VOLUME 23,NUMBER 11
FREE
JUNE 10, 2017
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Interim Morehouse College President William Taggart dies
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orehouse College Interim President William “Bill” Taggart has died of an aneurysm, officials announced. Taggart, passed away suddenly at his home in Atlanta on June 8. He was 55. “We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Bill Taggart, a beloved colleague, father and friend whom I’ve known for many years,” said Willie Woods, ‘85, Chairman of the Morehouse College Board of Trustees. “Bill was a good friend and a beloved member of the Morehouse community. He was a strong leader who had a positive impact on Morehouse College, the greater Atlanta business community, and all those who knew him. Bill leaves behind a long legacy of commitment to others and unwavering integrity. On behalf of the Board of Trustees, and the entire Morehouse Community, we extend our sincerest condolences to his family, friends and loved ones he leaves behind during this difficult time.” Taggart was appointed to lead Morehouse College on April 7,
Photo via Morehouse College website.
2017. named interim president in April to replace President John Silvanus Wilson. Taggart brought more than 30 years of experience to the role. Prior to that, he served as the College’s Chief Operating Officer, beginning in 2015. Outside of Morehouse College, Taggart was actively involved in several business and civic organi-
zations. He served as CEO of Atlanta Life Financial Group and was a key member of 100 Black Men of America, as well as the Rotary Club of Atlanta. He also served as chairman of the Atlanta Business League, and was a board member of The Carter Center, Woodruff Arts Center, Westside Future Fund, Carver Bank, and Children Health-
care of Atlanta. He was recently named to the 2018 Class of Leadership Atlanta. The board said Taggart’s contributions within and outside of Morehouse College are a reflection of his immense dedicaSee Morehouse, page 9
Gang members get life sentences for murder of Stone Mountain couple
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wo gang members received life sentences for the execution-style murders of a Stone Mountain couple, DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston has announced. Jurors found Christopher “Crisco” Spencer, 27, and Vernon “Veto Corleone” Beamon, 28, guilty on charges of murder, felony murder, aggravated assault, kidnapping, burglary, violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act, financial transaction card fraud, and weapons offenses in connection with the murders Christopher “Crisco” Spencer, Vernon “Veto Corleone” Beamon of Samuel White, 54, and his fiancé Sylvia Watson. down. Spencer and Beamon then tied the vicDeKalb County Superior Court tims’ hands and feet with ropes and cords and Judge Courtney Johnson, who presided over the trial, sentenced Spencer to two consecutive bound the two together before fatally shooting each one in the back of the head. They then life sentences without parole, plus 30 years. Beamon was sentenced to two consecutive life ransacked the apartment for nearly an hour, leaving with a TV and other small items. A terms friend who was briefly staying with the vicwithout parole, plus 25 years. tims discovered their bodies that evening. The deadly string of events leading to the Spencer was captured on Nov. 2, 2016 double homicide began on the morning of Oct. after being identified via surveillance video 24, 2016 shortly after Ms. Watson returned images from the bank. Beamon was captured home to the couple’s Tree Mountain Parkway during a traffic stop in Memphis, Tennessee apartment following a doctor’s appointment. two weeks later. According to the investiAs she exited her car, Spencer and Beamon, gation, the men targeted the couple for setmembers of the “Rollin 20’s”- a subset of the tlement money they were rumored to have, Crips gang, approached her at gunpoint and though authorities found no evidence of such forced her back into her driver’s seat. She money. was then ordered to drive to multiple ATMs The case was prosecuted by Deputy Chief and withdraw money while the gunmen rode Assistant District Attorney Lance Cross with as passengers. One bank surveillance video assistance from DA Investigators Waine captured images of the terrified victim and Pinckney, Richard Randolph and Sweden BaiSpencer in the rear seat of her vehicle. ley, along with Victim-Witness Advocate Tina The defendants then ordered the woman Williamson. Detectives K. McQuilkin and B. to return to her apartment and join her fianKershaw of the DeKalb County Police Departcé. The victims were forced to the floor face ment led the initial investigation.
Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCGNEWS
OUTDOOR TOWN HALL
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eKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson, District 3, brought constituents and stakeholders together on June 8 for his annual outdoor Town Hall meeting at Rainbow Park, 3151 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. This year’s event, “Economic Infrastructure and Empowerment,” focused on the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax projects slated for DeKalb. The informal gathering gave residents a chance to receive information and enjoy a complimentary supper and movie on the lawn. Johnson has presented the outdoor town hall for the last
Larry Johnson
15 years. Johnson will host a Homeowners Association Boot Camp on June 24, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Rainbow Park.
PAGE 2 •JUNE 10, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Rent-to-Own Heating & Air Program Expands for Homeowners as Summer Months Approaches
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he National Sustainable Energy Group (NSEG) has expanded its Rent-ToOwn, 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
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EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com
JUNE 10,2017 • PAGE 3
CEO Thurmond highlights plan to end deficit spending
GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com
On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.
DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond
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eKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond presented his vision to commissioners on June 6 for ending deficit spending and building the county’s fund balance. “With the support of the Board of Commissioners, we will end deficit-driven budgets, encourage transparency, strengthen accountability and build a sustainable fund balance,” CEO Thurmond said. “I am committed to proposing a fiscal year 2018 budget that will eliminate deficit spending in DeKalb County.” The vision was presented in Thurmond’s overview of the proposed 2017 mid-year budget adjustment to the Board of Commissioners. “Deficit budgeting and inadequate fund balances have severely undermined our ability to plan and finance improved service delivery and employee salary, benefit, and pension struc-
On Common Ground News
P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com
Jones,Johnson to host transportation town hall meeting
Emanuel Jones
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Brannon Hill condominium complex. The first phase of the ongoing Operation Clean Sweep has resulted in the clearing of more than 200 tons of debris from more than 45 miles of roads and streets, and the sweeping of more than 190 miles of roads by street sweepers. Additionally, more than 500 bags of trash have been collected and 30 illegal dump sites eliminated and barricaded. “Operation Clean Sweep was one of the major accomplishments of the first half of the year,” Thurmond said. Other accomplishments include: Substantial progress toward resolving the county’s water billing crisis, including: • Independently verifying and releasing 8,000 previously held bills. • Corrected the multiplier error that caused extraordinarily high bills. • Recruiting, hiring and training additional customer service and field technicians. • Establishing plans to routinely replace aging meters. • Identifying a vendor to provide a new billing system to improve customer service. • Hiring approximately 300 DeKalb youths through the DeKalb Works summer employment strategy administered by WorkSource DeKalb. Sixty-two private and public sector employers are providing job sites for mentorship, training and development of work and life skills for the participants.
Rockdale poised to launch “Department of Talent Management”
ockdale County plans to amend the name of its Human Resources Department and create the “Department of Talent Management” under a proposed ordinance. County officials said it wants to officially change the name to better reflect the county’s mission to not only recruit “world class” talent for job openings, but to provide training and career track guidance to those who desire to move up in their careers with the county. “It’s part of an extreme makeover,” said Rockdale Board of Commissioners Chairman Oz Nesbitt. “I think that it’s important that each time we use the phrase or term “transitioning Rockdale into a world class community, then
we’ve got to get in line with world class thinking. That’s what the Department of Talent Management is all about.” The name change was discussed at today’s work session of the Board of Commissioners after Toni Holmes, who was hired in March as the county’s new Human Resources Director, made a presentation about the proposed name change. Holmes said the term “Talent Management” is known among Human Resources officials. Commissioner Doreen Williams said she likes the proposal for the name change but wanted to know if those outside of Rockdale would understand that the department handled human resources and was not related to the filming
industry. “I like the name change, but I just want to know if that’s going to cause confusion for other counties,” said Williams.
The Board of Commissioners is set to vote on the ordinance abolishing the current name at its June 13 meeting.
Stonecrest City Council amends meeting times
Larry Johnson
Sen. Emanuel Jones (D - Decatur) will co-host a special town hall meeting with DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson on Monday, June 19, 6:30 to 8 p.m., at New Life Church, 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur. Jones will be joined by representatives from the Georgia Department of Transportation to discuss the bridge on Flat Shoals Road and I-285, as well as other transportation issues in south DeKalb. The meeting will include presentations on the study of the bridge and estimated project completion dates.
tures,” Thurmond said. The proposed mid-year budget adjustment, which will be delivered to commissioners on June 12, will include an investment of “additional funds that will give the county at least one month’s worth of operating revenue in the fund balance,” Thurmond said. The county’s ability to adopt a balanced budget in fiscal year 2018 depends on 2017 mid-year budget decisions, Thurmond said. Other goals of the administration’s fiscal year 2017 mid-year budget proposal are to improve public safety salaries, implement Phase II of Operation Clean Sweep and address unbudgeted needs. Enhancements or adjustments will be achieved by redirecting existing funds within departmental budgets. In addition to the mid-year adjustment for public safety, Police, Fire Rescue and E911 are developing three-year strategies to address pay scale, salary compression, recruitment and retention. To implement the second phase of Operation Clean Sweep, the proposed mid-year budget expands the current effort to include other aspects of blight reduction, including abatement of 50 blighted properties (houses and lots) using county funds. In addition, there are 23 houses scheduled for demolition using both federal and local funds. This will be the first time that local tax funding is used for this purpose. Included in the demolition are several burnt-out, unsafe structures within the 368-unit
The Stonecrest City Council has amended its meeting schedule for the month of June. The City Council meetings will be held on Mondays at 10 a.m. and weekly work sessions will be held on Wednesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. The City Council amended its schedule to allow more time to address several ordinances and other business as the new city takes root. The 2017 regular meeting calendar will begin in July with City Council meetings held on the first and third Mondays at 10 a.m. The work sessions will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. on the
Wednesdays prior to the council meetings. All of the meetings will be held at the Stonecrest Library until the city determines where its City Hall will be located. If any changes to the meeting schedule are necessary, the information will be posted at the library. On Common Ground News will post all notices at www.ocgnews.com. If you would like to be added to receive notifications from On Common Ground News, please sign up at the web site.
Stonecrest Town Hall meetings set Stonecrest City Councilman Jimmy Clanton, District 1, has scheduled two town hall meetings to share updates on the new city of Stonecrest and to hear constituents’ concerns and ideas. Clanton will host the following Town Hall meetings at the Stonecrest Library: June 20, 6 to 7:30 p.m. July 10, 6- 7:30 p.m. Jimmy Clanton
Diane Adoma
Stonecrest City Councilwoman Diane Adoma, District 5, will host the following Town Hall meetings at the Stonecrest Library auditorium: • June 12, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Adoma will host a panel discussion with DeKalb County Tax Commissioner Irvin J. Johnson and other elected officials and stakeholders. • July 18, 6 to 7:30 p.m.
PAGE 4 •JUNE 10, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Coming Up
Compiled by Mackenzie N. Morgan
Juneteenth Atlanta Festival to feature music, vendors and family fun
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amily, unity and the community will be the focus of the Juneteenth Atlanta Festival 2017, which runs June 16--18. Festivities will be held on Friday, 1 to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Juneteenth is one of the oldest American holidays that celebrates the end of slavery in the United States. The holiday commemorates the date, June 19, 1865, when the last African American slaves held in Confederate states were freed. The three-day Atlanta event features a Saturday parade at noon that leaves Mozley Park, and and travels east on Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive to Morris Brown College, where the festival will be held. The festival is open to the entire family. There will be a full schedule of live entertainment and activities including yoga in the park, African drumming and dance, arts and crafts, Double Dutch jump roping, face painting, chess tables, Hop-Scotch, and Tai Chi just to name a few. Browse and shop the vendors. There will be an array of them selling books, food, hair and beauty products and other goods and services. And don’t forget to check out the artists’ market featuring handmade jewelry, clothing, books and other items. Admission to the festival is free. For more information, visit Juneteenthatl.com.
DEKALB
DeKalb NAACP sets Juneteenth celebration The DeKalb NAACP will present its 2017 Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, June 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts and Community Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. Come out for free food, workshops, entertainment and more. For more information, contact Teresa Hardy or Vaughn Irons at 404-241-8005 or email naacpdek@comcast.net.
DeKalb History Center announces new toddler program The DeKalb History Center is hosting “Welcome Wednesdays” for toddlers and their guardians beginning June 14, 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. The monthly program emphasizes play and learning through the arts, sciences, and literature. The first class features the theme, “Colors,” where participants will discover how to make new colors by mixing primary colors and go on a hunt for colors throughout the museum. Children will also listen to a story and work on an art project. “Welcome Wednesdays” is designed for children ages 2-5 with an accompanying adult. Each program is the second Wednesday of the month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. The cost is $6 for non-members, $3 for members. Infants 12 months and under and accompanying adults are free. For more information, contact Marissa Howard, 404-373-1088, ext. 20.
GWINNETT
Kids, adults can earn prizes for summer reading Readers of all ages can sign up for the Gwinnett County Public Library Summer Reading Program. This year’s theme is “Build a Better World.” The summer reading program will go digital with the launch of Beanstack, a customized online portal where customers can access weekly book recommendations, keep track of reading activities, earn digital badges, and more. Children and teens will receive a certificate and have a chance to win prizes, including a book of their choice, tickets to a Gwinnett Braves game, Laser Quest play, $75 LEGO gift card, or a Chromebook laptop computer. Adults can sign up for the Adult Summer Reading Challenge and enter to win a gardening gift basket with a book, garden hose, fertilizer, and garden tools. For more information about the summer reading program, visit www.gwinnettpl.org/ summer.
ROCKDALE
Olde Town Summer Film Series returns Summer is here and the fun is outdoors. Head to the Olde Town Summer Film Series for an evening of family fun and a movie under the stars. The second movie of the series, “Moana,” is scheduled on Saturday, June 10, at the Olde Town Pavilion, 949 S. Main St, Conyers. Children’s activities begin at 7 p.m. and the movie begins at dusk (around 8:30 p.m.). The event is free. Pack up the family, lawn chairs and blankets and stake out your spot for prime movie viewing on the lawn. You can bring your own snacks or visit vendors that will be selling food on site. The following family flicks are scheduled for the 2017 series: Saturday, July 15: “Finding Dory” Saturday, August 19: “The Lego Batman Movie”
“Act Like A Citizen, Think Like A Cop” conversation set Rockdale County attorney Gary Washington will present a talk, “Act Like a Citizen, Think Like a Cop,” on June 22, 6 p.m., at the Nancy Guinn Library, 864 Green St., Conyers. Washington will share information on helping the public, especially young people, understand what their rights are when stopped by law enforcement and how to respond to officers in a respectful manner. Washington has been honored on several occasions for presenting the free seminar in Rockdale as well as neighboring communities. He plans to show a video and provide an interactive format for the talk. For more information, call 770-388-5040.
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.
Have a blast at the Summer Fun Festival Lift Up Atlanta will host its 2017 Summer Fun Festival on June 17, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville. There will be entertainment, games, vendors, a kids’ zone, and a petting zoo. Admission is free, but donations of school supplies or money will be accepted. For more information, visit www.liftupatlanta.org/2017-summer-fun-festival/ or call 678-245-4622.
Anytime Notary Call to schedule your appointment 678-468-6852
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Conyers cracks down on illegal dumping
JUNE 10, 2017 • PAGE 5
Volunteers renovate Little Creek Horse Farm
The Home Depot volunteers help construct new picnic tables at Little Creek Horse Farm.
Nearly 20 individuals have been cited by the city of Conyers Police Marshal and are facing municipal hearings on July 12 for illegal dumping and abandoned junk vehicles in the city. Since early spring, the city’s Marshal has targeted cleanup efforts at the Conyers Exchange shopping center where dumping in the rear facing Old McDonough Highway has remained a problem. “Unfortunately, it is a problem that can begin with just one item tossed in the area then it seems an open invitation to dump more trash around it,” explained City Marshal Lieutenant Clay Ivey. “We have been constantly monitoring the location and have charged several people in the last month.” The individuals could face fines in the City of Conyers Municipal Court. City officials also are cracking down on abandoned vehicles in neighborhoods. An abandoned vehicle is described as one without a valid license plate or one that is otherwise discarded, wrecked, or partially dismantled. Such vehicles will be tagged with a one-week warning before the owner is cited. Vehicles stored under a car cover are allowable. The city is warning residents and others not to illegally dump or leave tires for trash pickup. Residents can take up to four tires per week to the Rockdale County Recycling Center at 1200 Sigman Road. For more information about City of Conyers ordinances, visit www.municode.com/ library/ga/conyers.
DeKalb man convicted in shooting death of church deacon Jacob Pyne, 24, has been found guilty in the July 2016 shooting death of 52-year-old Gerard Foster, a deacon at Living Water Christian Baptist Church in Decatur. DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston said in a news release that jurors convicted Pyne of murder, felony murder, aggravated assault and weapons offenses. On July 6, 2016, Pyne shot Foster multiple times in the breezeway of his Robins Street apartment complex, according to the investigation. Foster was rushed to the hospital but died a short time later from his injuries. Neighbors reported hearing gunshots and seeing the getaway car speed away from the scene. Pyne was captured on Jacob Pyne surveillance video fleeing the area with a female accomplice. He was arrested in Tennessee following tips to police identifying him as the shooter. Investigators said there was no clear motive for Foster’s murder. Investigators believe the Defendant simply lashed out at the victim as he passed him on the apartment steps. Pyne is scheduled to be sentenced on July 26 by DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Mark Anthony Scott, who presided over the trial. Christonya Section, an indicted co-defendant, will be tried at a later date. The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney John Williams with assistance from ADA Sybil Price and DA Investigator C.D. Smith. GBI Agent Debbie Loving led the initial investigation along with detectives from the Decatur Police Department.
Volunteers from The Home Depot and Park Pride teamed up recently with the DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs to enhance Little Creek Horse Farm. More than 150 volunteers completed projects that included repairing fences, removing debris and vegetation, constructing picnic tables and repairing wheelchair accessible ramps. Little Creek Horse Farm is a DeKalb County facility, which through a partnership with Little Creek Farm Conservancy, offers community equine education and safety programs. “The county is extremely grateful for the support and engagement from volunteers such as The Home Depot and Park Pride,” said Marvin Billups Jr., interim director of DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs. “Volunteers are essential to making sure that special projects are completed and aid the county in improving the quality of life for all residents.” On this project, Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs volunteers collectively worked nearly 800 hours, totaling $18,255 in department savings.
Transportation officials to make presentation at Rockdale BOC meeting Rockdale County Department of Transportation (RDOT) will make a presentation on several key topics at the June 20 meeting of the Board of Commissioners. The meeting will be held at 7 p.m. in the Assembly Hall, 901 Main St., Conyers. The meeting is being held in the evening to give more residents the opportunity to attend. Transportation officials are expected to discuss how the public can report road maintenance needs, why some projects take longer than others, how to get on a SPLOST list, as well as other transportation topics that are of interest to the citizens of the Rockdale community. For more information about the upcoming meeting, contact Miguel Valentin, RDOT Director, at miguel.valentin@rockdalecountyga.gov or 770-278-7136.
Suspect in foster sister’s shooting surrenders A Stone Mountain teen accused of assaulting his foster sister surrendered to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office without incident and is now in custody at the DeKalb County Jail. Eighteen-year old Nathaniel Davonte Lopez is charged with three counts of felony aggravated assault and one count of felony battery in connection with an incident on June 6 at his mother’s home on Green Forest Drive in Stone Mountain. Nathaniel Davonte Lopez Warrants issued allege that Lopez argued with a female foster child who lived in the home and became involved in a physical confrontation that included assaulting her and shooting her twice with a handgun. The victim was taken to Grady Hospital for treatment.
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PAGE 6 •JUNE 10, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Rotary Club of Conyers announces $1,000 interact scholarship winner
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ockdale County High School senior Galilea Garcia has been named the 2017 Interact Scholarship Winner. Garcia, who serves as president of the Rockdale County High School (RCHS) Interact Club, earned the $1,000 scholarship from the Rotary Club of Conyers. “I’m really excited. It’s awesome to see how much your community has your back. It feels really good to be recognized for something you love to do when you didn’t expect it at all,” said Garcia. Rotary Club of Conyers Youth Services Chair Ruth Wilson describes Garcia, who plans to become a Rotarian after college and mentor other minority girls pursuing STEM (Science, Technology Engineering and Math) careers, as a humble and sweet person with fire in her belly.
otary Club of Conyers President Dotti Bala applauds as Youth Services Chair Ruth R Wilson presents a $1,000 scholarship to Galilea Garcia. Garcia is joined by Rockdale County High School’s Interact Club sponsor Kenneth Tucker.
“She will be the first person in her family to attend college and will inspire all those she meets. We are
proud to recognize such a role model for young people,” said Wilson. Interact is Rotary International’s
service club for young people ages 12 to 18. The RCHS Club is sponsored by the school’s AP US History teacher Kenneth Tucker. “I’m so proud of her. She is an all-around student who puts a premium, not only on her education, but also on community service,” said Tucker. “Community service is integral to the community at large. Giving kids an opportunity to see how they can impact our community is why I continue to sponsor the club.” Garcia, who earned the scholarship by writing an essay describing her extensive volunteer and community service involvement, has a passion for service to others and plans to continue even after graduation from UGA as an Environmental Engineer with an MBA Dual Degree.
Rockdale NAACP honors four students with $1,000 scholarships
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he Rockdale NAACP awarded four Rockdale high school students $1,000 scholarships at its annual Freedom Fund Scholarship Banquet on Monday, June 5, at the Georgia International Horse Park in Conyers. The banquet is held annually as a means to raise funds for promising college-bound seniors in the Rockdale County School System. Students are required to submit an essay discussing career aspirations and community involvement. In addition to the essay, students are selected based on SAT scores and the ability to demonstrate financial need. “The scholarship is our way of giving back to the community and helping our young people. We
feel that this scholarship will be a help to students especially with the increasing costs of education,” said Allene Eatman, who served as chair of the Freedom Fund Committee. The scholarship recipients included: Kobe Bowen, Salem High School (University of West Georgia); Galilea Najera Garcia, Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology (University of Georgia); Justine McPherson, Heritage High School (Emory University) and Erica Frank, Rockdale High School (Agnes Scott College). The students were joined by their parents at the banquet. Rockdale County Chairman Oz Nesbitt, Sr. and State Senator Tonya Anderson also attended the celebration.
Morehouse continued from page 1
tion and commitment to his community. Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed also reacted with sadness, saying Taggart was an asset to Morehouse and the city of Atlanta. “I am saddened by the passing of Morehouse College Interim President William Taggart. Bill was a respected businessman, a devoted father and husband, and a civic leader dedicated to our city,” Reed said in a statement. “He has served Morehouse College with distinction for the past two years, providing steady leadership for one of the nation’s best HBCUs and one of the most important educational institutions in the City of Atlanta. My thoughts and prayers are with Bill’s family and with the entire Morehouse community. For all his accomplishments, I know Bill had so much still to give. This is a loss we will feel for a generation.” Taggart’s death personally touched Natalyn Archibong, City Councilmember, District 5, who was part of the Morehouse family. “I am deeply saddened by the sudden death of William Taggart, the Interim President of Morehouse College. My thoughts and prayers are with the Morehouse community and with the Taggart Family. As the daughter of a Morehouse graduate, I am grateful for the years of dedicated service Mr. Taggart gave to our beloved Morehouse,” Archibong said. “ Mr. Taggart provided sound direction and principled leadership to Morehouse College at a point when it was facing a serious leadership crisis. His legacy will long be remembered and deeply appreciated.” The Morehouse Board of Trustees said it will be working internally to determine its next steps and the future direction of the College. Provost Michael Hodge will serve as Acting President until a new Interim President is named by the board.
L-R: Pictured are Rockdale NAACP vice president Tommy Plummer; secretary Gladys Brown; Allene Eatman, Freedom Fund Banquet Chair; Kobe Bowen; Galilea Najera Garcia; Justine McPherson; Erica Frank; Ben Marsh, NAACP Education Committee chair; and Rockdale NAACP President Thomas Brantley, Jr. The Rev. Phyllis Hatcher, who also served on the committee, was not present for the photo.
Fees for commercial drivers to increase on July 1 Effective July 1, Georgia Commercial Driver’s License will be changing as follows: • For renewal of an 8-year term CDL, the fee will increase from $20 currently to $32, which equates to $4 per year, and is consistent with the current fee charged for renewal of an 8-year term non-commercial driver’s license. • For initial issuance of an 8-year term CDL that does not require a road test, the fee will increase from $20 to $32, which equates to $4 per year, and is consistent with the current fee charged for an 8-year term non-commercial driver’s license. • For initial issuance of an 8-year term CDL that does require a road test, the fee will increase to $82. This increase is to incorporate the additional $12 associated with the increased cost of the 8-year term CDL from $20.00 to $32.00. The testing fee of $50.00 per test remains the same. CDLs that are restricted to terms of 5 years or less will remain $20. This includes CDLs with hazardous materials endorsements that require a U.S. Transportation Security Administration threat assessment, as well as Limited Term CDL’s that are issued to non-citizens with lawful status whose CDL term cannot exceed their authorized period of stay in the United States, or 5 years, pursuant to the REAL ID Act. These changes are the result of House Bill 136, which was passed by the Georgia General Assembly on March 30, 2017 and signed into law by Governor Nathan Deal on May 1, 2017.
Gwinnett sets new hours for tag offices Gwinnett County Tax Commissioner Richard Steele announced all Gwinnett tag offices will follow a five-day, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. schedule effective July 1. There also will be a change in the location offering Saturday services. Beginning July 1, the Lawrenceville tag office will be open on Saturdays, and the North Gwinnett tag branch in Buford will be closed on Saturdays. “With our Saturday crowds, we have simply outgrown our North Gwinnett location,” said Steele. “Saturday hours in Lawrenceville will offer Gwinnett County residents a centrally located branch with ample parking as well as drive-thru service. The new five-day schedule also allows for each tag office to be open an additional day each week.”
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I Do Elite Bridal held its ribbon cutting on Thursday, May 4. The business is located at 2239 Highway 20 SE, Suite E, Conyers, GA 30013. They can be reached by calling 770-648-8768 The web site is located at www.idoelitebridal.com.
JUNE 10, 2017 • PAGE 7
A2Z Imprints, Inc. held its ribbon cutting on Thursday, May 11. The business can be reached at 404-768-0151. The web site is www.a2zimprints.net.
Conyers Tire Co held its ribbon cutting on Tuesday, May 16. It is located at 588 Sigman Road, Conyers, GA 30013. The business can be reached at 770-483-6633. The web site is www.conyerstire.com. HIFE College Planning held its ribbon cutting on Wednesday, May 17. The business can be reached by calling 404-768-0151 or by visiting their website at www.hife-usa.org.
Liftfund, Inc. held its ribbon cutting on Thursday, May 18. The business can be reached by calling 470- 344-8396 or check out their website at www.liftfund.com.
Randy’s Carpet Plus held its ribbon cutting on Thursday, May 25. The business is located at 2280 Dogwood Dr., Conyers, GA 30013. They can be reached by calling 770- 922-7108 or by visiting their website at www.randyscarpetplus.com.
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Voices from the Community
Tech education builds character and workforce (Adapted from Commencement Address by Dr. Jabari Simama, President of Georgia Piedmont Technical College)
I
Dr. Jabari Simama
want to speak with you briefly about the hand, the head, and the heart. Your instructors have made sure that your course of study has been hands-on and practical. We have no doubt that you are skilled of the hand. So, when you accept a job as a certified nurse assistant, for example, I know your hands will be healing hands. I know you will be skillful in what you do, but don’t be satisfied with just getting a job--always strive to be the best. Let your job propel you into a career that sustains you and your loved ones. In this regard, your hands may take you even farther than your feet. In the classroom, as an early childhood teacher, handle students in a manner that instills in them a lifelong thirst for learning. Awaken the knowledge within them and learn from their purity of hearts. How you handle these precious souls, definitely will impact who, and what, they become in the future.
Financial accountants, be careful with the hand that you don’t miscalculate and give to another, more than one deserves. But likewise, be accurate, because many whom you will serve, will have already been given much. They deserved all that they have earned. When I was in the third grade, I learned to do something that helped create a paradigm of success that affected my future successes--I learned how to play the drums--read notes and all. It gave me great pride in learning a skill, that at the time, I thought was of the hand. But now let me say a few words, now, about the head. As graduates who have learned one or more technical skills, you know that to acquire knowledge, you really have to read, analyze what you have read, and often apply knowledge to a specific function. Can you imagine how dangerous society would be if police officers didn’t use their heads more often than their guns? How many firefighters would lose their lives if they ran into a blazing fire without thinking first? In fact, I cannot think of any skill that one applies that does not require deep knowledge of the subject matter. Can you really become a great film director without knowledge? An optician or an emergency medical technician? Let your minds rule your heads, and you will be much better at what you do. Real education is about freeing the mind. So back to my story about drumming; at first I thought it was about how loud I could play my snare drum or how well I could
execute a drum roll. Then, when I began to read sheet music, I discovered I had to pay attention to accent marks, crescendos, time, and the difference between quarter and 16th notes. And when the composition wanted me to rest . . . that is, to not play at all, it spoke to me through a written symbol. I was beginning to learn that to become a great drummer, I had to use more than my hands. I had to use my head. I had to think about what I was doing. But now, let me say a thing or two about the heart. You could have completed a degree in automotive technology and never discussed the heart. You could have earned six certifications in welding and never discussed the heart. You could have taken two years to complete your GED, and never discussed the heart. You could be a cosmetologist or a practical nurse, and never have discussed the heart. If we have not mentioned the heart, we have done you a disservice. The heart is what being work ready really means. What being a fully developed human being--ready for life, is really all about. The first mechanic I took my car to was the one who loved the cars he worked on. The instructors who work on motorcycles at Georgia Piedmont love the machines. The drafters at our college love what they do. But the lines on paper are meaningless without the shapes and forms created from the heart. So to conclude the story about my drumming…I learned that great drumming was about more than the hands and the mind-
-it, too, was about the heart. I learned to feel the music, to play not just with sticks in my hands, but with my whole body. In order to perform great music, it had to come from inside out. It had to come from the heart. So, I became the number one drummer, not because I executed the best drum roll, but because I approached my music in an integrated fashion. Playing the drums became more than the technical execution of syncopated beats that kept time for music. My heart and soul had to become one with the drum. James Brown once said to his musicians that every instrument is a drum. Be every instrument. Be a beautiful drum, beating out the rhythms of your life. Integrate the hands, with the head, and the heart. Be artists and artisans in all that you do. Create the practical and the beautiful. And being of the heart, moreover, involves being committed to something larger than yourselves. It means letting all you have learned make you a force for good in your families, communities, and in society. You are not an educated human being…unless you are a good human being. Let this day commence a new period in your lives where you commit yourselves to helping to awaken the “somebodiness” in your brothers and sisters. Let this be the day that commences the spirit of the Sankofa Bird in us all--“I will return home to ensure that no one is left behind.” Let this be the day that commences a belief in “unbuntu” – “I am, because we are, and we are, because I am.”
Are you living your gift in our community? “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous? Actually who are you not to be? You are a child of God....” —Marianne Williamson This excerpt has always stood out to me as a beacon of light and truthfulness. This poem has always been something that gives me hope and hope for my surroundings. I tell my boys often that everybody has something special on the inside and God is
Rockdale Sheriff Eric Levet
just waiting to show off their gift for His glory. Most people have found their level of serenity with being ordinary. From
the moment we hit this earth, we make children compare themselves – do you fit into this percentile or even testing at school, comparing it to standard expectations in an extensive spectrum of abilities? This would be ok only if the information we collect is used to push the development of gifts. Instead, we foster relationships striving for likeness and in turn, this rewards mediocrity. Being the most advanced and diverse society in the world, we lack rewarding a creative path to brilliance. If you have never read the entire poem, please do so. It is beautiful in itself for what is truly a simple idea. We will find that the only obstacles and the only resistance we will face
are from those who supply nothing to our current existence and perform tasks that are marginal to our success. We should hold everyone responsible to locate, practice and then live in their gift. I believe if we do this and find this within every person, then knowing there is a gift will help us shine to show the brightness that illuminates so that we may illuminate others. I am thankful for this poem, but more importantly I am thankful for the opportunity to issue a challenge. My challenge is not to envision a way for you to find yourself, but to dream, shine, illuminate and motivate a foundation within this community where this would be possible.
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JUNE 10,2017 • PAGE 9
People
Movers & Shakers in the Community
MARTA’S Rhonda Briggins appointed to transit commission
Rhonda Briggins ATLANTA—House Speaker David Ralston has named Rhonda Briggins, MARTA’s senior director of external affairs, to the
House Commission on Transit Governance and Funding. Briggins, a DeKalb County resident, manages MARTA’s government affairs and community relations activities on federal, state and local levels. House Resolution 848, passed during this year’s session of the Georgia General Assembly, established a commission to study the conditions, needs and issues regarding Georgia transit. The council will provide transportation recommendations aimed at benefiting Georgia’s local and regional economy. Transit studies, generated from the commission’s activities, will also review potential funding mechanisms. ‘This is an amazing opportunity for
not only MARTA but for transit statewide as Georgia takes a hard look at funding and governance,” said Briggins. “We are especially grateful to Speaker Ralston for his leadership and vision to move Georgia in the right direction.” The council will consist of six members of the House of Representatives, four representatives of transit systems or counties, four residents of the state of Georgia and ex-officio appointees. MARTA GM/CEO Keith T. Parker will serve as an ex-officio member with leaders from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority (GRTA).
“Transit is becoming more and more important to Georgia’s future,” Ralston said in a statement. “From congestion relief to economic development, a robust transit network across our state will have long-term benefits for our citizens. Situations like the recent I-85 rebuild have clearly demonstrated the importance of transit to our state and its economy. The House is proud to lead on this initiative to develop actionable, meaningful solutions.” Briggins serves as the president for both, the Georgia Transit Association and the Conference
Rockdale BOC honors National EMS for 40 years of service
R
ockdale County officials recently saluted National EMS for providing emergency care to the North Georgia region for more than 40 years. The Rockdale Board of Commissioners (BOC) presented a proclamation to the company declaring June 6 as National EMS Recognition Day. Rockdale Commissioner Sherri Washington, Post 1, was joined by BOC Chairman Oz Nesbitt and Commissioner Doreen Williams, Post 2, in reading the proclamation during the board’s work session. Benny Atkins accepted the proclamation on behalf of the family-owned business, which was founded by his parents, Pat and Mary Ellen Atkins. The Atkins started operating the business from their home in 1976 in northern Cobb County with just one ambulance. The company became incorporated in 1977. Today, National EMS provides emergency medical services across five northeast
Georgia counties including Athens-Clarke, Morgan, Oconee and Rockdale. After securing the 911 contract for Rockdale County in 1983, National EMS relocated to Conyers, where the company continued operating for more than 30 years. In 1993, National EMS became the first accredited EMS service in Georgia and the nineteenth in the country by the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services. The company has maintained accreditation for more than 20 consecutive years. National EMS has more than 200 employees and a fleet of 30 ambulances. The company responds to more than 42,000 calls and transports more than 33,000 patients annually in the five counties it serves. The award-winning company participates in a number of charitable initiatives to give back to the communities in which they serve by working with various nonprofits doing demonstrations, trainings and a host of healthy living programs.
Pictured L-R: Post 1 Commissioner Sherri Washington, National EMS operator Benny Atkins, Post 2 Commissioner Doreen Williams and BOC Chairman Oz Nesbitt
Life After Stroke and Paralysis Friends pitch in to help Ken Wilson, former Lithonia promoter
K
en Wilson is learning to walk and speak again. Since suffering a massive stroke while driving home from work last summer, Wilson, 54, has been on a rollercoaster to recovery. The smiling, big-guy Wilson, who worked with the Lithonia Jazz Concert series during its heyday, is now undergoing extensive rehabilitation therapy. His car, which was totaled in the July 11, 2016 accident, flipped and rolled over three times after he lost control. He suffered broken bones in his right arm, a dislocated shoulder and he was left paralyzed on his right side. He lost over 100 pounds after the accident. “He was on life support. He has come a long way. I’m so thankful that he pulled through,” said Angela Wilson, Ken’s wife. Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary and former Lithonia Mayor Darold Honore
recently visited the Wilsons. Although Ken Wilson could not speak, he expressed his excitement through some movement, Lary and Honore said. “We wanted to show our support and let him know that we care. He is a really good friend who worked with me for years in community development and with the concert series in Lithonia,” said Lary. “We’re praying for him and his family.” Honore echoed Lary’s sentiments. He said he appreciated Wilson’s involvement with the city. “He was always developing ideas to help market Lithonia and businesses in the city,” said Honore. Al Franklin, a former Lithonia City Council member, has set up a Go Fund Me account to assist the Wilsons, who have two daughters, with paying for rehabilitation medical equipment, medications, doctor’s visits and other expenses.
Angela Wilson said her husband formerly worked as a regional operations manager for a staffing company. Although some of his care is covered through the medical insurance she carries through her employment as a legal assistant, a number of things are not covered by her medical plan, she said. “We have medical bills that are for doctors out of the network that are not covered. We have to have special equipment for him to get around and transportation to therapy, which is not covered,” Angela Wilson said. “Our income has suffered significantly because he cannot work.” Despite the financial challenges, Angela Wilson said she continues to pray and look on the bright side. “While Ken was fighting for his life on life support, I had to have a hip replacement. Everything was happening to us at the same time. It was
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Ken Wilson
tough, but we are still here,” she said. If you would like to help assist Ken Wilson, visit www.gofundme.com/kenwilsonstrokerecovery.
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