VOLUME 21 NUMBER 37
FREE
DECEMBER 19, 2015
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Johnson calls for A Promise Kept federal probe into Rockdale officials present special license plate to massive breach fallen deputy’s dad By Valerie J. Morgan
T Congressman Hank Johnson is calling for a federal investigation of Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp’s office after a breach exposed more than 6 million voters’ personal information, including Social Security numbers and birth dates. Kemp fired a long-time worker, programmer Gary Cooley, whom he blamed for the massive breach after an internal investigation. Johnson said, however, said he is not satisfied that the mistake rests with one See Johnson page 7
erry Mahaffey received a special gift for Christmas that didn’t go under the family’s tree at home. It’s on the back of his car. He beamed as he was presented a custom license plate that his family had been trying for years to obtain in honor of his late son, Rockdale Deputy Brian Mahaffey. The deputy was killed in the line of duty in 2010 while serving a warrant in Rockdale. Rockdale County Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley presented the proud and grateful dad the license plate in a surprise ceremonial unveiling on Dec. 11. Deputy Mahaffey’s mother, brother and sister each already had the special plates – 2330MOM, 2330BRO and 2330SIS. His mother, Cindy,
said 2330 is the badge number that her son wore. “I kind of gave up on it because I didn’t think I’d ever have it. They told us it was reserved
for someone else. I thought, who in the world would want 2330DAD other than Brian’s Dad? To be standing here holding this and knowing that it’s
going to go on my car and I’m going to drive and I’m going to have something that represents See License plate page 9
Atlanta’s homeless men’s choir ready to perform at the White House By Valerie J. Morgan
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choir comprised of homeless men will be headed to the White House at the invitation of President Obama to perform Christmas songs and other selections. The Atlanta Homeward Choir has been such an inspiration that people from around the world have pitched in to help the men make the trip to Washington, D.C. since hearing their story via social media and television. Nineteen of the choir’s 26 members will be going on the all-expense paid trip on Southwest Donal P. Noonan directs the Atlanta Homeward Choir during a performance at the Airlines, which is providing the Atlanta-Fulton Library’s Central Branch on Dec. 17. tickets. The group will perform at the White House on Dec. 21, Noonan said the goal was to informal program that was held at four days before Christmas. raise $25,000 and $26,000 came in. the Atlanta-Fulton Library’s Cen“We put out a plea for help Noonan said the trip came about tral Branch on Dec. 17. A lunchwith the expenses and we’ve been with help from the office of U.S. time crowd warmly welcomed receiving funds from all over the Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga. them, cheering the choir as they world,” said Donal P. Noonan, who “I was talking to a friend one were introduced. directs the choir and serves as its day about the choir and he said “Some of our men are avid executive director. “It’s just fantas- ‘What’s next?’ I said it would be readers and many of them come tic. They are going to D.C. with ev- great to go to the White House and here to find warmth in the library. erything they need including new the ball started rolling after that.” The library here is a home away toothbrushes and underwear.” The choir performed during an from home for man of them,”
Noonan said. “We’re dressed very informally today because we have enough formal going on next week at the White House.” How does it feel to be going? “It’s amazing. The men are excited and terrified,” said Noonan. Noonan organized the choir three years ago, inviting men staying at the homeless shelters in downtown Atlanta to sing. Those who came for the rehearsals were allowed to join. “I don’t believe in auditions. If you want to sing and you have the heart to sing, then you can join,” said Noonan, who said the men in the choir range in age from their 20s to their 70s. All of the men in the choir are homeless or have been homeless, Noonan said. Singing in the choir, he said, has given many hope and inspiration for a better life. Noonan said some in their audiences have cried, while others have clapped for joy while hearing the men. The men began singing this season in November. Their performance at the White House will mark their sixth performance this year.
PAGE 2 •DECEMBER 19, 2015
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Spreading Holiday Cheer
DECEMBER 19,2015 • PAGE 3
Former DeKalb CEO Vernon Jones’ Facebook bike drive draws supporters to assist foster kids
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wenty-five kids will wake up on Christmas morning with brand new bicycles and helmets, thanks to former DeKalb County CEO Vernon Jones and his friends. Jones reached out to his Facebook friends and others to seek the bicycle donations, which were given to the DeKalb County Child Advocacy Center, an organization that supports foster children. The bikes were presented to program director Trenny Stovall on Dec. 17 at the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners’ final meeting of the year. “When I was the county executive, I always dressed as Santa Claus and had the kids come to my office for bikes and toys,” said Jones. “I just want to help and continue that tradition.” Jones said donations for the bicycles came in from as far away as Arizona. “The oldest donor was 89—my mom—and the youngest donor was 5 year-
old,” said Jones. “It was a great effort and I really appreciate all of those who pitched in.” Jones said Atlanta Pro Bikes partnered with him to assemble and deliver the bicycles. He thanked Mike Pollard, owner, and Paul Edwards, general manager of Atlanta Pro Bikes, for their help. Jones said he enjoys giving back, especially during the
holiday season because he did not always receive Christmas presents as a child because his parents could not afford them: “Although my parents worked hard on the farm and at the textile mill, there were some Christmas’ we didn’t get anything. As kids, it was very difficult, especially seeing our friends showing off their toys on Christmas Day and asking what did we get?,” Jones said
in a Facebook post. “Pa and Ma explained to us the best they could. There were just no resources. But we did have food, and I’m thankful for that. I didn’t know then, but I realize now it must have been just as painful to our parents not to be able to make our Christmas bright. But when they did get resources later in the year, they made it up to us.”
State Rep. Billy Mitchell outlines key issues for Carter receives com2016 Legislative Session mittee assignments
By Valerie J. Morgan
State Rep. Billy Mitchell (D-Stone Mountain) says casino gambling, gun rights and cityhood will be among the key issues for the 2016 Legislative Session. Mitchell, who accompanied freshman State Rep. Doreen Carter during one of her constituent “listening sessions,” told seniors at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia on Dec. 16 that he expects those three issues to get a lot of attention. Mitchell said he might support casino gambling because of the economic impact casinos will provide. “I don’t gamble, but the economic opportunity that it would have, I think, would be good for our community. There will be a lot of jobs and businesses created and that’s what I’m excited about,” Mitchell said. Mitchell said he plans to introduce legislation that would remove the income ceiling now preventing some seniors from being exempted from property taxes. He said he believes all seniors should be exempted from property taxes, regardless of their income. “I just find it deplorable that we have senior citizens who now pay more in property taxes than they paid
for in mortgage,” Mitchell said. “In Cobb County, they don’t have an income ceiling and some other places around the state and I believe it should be the same for DeKalb.” Mitchell also said he plans to sponsor legislation to address foreclosure reform that would protect consumers and prevent lending institutions from immediately foreclosing on homeowners. He said the current system is unfair to Georgia homeowners because there is no judicial process or mandated assistance to work with homeowners who fall behind on their mortgages. Mitchell said that lending institutions wreak havoc on homeowners under the current system. He said, for example, lending institutions might sell a $150,000 foreclosed home for $100,00, if the market is depressed. That scenario, he said, leaves the
Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) has named newly-elected State Rep. Doreen Carter (D-Lithonia) to the Code Revision, Small Business Development and Special Rules committees. “I am thrilled to receive these committee assignments and to begin serving citizens of the 92nd House district,” said Carter. “With the 2016 legislative session just a few weeks away, I am eager to begin the work my constituents elected me to do and look forward to working with my colleagues on these committees and in the House.” homeowner stuck with owing the bank Carter represents residents of District $50,000. If the lender writes off the 92, which includes portions of Rockdale balance, the IRS treats the $50,000 and DeKalb counties. as income and the homeowner owes Carter has held several “listening sesthe IRS. But if the lender sells the $150,000 home for $200,000, the sions” in the last few weeks to learn about homeowner receives nothing. constituents’ concerns ahead of the 2016 “What a terrible process. Georgia Legislative session, which begins Jan. 11. has the worst foreclosure law in the nation by far and I’m not exaggerating. You can lose your home in Georgia, if you are one day past the late period. It’s up to the bank or lending institution to decide if they want to take your money after that period of time,” said Mitchell. “In California, it would take about 18 months to kick you out and in New York, it’s almost three years. I think consumers who are down on their luck should have longer notice and be afforded the opportunity for lenders to work with them to keep their homes.”
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Coming Up
17th Annual Tree of Love at the Gallery at South DeKalb Join DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson for his annual Tree of Love celebration on Saturday, Dec. 19, noon until 3 p.m. at the Gallery at South DeKalb Mall (Macy’s stage), 2801 Candler Road, Decatur. The program will include music and performances, and of course, gifts for needy children who were selected to receive gifts for Christmas after their names were placed on the Tree of Love. This year marks the 17th year Johnson has hosted the event.
Mt. Zion AME to present holiday celebration Mt. Zion African Methodist Episcopal Church, 2977 LaVista Road, Decatur will present a holiday celebration of spoken word, gospel music and praise to celebrate the love, the joy of giving and forgiveness. The program, which will feature youths and adults, will be held on Sunday, Dec. 20, 9:30-10:30 a.m. Enjoy a Southern-style holiday breakfast from 8:45 until 9:20 served in the church’s fellowship hall before the program begins. For more information, call 404-633-2288.
Families invited to celebrate Kwanaa at Ujamaafest
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he fifth Annual Ujamaafest will take place on Saturday, Dec. 26, 1 to 8 p.m., at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. Ujamaafest is a free, family Kwanzaa celebration that honors African heritage in African-American culture. The weeklong holiday is observed by Africans and African Americans from Dec. 26 to Jan. 1, with the practice of seven core principles: unity, self-determination, collective work and responsibility, cooperative economics, purpose, creativity, and faith. The holiday ends with a feast and gift-giving. Kwanzaa was created by Maulana Karenga and was first celebrated in 1966–67. The Ujamaafest will showcase cultural performances, the Kuumba Martketplace and a sensory- friendly Kijana Zone for youths. For more information, visit www.ujamaafest.com.
State of MARTA Breakfast set Jan. 7
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ARTA CEO Keith T. Parker and the board of directors will host the 2016 State of MARTA Breakfast on Thursday, Jan. 7, at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Midtown hotel, 590 W. Peachtree St. NW, Atlanta. Doors will open at 7 a.m. The breakfast will be held from 7:30 a.m. until 9 a.m. Tony Seba, a lecturer in entrepreneurship, disruption and Clean Energy at Stanford UniverKeith T. Parker Tony Seba sity, will deliver the keynote address. Seba is the author of “Clean Disruption of Energy and Transportation – How Silicon Valley Will Make Oil, Nuclear, Natural Gas, Coal, Electric Utilities and Conventional Cars Obsolete by 2030.” There will be an update on MARTA’s current and future initiatives and the role disruptive technologies – such as driverless cars – will play in the future of public transit. The public is invited to RSVP for the breakfast at http://bit.lySOM2016.
ATLANTA
Students K-8 invited to Ida Williams Memorial Poetry Contest Students in grades K-8 are invited to enter the Ida Williams Memorial poetry contest and win Barnes & Noble’s gift cards. The Buckhead branch of the AtlantaPublic Library System, 269 Buckhead Ave. N.E., is hosting the contest and the North Side Library Association is sponsoring the event. Poetry can be free-verse or rhyming. Entries may be hand-written, typed or computer printed and dropped off at the library during regular library hours. Three grade categories (grades K-2, grades 3-5, and grades 6-8) may participate. There will be chances to win first and second prizes in each grade category. Entries will be accepted Jan. 2 through April 16. Winners will be announced in May 2016. For more information, call 404.814.3500
DEKALB
GWINNETT
Recycle your Christmas tree Once the holidays are over, don’t forget to recycle your Christmas tree. From Dec. 26 through Jan. 16, residents can drop off their live, undecorated trees at one of the convenient locations in Gwinnett County. The trees will be chipped during Gwinnett’s Clean and Beautiful’s “Bring One for the Chipper” event on Saturday, Jan. 23, 9 a.m. to noon, Bethesda Park, 225 Bethesda Church Road in Lawrenceville (near the soccer fields). The mulch from the trees will be used for county parks, roadway landscaping and facilities. Please note that unless you have a yard waste contract with your hauler, trees will not be collected curbside. To find a location to drop off your tree, visit: http://www.gwinnettcb.org/programs/bring-one-chipper/bring-one-chipperdrop-locations/
Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol returns to the Aurora Theatre The holidays just aren’t the same without watching the classic Christmas favorite, A Christmas Carol. The classic comes to the stage with actor Anthony Rodriguez, who is back for his 9th solo performance at the Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville. Rodriguez brings Charles Dickens’ Ebenezer Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Jacob Marley and the infamous Christmas ghosts to life. This one-man show is like no other. Rodriguez will bring all your beloved Christmas favorites from the 1800s to the stage through his meticulous use of classic art storytelling and vibrant mannerism. Directed by play director, Tony Brown, A Christmas Carol will be showing now until Dec 20 in the intimate, 80-seat Gwinnett Federal Credit Union Studio of the Aurora Theatre, 128 Pike St., Lawrenceville. Tickets are $20 to $30 and can be purchased online at the Aurora Theatre Website. For more information and for show times and dates, call 678-226-6222.
ROCKDALE
Ice days at Conyers’ Olde Towne pavilion If you’re looking for some outdoor fun, head to Olde Towne Conyers ice skating rink. The rink is located at the pavilion at 949 South Main St. and will be open through Feb. 9 rain or shine. The Olde Towne pavilion ice rink prides itself on being the only “real” ice skating rink in the Southeast because the rink is made up of actual ice instead of the conventional faux/waxed ice used by other ice rinks. There are seven restaurants and four bars within walking distance of the rink, as well as a snack bar on site. General admission is $8 for children 7 and under and $10 for those over 7. The admission cost is good for a 2-hour skating session. Hours of Operation: Sunday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Monday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Tuesday: 11a.m. – 10 p.m. Wednesday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Thursday: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m. Friday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Saturday: 11 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Porter Sanford Center to host Urban Nutcracker DeKalb County’s Porter Sanford III Performing Arts and Community Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur, and the Ballethnic Dance Company Inc. will host the Urban Nutcracker Act II Wonderland. The musical will be held on Saturday, Dec. 19, 3 p.m. and 5 p.m., and Sunday, Dec. 20, 3 p.m. The show takes the audience on a soulful celebration and majestic journey filled with whimsical dances performed by a multicultural cast of minority youths and professional artists. For more information, contact Cynthia Benefield, Arts Center Coordinator, at 404-687-2732.
Kingdom Builders toy giveaway set for Dec. 19 Kingdom Builders is partnering with the community of Rockdale County to present its biggest and best Annual 5,000 Toy Giveaway on Saturday, Dec. 19, 2 to 5 p.m., 151 Flat Shoals Rd., Conyers. This year’s giveaway will feature music, children, characters, food, Santa and 5,000 toys.
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DECEMBER 19, 2015 • PAGE 5
Georgia DOT’s HEROs debuts larger, safer trucks to help motorists
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igger heroes will come to the rescue of motorists who need help, thanks to the Georgia Department of Transportation’s Highway Emergency Response Operator (HERO) program, sponsored by State Farm®. State officials say the new, larger vehicles will enhance the safety of HERO patrol operators who are credited with assisting stranded motorists and helping keep the highways in metro Atlanta safe and clear. Measuring 13’ long x 8’ wide x 8’ tall, the new vehicles are even more visible when stopped on the side of the roadway. “Georgia DOT HERO prides itself as being a leader for safety within the Safety Service Patrol industry,” said Andrew Heath, Georgia DOT State Traffic Engineer. “These new vehicles are one way that we continue to challenge ourselves to provide a safer environment for our employees and for motorists.” The new trucks will replace 10 percent of the existing HERO fleet and will feature roll-up doors and compartments, which
take less time to open and are more easily maneuvered than traditional swing doors. The roll-up doors compartments are well-lit and easy to navigate, so HERO patrol operators can quickly access the necessary tools to respond to an incident. “When HERO patrol operators are responding to a call, every second counts,” said Jason Josey, Georgia DOT HERO Manager. “Our
goal with these new vehicles is to improve response time, while also improving the safety of the HERO patrol operators and the traveling public.” The vehicles will be co-branded to include DOT markings as well as recognition of State Farm, which has been the program sponsor since 2009. State Farm renewed its support in 2014 and extended its funding
Conyers Police dog rescues missing elderly woman
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onyers K9 Officer Eddie and handler Officer Myra Scruggs rescued a missing elderly woman and most likely saved her life, authorities said. The search for the woman began in the early morning hours of Dec. 15 after Rockdale Healthcare, 1510 Renaissance Drive, reported the woman missing. Staff, responding officers and Rockdale County deputies searched the area without success. K9 Eddie and Officer Scruggs made it to the scene approximately 2 a.m. to begin their search. Without any information as to where the missing woman may have exited or what direction she may have gone, K9 Eddie started his track cold. Immediately picking up on a track, he led his handler directly to two other Conyers officers engaged in the search. Not the intended target, Officer Scruggs had Eddie start over at the facility. Searching around the property, Eddie stopped abruptly and turned his head to listen before dragging his handler into the wood line where Officer Scruggs then heard a quiet moaning. Eddie was released and ran to the 83-year-old woman and began to bark. She was on the ground unable to get up and was very confused. “Thank goodness for K9 hearing because I would not have ever heard her,” Officer Scruggs said. “The coolest thing about Eddie is once I put his
K9Officer Eddie and handler Officer Myra Scruggs
tracking harness on, he knows what we are about to do. No commands need to be given.” Eddie is a three-year-old Belgian Malinois that joined the Conyers Police force one year ago this month. His official job description is Narcotic Detection and Tracking. K9 Eddie’s tracking efforts are specifically used for lost children, Alzheimer’s patients and anyone “at risk.” “Thank you, Officer Blanchette and Officer Ferrell for running the tracks with me. Keeping up with Eddie is not an easy job,” Officer Scruggs commented. “The entire squad worked diligently to try to find her. I’m just glad it ended well.”
to include 511, the contact number for the HERO program. 511 will also be prominently displayed on the new vehicle. “The HERO program underscores our commitment to auto safety and embodies our ‘good neighbor’ philosophy,” said Ed Gold, State Farm Marketing Director. “We are proud to join the Georgia DOT in improving the safety of
HERO patrol operators, and to sponsor this important program that helps motorists recover from the unexpected, which is the heart of the State Farm mission.” As part of the sponsorship, State Farm will add the HERO program to the website it maintains at www.assistpatrol.com where motorists who receive assistance from patrol operators are invited to take a survey about their experience. Assisted motorists are also invited to share their experience on social networks using #AssistPatrol. Motorists can access real-time, statewide, route-specific information on accidents, roadwork, traffic and weather conditions through Georgia 511 - a free phone service. By dialing 511, callers also can transfer to operators to 24 hours a day to report incidents or request assistance. The system can be used to access transit providers, major airports, rideshare organizations, tourism information and 511 systems in surrounding states. For more information about 511, visit 511ga.org. For more information on Georgia DOT,visit www.dot.ga.gov.
PAGE 6 •DECEMBER 19, 2015
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Conyers officer helps vet find new home
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Vietnam War Veteran, down on his luck and reeling from a tragedy that took his wife’s life, found the help he needed from someone he didn’t expect: A Conyers Police officer who went above the call of duty to show him compassion. Stephen Roszelle had been a long-term resident of the Irwin Bridge Inn in Conyers before facing eviction recently. Officers had been called to the location several times encountering Roszelle dealing with alcoholism and deep depression. First responders tried to suggest resources or counseling with no success. Conyers Patrol Officer Paul Bernichon, faced with charging Roszelle with the abuse of calling 911, instead realized a possible solution. Bernichon, who has served with the Conyers Police Department four years, learned that Roszelle is a Vietnam War veteran who served with the U.S. Air Force as a Security Specialist and thought about how he could help. Berni-
chon, having grown up in Milledgeville and attended Georgia Military College, spent a lot of time doing events at the Georgia War Veterans Home (GWVH). He figured the home would be able to provide a new beginning for the 59-year-old Roszelle, if he was willing to make the
commitment to better himself. In October, Bernichon begin working to help Roszelle. He helped fill out applications, took Roszelle to the doctor for medical documentation and provided other items as required by the GWVH. Bernichon had many conversations with Roszelle both in person
and via phone to ensure he did not lose hope a new life was waiting on him. One day, Bernichon could no longer contact Roszelle by phone. Bernichon located him walking down Main Street. Roszelle’s rent had been increased, and he had no means to pay his phone bill. Know-
ing GWVH needed a way to stay in touch with Roszelle, Bernichon paid two months of phone service out of his own pocket. After a meeting with evaluators, a nurse and the executive director, GWVH finally accepted him into the program. “I helped him because it’s the right thing to do. Our Government made a promise to take care of these veterans, and I felt it to be my duty to ensure it happened,” said Bernichon. “Taking Mr. Roszelle to jail would not solve the problem. It would only remove him temporarily. Placing him in a care facility treats his issues, and improves his life.” Bernichon picked up Roszelle on Dec. 15 and drove him to Milledgeville in a police cruiser. When asked if he was excited, Roszelle said he was anxious but thanked the Conyers Police Department for helping him. Bernichon and Roszell had a celebratory breakfast together at Cracker Barrel en route to GWVH.
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DECEMBER 19, 2015 • PAGE 7
Movers & Shakers in the Community
Gregory B. Levett named nation’s “Funeral Director of the Year”
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regory B. Levett, Sr. has been named the 2015 Funeral Director of the Year by American Funeral Director magazine. Levett, founder and CEO of Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Homes Inc., was selected because of his efforts on behalf of others, as well as his success at turning his business into one of the largest independent funeral homes in his region. Levett owns four funeral homes and a crematory with locations in DeKalb, Gwinnett and Rockdale counties. He is profiled in a six-page spread in the December issue of American Funeral Director. The magazine article chronicles Levett’s life from a kid who emulated the welldressed characters in the old television show, “Perry Mason,” to the respected businessman he became running an empire. “I decided I was going to be a businessman. I didn’t want to go into the field and Gregory B. Levett, Sr. is featured on the cover of the December issue of American pick cotton,” Levett told Funeral Director magazine. American Funeral Director magazine. license in 1973 and opened His staff of 45 full-time Levett received his his first funeral home in and 90 part-time employees award at the Tenth Annual 1980 in Scottsdale. “I am includes people from six difFuneral Service Business hoping with this, I will ferent countries who speak Plan Conference, which was inspire some young person several languages. held in Glendale, Arizona. to this career or whatever “None of this would be “I am very humbled to career they would choose.” possible without the great be recognized for the work Levett credits his dedistaff we have,” said Levett, I have done throughout cated staff for making it pos- who has seen three of his my life,” said Levett, who sible for him to be honored. four children follow him into earned his funeral director’s Johnson continued from page 1
employee, adding that a thorough investigation needs to be done by an outside agency. “I’m hopeful that the Federal Trade Commission will take up the investigation. Any kind of independent look at what happened would be reassuring to the public,” Johnson told Rashad Richey during a WAOK radio talk show. “ I think It is my obligation to try to protect the security of certainly the people in the Fourth District but greater than that, throughout throughout the state of Georgia: 6.2 million people. I’m not satisfied with what I’ve heard in terms of a response from the Secretary of State’s Office into what has happened. It’s a very serious issue. It should not be swept under the rug. It should not be minimized.” In a report Kemp issued, the breach, it said was due to “Mr. Cooley working outside of and circumventing established policies and procedures.” Cooley reportedly provided a disc with voters’ personal information to 12 outlets including the media and political parties.
funeral service. Levett was selected from among a record-number of nominations for this year’s award, said Allison Sullivan, publisher of Kates-Boylston Publications, the company that publishes American Funeral Director, a nationwide magazine that has been helping funeral professionals succeed and serve since 1877. “While we had many impressive entries, Mr. Levett stood out as a man who is having a positive impact on his community and his profession,” Sullivan said. “His generosity, caring and commitment embody what the funeral profession is all about. We were honored to present him with this award.” Levett has spent a lifetime being involved in professional and community organizations, letting nothing deter him from his duties. He served his presidency of the National Funeral Directors and Morticians Association and Georgia Funeral Service Practitioners Association in 1998, the same year he was diagnosed with stage 2 non- Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He said he was determined to defeat cancer and not let it defeat him. Outside of his involvement with professional organizations, Levett is a member of the board of directors of the DeKalb Medical
Center and chairman of the DeKalb Hospital Authority. He served as a former president of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb, which provides mentorship and opportunities to African-American youths. Under Levett’s leadership, the organization was named the National Chapter of the Year. He remains involved today as a member of the organization. Levett’s contributions have been recognized through other tributes. The DeKalb Medical Center at Hillandale’s emergency department reception area is named Gregory and Betty Levett, his wife. When DeKalb Medical was raising money for the emergency department, the couple stepped up and made a sizeable donation. Although Levett won’t disclose the amount of the donation, contributions must be at least $250,000 to qualify for permanent tributes at the hospital. “It’s all about giving back. God has blessed me. I want to be a blessing to the community,” said Levett, who is a tither at St. Philip AME Church in Atlanta where he is a member. A reception to honor Levett will be held at St. Philip AME Church, 1240 Candler Road, S.E., Atlanta, on Jan. 31, 4 to 6 p.m.
Melvin Dean sworn in as Fulton County School System’s police chief
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ew Fulton County Schools Police Chief Melvin G. Dean, a law enforcement veteran with nearly 30 years’ military and law enforcement experience in the Fulton County community, was issued his oath of office at the Dec. 8 school board meeting. In his new role, Chief Dean will lead the Fulton County Schools Police Department, a division of the school system that provides a focus on safety and security through more than 70 certified police officers and administrative staff serving more than 100 schools and auxiliary buildings. “Chief Dean brings a demonstrated record of success New FCS Chief of Police Melvin Dean takes the oath of office issued by Chief Judge Bradley Boyd of the Fulton County Juvenile Court. and a broad knowledge of the Fulton County community to his role as Chief of Police. This is Department and the Fulton County Police Columbus State University’s Georgia Law a tremendous asset to our students and Department. Enforcement Command College. He also schools,” said Interim Superintendent KenOver the past 19 years with the Fulton holds a certificate in Public Safety Leaderneth Zeff. “He has a reputation as a highly County Police Department, he has held ship Management from Mercer University effective law enforcement administrator a variety of roles in the field and at the and has completed the FBI National Acadwho is focused on results and accountabil- administrative level, and most recently has emy, a professional development course ity. This makes him an outstanding choice served as Patrol Division Watch Comfor law enforcement leaders. to lead our Fulton County Schools School mander. In addition to being certified by Dean also is a member of the National Police Department.” the Police Officer Standards and Training Organization of Black Law Enforcement Dean began his law enforcement caCouncil, which oversees law enforcement Executives (NOBLE), Federal Bureau of reer as a commissioned officer assigned to certification, Dean holds a bachelor’s Investigation’s National Academy Assoa military police unit in the U.S. Army. In degree in public administration from the ciates, World Taekwondo Federation, and this role, he gained fundamental leadership University of Mississippi and is completKappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. training as well as a desire to serve the ing degree requirements this month for community as a peace officer, later leading a master’s degree in public safety from to careers with the Fulton County Sheriff’s
PAGE 8 •DECEMBER 19, 2015
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HELP FOR FOSTER KIDS
14th annual “totes 2 tots” suitcase drive under way
Georgia Cancer Specialists (GCS) and Northside Hospital are collecting backpacks and suitcases for foster children in Georgia as part of the 14th annual totes 2 tots suitcase drive. More than 11,600 children, from infants to teens, are currently in the foster care system in Georgia. Many of these children shuffle their belongings in garbage bags when they are removed from their homes. Since totes 2 tots was launched in 2003, the annual volunteer event has collected and distributed more than 41,000 bags. totes 2 tots was originally held on Martin Luther King Day as a way to honor Dr. King’s vision of philanthropy and give back to the community. The event is now held on the preceding Thursday, Friday and Saturday to kick off a weekend of service in Dr. King’s honor. Donations of new or nearly new backpacks and suitcases will be accepted Friday, Jan. 15, 10 a.m.-2 p.m., in the metro Atlanta area at: • 1835 Savoy Drive Suite
300, Atlanta • 2712 Lawrenceville Highway, Decatur • 698 Duluth Highway Suite 201, Lawrenceville • 1045 Southcrest Drive Suite 200, Stockbridge “As the physicians and staff
of Georgia Cancer Specialists, we look forward to honoring Dr. Martin Luther King’s memory for the 14th consecutive year,” said Cheryl Jones, M.D., vice president and chief medical officer, GCS. “Through this project, we have demonstrated our commitment to support the
foster children of Georgia in achieving successful futures in the community.” GCS partners with the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) to distribute the bags in the counties in which they’re collected. Bobby Cagle, director of DFCS, praised those who support the program, which helps to bring a measure of comfort and respect to Georgia’s foster children. “There are some children in our state who, unfortunately, have few constants in their lives,” said Cagle. “The totes 2 tots program, by providing a piece of luggage to those children whose lives have been upended, offers a sense of stability in a time of uncertainty.” To find a participating location near you, visit www. gacancer.com or facebook.com/ totes2tots, or call 1-877-716-CARE (2273). Financial donations may be made securely online at give. northside.com/totes2tots. All donations are tax deductible.
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DECEMBER 19,2015 • PAGE 9 License plate continued from page 1
Help for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta
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dmiration Lodge #25 and the South DeKalb Rotary Club presented Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) at Scottish Rite a check in the amount of $1,050. The monies were raised at the first annual “One Shot for Scottish Rite” Hole-in-One contest, which was held on
Nov. 16 at Mystery Valley golf course in Lithonia. Pictured L-R are: CHOA’s Patricia Thompson, South DeKalb Rotary President-Elect Ceasar Gaiters, Admiration Lodge’s Rodney Clark, CHOA’s Sabron Jones and Admiration Lodge Worshipful Master Miguel Ramos.
Outdoor classroom, Gwinnett trails approved
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onstruction of an outdoor classroom along the Ivy Creek Greenway at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center(EHC) and more trails in Tribble Mill Park were approved by commissioners this month. The 2009 SPLOST program will provide almost $100,000 for the outdoor plaza and seating area to be built by low bidder Bayne Development Group LLC of Winder. “This new amenity will provide needed programming space for summer camps, scouting programs, K-12 educational classes and other environmental
education programs.” EHC Director Steve Cannon said SPLOST is also supplying a local match of $150,000 to supplement a state grant that will build new trails in the 718-acre Tribble Mill Park southeast of Lawrenceville. One section of trail will improve pedestrian connectivity to Archer High School nearby. The grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources is for $100,000. Tribble Mill Park features a fishing lake, a large meadow, 3.4 miles of paved trails plus other soft-surface equestrian and mountain bike trails.
him here along with me really touches me in a way that I can’t express,” Terry Mahaffey said during the presentation. Mahaffey said having the gift during the holiday season is bittersweet. “I would prefer to have Brian here with me,” Mahaffey said. “… To not have him here, that’s the bitter part. The sweet part is knowing that so many people care. There’s so many people who made this happen and I’m honored by it.” The tax commissioner, along with Rockdale Sheriff Eric Levett and other officials joined Mahaffey’s family members at the Sheriff’s Office for the presentation. Hadley said he consulted with state motor vehicle officials and after two months was able to secure the plate. In doing so, he said he kept a promise to Cindy Mahaf-
fey, who had contacted him a few months ago seeking his help in getting the special license plate Brian Mahaffey was killed. “Back at that time, I was chief of staff of the county and grieving with everyone else. I said if there’s anything that I can do to help the family, just let me know. Cindy contacted me a couple of months ago and said ‘Commissioner, I’d like your help with something. So I remembered that promise and went back to my staff and said ‘We’ve got to make this happen,’” said Mahaffey. Sheriff Levett said the family has been vigilant about keeping Mahaffey’s name alive. “We have a street named after him. We
have a motorcycle ride named I honor of him. We miss Brian dearly. We’re going to continue to keep his name alive,” said Levett.
Renovation coming for Ronald Reagan Park
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he heavily-used Ronald Reagan Park, first opened in 2004, is in line for a $1 million renovation. The 2014 SPLOST program and a federal $100,000 grant will fund the contract with Multiplex LLC. The contract was recently approved by the Board of Commissioners. The work includes improvements to the trail system and three bridges, the dog park, skate park,
parking, storm drainage, stream bank stabilization, and landscaping. The popular 25-acre park is on Five Forks Trickum Road near Ronald Reagan Parkway. “We promised to use these SPLOST funds to maintain and improve our existing parks and this renovation of Ronald Reagan Park is a good example of how we’re delivering on that promise,” said Board Chairman Charlotte Nash.
DECAL seeking nominations for Georgia’s Pre-K Teachers of the Year
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New Tucker WIC office opens
ocal and state health officials held a grand opening for the Tucker DeKalb Women Infants and Children (WIC) Clinic on Dec. 15. The new WIC clinic at 4394 Hugh Howell Road inbTucker brings the total to six locations in DeKalb, officials said. The federally-funded nutrition program provides healthy foods, nutrition education and counseling, breastfeeding support and referrals for health care. Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford, director of DeKalb County’s Board of Health, said the Tucker location will have translators available to help DeKalb’s Spanish-speaking population. “There’s never been a WIC program in this area,” said Ford.
“This program is critical, as we already know, in reaching women, infants and children to provide them with nutrition, education and access to healthy foods through or vouchers and other health services as well. We will be able to accommodate 12 to 14 languages, including Spanish, at this location.” The Tucker center also is easily accessible and is on the MARTA bus line, Ford said. “We’re expecting to see about 5,000 people per month at this facility,” said Ford. The DeKalb WIC clinics collectively serve about 23,000 people per month, Ford said. For more information, contact the WIC program call center at 404-508-7777.
right from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) is seeking nominations for Georgia’s Pre-K Program Teacher of the Year for 2016-2017. DECAL will select a winner from a local public school system and a winner from a private childcare center. The nomination can come from a Georgia’s Pre-K Project Director or a Pre-K teacher. The nominated teacher must complete a teacher information page and respond to questions on the application. “Now in its 23rd year, Georgia’s Pre-K Program is nationally recognized as an exemplary early childhood education program for four year olds that significantly impacts school readiness skills in language, literacy, and math,” said DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs. “The program’s success can be attributed directly to the outstanding Pre-K teachers and assistants who implement this program daily. This is a small way for us to recognize their efforts.” To be considered for Georgia’s Pre-K Program Teacher of the Year, the nominated teacher must meet the following qualifications: • Must have been employed as a Georgia’s Pre-K lead teacher during the 2015-2016 school year. • Must have taught as a lead teacher in a Georgia’s Pre-K class-
room for a minimum of three years. • Must meet Georgia’s Pre-K credential and Professional Development Registry requirements. • Must be planning to continue as a lead teacher in a Georgia’s Pre-K classroom during the 2016-2017 school year. • Must be employed by a Georgia’s Pre-K Program provider in good standing with all programs administered by DECAL (Pre-K, Child Care Services, Childcare and Parent Services [CAPS] and Nutrition Services). • Must be willing to serve as an ambassador for Georgia’s Pre-K Program. Duties may include but are not limited to: public speaking, representing Georgia’s Pre-K at meetings, and modeling effective classroom practices. • Must be able and willing to travel as needed – including some overnight stays. • Must be willing to have a classroom evaluation and interview conducted if chosen as a finalist. The application for Pre-K Teacher of the Year is available on the home page of the DECAL website at www.decal.ga.gov. Completed applications must be postmarked or hand delivered no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 29, 2016. Finalists will be announced in May 2016, with the winners announced in the early fall.
PAGE 10•DECEMBER
19, 2015
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Letters to the Editor
Proposed city of Greenhaven filled with history and promise
Senate, House committee reports raise many issues about cityhood efforts By Ed Williams
The Georgia House and Senate have both released their study committee reports this month examining cityhood and annexation. The Senate report findings stated that it would be unconstitutional for cities like Tucker and the proposed cities of Greenhaven and Stonecrest to provide “limited services.” Proponents of the cities in South DeKalb are promoting they would provide only Parks and Recreation, Code enforcement, and Zoning. The reality is that once a city is created, there is no limit to their ability to create or provide services. Proponents have said they would use DeKalb County government to supply these services or contract them through private companies. This fact is not really being discussed during public meetings held around South DeKalb. In reality, the proposed cities would have to finance at least 11 services for their communities: law enforcement; fire protection; road and street construction or maintenance; solid waste management; water supply or distribution or both; waste-water treatment; storm-water collection and disposal; electric or gas utility services; enforcement of building, housing, plumbing and electrical codes and similar codes; planning and zoning; and recreational facilities. The residents would end up with two layers of government and higher property taxes in the end. The Senate report stated that the millage caps that are in the city charters are not legal and that an increase in property taxes or millage rate can be made by City Council vote. The Senate report stated that city government does not require a referendum to increase the property taxes or millage rate. The House and Senate study committee report recommended that proposed cities include the fiscal impacts on
county government and neighboring cities in their feasibility study. During a DeKalb Delegation meeting on Dec. 10, Sen. Fran Millar stated that he does not believe the proposed city of Greenhaven has any chance of getting passed this session, but that there may be a possibility of some life for the proposed city of Stonecrest. Citizens Against Cityhood in DeKalb is not in favor of either city being created. The two main reasons are that, as Sen. Millar stated, Greenhaven is too large, and the legislative charter bill has not made it through any of the necessary House and Senate committees. Kathryn Rice, a proponent of Greenhaven, suggested that its large size would be a political leverage and compensate for more of a tax base. Citizens Against Cityhood in DeKalb supports a moratorium on any new city formations. We believe that DeKalb residents deserve a more deliberate process; and that state lawmakers need to make changes to the cityhood and annexation process. The process should favor residents learning more and participating in the process. The cityhood process should not be rushed. It would be unprecedented to create a city of 300,000 overnight. It took Atlanta 150 years to reach a population of 450,000. Ed Williams is chair of Citizens Against Cityhood in DeKalb. For more information, visit his blog: ccegdekalb. blogspot.com.
Farwell, Rockdale My family and I have been living in the Metro Atlanta area for over 25 years, with the last 10 ½ of those years being in Rockdale County. In the years that we have lived in Rockdale, I have had the opportunity to experience many different emotions, meet many different types of people, and develop many different concepts and ideas, with all of these things leading to a multifaceted life of pure awesomeness! Well, as it is often said, all good things eventually come to an end, and with that being said it is with a heavy heart that I must now bid farewell to Rockdale County. But, how can I truly say farewell? First I would like to start by saying Thank You to all of the phenomenal people that I have met here; every race, creed, and gender, for it was because of you that life in Rockdale was absolutely beautiful, with no regrets! I thank you for being there when I needed your help, and also when you needed mine. Some of you I thank for helping me to learn the tough life lessons that I’ve learned here, even if it was not in the kindest of ways, and I Accept the fact that while not every lesson felt good to me…each lesson was the best life experience that God wanted for me! Now, for the fact that I actually did get angry with a few of you, I Really want to Express that I’m no
D. Anderson
longer angry. I also ask you to accept my apology if my anger hurt you in any way, and I Wish nothing but the very best for you in your life to come! (Forgiveness unblocks a two way street that allows both parties to move forward with Ease, so please let it go!) Then Last, but not Least, it is my hope that my life here has planted seeds of purpose that will harvest to positively impact lives for many years to come. That way I will be able to proudly say that my living, in Rockdale, was not in vain. So, I say FAREWELL, Rockdale County, and please don’t forget that I once passed this way. Remember, stand united and you will never fall! Deborah Y. Anderson served as a Rockdale community activist and worked as an assistant to Probate Court Judge Charles Mays. She is leaving Rockdale to help provide care for her mother in South Carolina and run a family-owned business. She is on Facebook and can be reached at: debhasasecret@gmail.com
By Kathryn Rice We at Concerned Citizens for the Cityhood of South DeKalb are advocating to form a new city called Greenhaven. While we believe strongly in the advantages that forming a city will bring, we acknowledge and pay tribute to the history that Greenhaven stands on. In this message, we honor some of the accomplishments in South DeKalb. “What is the history of South DeKalb?” one might ask. During the 1700s, the Muscogee and Hitchiti Native Americans were the majority occupants of South DeKalb County. They became known as the “Creek Confederacy.” The DeKalb History Center details the next set of occupants: “The early settlers of DeKalb were of English, Scotch and Irish descent coming from Virginia and the Carolinas…The county was named after Baron Johann de Kolb, a native of Germany and self-proclaimed baron who aided the colonists in their fight for independence.” Since that time, DeKalb County has become one of the state’s sprawling metropolitan areas. During the late 80’s and the 90’s, the Memorial Drive corridor (from Candler Road to North Hairston Road) was a focal point of South DeKalb’s nightlife and restaurants. The Candler Road corridor (from Memorial Drive to Flat Shoals Parkway) was the community’s shopping “mecca” with the holiday bravado of South DeKalb Mall (now Gallery at South DeKalb) at the center of it all, boasting beautiful holiday décor, a live piano player, and its very own “Black Santa.” A sense of community is also ever present in the proposed city of Greenhaven as numerous little league to high school sports teams are fostering an environment of self-esteem and achievement among our youths - to name a few, the Gresham Park Rattlers, Glenwood Hills Panthers, and DeKalb Yellow Jackets. The historic
toils of community activism echoes in the proposed city of Greenhaven. In 1975, on the heels of court-ordered school desegregation in Georgia, students at Columbia High school staged a sit down protest and marched from the school to the state capital in protest of the school’s administration’s cancellation of Black History week. Through this effort a community group of concerned parents was formed and called the Concerned Citizens. There’s proof all around South DeKalb that a sense of community pride still exists today. However, the economic development side of our story has long been neglected. Let’s restore our community to its former splendor by taking charge of our own destiny. Let’s instill pride in ourselves by imagining ourselves in a city that would focus its efforts directly where we live. Let’s impart a sense of urgency on our South DeKalb legislators to support the right of the proposed city of Greenhaven’s citizens to vote on a cityhood referendum. Greenhaven is a proposed city that comprises much of the unincorporated area south of US-78 and Memorial Drive in DeKalb County. Bills proposing the city were sponsored by 12 DeKalb county delegates in the 2015 legislative session. The bills carry over into the 2016 session where legislators will vote on whether to allow citizens a public referendum on creating a city of Greenhaven. Kathryn Rice, Ph.D., is heading the Greenhaven cityhood campaign. For more information, visit: www. GreenhavenGA.blogspot.com
Business owner says he’s fed up with eyesore in front of his establishment Mike McClinton, owner of Robert’s restaurant in Lithonia, emailed On Common Ground News this picture of an overflowing trash can at the MARTA bus stop in front of his business. The restaurant is located at 2810 Evans Mill Road. McClinton says he trapped between a rock and a hard place. MARTA doesn’t keep the area cleaned and neither does the city or DeKalb County. “I have to go out several times a week and clean up this mess myself. It’s frustrating because I don’t want my business to look bad. I have called MARTA and I’ve called the city and DeKalb. And no one has helped. I don’t know who is responsible for the trash can but if I’m paying taxes, I expect somebody to do something.”
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