did not lose hope. God has a plan. You have to remember to pray, fight and then win because we are victorious in this journey,” said Dawkins-Haigler. “It takes a village to get past this ordeal. We are in this together. We have to fight together as one voice.” Eric Hubbard, director of

Outreach for U.S. Congressman Hank Johnson’s office, Rockdale County Magistrate Court Judge Phinia Aten and Pastor Billie Cox of Macedonia Baptist Church in Conyers were also at the event to help celebrate. Teaming up with Oakhurst to honor breast cancer survivors and raise awareness was Torell Troup, a defensive tackle who has played for the NFL’s Buffalo Bills and is currently

a free agent. Troup is a graduate of Salem High School in Conyers. Former Falcon and linebacker, Christopher Draft, was at the event as well. The former NFL player has also played for the Chicago Bears, San Francisco 49ers, St. Louis Rams and the Buffalo Bills. Draft lost his wife, Keasha, to lung cancer in 2012, one year after getting married. “It is truly a pleasure to be here. This is so much bigger than just wearing pink. Some players in this league know cancer all too well. It’s not just a cute thing and wearing pink, breast cancer has taken the lives of mothers, sisters and wives from players across the league,” said Draft. “It is so important for players to be advocates for breast cancer awareness. We have to go beyond just numbers and statistics and work together to support prevention but also detection to catch it and knock it out early.” Former NFL wide receiver Danny Buggs, who has played for several teams such as the New York Giants, Washington Redskins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Houston Oilers, joined See Oakhurst Medical, page 8

PAGE 2 •OCTOBER 17, 2015

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OCTOBER 17,2015 • PAGE 3

DeKalb NAACP sets 59th Annual Freedom Fund Awards

GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. 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

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Pastor Raphael Warnock

The DeKalb NAACP branch will host its 59th Annual Freedom Fund Banquet on Oct. 24, 7 p.m., at Saint Philip A.M.E. Church, 240 Candler Road, S.E., Atlanta. The theme for this year’s award program is “NAACP: Pursuing Liberty in the Face of Injustice—Advancing Freedom Forward.” Ebenezer Baptist Church Pastor Raphael Warnock will serve as the guest speaker. DeKalb NAACP President John Evans said he is pleased to have Warnock as this year’s guest speaker because he has been on the frontline for speaking up against police brutality. “We are looking forward to having Pastor Warnock come and speak. We know Pastor Warnock’s beliefs and recognize the work he has been doing, speaking at town halls and other events focused on

Congressman Hank Johnson

cases of unarmed black men being fatally shot by police,” Evans said. Warnock has hosted town halls at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church on police shootings, appeared on CNN about the issue and been involved in conversation with the Rev. Al Sharpton and U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder. Warnock was very outspoken about the 2014 police shooting involving Darren Wilson, the white former police office in Ferguson, MO who shot and killed Michael Brown, an 18-year-old African American. Warnock said he was not surprised but disappointed in the U.S. Justice Department’s decision not to prosecute Wilson for killing Brown. The NAACP’s annual awards program honors both youth and adults in the community who are

Debra DeBerry

Rev. Jared Sawyer, Jr

Jabari Simama

Van K. Jakes

working to make where they live a better place for themselves, their family and their friends. This year’s awards and honorees are: McDonald’s franchisee and former NFL player Van K. Jakes, who will receive the Benjamin L. Hooks Award Alethia Wimberly, who will receive the David C. Albert Award DeKalb Clerk of Court Debra DeBerry, who will be honored with the Thurgood Marshall Award

Diamond Evon-Ebron, who will receive the Patricia C. Jones Community Service Award Georgia Piedmont Technical College President Jabari Simama, who received Narvie J. Harris Award The Rev. Jared Sawyer, Jr., who will receive the Earl T. Shinhoster Youth Services Award Greenforest Community Baptist Church, which is receiving the Faith-Based Award See DeKalb NAACP, page 7

DeKalb’s schools’ chief unveils plan to remove schools from state’s failing list

schools off these lists requires a systematic solution. The solution begins with improving classroom instruction and outcomes,” said Green. Under Deal’s plan, the state would take over 140 chronically failing schools in Georgia and create an Opportunity School District (OSD) to run them or convert them into charter schools. Failing schools are defined as those scoring below 60 on the Georgia Department of Education’s accountability DeKalb Superintendent Stephen Green measure, the College and Career Performance Index (CCRPI), for three consecutive years. By Valerie J. Morgan The governor’ plan would require voter approval of a constieKalb County Schools tutional amendment in order to be Superintendent R. enacted. Voters will decide in the Stephen Green says 2016 General Election. the district must put more focus Teacher groups have voiced on classroom instruction in order opposition to the plan. Verdaillia to remove 54 chronically failing Turner, president of the Georgia DeKalb schools from Gov. Nathan Federation of Teachers, says state Deal’s proposed state takeover list. takeovers haven’t improved education elsewhere because they don’t Green plans to share details of address poverty--one of the funhis comprehensive plan to reform damental issues of failing schools. DeKalb’s schools at a parents’ Turner wants more resources for empowerment conference set for Saturday, Oct. 24, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., teachers and parents. Green has assigned a task force at Columbia High School, 2106 to lead the effort in improving Columbia Drive. DeKalb’s curriculum, instruction, “The answer to getting our

assessment, and accountability in the classroom and social concerns impacting families. He has appointed a task force chaired by regional superintendents who report weekly to him. The task force has a broad mandate to evaluate all aspects of classroom learning and implement improvements. Green says the plan calls for professional training for school leaders and teachers, and enhanced family and community engagement support. In addition, the district would be able to offer preferential hiring of highly qualified teachers including those in special education, ESOL, and gifted backgrounds. Green says incentive bonuses using Title II Federal funds will be allocated when appropriate, for teachers demonstrating academic achievement. Also a “rapid response team” composed of local school staff will be deployed to address critical issues or needs as they occur. Another part of the plan includes building partnerships with local colleges and universities to provide need-based support. Outside service providers that can assist teachers, students and school leadership will be offered to the target schools as well. Managing this process will

be Green’s District Effectiveness Team, composed of district and school leaders. The team will meet twice a month with Green, develop monthly action steps toward improving and supporting the target schools, and collaborate with the Georgia Department of Education and the Metro Regional Education Service Agency. Green’s goals include the following: • The number of schools qualified as OSD eligible, Priority, and Focus will decrease from 38 to 0 in 2016. • All target schools will meet state targets for subject content and subgroups based on the 2016 Georgia Milestones and CCRPI. • All target high schools will have a graduation rate at or above the state’s 2016 graduation rate. • All target schools will have a Climate Star Rating of 4 or 5 on the 2016 CCRPI. • Standard teacher and principal evaluation scores will increase annually by a minimum of 10 percent. “My expectations are to improve teaching and learning and remove DeKalb County School District from the conversation about OSD eligibility, priority, or focus schools,” said Green.

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First Baptist, Beulah MBC to host Halloween alternatives

Coming Up

First Baptist Church, 2394 Gresham Road, Atlanta, will host a “Trunk or Treat: Hallelujah Fest,” on Oct. 31, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. The program’s theme is “A Season of Sowing: Sowing into Our Community,” and includes a community health fair as part of activities, along with candy for the children. Free health screenings will be provided at the health fair. For more information: 404-243-9288. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, 2340 Clifton Springs Road, Decatur, will host a Family Fun Night in the church’s family center on Oct. 31, 4 – 8 p.m. Families can come to enjoy food, candy, family games and fellowship and praise and worship during this “Hallelujah Night” as a Christian alternative to Halloween night. 404-241-3307.

GWINNETT

Identity theft seminar in Snellville

Atlanta Howloween Pet Parade and Festival set ets and their owners are invited to put on their best costumes and take part in the free Atlanta Howloween Pet Parade and Festival on Saturday, Oct. 24, noon – 6 p.m., at the intersection of Highland and Alaska

avenues. Pet owners, get your furry friends ready for their moment in the spotlight at the third annual Old Fourth Ward Howloween Festival and Pet Parade. Along with the parade, the event also features a festival with live music, games, candy and contests. Donations will be gladly accepted to benefit the Freedom Barkway Dog Park. First, second and third-place prizes will be awarded for the best pet costume. If you would like to walk in the parade with your pet, arrive at 11:45 a.m. For more information, call event organizer Royce Morris at 404-642-1120 or visit www.o4wHOWLoween.com.

ATLANTA “The consequences of Thug Life” presentation to motivate youth Attorney Mawuli Davis and the Davis Bozeman Law Firm will host a forum for youths and men of all ages, “The Consequences of Thug Life,” on Thursday, Oct. 22, 7 p.m., at the Christ the Lord Church of Atlanta, 3760 Glenwood Road, Decatur. The presentation uses a live DJ playing Hip-Hop music, images, and clips to engage youths in discussion while instilling self-worth and responsibility to the community. The workshop looks to use positive affirmations and teaching tools to inspire young people. There will be a special guest appearance by Lil’ Scrappy of VH-1’s “Love & Hip Hop Atlanta.” Davis says after he witnessed the increase in youths from “good families” going to prison because they have bought into the glamorization of being a “thug,” something had to be done. Davis’ partner at the law firm and co-host of the event, Robert Bozeman, agrees. “In light of recent events, every parent and community member should encourage a young person to attend, because learning how to make good decisions can save or change a life,” said Bozeman. “As a community-based firm, it is our responsibility to do our part to try to prevent our young people from embracing a culture of criminality. We must honor the legacy of those who came before us. We are fighting for our future.” 404-244-2004.

DEKALB

“Renaissance 2.0” takes a focus on business in the Decatur area DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson is inviting residents to register for an economic development forum, “Renaissance 2.0: Breaking Through How We See Our Community.” Registration is being held now for the free forum, which will be held on Nov. 6, 9 a.m. – noon, at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. Several topics will be discussed including strategies to attract new businesses. The forum will also cover beautification efforts and economic empowerment through education, economic incentives and coordination among community groups. “There will be developers onsite to discuss how to attract new businesses, plus information for aspiring entrepreneurs. We will also have opportunities for communities and residents to discuss desired commercial businesses and pitch ideas to developers,” said Johnson. “I’m looking forward to this cooperative event that will continue making DeKalb County successfully beautiful.” For more information or to register, visit www.eventbrite.com.

The Centerville Community Center, 3025 Bethany Church Road, Snellville, will host a free seminar, “Who’s Got Your Number?” on Thursday, Nov. 12, 1 – 2:30 p.m. This workshop will dispel myths, discuss credit reports and take on major areas of ID theft such as your driver’s license, medical records, employment, SSN, or IRS numbers and credit reports. The growing problem of identity theft has affected millions of Americans. There are more than 27,000 identity theft victims every day in the U.S. The FBI reports that identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America. For more information or to register for the seminar, call 770-985-4713.

Free water workshop offered to residents The Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources will host a free workshop, “Detention Pond Maintenance” on Thursday, Nov. 12, 7 – 8:30 p.m., at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center Auditorium, 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville. Learn about the purpose, function, and aesthetic value of your detention pond along with some troubleshooting tips. Attendees from unincorporated Gwinnett County, city of Lilburn, or city of Peachtree Corners can qualify for a maximum five percent credit toward their stormwater utility fee for the following year. Pre-register by emailing your name, address, and phone number to dwrswreg@gwinnettcounty.com or by calling 678-376-7193 and press 5.

ROCKDALE

Salem High School sets fall festival Salem High School, 3551 Underwood Road, Conyers, will host a fall festival for the community at the school’s outdoor soccer practice field on Oct. 31, 2 – 5 p.m. Enjoy food vendors and horseback riding. There also will be family games for everyone to enjoy. Festival staff says the event will offer loads of fun and will be a great representation of the Rockdale County Public Schools community. Attendees are invited to come dressed in their favorite Halloween costumes. Raffles for prizes will be held throughout the festival. Admission is free. The school is also looking for vendors to participate to help raise money for school clubs as well. For more information, call 770-771-3464.

Homeowners can receive help in Conyers Homeowners who are struggling to help pay their mortgage can get help from HomeSafe Georgia on Saturday, Oct. 31, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the Homeowners Employment Corporation, 1530 Highway 138, Suite 200, Conyers. In 2011, Georgia received $340 million from President Obama’s “Hardest Hit Fund”– known as HomeSafe here in Georgia – to help unemployed and under employed homeowners save their homes from foreclosure. “Today, I’m proud of the work our office has done with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to get the word out about the program and help get DCA’s Fourth District outreach program off the ground,” said Congressman Hank Johnson, who is hosting the event. “It has resulted in more than $28 million in relief for struggling homeowners. Since 2009, my office has helped more than 1,800 residents deal with pending foreclosures of their homes.” HomeSafe Georgia is a free, federally-funded, state-operated effort that helps homeowners who are unemployed or underemployed with mortgage assistance for up to 24 months. The program also provides support to those who have suffered a military, medical or death-related hardship in the last 48 months. To register, call 404-792-6554. The event will also be held for DeKalb residents at the D&E Community Achievement Center, 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur on Saturday, Oct. 24, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Register for that event by calling 770-691-6900.

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OCTOBER 17, 2015 • PAGE 5

Brookhaven sets “Paint the Park” The city of Brookhaven is inviting families to participate in “Paint the Park” on Sunday, Oct. 25, 1 – 4 p.m. at Blackburn Park, 3493 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta. The day of painting is open to all artists, all ages and all levels from be-

Morehouse College to celebrate the life of H. Julian Bond

ginners up. Art supplies and paper will be provided or you may bring your own easel and canvases. You can also enjoy ice cream and a bounce house. Winning entries will be displayed at City Hall. 404-637-0508.

Rockdale students invited to participate in oratorical contest All Rockdale County middle school students are invited to participate in the Fall 2015 Oratorical Competition on Saturday, Nov. 7, 9 a.m., at Conyers Middle School, 400 Sigman Road, Conyers. Training for the competition will take place at 1 p.m. on Oct. 24 at CMS. The public is invited to both. “We want to make a special effort to reach parents of fifth graders so they will be knowledgeable of the sixth grade competition next year,” said Rockdale Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson. “RCPS will be issuing more details in a press release about these academic enrichment opportunities to inform the general public and to give some recognition to our scholarship sponsors.” Sponsors for the competition are Lexicon Technologies, Snapping Shoals, Evans Tool and Die, and the Rotary Club of Conyers. 770-278-7914.

Year-end book sale in Decatur The Friends of the Library are sponsoring a year-end book sale at the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur, Oct. 23, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and Oct. 24, 2015, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Thousands of books will be available at 50 cents for paperbacks and $1 for hardbacks. The Friends club says there will be something for everyone. Categories include: fiction, textbooks, science fiction, children, young adults, cookbooks, spiritual, Christian, gardening, history, romance, arts and crafts, self-help, dictionaries, law, medicine, health, mystery, holiday and African American history. The sale includes magazines, CDs, DVDs, and VHS tapes, too. The Friends group supports the library by sponsoring programs, raising funds for books and materials, and advocating for the library. 404-286-6980.

Verizon accepting used cell phones to help domestic violence victims For national Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), Verizon Wireless and the Georgia Coalition Against Domestic Violence is requesting that people donate old phones to the “HopeLine.” The “HopeLine” turns no-longerused wireless phones into support for victims of domestic violence, providing wireless phones and airtime to victims of domestic violence and grants to local shelters and non-profit organizations that focus on domestic violence prevention, awareness and advocacy. You can donate your old phones at Verizon Wireless Communications Stores or by visiting www.verizonwireless.com/hopeline. Georgia ranks ninth in the nation

for men killing women, according to the most recent Violence Policy Center study. “Verizon has a longstanding commitment to raising awareness of domestic violence, working with many organizations to help domestic violence victims across the state,” said Jonathan LeCompte, president – Georgia/ Alabama Region, Verizon Wireless. “During DVAM this year, we encourage all Georgians to join us in helping our neighbors live free from violence. Call your local domestic violence shelter or organization and ask how you can help. At the very least Georgians can dig through drawers, find no-longer-used phones and donate them to HopeLine.”

Greater Lithonia Chamber to honor breast cancer survivors The Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce will celebrate and honor survivors of breast cancer at its “Think Pink Raising Breast Cancer Aware¬ness” luncheon. The event will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 21, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at This Is It Restaurant banquet hall, 2853 Panola Road, Lithonia. State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, who will be the guest speaker at the luncheon, will share her courageous battle as a breast cancer survivor. Oth¬er special guests include Jean Duncan and Dolores Hadley. The luncheon is free to Chamber members. The costs for guests is $20 in advance and $25 at the door. To register, visit greaterlithonia¬chamber.com.

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H. Julian Bond

orehouse College will host a farewell tribute to one of its most pivotal graduates, the late H. Julian Bond, on Sunday, Oct. 25, at 5:30 p.m. in the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, 830 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta. Speakers for the occasion include Morehouse College President John Silvanus Wilson, Jr.; Robert M. Franklin, president emeritus of Morehouse College and professor at the Candler School of Theology at Emory University; former Gov. Roy Barnes; Georgia Congressman John Lewis; veteran journalist Charlayne Hunter-Gault; former Atlanta City Councilwoman Carolyn Long Banks; and a selection of peers, close friends and family members. An Atlanta University Center Combined Chorus will provide music. The service is open to the public. Horace Julian Bond was born in Nashville, TN. His parents were Julia Agnes Washington, a librarian, and Horace Mann Bond, president of Fort Valley (Georgia) State College. Bond’s family moved to Pennsylvania when he was 5 years old where his father became the first African American president of

Lincoln (PA) University, his alma mater. Bond graduated from the Georgia School, a Quaker preparatory boarding high school. He attended Morehouse College in Atlanta and won a varsity letter for swimming. While a student at Morehouse, Bond helped found the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC), traveling throughout the South to organize voting registration. Bond went on to pursue a political career, becoming elected to the Georgia House of Representatives in 1965. He served in the Georgia House from 1965 to 1975 and six terms in the Georgia Senate from 1975 to 1986. He served as president of the Atlanta Chapter of the NAACP, and was later elected Board Chairman of the NAACP in 1998. Bond was awarded 25 honorary degrees, and a host of awards from organizations throughout the USA. His bibliography includes four books to his credit. He wrote a nationally-syndicated column entitled “Viewpoint;” and many of his poems and articles have appeared in national newspapers and magazines. Julian’s family scattered his ashes during a seaside service in Florida after his untimely death on Aug.15. He was 75. He leaves behind his wife, Pamela Sue Horowitz; his children, born to Julian and Alice Clopton Bond, his former wife, include Phyllis Jane Bond-McMillian, Horace Mann Bond II, Michael Julian Bond, Jeffrey Alvin Bond, and Julia “Cookie” Louise Bond; eight grandchildren; his sister and brother-in-law, Jane Bond Moore and Howard Moore; his brother, James Bond (a former Atlanta City Councilman); and a host of cousins and beloved friends.

PAGE 6 •OCTOBER 17, 2015 Supporters continued from page 1

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South DeKalb Rotary Club delivers books, maps and pizza to kids in Lithonia

South DeKalb Rotary Club president-elect Ceasar Gaiters delivers several books to students and coaches.

A crowd of mostly supporters came in large numbers to the Lou Walker Senior Center to tell Lee May not to resign from his position as Interim CEO.

The 39-page report, released last month, said May hired Bowers and Hyde, but interfered with their investigation. The report called for May’s resignation, along with five county commissioners, accusing all of them of misusing taxpayer dollars for gifts, nonprofits of their choosing and other goods and services. May refuted the allegations the report leveled against him, which include accepting a loan from Morris Williams, a former county employee he promoted. May reiterated that he doesn’t plan to step down, this time adding that he acted out of emotion when he said he would resign if constituents called for it. “I was upset when I said those words. I’m still upset. But I am not stepping down. I have talked it over with my wife, we have prayed about it and I am not stepping down,” said May. “I haven’t spoken to the governor about stepping down and he has not contacted me.” Gov. Nathan Deal has called for the GBI to review the Bowers/Hyde report. But many who attended the town hall said they want proof of the corruption, not just allegations. “This is nothing but a witch hunt. If they have something on Lee May, prove it. I’m tired of seeing us on the front page from nothing more than opinions of Mr. Bowers,” said Jarrett Maynard of Lithonia. “I came here to say I support Lee May and he better not step down. We need him. I want to tell him to stay strong.” Some, however, voiced a different opinion about May. “He has wasted our tax dollars and brought back nothing but an expensive price tag of something to the tune of $400 an hour just for Bowers to say we are rotten to the core? Ridiculous,” said Patrick Trotter of Decatur. “I agree with what Lee has said before. I respect Lee and love some things he has done as a commissioner in the county but he needs to step aside and work for the county in another capacity.” The issue of race relations came up in connection with the Bowers/Hyde report. Some at the meeting expressed their concern that DeKalb leads news reports with corruption, while Cobb and Gwinnett counties’ problems are often ignored or underplayed by the media. May, however, avoided a race debate. “For me, it is not about race. It’s about keeping promises and delivering a high quality of work. I was promised a report that would help us weed out the bad apples in the county. I was not given that,” said May. “It was my fault for hiring him and I am owning that but we are not a corrupt county. We have corruption in the county because of a few bad apples but we are not a corrupt county and I am going to make it through this stronger than I was coming into it.” In addition to the Bowers/Hyde report, May also addressed issues such as better policing, reducing burglaries, ridding communities of litter, blight and abandoned houses, and sharing ways residents can unite to help youths in the community. Several elected and county officials attended the meeting including State Representatives Dee Dawkins-Haigler, Rahn Mayo and Dar’Shun Kendrick, DeKalb Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, DeKalb Fire Chief Darnell Fullum, DeKalb Executive Assistant and Chief Operating Officer Zach Williams and Director of Voter Registration and Elections Maxine Daniels. At the end of the meeting, several people rushed up to May to hug him and offer him and his wife, Robin, words of encouragement. “To much is given, much is required. God made it possible for Lee to be in this position and God is going to keep him sustained,” said Coretta Jamison of Stone Mountain. “We don’t want him to step down. He needs to fight this through.” May has scheduled town hall meetings from 6:30 to 8 p.m. for the following dates and locations: • Oct 20, Derwin Brown Memorial South Precinct, 2842 H.F. Shepherd Drive, Decatur • Oct. 22, Welcome Friend Baptist Church, 3198 Bouldercrest Road, Ellenwood • Oct. 26, Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur • Oct. 27, Dunwoody City Hall, 41 Perimeter Center, Dunwoody • Nov. 3, Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia • Nov. 5, Brookhaven City Hall, 4362 Peachtree Road, Brookhaven

embers of the South DeKalb Rotary Club made the day for about 25 students enrolled in the after-school program at the Lucious Sanders Recreation Center in Lithonia. The Rotarians delivered 25 copies of Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mockingbird,” 25 copies of Jules Verne’s “Around the World in Eighty Days,” two maps of America, a map of the Past-President Al Lockhart talks to kids in the after-school program about what they plan to do with the new maps world and pizza. “We want to be a driving donated to them. force in giving back to the community and we know it is critical to DeKalb.” start with the youth,” said Club President Staff in the after-school program, Jennifer Friday. “A book can open up a which serves students in grades Pre K-8, whole new world to these children. This said they were very grateful for the donation and will start a book club with the year, the Rotary Club’s theme is to be a novels they received from the Rotary Club. gift to the world. We must first be a gift to

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OCTOBER 17, 2015 • PAGE 7

APS receives $10,000 “Hometown Grant”

L-R: APS Health and Physical Education Coordinator Daryl Rice; Southeast United Dairy Industry Association, Inc. Manager of School Health and Wellness Rashida Shoemaker; Freddie the Falcon; M. Agnes Jones Elementary School Assistant Principal Melanie Johnson; Principal Margul Woolfork; Atlanta Falcons player Matt Bosher; Atlanta Public Schools District Wellness Coordinator Kiki S. Frazier.

he Atlanta Public School System received a $10,000 “Hometown Grant” from the Atlanta Falcons and the Southeast Dairy Association to support healthy nutrition and physical activity programs at four elementary schools in the Booker T. Washington High School cluster. Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Meria J. Carstarphen, Atlanta Falcons player Matt Bosher and representatives from the Southeast Dairy Association ran physical activity football drills with students at M. Agnes Jones Elementary School in the gym

before presenting a check to representatives from both the APS Departments of Nutrition and Health and Physical Education as well as Principal Margul Woolfork. “Our goal is to address the issue of childhood obesity by not only encouraging and motivating students to increase movement and healthy eating habits every day, but also by providing opportunities for them to do so,” said Kiki S. Frazier, APS District Wellness Coordinator. “This grant will help to reach that goal.” Funds from the grant will bring the “Jump with Jill Nutrition and

DeKalb NAACP continued from page 3

Congressman Hank Johnson, who is receiving the Medgar Wiley Evers Freedom Legacy Award. Sarah Copelin Wood, Isabelle Holston and Lewis Refour, who all will receive the John H. Evans Lifetime Achievement Award “The NAACP DeKalb County Branch is honored to recognize the significant contributions of community leaders who represent our diverse DeKalb County population,” said Teresa Hardy, who is chairing this year’s banquet. Evans said the NAACP still has tickets for the banquet and opportunities for sponsors. “This is a major fundraiser for us. It’s really critical. In a sense, it’s how we keep the doors open,” said Evans. “We are pleased to have some major sponsors on board to help us make this year’s awards possible, but we are still interested in more sponsors helping us make this happen.” Some of the sponsors for this year’s program include Coca-Cola, The Home Depot and Georgia Pacific. Tickets are $75 each or table sponsors are available for $750. Proceeds benefit the operations of the organization and other events the DeKalb branch hosts such as health fairs and voter registration drives. For more information or to purchase a ticket, contact Teresa Hardy, Freedom Fund Chair by email at naacpdek@comcast.net or call 404-2418006. DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT

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Atlanta Public Schools Superintendent Meria J. Carstarphen, M. Agnes Jones Elementary School Principal Margul Woolfork and students participate in Fuel Up to Play 60 football drills led by Atlanta Falcons player Matt Bosher. Photo Credit: APS Schools

Dance Show” to M. Agnes Jones, Bethune, Connally and Venetian Hills elementary schools, as well as to the “Community Playtime” during the annual Student Wellness Ambassador Leadership Academy and Health Fair scheduled for March 12, 2016 at Sutton Middle School. The academy and health fair are open to the public. “Jump with Jill” is the world’s only rock and roll nutrition show that uses music and dance to celebrate healthy habits by transforming nutrition education into a live concert. The show also offers resources to teachers, parents, and students to

ensure sustainability. The “Hometown Grant” program developed by the NFL and its “Fuel Up to Play 60” program and the NFL provides the organizations with the chance to identify deserving schools in their areas and award those schools with $10,000 to help meet health and wellness goals. In its second year, the Hometown Grant program allows each of the 32 NFL Clubs, Fuel Up to Play 60 and local dairy representatives to provide funding to schools throughout the country totaling $320,000 this year.

PAGE 8 •OCTOBER 17, 2015

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Draft at the event. The NFL athletes attended the event to represent the National Football League’s “Crucial Catch” program. The program, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, provides football players to participate in awareness events and provide free mammograms. According to the American Cancer Society, over a lifetime, one in eight women will find out she has breast cancer. Morris says yearly mammograms help women age 40 and older make a “crucial catch”

and find breast cancer early. “Today is so important. We get the opportunity to help these women and support a great cause. The key is prevention,” said Morris. “It gives us so much pleasure to both educate and empower these women to live healthier lives.” Oakhurst Medical Center is located at 977 Taylor Street in Conyers. For more information on the program and to find out if you qualify for a free mammogram, call 678-2102700, ext. 712.

DeKalb implements new residential garbage container procedures The DeKalb County Sanitation Division will no longer service third-party or customer-provided garbage or recycling containers placed at the curb for collection on residents’ designated sanitation collection day. Only county-issued garbage roll carts and recycling containers will be serviced effective Oct. 19. Customers may, however, use their own containers for yard trimmings. Officials say the new procedure assists in reducing employee injuries, and minimizes liability and maintenance concerns with handling and processing third-party containers. Residents not in compliance after Oct. 19 will be issued a notice advising of the use of an unapproved container. Customers who do not have a county-issued garbage roll cart, or would like to join the recycling program and obtain a county-issued 18-gallon recycling bin should contact the Sanitation Division’s cus-

tomer service team at 404-294-2900 or sanitation@dekalbcountyga.gov. The use of secure, durable plastic bags for excess garbage disposal is permitted with the new procedure if county-issued garbage roll carts are inadequate to meet customers’ garbage disposal needs. Phase II of the sanitation service change program, which will focus on recycling, is expected to begin early November. Recycling roll carts with a 65-gallon capacity will be available during Phase II for a one-time $15 fee. More information on Phase II will be provided in the coming weeks. For program updates or more details about the sanitation service change, including a comprehensive list of frequently asked questions (FAQ), contact the Sanitation Division’s customer service team at 404294-2900 or sanitation@dekalbcountyga.gov, or visit the “Rolling Forward to One” program website at www.rollingforwardtoone.com.

Act Like A Citizen, Think Like A Cop Attorney Gary W. Washington and the Conyers Police Department presented a community forum on Oct. 15, “Act Like A Citizen, Think Like A Cop,” at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library in Rockdale County. Washington’s discussion on how to respond when encountering the police comes in the wake of debates across the nation concerning conflict between police officers and citizens. “Police officers have a dangerous job. When an officer approaches us, they don’t know if they are approaching a model citizen or psycho killer. We need to communicate both physically and verbally that we’re not a danger or threat,” Washington said. “Be respectful and courteous. Don’t ever talk back. Don’t ever tell them the law or what they can or cannot do. Don’t yell at them. Don’t use profanity. Being hostile with a law enforcement officer is both stupid and dangerous. Kill them with kindness. If you get a ticket: Tell them have a nice day. Thank you for your service.” Washington shared a video with how things can quickly go wrong. A young woman is slammed to the ground after disobeying a police officer’s order to show her identification. Watch the video clip at On Common Ground News’ Facebook page.

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DeKalb, Rockdale officials push early voting

lections officials in DeKalb and Rockdale counties are reminding residents that early voting is underway for the Nov. 3 elections. Residents in 10 cities will elect mayors and council members. There also will be special elections to fill two vacancies and several referendums that impact counties. In DeKalb, there will be a countywide election to vote on proposed changes to the County Ordinance that will revamp the Ethics Board. In addition, the vote for cityhood for LaVista Hills and Tucker, as well as annexation of an area into the city of Clarkston, will be put before the voters in each of the affected areas. DeKalb County Registration & Elections Director Maxine Daniels said because there are a number of issues for voters to decide, depending on where people live, it’s hard to predict what the overall voter turnout will be. “Voters are trickling in. We’ve had 214 voters come in so far ,” said Daniels, addung that DeKalb has

471,000 registered voters. “We expect heavier than normal for the special elections for the incorporation referendums for LaVista Hills and Tucker. We expect a very small turnout for the special elections to fill the vacancies in Senate District 43 and House District 92 and an even lighter turnout in the unincorporated areas that will only be voting on the Ethics Board question. City election turnout will vary, depending on how competitive each race is.” Potential voters for LaVista Hills and Tucker can visit www.dekalbvote.com, (look under the link “Voter Information” and “Find my Representative”) to see an overlay map of the proposed municipalities. In Rockdale County, officials say they could not determine if the 180 early voters of the 44,700 eligible to participate in the special elections is a good turnout or not but they say they are prepared for more to make their way to the polls. Special elections to fill the un-

Rockdale Democrats, Democratic Divas set candidate forum

The Rockdale Democratic Party and the Democratic Divas are hosting a forum for the Democratic candidates running for Senate District 43 seat and House District 92. The forum will be held Saturday, Oct. 17, 1 p.m., at the Party’s headquarters, 1264 Parker Road, Conyers. Valerie Morgan, editor of On Common Ground News, will serve as moderator.

expired terms for Georgia Senate District 43, which includes residents in portions of DeKalb, Rockdale and Newton counties, and Georgia House District 92, which includes DeKalb and Rockdale counties, will take place. The Senate seat was vacated by Ron Ramsey, who was appointed as a judge in DeKalb’s new traffic court. The House seat was vacated by Tonya Anderson, who is running in a nineway race for Ramsey’s seat. There have been several precinct changes since the 2014 elections. Voters should locate their polling locations before voting on Election Day. To see if you are registered and to locate your polling place, go to the My Voter Page at http://www.mvp.sos. ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do or on your smart phone at the “GA Votes” app. The summary of polling place changes can be found under the “Current Election Information” link. Early voting for the upcoming election began on Monday, Oct. 12, and ends on Friday, Oct. 30. In

DeKalb, early voting is held at the main office at 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 300, Decatur, Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. On Saturday, Oct. 24, DeKalb County voters can hit the polls from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. In Rockdale, residents may vote early Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at 1400 Parker Road, Conyers. Rockdale voters can also hit the polls early on Saturday, Oct. 24, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., and Oct. 28 – 30, 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. Election Day voting on Nov. 3, will take place at each voter’s assigned polling place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. For more information, DeKalb voters should visit www.dekalbvotes. com or contact at 404-293-4020. DeKalb voters can also see a sample ballot at that website as well. Sample ballots for Rockdale voters are available at http://www.rockdalecounty.org/ main.cfm?id=2357. Rockdale voters should call 770-278-7333 for more information.

City of Lithonia forum

Candidates for the city of Lithonia’s mayoral and City Council seats will discuss their platforms at an Oct. 20 Candidate Forum co-hosted by CrossRoadsNews and On Common Ground News. The forum takes place 6 to 8 p.m. at the Lithonia-Davidson Library, 6821 Church St. in downtown Lithonia. Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson is seeking a second term. She is being opposed by former Councilman Al Franklin. Three candidates – incumbents Darold Honore and Shameka Reynolds and Fred Reynolds – are running for two at-large seats on the City Council. On Common Ground Editor Valerie Morgan andCrossRoadsNews Editor/Publisher Jennifer Parker will moderate.

PAGE 10• OCTOBER 17, 2015

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Movers & Shakers in the Community

YMCA Academies to honor retiring COO Eston Hood By Valerie J. Morgan

he YMCA Academies of South DeKalb will honor Chief Operating Officer Eston Hood during the academies’ 20th anniversary celebration and fall festival on Oct. 17. The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Bransby Outdoor Y Park, 1185 Rock Chapel Road, Lithonia. The community is invited to come out for a funfilled day of events including face painting, games, literacy and healthy living activities and the special

Eston Hood

tribute to Hood. Hood is expected to be honored around 12:30 p.m. He is retiring after working more than three decades at the Y. “He rose through all the ranks as a Y team member, and at each stop, he made the kind of contributions that will have an everlasting impact on our YMCA. A job very well done, and one that we will celebrate,” said Ed Munster, president and CEO of YMCA of Metro Atlanta. Hood initiated the development of the Snapfinger Academy, along with the development of a sec-

ond location, which opened in 2000 at 2924 Evans Mill Road in Lithonia. Tamra Sheppard, who serves as executive director for both academy locations, praised Hood for his legacy in creating quality educational opportunities. “He was a visionary for early learning in the metro Atlanta area. If it were not for his vision, we would not have made the impact we have had in serving over 6,000 children through both locations,” Sheppard said. “His grandson, Jehrett, graduated from the Snapfinger location.”

The YMCA academies received NAEYC accreditation in 2000 and was reaccredited this year. The program, which serves more than 650 families ages 6 weeks to 7 years of old, has been recognized as the Program of the Year by the Georgia Association for Young Children and played an integral role in DeKalb County being awarded the All-American City Award. Sheppard said the Y has reached out to many of its alumni and invited them to the celebration. She said Hood will be honored again in December by the metro Atlanta Y.

The Home Depot names Linda Gooden to its board of directors

he Home Depot, the world’s largest home improvement largest home improvement retailer, has announced the appointment of Linda R. Gooden to the company’s board of directors. Gooden will serve on the company’s Audit and Leadership Development and Compensation Committees. Her appointment gives the company 12 directors.

Gooden, who retired in 2013 from Lockheed Martin Corporation as executive vice president, Information Systems & Global Solutions, has an extensive background in information technology, cybersecurity, operations and finance. As executive vice president, Gooden expanded Lockheed’s IT capabilities beyond government customers to international and commercial mar-

Former NBA player Andrew Toney honored for community service

Andrew Toney

ndrew Toney, a former NBA player for the Philadelphia 76ers, was honored for community service and work with Gwinnett County Schools by state Sen. P.K. Martin IV. Toney, who currently works for Gwinnett County Public Schools as

an Academic Support Program facilitator, also works to support the school system’s community-based mentoring program, “Project Reconnect.” Toney began his education career in Gwinnett in 1994 as a physical education teacher at Peachtree Elementary School and was the health teacher at Peachtree Elementary from 2004-2008. In 2009, Toney accepted the opportunity to become an instructional coach for Gwinnett County Public Schools in the community-based mentoring program, which connects caring adults in the community with middle school boys whose attendance and behavior cause an adverse impact on their grades and classroom performance. Through his work with Project Reconnect, Toney helps student teens who did not graduate from high school to reconnect with education. Before becoming a GCPS employee, Toney played eight years in the NBA (1980-88) with the Philadelphia 76ers, winning an NBA title in 1983. He also was named to two NBA All-Star teams.

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kets. She also served as president of Lockheed’s Information Technology division from 1997 to 2006, growing it into a multi-billion dollar business. “I’m very pleased to welcome Linda to our board of directors,” said Craig Menear, chairman, CEO. “She brings a wealth of expertise in IT, strategic planning, risk management and general business.” Linda R. Gooden

Atlanta Corrections receives Second Chance Act Reentry Grant

Chief Patrick Labat

he City of Atlanta Department of Corrections (DOC) and Corrections Chief Patrick Labat have been awarded a $600,000 “Second Chance Act Reentry Grant” from the U.S. Department of Justice. The grant will be used to assist medium to high-risk incarcerated male inmates with co-occurring mental health and substance abuse disorders in the Atlanta City Detention Center. The Second Chance Act Reentry program will provide inmates tools for positive, healthy and successful reentry into the community through the Detention Center’s new Atlanta Reentry and Treatment (ART) initiative. “As the Atlanta City Detention Center continues to see more inmates with both mental and substance abuse disorders, we felt it was critical that

we create an in-house therapeutic community to specifically address their needs,” said Labat. “Our goal for the ART initiative is to be a successful example of an institution of opportunity where inmates can be holistically rehabilitated and equipped with the necessary tools and resources to reintegrate themselves back into society as productive, law-abiding citizens.” Labat said the ART initiative will enhance and expand programming within the city’s adult detention facility by initiating a comprehensive service approach. The initiative also partners with community-based clinicians who will deliver treatment aimed at assisting co-occurring disorders and criminal behaviors. The ART initiative addresses the following priorities: targeting moderate to high-risk male inmates that are experiencing or are at risk for chronic homelessness; Linking clients to affordable and supportive housing; Focus on community-based programs that provide evidence-based treatment services for individuals with co-occurring disorders upon release from the Detention Center. The grant will cover costs associated with establishing a dedicated housing unit at the Detention Center that serves up to 12 inmates at a time, as well as staffing for the specialized unit. The first six months of the grant will focus on planning and the remaining 18-month period is for implementation of the ART initiative.

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