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VOLUME 23 NUMBER 40

DECEMBER 30, 2017

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Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties

Alisha Adams Johnson appointed Rockdale County’s first African American District Attorney

A

lisha Adams Johnson has been appointed District Attorney of the Rockdale Judicial Circuit, becoming the first African American to hold the position in the East Metro Atlanta-area county.

Johnson will fill the remainder of long-time District Attorney Richard Read’s term, which expires on Dec. 31, 2018. Read, who is retiring, served as Rockdale’s District Attorney for 19 years.

Gov. Nathan Deal appointed Johnson on Dec. 21

after announcing the vacancy for the seat and reviewing a field of candidates. Johnson has worked as an Assistant District Attorney in Rockdale for 12 years was recommended for the position by Read.

“I was very excited to receive the news. What a Christmas present!” Johnson exclaimed regarding the governor’s appointment.

“I am looking forward to serving.”

Johnson said she plans to strive for “equity, fairness and justice” and continue supporting many of the accountability

Rockdale District Attorney Alisha Adams Johnson

courts that currently address chronic issues such as DUI, Drugs, Mental Health and Juvenile DUI.

Johnson said Rockdale had a total of about 3,700 cases reviewed for prosecution in 2017.

Johnson first came to the District Attorney’s Office as an intern during her third year of law school. Following graduation from Georgia State University’s College of Law in 2006, Johnson began working as an Assistant District Attorney and has served Rockdale and the District Attorney’s Office ever since. Initially working on misdemeanor crimes in State Court, Johnson was promot-

Stonecrest City Council passes 2018 budget

ed to Superior Court to prosecute Felony crimes ranging from thefts to murder.

Johnson received her undergraduate degree from Atlanta’s Spelman College.

She is a member of the 2018 class of Leadership Rockdale. She is married to Ashanti Johnson and the mother of a 3 1/2 yearold and twins, who are 16 months old.

Johnson will be sworn in

by Judge Clarence Cuthpert on Friday, Dec. 29, to begin her appointment on Jan. 1, 2018.

Remembering Amanda Davis

Mayor Jason Lary touts fiscal management, no property tax increase

T

he Stonecrest City Council unanimously passed a $6.2 million operating budget for 2018 at a special call meeting on Dec. 27. Mayor Jason Lary said he is extremely pleased with the outcome and praised the work of CH2M, the firm hired to oversee the operation of the newly-formed city during its infancy.

“This is a pivotal point in our city’s history. We will finish 2017 with more than $100,000 in reserves after our debts have been paid. Next year our reserves will be far greater,” Lary said.

The 2018 budget balances out with the city having $851,150 in its reserve fund, said City Manager Michael Harris.

“We’re really happy that we finished this year in the black. We brought in more revenues than we had in expenditures this year. This puts us in good financial standing for 2018,” Harris said.

The mayor also pointed out that residents did not receive any increases in property taxes in 2017, keeping his campaign promise. He pledged there would be no property tax increases in 2018.

“I am very pleased with the work that CH2M has done for our new city. We got everything done with no property tax increase— just as we promised. I think that is phenomenal for a new city.”

Lary cited proper planning and good fiscal management as the reasons for the city’s success.

“For a new city to finish their first year with a positive cash flow is phenomenal,” the mayor said.

Harris cited a few examples of SEE BUDGET, page 4

Amanda Davis. Photo via Facebook

Atlanta news icon Amanda Davis dies at 62

F L-R: Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary congratulates City Manager Michael Harris on the budget.

Photo provided

riends, fans and colleagues across metro Atlanta are mourning the loss of veteran Atlanta television news anchor Amanda Davis.

Davis suffered a massive stroke on Dec. 26 at Atlanta’s HartsfieldJackson International Airport while heading to her stepfather’s funeral in San Antonio, Texas, according to CBS 46 Atlanta. The television station reported that Davis was rushed to a nearby hospital, where she was surrounded by family when she died a day later, on Wednesday, Dec. 27, around 9:30 p.m.

Davis was a television anchor in Atlanta for more than 30 years, according to foxnews.com. She worked as the morning and noon anchor for CBS 46. Prior to that, she was a reporter and anchor for Atlanta's Fox affiliate, WAGA-TV, helping to launch Good Day Atlanta in 1992.

Many of Atlanta’s leaders offered condolences to Davis’ family, saying she would be missed.

Georgia Congressman John Lewis released a statement saying, “With the passing of Amanda Davis, we have lost a caring sensitive SEE DAVIS, page 4

PAGE 2 • DECEMBER 30, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Marquis “Greezy” Glover

Markaysha Hill

Mohammad Woods

Anthony Sanchez Vaughn

Conyers police announce rewards for suspects in burglaries, purse snatchings Conyers police are asking for the public’s help in locating four suspects wanted for thefts throughout the City of Conyers and other jurisdictions.

Marquis “Greezy” Glover, 19, is wanted for the burglary of the American Legion concession stand, where chips, pickles and sodas were stolen on Nov. 28. Police are also seeking Glover for a pedestrian

robbery on Bryant Street that occurred Oct. 29.

Markaysha Hill, 25, is wanted on outstanding warrants for multiple purse snatchings. The first event occurred at Kroger in Conyers on Oct. 7. Hill took the victim’s purse from her vehicle while the victim was loading groceries into her car. The second event occurred at Target in Conyers on Oct. 20 when Hill took

the victim’s purse from her shopping cart.

Mohammad Woods, 43, shattered a window of a vehicle in the LA Fitness parking lot at 6 a.m. on Dec. 13, stole a tablet and then checked in at the fitness center for a workout.

Anthony Sanchez Vaughn, 35, is wanted on multiple charges in Conyers, Rockdale, DeKalb and Butts

Rockdale Sheriff’s Office launches “Lock It or Lose It” campaign The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office is urging motorists to help do their part to avoid becoming victims of crime. Sheriff Eric J. Levett has launched a new campaign, “Lock It or Lose It” to combat vehicle burglaries, which are on the rise.

Sheriff’s officials say thieves are breaking into vehicles that are left running and unattended at gas stations, their homes and other places, according to incident reports.

As a result, bandits are making off with guns, credit cards, valuables and sometimes the vehicles, the Sheriff’s Office said in a news release. Video surveillance shows suspects sitting in parked cars waiting for the opportunity to commit thefts.

Levett said some crimes of opportunity may be avoided if motorists paid atten-

tion to their surroundings, turned off their vehicle and locked it. He said people should be mindful to pay attention especially in the mornings when heading to work, dropping off children to daycare or picking them up, and stopping to buy gas.

“As a community, it is vital that we all pay attention to our surrounding sand help educate our friends and family on this matter,” the news release said. “The RCSO will do what we can to keep events like this from happening, but if you don’t lock it, you may lose it.”

Any businesses or homeowners association presidents who would like fliers or yard signs promoting the “Lock It or Lose It” campaign may contact the Sheriff’s Office at 770-278-8000.

counties. Most recently, Vaughn broke into vehicles at several commercial locations in Conyers.

Any information leading to the arrest of the suspects may result in a cash reward of up to $2,000.

Tipsters will remain anonymous and are asked to contact Crime Stoppers with any information. Call 404-577-8477 or visit www.crimestoppersatlanta.org.

Walmart donates $2,500 to Tucker Precinct

I

n the spirit of the holidays, the Tucker Walmart at 4375 Lawrenceville Highway has donated $2,500 to the DeKalb Police Tucker Precinct.

“Walmart strongly believes in giving back to the communities where our customers and associates live and work,” said Tucker Walmart Store Manager Craig Soroko.

The Tucker Walmart has been a generous donor for several years, donating child safety seats for police vehicles, as well as being an active partner in the Shop with a Cop program. The store has given over $5,000 to Tucker precinct in previous years.

“The generosity of Walmart is greatly appreciated,” said Chief of Police, James Conroy. “The DeKalb County Police Department extends a heartfelt thank you to Walmart for all that it has done and continues to do.”

DeKalb’s New Year’s Residential Sanitation Collection Schedule In observance of New Year’s Day on Monday, Jan. 1, garbage, recyclable materials and yard trimmings collection for residential customers will be collected on a revised schedule as follows: Monday, Jan. 1 – New Year’s Day observed; no collection service.

Tuesday, Jan. 2 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Monday, Jan. 1, will be serviced on Tuesday, Jan. 2.

Wednesday, Jan. 3 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Tuesday, Jan. 2, will be serviced on Wednesday, Jan. 3.

Thursday, Jan. 4 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Wednesday, Jan. 3, will be serviced on Thursday, Jan. 4.

Friday, Jan. 5 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Thursday, Jan. 4, will be serviced on Friday, Jan. 5.

The Sanitation Division’s administrative office, Central and North Transfer Stations and Seminole Road Landfill will be closed on Monday, Jan. 1, and will reopen on Tuesday, Jan. 2, during normal operating hours.

For more information, contact the Sanitation Division’s customer service team at 404-294-2900, sanitation@dekalbcountyga.gov or visit www. dekalbsanitation.com

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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.

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On Common Ground News P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 www.ocgnews.com

DECEMBER 30, 2017 • PAGE 3

Joseph Lumpkin appointed DeKalb’s new Public Safety Deputy Chief

DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond has announced the selection of Joseph “Jack” H. Lumpkin to be the new deputy chief operating officer of public safety for DeKalb County, effective Jan. 28. Lumpkin will be responsible for police, fire rescue, animal control, emergency management, 911 and medical examiner services.

Currently, Lumpkin is chief of the Savannah-Chatham Metropolitan Police Department.

“Chief Lumpkin has built a stellar leadership record in law enforcement in Georgia and across the country,” said Thurmond. “He will enhance DeKalb’s public safety departments which will help make the county safer and improve quality of life.”

Lumpkin will be responsible for overseeing approximately 1,600 employees and an annual operating budget of nearly $201 million.

His responsibilities also will include: • Improving police services by recruiting and hiring 248 new officers.

• Strengthening relations with the community by continuing the development of the police mental health roundtable, youth crime prevention initiatives and outreach to multilingual communities.

• Enhancing coordination and communications for emergency and disaster responses.

Joseph Lumpkin

• Administering more than $85 million in Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds over the next six years for improving public safety facilities and capital projects focused on replacing and constructing new fire stations and new police facilities.

Lumpkin brings more than 40 years of experience in law enforcement including police chief positions in Toccoa, Albany, Athens-Clark County, and most recently, Savannah-Chatham County. He presently serves on the board of directors of the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He previously served as a vice president for the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Officers (NOBLE).

The Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police recognized Lumpkin as Peace Officer of the Year in 2014 and he was recognized by Georgia NOBLE in 2003 as Police Officer of the Year.

Lumpkin received degrees from Brenau University and Columbus State University and is a graduate of Leadership Georgia as well as leadership programs in Toccoa, Albany and Savannah. He also is a 2017 graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) National Executive Institute, which is designed for senior FBI leaders and heads of local, state, federal and international agencies with over 500 sworn officers.

Lumpkin brings more than 40 years of experience in law enforcement including police chief positions in Toccoa, Albany, Athens-Clark County, and most recently Savannah-Chatham County. He presently serves on the board of directors of the International Association of Chiefs of Police. He previously served as a vice president for the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Officers (NOBLE).

The Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police recognized Lumpkin as Peace Officer of the Year in 2014 and he was recognized by Georgia NOBLE in 2003 as Police Officer of the Year.

Lumpkin received degrees from Brenau University and Columbus State University and is a graduate of Leadership Georgia as well as leadership programs in Toccoa, Albany and Savannah. He also is a 2017 graduate of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) National Executive Institute, which is designed for senior FBI leaders and heads of local, state, federal and international agencies with over 500 sworn officers.

DeKalb meets critical consent decree deadline DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond says the county has met an important consent decree deadline. Beginning immediately, all new sewer connections will be certified by a Georgia Professional Engineer and the fully developed hydraulic model will be used in the certification process as required by the consent decree. The consent decree was entered by the county in 2011 and is designed to ensure compliance with the Federal Clean Water Act and the Georgia Water Quality Control Act to improve the viability of the county’s sewers for generations to come.

“DeKalb County has met an im-

portant deadline that demonstrates that we are committed to fully complying with the consent decree,” CEO Thurmond said at the first public update on the consent decree.

“We want to go above and beyond the consent decree requirements to protect public health and the county’s natural resources.”

The consent decree provides a roadmap for working cooperatively with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD). It requires the county to implement a hydraulic model program and identify available capacity for service connections to the county

Rockdale launches recreation programs for disabled children Children with disabilities will be offered lots of fun activities and field trips in 2018, thanks to a program Rockdale County is launching in January called AIRR Kids (Adaptive Inclusive Recreation of Rockdale).

Officials say Rockdale is expanding the programs that it has offered to disabled adults to now include a therapeutic program specifically designed for disabled children.

The AIRR program, which is open to Rockdale residents and those in surrounding counties, will be centered on play, music, social skills, art and a host of outings for children ages 4 to 12.

“We invite kids with and without disabilities to participate. Our goal is to provide all children a chance to engage in recreation that teaches them new skills and enhances their overall quality of life,” said Karolyne Bell, Therapeutic Recreation Supervisor. “We want to support and encourage active lifestyles for every member of the community.”

Some of the activities include Saturday art classes, bowling outings, exploring the sea at the aquarium, trips to the Equine Therapy Ranch and Friday Night Discos. The fees for the programs generally are under $12, Bell said.

To view a list of activities that will be offered and registration, visit https://secure.rec1.com/GA/rockdale-county/catalog (click on AIRR at the top of the page). Supervisor Karolyne Bell can be reached at 770-278-7529 or karolyne.bell@rockdalecountyga.gov.

sewer system. On Dec. 20, the county informed EPA that the county considered itself in full compliance with these requirements. The county will continue to work cooperatively with the EPA and EPD on all aspects of the ongoing consent decree.

The eight and-half-year consent decree calls for significant levels of sanitary sewer system inspection, assessment, rehabilitation and repair. The county has made major progress toward the consent decree such as cleaning 220 miles of sewer, removing 5.1 tons of debris and completing 1,821 stream-crossing inspections.Walmart for all that it has done and continues to do.”

DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond

NOTICE OF SPECIAL CALLED MEETING CITY OF STONECREST There will be a Special Called Meeting on Wednesday, January 3, 2017 at 10:00 a.m. at the Stonecrest City Hall, Stonecrest Blvd. Stonecrest, GA. For the following: 1. Administration of the Oath of Office to newly elected Council Members of Districts 1,3 & 5 2. Approval of the Resolution requesting the Local Delegation of the General Assembly to sponsor Legislation Adopting a new City Charter 3. Amendment to the Purchasing Policy for City Manager’s Authorization The Work Shop will follow immediately.

PAGE 4 • DECEMBER 30, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

City of Stonecrest sets 2018 meeting times The Stonecrest City Council will hold its work sessions on the first Wednesdays of each month and its regular council meetings on the third Monday beginning in 2018. If a holiday falls on Monday, the city council meeting would move to Tuesday.

The Wednesday work sessions are scheduled for 10 a.m. The City Council meetings are scheduled for 6 p.m. to encourage public participation. The council voted unanimously on the new meeting times at its Dec. 27 Special Called meeting.

Here is the 2018 meeting calendar: Work Sessions set First Wednesdays 10 a.m.

Council Meetings set Third Mondays, 6 p.m.

BUDGET, continued from page 1 the city’s fiscal responsibility. He said that he and city leaders were able to furnish and move into City Hall for less than $10,000. The city staff occupied a temporary, rent-free office space from July to November 2017.

They moved into the new city hall in November but will not begin paying for the 13,000-square-foot facility until April 2018.

Harris said 24 percent of the budget—the greatest share of the city’s expenditures—is earmarked for the Community Development Department, which includes 10 people who oversee code enforcement, planning and development, building inspections, land development, vehicles, signage and notices.

The budget does not include revenue from the recently passed Special Local Option Sales Tax(SPLOST), which is slated to add $7.6 million annually to the city’s bank account. A separate SPLOST budget was adopted in November for the allocation of these funds.

The city’s 2018 general operating budget can be viewed at stonecrestga.gov.

DAVIS, continued from page 1 friend and journalist. We pray for her family, friends and colleagues.

Her voice will be deeply missed.”

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed issued the following statement after learning news of Davis’ passing: “I am deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Amanda Davis, an icon of the Atlanta press corps.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Amanda’s family, especially her daughter, during this difficult time.

Amanda’s smile was known to people across the metropolitan Atlanta region. Amanda lit up the screen and forged a bond with her viewers. Her absence will be felt for years to come.

During this holiday season, let us be reminded of the need to hold our loved ones close, and cherish every moment we spend with our family, friends, neighbors and colleagues.”

Gregory B. Levett, founder and CEO of Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, which is handling the funeral arrangements, said Davis made a tremendous impact in the community. Levett said he had known Davis since 1999 through her work as emcee for the DeKalb

Chapter of the 100 Black Men’s annual Casino Royale charity event.

“She had a very positive personality, always smiling and she was always trying to help people.

She was an icon in Atlanta and will be missed by many people,” said Levett, a former president of the DeKalb 100 Black Men. Officials at the King Center posted a tweet saying, “Today, metro Atlanta, and many across this nation and world who were impacted by her life and work, mourn the death of #AmandaDavis.

She was in our lives and on our screens, a part of our days, a voice in our city. Thank you, Amanda.

We’ll miss you.”

Davis is survived by an only daughter, Melora Rivera, and her mother, Mary Ramos.

A public viewing for Amanda Davis will be held on Tuesday, Jan. 2, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., at Gregory B. Levett Funeral Home, 4347 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur.

Homegoing service will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 11 a.m. at Cascade United Methodist Church, 3144 Cascade Road S.W., Atlanta.

Jan. 3 Jan. 16 ( Jan. 15 MLK Holiday) Feb. 7 Feb. 19 March 7 March 19 April 4 April 16 May 2 May 21 June 6 June 18 July 3 (July 4 Holiday) July 16 Aug. 1 Aug. 20 Sept. 5 Sept. 17 Oct. 3 Oct. 15 Nov. 7 Nov. 19 Dec. 5 Dec. 17

Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting Work Session Council Meeting

Highlights of DeKalb County Library Branches Jan. 4-31—Expanding Civil Rights: From Congressman Robert Elliott through Nelson Mandela. View a broad collection of civil rights artifacts from the collection of Mike Glenn, community activist, Georgia NBA Hall-of-Famer and author of My Next Shot Goes In! Ten Sacred Characteristics of NBA Players that Lead to Success. Funding provided by the Friends of the Stonecrest Library. During library hours. Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. 770-482-3828.

Jan. 6-Feb. 3—Tau Pi Omega: 25 Years of Service: The Tau Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. celebrates 25 years of service in the Stone Mountain and Lithonia communities. A special exhibit will showcase some of their many accomplishments and contributions, including decades of cleaning trash from Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road, distributing free car safety seats for children to parents who needed them and awarding thousands of dollars in scholarships to deserving students.

During library hours. Hairston Crossing Library, 4911 Redan Road, Stone Mountain. 404-508-7170.

Jan. 31—Take in a free jazz concert: Enjoy a concert by the Miller Grove High School Jazz Orchestra from 6:30-7:15 p.m., Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road. 770-482.3828.

100 Black Women Decatur/DeKalb Chapter to host financial boot camp

Jan. 9 and 23—Debt Clinic: If you have been sued for a debt and you have questions, get answers from the DeKalb Volunteer Lawyers Foundation. Local attorneys will discuss information regarding debt cases in DeKalb County and facilitate free, one-on-one consultations. You should bring documentation related to your case. The sessions will be held 5:30-7 p.m., Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore Street, Decatur. 404-370-3070.

The National Coalition of 100 Black Women Decatur/DeKalb Chapter, Inc. will present a financial boot camp on Saturday, Jan. 6, 2:45 to 4:45 p.m., Lithonia-Davidson Library, 6821 Church St., Lithonia.

Jason Culp, private wealth manager, will discuss money management, budgeting, credit repair and retirement planning. The event is free and open to the public.

Jan. 11 and 17—Medicare 101: This educational workshop presented by Georgia Medicare 101 explains how Medicare works and what to expect from each plan option. To register, call 404.946.8702 or visit GAMedicare101.org. This is an educational workshop only; no insurance companies or products will be recommended or sold. 11 a.m. to noon.

Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore Street, Decatur. 404-370-3070.

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DECEMBER 30, 2017 • PAGE 5

DeKalb awards grants to 46 local nonprofits

T

he DeKalb County Board of Commissioners recently approved a request from the Human Services Department to award $767,800 in funds to 46 local nonprofit organizations for 2018. Resources for these grants originate from two areas: $617,808 from the county’s general fund and $150,000 from a Victims Assistance Fund, which is supported by the collection of court fees.

The Human Services Grant Program is designed to provide supplemental funding to nonprofit organizations serving their communities. Service areas that will be addressed through these grants include: youth development/education, family welfare, crisis intervention and prevention for women and children, senior services and supports for individuals with disabilities.

“We are delighted to have 46 provider agencies awarded during this grant cycle to help us extend the reach of Human Services in DeKalb County,” said Human Services Department Director Damon Scott. “Our provider agencies deliver extremely important and critical services to address the diverse needs of individuals and families in DeKalb County.”

The grant program uses an evaluation process designed to identify qualified applicants. Grant awards range from $14,000-$20,000 and at least half of the awarded amount must be used for programming.

Following is a list of the recipients and the grant amounts awarded: Atlanta Community Food Bank Lutheran Services of Georgia, Inc. VOX Teen Communications

Auditory Verbal Center, Inc.

Lekotek of Georgia 21st Century Leaders Communities In Schools Scottdale Early Learning, Inc. New American Pathways Elaine Clark Center Frazier Center Chris 180 GA Campaign for Adolescent Power Positive Growth, Inc. Innovative Solutions for Disadvantage Georgia Agape, Inc. Big Brothers/Big Sisters Boys & Girls Club Families First, Inc. Salvation Army Metro Atlanta Reach for Excellence I Care, Inc. Literacy Action, Inc. Travelers Aid of Metropolitan Atlanta New Life Community Ministries, Inc. Decatur Cooperative Ministry, Inc. GA Radio Reading Service Physicians' Care Clinic GA Community Support & Solutions Men Stopping Violence Friends of Disabled Adults & Children Latin American Association St. Jude's Recovery Center, Inc. Senior Connections, Inc. Foundation of Wesley Woods Essence of Hope, Inc. Metro Atlanta Recovery Residence Jewish Family & Career Services Center for Pan Asian Atlanta Legal Aid Society, Inc. Georgia Center for Child Advocacy Safe Haven Raksha Caminar Latino Day League -1 International Women's House Day League - 2

$15,993.03 $15,582.18 $15,471.14 $15,326.78 $15,282.37 $15,282.37 $14,949.24 $14,804.89 $14,660.54 $14,616.12 $14,549.50 $14,471.77 $14,471.77 $14,360.73 $14,327.42 $14,249.69 $14,216.38 $14,216.38 $14,060.92 $14,060.92 $13,949.88 $20,555.67 $20,288.55 $20,131.42 $20,131.42 $19,707.18 $19,502.91 $19,502.91 $19,298.64 $19,235.79 $19,141.52 $19,141.52 $19,031.53 $18,874.40 $18,450.15 $18,245.89 $17,664.51 $15,435 $15,435 $15,435 $15,133 $15,001 $15,001 $14,870 $14,778 $14,699 $14,213

Barksdale Elementary School students run marathon in a month While many people are starting New Year's Resolutions to exercise more, students in Barksdale Elementary School's Marathon in a Month Club are already living a healthier lifestyle.

About 40 students met at 7:10 a.m. each morning at the school in Conyers for about a month in October and November 2017 to run at least a mile each day. By the end of the month, participants completed a marathon, or 26.2 miles.

Club advisor Sherry Webb said, "We are trying to encourage a love of exercise and physical fitness at an early age. At the end of our month, students receive a certificate, T-shirt, and race goodie bag. Students love being able to participate."

Congratulations to the following students who ran a marathon: Andrew Land, Angel McKibben, Anthony Reddish, Ashley Erb, Breanna Strong, Cal Lumpkin, Carina Land, Carter Moon, Cassidy Tinsley, Charles Gover, Cheynne Watkins, Christopher Peck, Corbin Lykins, Cris-Angel Avalos, Deven Wilson, Elizabeth Lovett, Finn Wilson, Haley Bernier, Hanna Bernier, Johnny Vanstone, Joseph Griffin, Joshua Crofford, Kami Turner, Kinsley Sprague, Laia Weans, Laine Lumpkin, Leland Adigwe, Lottie Wilson, Lucy Sollars, Marie Elizabeth Ehouman, McKenzie Burnett, Meela Vanstone, Nathan Waters, Noah Seya, Peter Gonzalez, Saige Chandler, Savanna Griffin, Serai Colon, Sophia Tate, Tristan Barthole, Chloe Estes. Club sponsors are Cheris Scott and Sherry Webb.

East Ponce de Leon Lane Closure to begin Jan. 3 Beginning on Wednesday, Jan. 3, portions of East Ponce de Leon Avenue, between Interstate 285 and Market Street, will be closed intermittently from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., to accommodate construction of the Clarkston Streetscape Water Main Relocation Project.

The project began in September and will replace nearly 8,000 feet of water main pipes in the Clarkston area. Single-lane closures will be in effect for the duration of construction, which is expected to conclude in April.

Motorists and MARTA passengers that use East Ponce de Leon between Interstate 285 and Market Street are urged to plan for extra commuting time. Lane closure signs will be in the area alerting motorists to the construction work and local traffic restrictions. For more information, visit the DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management (DWM) website at www.dekalbwatershed.com, call the DWM Project Information Line at 1-800-9861108 or email projectinfo@dekalbcountyga.gov.

Local counties offering green options to recycle your Christmas tree DEKALB COUNTY - DeKalb County Sanitation Division is offering DeKalb residents free curbside pickup for Christmas tree collections through Jan. 12.

Trees will be collected during regularly scheduled sanitation collection service days. To participate, residents must remove all decorations from trees and place them curbside. Only trees 7 feet in height or less will be accepted. Trees that cannot be trimmed to the required size may be taken to the county-owned Seminole Road Landfill or collected by the Sanitation Division’s special collection unit (fees may apply).

Collected trees will be recycled and converted to mulch. This service provides an opportunity for residents to dispose of Christmas trees free of charge.

For more information, contact the Sanitation Division’s customer service team at 404294-2900 or sanitation@dekalbcountyga.gov, or visit www.dekalbsanitation.com.

ROCKDALE COUNTY - Keep Conyers-Rockdale Beautiful (KCRB) and the Conyers Home Depot will host the “Bring One for the Chipper” program on Saturday, Jan. 6, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., at Home Depot, 1330 Dogwood Drive, Conyers.

The Chipper program offers citizens the opportunity to dispose their cut trees at a central location in the community, while recycling the trees for reuse for a good cause.

For more information on the community recycling projects, contact Keep Conyers-Rockdale Beautiful at 770-278-7052 or by email at kcrb@rockdalecountyga.gov.

GWINETT COUNTY - Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful, in partnership with Gwinnett County, are offering Gwinnett residents the chance to recycle their Christmas trees through the annual “Bring One for the Chipper” program through Jan. 15.

Gwinnett residents can drop off natural Christmas trees at selected fire stations 24/7 and other sites during business hours in the county. The trees will be chipped into mulch for use at county parks.

To see a list of all drop-off sites or register to volunteer for the event scheduled Jan. 27, visit www.gwinnettcb.org.

PAGE 6 • DECEMBER 30, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

New-Rock ABWA held their ribbon cutting on Thursday, November 2nd. Visit their website at www.abwanewroc.org.

Lose the Fat, Keep the Curves held their ribbon cutting on Wednesday, November 8th. They can be reached by calling (404) 502-9001 or (770) 648-3711, or visit their website at www.losethefatkeepthecurves.com.

Magnolia Hospice held their ribbon cutting on Thursday, November 9th. They are located at 1374 Manchester Drive, Conyers, GA 30012.

They can be reached by calling (770) 483-9111, or visit their website at www.magnoliahospicehouse.com.

For Wineauxs Only held their ribbon cutting on Wednesday, November 15th. They can be reached by calling (404) 487-6562, or visit their website at www.forwineauxsonly.com.

Interested in joining the Conyers Rockdale Chamber of Commerce?

Contact us at 770-483-7049 The Bistro held their ribbon cutting on Thursday, December 7th. They are located at 936 Green Street SW, Suite 400, Conyers, GA 30012.

They can be reached by calling (678) 806-5720, or visit their website at www.thebistroconyers.com.

COMMERCE CLUB 2017 1-800 Water Damage of Southeast Atlanta 4D Printing, Inc. ARC Homes Realty Group, LLC Barlay Law Group LLC Caliber Home Loans Colonial Heating & Air, Inc. Consolidated Copier Services Conyers Animal Hospital Conyers Flower Shop Copy Central, Inc. Farmers & Merchants Bank Future Staff imijit.net Georgia Piedmont Technical College Georgia United Credit Union Infinity Network Solutions

Massey Law Firm, LLC Peachtree Academy Private School Randy’s Carpet Plus Raymond Engineering, Inc. Rehorn Professional Group Rueping Associates PC, CPA Retirement Wealth Management Strategies Servpro of Conyers/Covington The Tabb Insurance Agency, Inc. Zaxby’s

THANK YOU

We are located at

936 Green St SW, Conyers, GA 30012 CHAMBER PACESETTERS 2017 PLATINUM Evans Tool & Die Georgia Power Company Kaiser Permanente Rockdale Medical Center Snapping Shoals EMC GOLD Bank of North Georgia Corner Market Eastmore High Priority Plumbing LioChem, Inc. Shurett Dental Group SILVER Acuity Brands Lighting Alcovy Media Asurety Construction Services BB&T Gas South

Hedrick & Dodson Family Dentistry Honda of Conyers Jenae’s Dance Studio Monastery of the Holy Spirit Omega Brothers Pleasant Peds Care of Conyers Pratt Industries Premier Medical Careers Premier Platforms Risk Management Associates of Georgia Rockdale Physician Practices Scot Ward Funeral Services Southeast Connectionns LLC Talley & Associates, PC THP Creative Group

THANK YOU

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

DECEMBER 30, 2017 • PAGE 7

On Common Ground News Marketplace RESTAURANTS

HEALTH SERVICES

HEALTH SERVICES

DENTAL

CATERING

Peach Blossom Dental wants to provide you with an exceptional experience. We strive to take the fear out of going to the dentist, offering the latest technology in dentistry.

We have a talented dentist and staff that are solely here to brighten your smile.

Silverspoon Catering

Call us today to schedule your appointment!

(770) 934-5144

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY CATERING All Turkeys are $6.99 per pound

2256 Northlake Parkway, Suite 150, Tucker, GA 30084

www.peachblossomdental.com • Accepting New Patients

99

$

• Healthy Mouth Cleaning • X-Rays New Patients Without • Exam Insurance Only • Fluoride

FRIED or ROASTED: Cajun Turkey, Garlic Turkey, Orange Zinfandel, Buffalo, Rosemary Turkey, Red Wine Brined Turkey, BBQ Turkey, Hot & Spicy Jerk, Traditional Fried Turkey, Honey Pecan

add any sides for an additional $7.99 pound

EMAIL YOUR ORDER TO: silverspoonatl@gmail.com

(404) 808-8166

We cater to the entire family.

Gum Treatments Tooth Colored Fillings Oral Surgery Cosmetic Bonding & Veneers Crowns, Bridges & Dentures Root Canals Implants We Accept Most Insurance Plans Peachcare & Medicaid Emergency Walk-In Time Available

900 N. Hairston Rd. Suite B Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-294-8500 Spalding Gentle Dentistry 6460 Spalding Drive Norcross, GA 30092 770-849-0006

PAGE 8 • DECEMBER 30, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM