VOLUME 23 NUMBER 7
FREE
MAY 13, 2017
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
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I-85 corridor to reopen by May 15
he I-85 corridor, closed since the bridge collapsed as a result of a March 30 fire, will reopen on May 15, officials announced. Gov. Nathan Deal, along with Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) Commissioner Russell McMurry and State Transportation Board Chairman Robert L. Brown Jr., made the announcement on May 9. The northbound and southbound lanes of the I-85 bridge over Piedmont Road in metro Atlanta are projected to open to traffic by morning rush-hour on May 15. The new opening date Construction crews put the finishing touches on the I-85 corridor on May 11. Photos by Glenn L. is nearly two weeks earlier than Morgan/OCG News tremendous challenge, the response from I-85 weeks ahead of original projections. GDOT’s most recent commitment the people of Georgia has been nothing This high-traffic section of I-85 of Memorial Day weekend, and five less than remarkable,” said Deal. carries nearly 243,000 vehicles each day weeks ahead of the original projected GDOT estimates approximately $27 under normal circumstances. opening date of June 15. million in motorist savings by opening “We knew that the closure of the “While this situation has been a
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corridor would have a major impact on local and regional travel. We have been laser-focused not only on rapid construction, but also on safety and efficiency,” said GDOT Commissioner McMurry. “Six weeks is an amazingly short timeframe to complete this project. At the same time, it is probably the most inspected, most scrutinized construction project Georgia DOT has ever undertaken, with our inspectors working on site around the clock. We did our due diligence each day and every step of the way.” To date, GDOT has logged more than 3,500 man hours of on-site inspections, with as many as eight inspectors on-site at a time. Inspections include examining the fabricated steel beams off-site and inspecting them again for size and spacing on-site. Inspectors also sampled and tested the concrete before it was poured. The latest updates on the reopening of I-85 can be found at www.I85rebuild. org or www.dot.ga.gov.
DeKalb honors fallen officers at memorial service
eKalb County Police Chief James W. Conroy and CEO Michael Thurmond honored the county’s fallen officers during a memorial service, which was held on May 10 at the DeKalb Historic Courthouse in downtown Decatur. The memorial service recognized May as the month law enforcement agencies across the country honored those who have died in the line of duty. The service brought together surviving family members, police officers elected officials and community groups. DeKalb honored officers from Clarkston, Decatur, Doraville, Pine Lake, Stone Mountain and the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office, DeKalb County Marshal’s Office and MARTA Police.
Deal appoints panel to investigate DeKalb Sheriff Jeffrey Mann
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ov. Nathan Deal has appointed a three-member panel to investigate DeKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey Mann, who was arrested by Atlanta Police for public indecency and obstruction on May 6. Deal signed an executive order on May 11 to appoint County Sheriff Attorney General Chris Carr, DeKalb Jeffrey Mann Newton County Sheriff Ezell Brown and Peach County Sheriff Terry Deese to the panel. The panel must report its findings within 30 days. Based on the findings, Mann could be suspended for up to 90 days and an interim sheriff would be appointed by DeKalb’s Chief Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson. Mann issued a statement after his arrest saying he is working with the city of Atlanta to clear the charges. He has hired Attorney Noah Pines to represent him.
Mann’s arrest sent shockwaves through DeKalb and metro Atlanta as the news circulated nationally and was picked up by The Houston Chronicle, The New York Post, and the U.S. News &World Report to name a few. Mann was arrested on Saturday, May 6, around 11 p.m. after he ran from an Atlanta Police officer who said he saw Mann exposing himself in Atlanta’s Piedmont Park. The officer said in his report he noticed Mann approaching him as he stood near a tree in the park: “The male was in an area known for sexual acts after dark. Therefore, I stood back to watch the male’s activities.” The officer said Mann exposed himself and began masturbating while walking toward him. “I allowed the male to get approximately 7 to 10 feet away from me before I used my issued flashlight to shine light on the male. The male immediately fed on foot. I ran behind the male while yelling, “Police, Stop!” Mann looked back at the officer several times but
continued to run toward the sidewalk and the street, according to the police report. Mann stopped to tie his shows, while the officer waited to cross 10th Street and traffic. Mann started running again but eventually surrendered and got on the ground as ordered, the officer said in the report. The officer said he searched Mann and found two condoms in his right pocket. Meanwhile, some supporters maintain Mann has done a good job as sheriff, despite the charges against him. DeKalb’s Commissioner Gregory Adams said the incident must play out in the judicial system. He said the alleged incident aside, he still believes that Mann has done a good job in his capacity as sheriff and he is confident that Mann will continue to do a good job. “He was charged with two misdemeanors. Those charges would amount to a fine. I really hope that we can get past this,” said Adams.
PAGE 2 •MAY 13, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.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.
MAY 13,2017 • PAGE 3
Recruiting event set for wastewater treatment facilities expansion in DeKalb
Looking for a job in the construction field? WorkSource DeKalb and Archer Western are hosting a hiring event for the Snapfinger Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facilities expansion in DeKalb County. The hiring event will be held on Thursday, May 18, 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., at 4572 Memorial Drive, Decatur. Archer Western, a recognized expert in the building, civil, transportation and water sectors, is looking to hire several tradesmen for full-time, permanent employment for the Snapfinger Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facilities Expansion. Trades needed: Carpenter Foremen Pipe Fitters Carpenters Pipe Layers Carpenter Helpers Concrete Finishers Equipment Operators General Laborers Subcontractor Needs: Electricians/Masons/Roofers/ HVACTechnicians/Plumbers. To meet federal and state requirements and the DeKalb County First Source Ordinance, qualified minority, female, veteran and disabled tradesmen are encouraged to apply. Applicants must bring a resume and valid identification. All qualified tradesmen are to register online at http://conta.cc/2p8d0Yh For more information about Wo¬rkSource DeKalb, including upcoming events, visit www.worksourcedekalb.org or call 404-687-3400.
Three suspects arrested in cell phone sale murder in DeKalb
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P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com
Jamel M. Harris
Jakerius A. Henry
The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has arrested three suspects in the murder of a
woman during a reported cellphone sale transaction in a Lithonia community on May 5.
DeKalb Sheriff’s Fugitive Unit Deputies arrested Jamel M. Harris, 42, of Stone Mountain; Jakerius A. Henry, 17, Lithonia; and a juvenile on May 8. They are each charged with Murder, Aggravated Assault and Criminal Attempt. Warrants had been issued for Harris on May 7. All three suspects were apprehended on May 8 when they were located inside a burned out home on Old Wellborn Trace in Lithonia. Sheriff’s K9 Viper led
deputies to the hiding place. Luz Valazquez was allegedly shot in the chest and killed as her husband attempted to drive away from the scene after the suspects attempted to rob her of cellphones and cash. Warrants say the transaction was set up on a website called OfferUp. Harris and Henry are in custody at the DeKalb County Jail, and the juvenile is in custody at a youth detention center.
Rockdale residents to weigh in on proposal to add more commissioners
Rockdale County’s Board of Commissioners would grow from three to five seats and four new commission districts would be created under a legislative bill that would change the structure that Rockdale has had for 40 years. Some think Rockdale has outgrown its three-person commission, established in 1977, while others say it’s working just fine. The subject is one that will be discussed at a community meeting the Citizens Progressive Club is hosting on May 15, 7 p.m., at Bald Rock Baptist Church, 2284 Old Covington Road, Conyers. “It’s going to be a listening sessions for our state legislators to get citizens’ input and hear what the community has to say,” said Al Sadler, who is helping coordinate the meeting. Sadler said the Rockdale legislators have been invited to the meeting. He said two Democrats have
confirmed their attendance: State Rep. Doreen Carter and State Sen. Tonya Peterson Anderson. Sadler said he had not heard from State Sen. Rick Jeffries, a Republican who introduced the bill during this year’s legislative session. In February, Jeffries’ SB-264 surprised the Board of Commissioners when it learned Jeffries had introduced the bill without any input from them. Chairman Oz Nesbitt said he believes changing the makeup of the board from an at-large elected chairman and two commissioners to an at-large chairman and four commission districts would erode working relationships between the county, city of Conyers and the Board of Education. Commissioners Doreen Williams and Sherri Washington also said they are opposed to changing the structure. Williams cited not having any citizen
input and the cost of financing additional positions as one of her two main concerns. Washington said she doesn’t support the notion that those who suggest citizens would have better representation if commissioners are elected by districts. She said Rockdale residents have a board that is very accessible and responsive to them. Rockdale approved its three-person BOC on March 4, 1977 when the county, which now has about 90,000 residents, only had about 36,000 residents. State Rep. Carter said she believes it is critical to have residents weigh in on the proposal and discuss what options they have. “I welcome the opportunity to have the conversation with Rockdale residents,” said Carter. “ The bill is currently in committee in the senate, however, we still can explore legislation that is community led.”
Rockdale County has received a $100,000 federal grant from the Recreation Trails Program to build additional miles of shared use trails for mountain biking, hiking and walking. The trail connects the Monastery of the Holy Spirit in Rockdale to the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area in the city of Stonecrest, located in southeast DeKalb County. The trail extends for more than 30 miles, passing many landmarks and picturesque beauty. Rockdale Board of Commissioners Chairman Oz Nesbitt said the project is the perfect pathway to bridging the community and tourists with beautiful
greenspace. “I’m very excited about this new opportunity to improve the quality of life for Rockdale residents. Additionally, it’s another layer and tool in our arsenal to keep and attract business and industry to Rockdale,” Nesbitt said. “Together, all of these pieces play a big role in moving our county forward.” Construction is expected to begin this fall and public use will not be impacted because the work will be done in undeveloped areas, said Sue Sanders, director of Recreation and Maintenance Rockdale was one of 14 counties in Georgia to
receive funding by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources under the Federal Highway Administration. The grant requires an 80/20 match. The 2011 SPLOST, the International Mountain Bicycling Association, the Conyers-Rockdale Bike & Trail Coalition, and the Southern Off-Road Bicycle Association Atlanta all contributed to the match of $65,878 for a total project cost of $165,878. The project is a collaboration with the International Mountain Bicycling Association and the Southern OffRoad Bicycle Association.
Rockdale awarded $100,000 federal grant to expand recreation trails
RDOT to temporarily close Rockdale Industrial Boulevard railroad crossing The Rockdale County Department of Transportation (RDOT) will temporarily close the railroad crossing to vehicular traffic at Rockdale Industrial
Boulevard beginning Monday, May 15, 7 a.m. The railroad crossing will re-open on the morning of Friday, May 19.
The closure is due to CSX maintenance work to level the tracks. A detour route will divert traffic to General Arts Road and Old Covington Highway.
PAGE 4 •MAY 13, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Coming Up
Compiled by Mackenzie N. Morgan.
Decatur Business Association brings Motown/Funk to Decatur Square
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ack a picnic, spread out a blanket and enjoy a Motown-themed concert on Saturday, May 20, 7 – 9 p.m., on the Square in Decatur. The free concert will feature the Atlanta Funk Society band, which will play classic hits from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s, including “Superbad” by James Brown, “Underdog” by Sly and The Family Stone, and “Whatcha Gonna Do For Me?” by Chaka Kahn. For more information, visit www.decaturdba.com.
ATLANTA
Malcolm X Festival boasts cultural art, music
Celebrate the birthday of international African icon, Malcolm X, at the Malcom X Festival on May 20-21, noon to 8 p.m. at the historic West End Park, 1111 Oak Street SW, Atlanta. The free two-day festival will feature live music, food booths, craft vendors and special presentations. Parking is available on nearby streets, but MARTA is strongly encouraged. For more information, visit www.malcolmxfestival.com.
East Atlnta Beer Festival Sample more than 150 craft beers at the East Atlanta Craft Beer Festival, on Saturday, May 20, in the heart of East Atlanta Village at Brownwood Park, 602 Brownwood Ave SE, Atlanta. Enjoy music, food vendors and live entertainment. All ticket holders receive a souvenir tasting glass. For more information, visit www.eastatlantabeerfest.com.
DEKALB
Senior talent show set in honor of Older Americans Month Join the DeKalb County Public Library system for the Seventh Annual Senior Adult Talent Show on Thursday, May 18, 10:15 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. Enjoy entertainment, free lunch and watch other seniors show off their talents. Come dressed as your favorite Hollywood character to win a prize. Pictures will be taken from 10:15–11 a.m. To register, call 404-508-7190, ext. 2257 or email adultservices@dekalblibrary. org to register. The event is limited to 300 people and guests are encouraged to register. Your registration and library card are your entry ticket.
GWINNETT
Gwinnett Parks to host National Kids to Parks Day Spring into summer at the Summer Wellness Festival on Saturday, May 20, 5 – 11 p.m. at Rhodes Jordan Park, 100 E Crogan Street, Lawrenceville. The free event features activities for the entire family such as kids activities, inflatables, games, live entertainment, health and wellness exhibitors, fitness demonstrations, food vendors and more. At 8 p.m., there will be a glow-in-the-dark 3K fun walk/run followed by the movie “Sing!” under the stars. For more information or to register for the fun run or as an exhibitor, call 770822-8869 or visit gwinnettparks.com
Snellville Library to host toddler time Head to the Snellville Library for story time on Wednesday, May 17, 10:30 a.m., 2740 Lenora Church Road, Snellville. Designed for babies and toddlers ages 2 and under, this story time uses simple books, music, rhymes and movement activities to introduce reading to small children. Admission is free and open to children with an accompanying adult. For more information, call 770-978-5154.
ROCKDALE
Wine Down Wednesday returns to Olde Town Pavilion Conyers Rockdale Council for the Arts presents Wine Down Wednesday at the Olde Town Pavilion on Wednesday, May 17, 5:30 p.m., 949 South Main Street, Conyers. The gates open at 5:30 p.m. and the show starts at 6 p.m. Admission is $15 and covers wine tasting and an evening of music performed by Infinity Jazz recording artists Rhythm Jets. Tickets can be purchased at www.conyersarts.org. For more information, call the CRCA at 770-922-3143 or email information@conyersarts.org.
Panola Mountain State Park hosts Reptile Day Learn about reptiles on Saturday, May 20, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., at Panola Mountain State Park, 2620 Highway 155 SW, Stockbridge. Meet specialists and members of the Georgia Reptile Society and Georgia Herpetological Society to learn about reptiles in Georgia and around the world. The cost is $5. Children ages 3 and under are free. Parking is $5. For more information, call 770-389-7801.
Please check with the event organizer before you go. To submit your event to Coming Up, email editor@ ocgnews.com. We choose events that are free or a nominal cost to our readers.
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MAY 13, 2017 • PAGE 5
Heritage High student wins statewide COAG essay contest
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ockdale County Constitutional Officers—Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson, Sheriff Eric Levett, Probate Judge Clarence Cuthpert Jr. and Tax Commissioner Tisa Smart-Washington—presented Heritage High School senior Tony L. Wilson a $1,000 scholarship for his essay on the role of the Clerk of Courts on May 11. Wilson is only the second student from Rockdale to win the statewide essay contest, said Suzanne Cross, executive director of the Constitutional Officers’ Association of Georgia, Inc. (COAG). The scholarship, she said, has been awarded to students for more than 10 years. Rockdale Clerk Wilson (no relation to Tony Wilson) said she is delighted to help present the award. “I am simply delighted that an outstanding student such as Tony “TJ” Wilson chose to explore what it means to be a Clerk of Supe-
rior Court. As TJ pointed out, most people have no clue what our duties are or how we work in the public interest. It is exciting to have one of our own students receive such recognition among statewide applicants. The Constitutional Officers have chosen a good one. Ruth Each year, COAG presents scholarships to three students in Georgia who win the organization’s essay contest. This year, students were asked to pick a constitutional office in their county, and describe the mandated duties of that office and why the oath of office is important. Wilson chose the Clerk of Courts for his essay. “Never underestimate the duties of the Clerk of Court because this person spends most of their time doing behind the scenes work that helps the courts run smoothly, all while knowing much of what they do will go unnoticed,” Wilson said of this office in his essay. Wilson went on the say
L-R: Sheriff Eric Levett, Clerk of Courts Ruth; Heritage High student Tony Wilson; Probate Judge Clarence Cuthpert, Jr.; and Tax Commissioner Tisa Smart Washington take the stage for awards presentation.
the oath of office is important because “The Judicial system is the backbone of our national, state and county law, and it is important that the people entrusted to work in our courts are well qualified and place a high value on the ethics of completing their tasks.” The essay contest is
open to students across the state who are either entering higher education or who are already working on their undergraduate degrees. Students must major in a field related to government/ law enforcement, political science, accounting/finance or business or pre-law to be eligible to apply. Wilson
plans to attend the University of Georgia in the fall and major in business. The Constitutional Officers’ Association of Georgia (COAG) is a Non-Profit State Association that empowers its members to better serve Georgia citizens at the county level.
Life is chess at Turner Hill Road Chick-fil-A
Students had a chance to challenge Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson in a game of chess during Chick-fil-A’s “Kids Night,” which was held on May 9 at the Turner Hill Road location in the city of
Stonecrest. Hudson, who teaches students problem-solving skills and how to overcome adversity, told students that they must “put brains before bullets and the only way to fight is to use your head.”
The city of Stonecrest Mayor pro tem Diane Adoma and Council member George Turner attended the event. Hudson is hosting a summer boot camp for children and adults
June 5-9, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Be Someone training facility, 949 Stephenson Road, Stone Mountain(across from Stephenson Middle School). For more information, call 770-465-6445.
Arabia Alliance to host community open house
The public is invited to learn about the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, its trails and self-guided tours. The Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance is hosting an open house on May 23, 1-7 p.m., at its office at 3350 Klondike Road, Lithonia (now the city of Stonecrest). Visitors are welcome to drop in, grab a snack, and speak with staff and board members to learn about the people and places that form the
Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area (AMNHA). “We work closely with our community partners to bring awareness of the historic, cultural, and natural resources which are important to our national landscape,” said Mera Cardenas, executive director of the Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance. “Having an open house gives our community and visitors an opportunity to understand what we do and learn more about the Nation-
al Heritage Area.” Located in Southeast DeKalb County, the AMNHA is an open landscape of breathtaking beauty, peace and wonder. The AMNHA is one of only 49 National Heritage Areas recognized by Congress for its unique contribution to the nation’s development. Encompassing parts of DeKalb, Rockdale and Henry counties, the AMNHA includes more than 30 miles of paved hike/bike trails; historic and natural sites such
as the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve, Panola Mountain State Park, Flat Rock Archives and the Monastery of the Holy Spirit. Visitors may attend a 15-minute presentation at 1:30 or 6 p.m. for a brief overview of the National Heritage Area. Parking for the open house is available at the trail head near the office at 3366 Klondike Road. For more information about the open house, call 404-998-8384.
PAGE 6 •MAY 13, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Rent-to-Own Heating & Air Program Expands for Homeowners as Summer Months Approaches
Conyers-Rockdale Chamber offering France, Iceland vacations for 2017
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he National Sustainable Energy Group (NSEG) has expanded its Rent-To-Own, Heating and Air Conditioning Program for homeowners that live in DeKalb, Rockdale, and Clayton County. This past week we have installed over 1500 new energy efficient Goodman HVAC units in the Metro Atlanta area. Over 850 homeowners have been assisted in DeKalb County this year. The program has 5000 slots available. We have recruited additional NATE/EPA Certified heating and air contractors to keep pace with the call volume said Percy Brooks, CEO of the NSEG. It’s truly amazing for $89.95 a month a homeowner will not have to suffer the hot and humid high 80’s and 90 degree temperatures this summer said Brooks. Qualification for approval: Homeowner property taxes must be current. Monthly payments range from $89.95 to $109.95 depending on the size of the heating & air conditioning unit and upgrades. All Goodman heating and air units come with a Warranty. Approval and installation can be completed within 5 business days. We are extremely honored to be able to assist so many homeowners that had given up on securing consumer financing to purchase a heating and air conditioning unit. We view this alternative option as one of the finest in the country said Brooks. I’m sure that we will exceed our goal of assisting 5000 homeowners across the Metro Atlanta area. We are expecting to see a record high of 50+ days of temperatures in the high 80’s and 90’s this summer season and through Fall. Our goal is to improve the quality of life for homeowners. Our customer testimonials have been heartfelt said Brooks. The program meets the EPA requirements for the new R-410A refrigerant upgrades. It also improves the quality of life and increases property value for homeowners. Our major objective is to share our program among the Faith-based community and Homeowners Associations (HOA’s) said Brooks. We needed an alternative option for homeowners with less than perfect credit, who paid their property taxes on time, but couldn’t obtain traditional consumer financing for heating & air service. We all hit speed bumps in life. Our typical Client has lived in their home for an average of 12+ years said Brooks. Energy home improvements are among the most expensive home improvement projects for homeowners said Brooks. There are over 120,000 homeowners without heating & air service and over 700,000 units working at less than 40% capacity or less. We see this as an excellent opportunity for homeowners to rent and relax. Home Number: 404-220-8719 Percybrooks.meb@live.com www.hvachomesystem.com Paid Advertisment
DeKalb CEO Thurmond to give water billing update DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond will give an update on progress made toward addressing the water billing crisis during his second update meeting on Tuesday, May 23, at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at Rehoboth Baptist Church, 2997 Lawrenceville Highway, Tucker. The location was previously announced to be held at the Maloof Auditorium but the location was changed. Michael Thurmond The meeting will be broadcast live on Comcast Cable Channel 23 for residents living in DeKalb County. It also will be streamed live on the county website at www.dekalbcountyga. gov. For more information, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/waterbilling.
PUBLIC NOTICE Meetings for the City of Stonecrest The Stonecrest City Council will meet on Monday, May 15, 10 a.m. at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Road. Council member Diane Adoma, District 5, will host a town hall meeting on May 16, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at the Stonecrest Library. Council member Rob Turner, District 2, will host a “Listen and Learn” community meeting on June 1, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia. Council member Jazzmin Cobble is planning a community meeting for May 25. More information will be provided when a location is determined.
The Rockdale Chamber is planning to visit St. Tropez in the fall.
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he Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is now booking a fall trip to Nice, France that will be filled with sightseeing, stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, shopping and splendid
dining. The Chamber also is booking a December trip, touted as a vacation of a lifetime, to experience Iceland, with its extraordinary landscapes —towering pines, floating icebergs, seals swimming in Arctic waters and the exhilarating Northern Lights, also known as the aurora borealis in this land of many natural wonders. The Chamber is excited to offer both trips to the public at deep discounts, thanks to Collette Travel and Chamber Explorations. Both companies provide travel abroad to the public through Chambers of Commerce. The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber has invited the public to travel abroad since 2010. The 9-day French Riviera Explorer trip, Oct. 31-Nov. 8, includes round-trip airfare from Atlanta, your stay in Nice, the fourth largest city in France, and day trips to Ventimiglia-San Remo, Italy; Monte Carlo, Monaco; Antibes, Cannes and the seaside resort town of St. Tropez, internationally-known for its influx of French New Wave artists and a vacation spot for the jet set. The package also includes 7 breakfasts and three dinners, baggage handling, motorcoach transportation, sightseeing and admissions per itinerary and a professional tour director. Highlights include the Nice Flower Market, Chagall Museum, Fragonard Perfume Factory and the Monte Carlo Casino. The discounted cost for the trip to Nice is $3,025 per person for double occupancy or $3,600 for single occupancy. “One of the best perks of this trip is the one hotel stay. It is great to unpack once, visit exciting places during the day and come back to your same hotel at night” says Stephanie Layson, who is helping coordinate the trips on behalf of the Chamber. The 7-day Iceland adventure, Dec. 2-8, features gourmet cuisine, picturesque sightseeing and learning about Iceland’s history, culture and people. Highlights of the trip include exploring the old town of Reykjavik, taking a cruise in search of nature’s most spectacular light displays—the Northern Lights and visiting the incredible Golden Circle, a route that encompasses many of Iceland’s most renowned natural wonders. Other highlights include visiting Thingvellir National Park; the geothermal fields of Geysir; Vik, a village surrounded by beautiful valleys, beaches, cliffs and mountains; Eyjafjallajokull Volcano Visitor Centre; Skogar Folk Museum; Skogafoss waterfall, and taking a dip in the mineral-rich water of the Blue Lagoon. The Iceland trip is $2,999 for double occupancy; $3,399 for single occupancy and $2,969 for triple occupancy and includes round-trip airfare from Atlanta, hotel transfers, 10 meals (5 breakfasts and 5 dinners), the Northern Lights sailing cruise, and admissions to national parks and museums. “Iceland is Collette Travel’s No. One destination. Everyone wants a chance to see the Northern Lights up close and personal,” said Layson. A pre-tour briefing for the French Riviera Explorer tour will be held Tuesday, May 23, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., at the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber, 936 Green Street SW, Conyers. To attend the briefing or to save and book now, contact Stephanie Layson at the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber at 770-483-483-7049 or e-mail Stephanie@conyers-rockdale.com.
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MAY 13, 2017 • PAGE 7
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