July 19, 2014

SERVING DEKALB, FULTON, GWINNETT, HENRY AND ROCKDALE COUNTIES

VOLUME 20 NUMBER 16

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DeKalb schools receive $3 million grant to improve instructional leadership

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he Wallace Foundation is investing $3 million in a fiveyear effort to help the DeKalb County School District improve the instructional leadership skills of its principals and regional superintendents.

The DeKalb grant is part of Wallace’s new $30-million national Principal Supervisor Initiative involving 14 urban school districts across the country.

“We are honored to have been selected by the Wallace Foundation to participate in this groundbreaking initiative” stated DeKalb County School Superintendent Michael Thurmond. “This is a game-changer for the DeKalb School System.”

DeKalb has come under scrutiny for its graduation rates. In May, 24 percent (1,456) of the county’s 4,498 students did not receive their diplomas.

Only two of DeKalb’s 25 high schools – DeKalb Early College Academy with 37 seniors and DeKalb School of the Arts with 67 seniors – graduated their entire senior class.

School officials are looking at a number of ways to improve the rate.

The Wallace Foundation launched this initiative because the often overlooked regional superintendent position has emerged as central to improving principals’ performance and ultimately, student achievement.

“In many large school districts, principal supervisors oversee too many principals – 24 on average – and focus too much on bureaucratic compliance,” said Jody Spiro, Wallace’s director of education leadership.

The initiative has four goals: • Re-writing regional superintendent job description to emphasize instructional support for principals; • Restructuring central-offices and reducing the number of principals supervisors oversee • Decentralizing financial resources and authority to the regional level; and • Assessing the effectiveness and effects of these activities across the districts.

Wallace originally invited 23 districts that had demonstrated a willingness and potential to transform their principal supervisor positions to submit grant applications. DeKalb and five other districts were selected because they were among “the nation’s most advanced school districts in recognizing the importance of the regional superintendent position,” foundation officials said.

In addition to DeKalb, the other districts are Long Beach (California), Des Moines (Iowa), Broward County (Florida), Minneapolis (Minneappolis) and Cleveland (Ohio).

In DeKalb, the grant will help to finance the cost of instructional training and increase the number of regional See Grant, page 8

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Simulated school shooting keeps Rockdale deputies prepared

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By Joshua Smith

ith the countdown on for students to return to school, Rockdale County Sheriff deputies recently got some classroom and hands-on training—a refresher course on how to handle a shooter on school campuses.

The mayhem: rapid fire, explosions and screaming children.

Rockdale deputies took these dangers head on as a part of a simulated shooting at Honey Creek Elementary School in Conyers on July 16.

Rockdale students return to classes for the new school year on July 28. They are among the first school districts to head back to school in the metro Atlanta area.

“If a school shooting happens in Rockdale, we don’t want our deputies wondering if they should wait for back up, should they just go in the school. We don’t want them to be caught completely off guard,” said Sergeant Jeremy Mote, training coordinator. “If a school shooting happens, our deputies won’t be looking around saying oh crap, what should I do, they will be prepared for it.”

The training and simulation will be conducted yearly for deputies to be up-to-date on training tactics and more importantly, so they will know what to do if they are put in the middle of a school shooting incident. The first portion of the training, held Shooter simulation, page 8

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

DeKalb County seniors lead the pack for early voting

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ore than a dozen senior citizens hit the polls in force in DeKalb County on July 15 to cast their early vote and make their voices heard in the upcoming July 22 run-off election to elect new officials for several positions in their county.

Director of Voter Registration and Elections, Maxine Daniels, says the staff at her office is especially happy to see the seniors rocking the vote. For more on this story and other pictures, see page 7 Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

PAGE 2

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JULY 19, 2014 VOLUME 20, NO. 16

Community News

EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com

Rockdale weighs countywide curbside trash pickup program

GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com

ABOUT US

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.

HOW TO REACH US On Common Ground News 1240 Sigman Road Suite 107 Conyers, GA 30012 (678) 526-1910 (P) (678) 526-1909 (F) www.ocgnews.com editor@ocgnews.com

LIKE US ON:

By Joshua Smith

CONYERS--James Skipper, a trumpet instructor, doesn’t like the sound of Rockdale County commissioners approaching a proposal to provide countywide curbside garbage pickup.

Skipper, who prefers to take his trash to a recycling center, says county officials shouldn’t impose a new sanitation program on residents because it would likely drive up the costs.

“As a widower, I eat out all the time. The little trash I have I can just take it myself to the recycling center,” said Skipper, who pays 50 cents per bag of trash. “This is something we simply don’t need. We don’t want the extra tax and if we are given the opportunity to opt out, we all will.”

On July 15, County Commissioner Oz Nesbitt organized a town hall meeting for residents to give their opinion on the county possibly providing trash service, instead of residents using private haulers, or for those like Skipper, who drive their trash to a recycling center.

“Right now, it’s too early to say whether I am for or against this. This town hall showed me that there are a lot of questions that need answers before we could formally even consider adopting a county-

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

wide trash collection,” said Nesbitt, who represents Post 1 in Rockdale. “If we were to approach this, I think there are some advantages though, such as enhancing the community’s safety and attractiveness, as well as improving code enforcement. It could possibly bring economic development through new recycling programs and the selling of those recycled materials.”

In June, news reporters covered a story concerning a Rockdale home that was piled up with trash and furniture in both, the front and backyard, in the Sugar Hill subdivision.

Nesbitt says with a countywide collection, the trash, more than likely, never would have piled up like that.

About 50 residents attended the July 15 town hall. All of them either shot

the idea down all together or told Nesbitt if they did install a county-pickup program, the board would have to provide an opt-out alternative for residents who don’t want to be a part of it.

Currently, residents may contract with a private service for curbside garbage/trash pickup. Household garbage and recyclables may also be dropped off at the Recycling Center on Sigman Road for a fee: 50 cents for a normal size white trash bag and $1 for a large bag. Recyclables are taken for free.

Neighboring DeKalb County launched a program on April 28 that provides once-a-week pickups for trash and recyclables in some areas. In the program, 28,000 households were provided with larger trash containers,

recycling bins and yard waste bags. Officials said the program is a plus because it means sanitation workers will have to do less lifting and have reduced exposure to harmful materials and chemicals.

The new trash program proposed in Rockdale would mean a county contract would be made with a single vendor to collect trash for all property owners. A variation of the proposal would be to divide the county into districts and contract with different trash collection vendors to serve each district.

“If we were to look into this any further, property owners would pay for the service as a line item on their annual property tax bills. Residents in the city of Conyers currently pay about $240 annually for curb-side collection for trash, recycling and yard waste,” said Nesbitt.

“We haven’t done any research on if this would cost more or less. It’s not about that right now. We won’t go any further if nobody wants it.”

Nesbitt says he will report the responses he received at the Board of Commissioners’ July 22 meeting. He says he is also considering hosting two more town halls in the next coming months to get additional feedback. About 50 people attended the July 15 meeting held at the J.P. Carr Center.

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First, I got $50 for taking advantage of the Georgia Power Refrigerator Recycling Program. Then, I got a rebate for purchasing ENERGY STAR® certified appliances, and since these appliances use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models, I get the benefit of a lower monthly bill. For more information on tips and rebates, visit georgiapower.com/save.

Certain restrictions apply. Must be a Georgia Power customer. Rebate available through November 30, 2014.

Customer must submit receipt/invoice for the ENERGY STAR® appliance with the rebate form.

PAGE 4

JULY 19, 2014

Coming Up

Centennial Olympic Park ready to host “Praise in the Park” Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave., N.W., Atlanta, will host a range of gospel performers for “Praise in the Park” on Saturday, Aug. 2, 12 – 8 p.m.

Organizers say “Praise in the Park,” the largest free outdoor inspirational music concert in the country.

Scheduled performers include: Tamela Mann, Uncle Reece, James Fortune, Tasha Cobbs, Jekalyn Carr, Smokie Norful, William Murphy, Wess Morgan, Patrick Dopson, Micah Stampley, Isaac Carree, Donald Lawrence, Canton Jones, Chanel and Beverly Crawford.

There will be vendors, an artist market showcase and food available for purchase. For more information, call 404-765-9750 or 404-223-4412.

DEKALB County officials to host Family Fun Day DECATUR—DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May and the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners will host a Community Education Family Fun Day on Saturday, July 19, noon – 5 p.m., at Mason Mill Park, 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur.

The free event will include food, music, entertainment from local performers, information booths and games for all ages. Educational and outreach information will be available regarding several county initiatives including Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG), as well as from DeKalb’s Recycling and Stormwater Department.

“This is a golden opportunity for families to have some summer fun, and learn about several major county initiatives at the same time,” said Interim CEO May. 404-371-2000.

Overcomers Christian Fellowship Church sets Community Day for all

NFL’s Punt, Pass and Kick comes to Lawrenceville The National Football League’s popular children’s event, “Punt, Pass and Kick,” will be held on Saturday, July 26, 9 a.m. at Rhodes Jordan Park, 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville.

The national competition invites boys and girls, ages 6 – 15, to compete separately in their own age group in punting, passing and kicking. Scores are based on distance and accuracy.

Kids earn the chance to advance to a regional and state level competition at the Georgia Dome. A valid birth certificate, complete entry form and parental signature are required before competition.

For more information, call 678-277-0860 or visit www.nflppk.com.

ROCKDALE Local groups mark historical raid in Conyers

Overcomers Christian Fellowship Church, 7373 Covington Highway, Lithonia will host a community awareness and engagement event on Saturday, July 26, noon.

Church members say the purpose of this event is to raise awareness and increase both individual as well as group involvement in the issues that plague the community, such as child abuse and neglect, domestic violence and substance abuse.

The event will feature songs, praise dances, as well as a play that focuses on a family’s struggle with domestic violence.

Participants can learn from more than 30 organizations that will provide iformational booths about resources regarding education, foster care and behavior health. In addition, free health screenings will be offered, such as blood pressure and HIV testing. For more information, contact Sharon Hill at drsharon831@ yahoo.com or call the church at 770-465-8687.

The Rockdale County Historical Society(RCHS) and the Major General Joseph Wheeler Camp #863 Sons of Confederate Veterans will present a sesquicentennial observance of Brigadier General Kenner D. Garrard’s 1864 raid on Conyers Station on Tuesday, July 22, 6:30 p.m. at the Conyers Depot, 901 Railroad Street, Conyers.

RCHS member Rosanna Taylor will serve as the guest speaker. Taylor is the author of “The War Comes to Conyers Station.”

Members of the Sons of the Confederate Veterans will feature personal Civil War artifacts, memorabilia, and special recognition of regiments by J.H. Underwood. The event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the program begins at 7 p.m. 770-602-2606.

ATLANTA

Bicycle ride set in Olde Town

Candler Park sets free movies series in August Families are invited to “Candler Park Movie Nights.” Grab a blanket, your favorite picnic foods and a lawn chair and head to enjoy the free outdoor movie series.

Here is a lineup of the movies planned: Aug. 2, “The Lego Movie;” Aug. 9, “Karate Kid;” Aug. 16, “My Big Fat Greek Wedding;” and on Aug. 23, “Monsters, Inc.” Food will be available for purchase. Candler Park is located at 1500 McLendon Ave., N.E., Atlanta. Movies begin at dusk, so arrive early to picnic and take your place for the best view of the big screen. For more information, visit www.friendsofcandlerpark.org.

GWINNETT “Cars for Critters” set in Lawrenceville Gwinnett County’s Animal Welfare and Enforcement Center, 684 Winder Highway, Lawrenceville, will host its third annual Adoption Explosion on Saturday, July 26, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The “Cars for Critters Mega Hot Rod and Car Show” features Gwinnett Police and Sheriff’s Office specialty vehicles along with vehicles from other county police agencies, a Ewing Racing Pro Stock Race Car, National Guard Fighting Hummer vehicles, Corvettes, older restored vehicles, custom motorcycles, and race cars.

Visitors will also enjoy food trucks,vendor displays and a dog show. Pets will be available for adoption at reduced fees throughout the event.

Admission is free. For more information or to register your car for the car show, visit www.gwinnettanimalcontrol.com or call 770-339-3200.

The City of Conyers, 901 Railroad St., N.W., Conyers, will host a familyfriendly, leisure bike ride in and around Olde Town on Sunday, July 27, 4- 5 p.m.

Bring your bike and helmet and enjoy a four mile/45-minute leisurely group ride. The ride takes place on the fourth Sunday of each month and begins at the Conyers Welcome Center/Depot at 901 Railroad Street.

For more information, call Eddie Shirey at 770-365-0480.

GPTC welcomes Teddy Riley for grand opening Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) will welcome Grammy Award winning producer, writer and musician Teddy Riley to help cut the ribbon for the grand opening of the college’s new Design Media Production Technology Studio.

The grand opening will be on Thursday, July 24, 4 – 6 p.m., at the college’s DeKalb campus. The state-of-theart production studio and mac lab will train students in the growing field of 3-D animation, Graphic Design, Web Interface, Motion Graphics, TV Production and Digital Teddy Riley Music Production.

“Georgia Piedmont Technical College continues to be on the cutting edge of academic programs that meet the workforce needs of our region,” said Dr. Jabari Simama, president of Georgia Piedmont Technical College. “With Georgia being among the top five states in the nation for film and television production, graduates from this program will be qualified to work in this growing media industry.”

Dr. Simama said this program emphasizes hands-on production in specialized areas of new and emerging media. Students will learn how to animate objects using specialized computer software, design graphics for web-based programs, proper techniques for videography, editing, lighting and camera work.

President of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Chris Clark, is expected to attend. RSVP is required. For more information, call 404-297-9522.

JULY 19, 2014 PAGE 5

Auburn Avenue Library to close for expansion Atlanta’s Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History will temporarily close on July 19 for renovation and expansion.

The 56,000-square-foot library renovation and expansion of the current library located at Auburn Avenue and Courtland Street, is just one part of the “Library Building Program” that is currently underway.

When the renovation and expansion are complete, some of the features of the renovated design will include an auditorium on the ground floor with state-of-theart presentation equipment, expanded gallery and program space and expanded and improved archives.

JWRA / Freelon, a joint venture of J. W. Robinson & Associates and Freelon Group, Inc. has contracted with Fulton County to provide design and engineering services for the new library. Heery/Russell is the program management team.

“Construction for the expansion and renovation will take approximately 12 months, and the reopening of the renovated and expanded research library is expected to be in the fourth quarter of 2015,” said Kelly Robinson Vann, library spokesperson.

During construction Auburn Avenue Research Library services will be available at the Central Library at One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta 30303, on the corner of Carnegie Way and Forsyth Street.

The other part of the building program includes adding a green building design and sustainability features. The library says those are priorities for the library-building project.

For more information, visit www.afpls.org or call 404-730-1977.

Conyers Police sets policy regarding kids left unattended in vehicles Recent events in the metropolitan Atlanta area have prompted the Conyers Police Department to review its policy concerning adults who leave their children unattended in vehicles.

The decision has been made to utilize an emergency response to all calls of children left unattended in vehicles in the city limits of Conyers. The chief feels so strongly about the necessity of this that it has been added to the policy of which officers are required to comply.

“This is a dangerous, and too often deadly, practice that seems to be on the rise. We have to take all precautions and actions to circumvent this practice and the negligent actions of parents and caregivers. We are responsible for serving and protecting the community. We have to act and respond in an effort to save the lives of innocent victims,” said Chief Gene Wilson.

South DeKalb YMCA to host tours of potential green space

DeKalb County District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson, Super District 7 Stan Watson and Curtis Wilson, director of the South DeKalb YMCA, are inviting the public to walking tours of the potential green space at the Y, located at 2565 Snapfinger Road, Decatur.

Wilson and other Y staff members have been spending the last few months gaining the support of the community in an effort to bring large numbers to an Aug. 12 commissioner meeting where they hope to convince commissioners to buy the facility for $4.5 million. The issue was brought up in June and was tabled.

While three commissioners are pushing for the purchase—Larry Johnson, Stan Watson and Sharon Barnes Sutton, the other three commissioners—Jeff Rader, Kathie Gannon and Elaine Boyer—are against the purchase.

The schedule for the potential green space tours is as follows: • Saturday, July 26, 9 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.

• Sunday, Aug. 3, 4 p.m.

• Saturday, Aug. 9, 8:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 10 a.m.

• Saturday, Aug. 16, 8:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 10 a.m.

These tours are open to the public.

“With limited availability within the county for parks, walking trails and other outdoor amenities that promote enjoying the outdoors and living healthier lives, the space surrounding the South DeKalb YMCA is incredibly valuable,” said Commissioner Johnson.

Wilson said the green space will enhance the quality of life for DeKalb residents.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for people to see the potential. The tours will allow citizens to visualize the many possibilities,” Wilson.

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Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce invites you on an excursion to Japan

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he world’s first bullet train, a man-made island and stunning mountain views are just some of the highlights the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce’s Japan trip will offer those looking to explore “the land of the rising sun.”

The Chamber, which offers annual trips to the Far East, has added Japan to its heavily stamped passport and would like you to join them as they take on Tokyo.

“Just seeing the bullet train is a highlight in itself, but I think travelers will really respect the efficiency of Japan travel. There will be scheduled tours, and travelers can see Japan on their own at their leisure,” said Fred Boscarino, president of the Chamber.

“You will also get to see pure waters, enjoy fresh mountain air and even take in some volcanic activities.”

The Chamber is encouraging anyone who wants to go to sign up for the trip, even those who live outside of Rockdale County.

The Chamber has commissioned the assistance of Asia Getaway Inc., to handle travel accommodations. In March, the Chamber used the travel company to go to China, where sightseers from Georgia, New York, New Jersey and even California went on the trip.

“The world famous Geisha districts and the popular temples are

real eye-catchers and the farewell dinner will be a splendid meal featuring some of Japan’s finest dishes,” said Iris Cheung, an agent with Asia Getaway, Inc. The trip to Japan is planned for March 15 – 26, 2015. The cost for the nine-day excursion is $3,668 per person, double occupancy. The trip will leave from Los Angeles for roundtrip airfare in a jumbo jet to Tokyo International Airport.

After arriving in Tokyo, travelers will meet their tour manager, visit the world’s largest fish markets, museums, ancient temples, large shopping areas and will be treated to a welcome dinner.

The trip includes stops in Tokyo, Kyoto, Hakone and Hiroshima.

Travelers will be escorted on chartered coach buses and on one night, will be treated to a “kaiseki,” a traditional multi-course Japanese dinner, as well as a sake brewery tasting.

The package includes a daily buffet breakfast and two dinners throughout the trip, a total of 10 meals included in your trip costs.

Payments are being accepted now. A deposit of $350 is required by Thursday, Sept. 18. Full payment is due by Thursday, Dec. 18. For more information, or to make your payment to join the trip, call 770-483-7049 or visit www.conyers-rockdale.com.

PAGE 6

JULY 19, 2014

Back-to-School Dates: Rockdale—July 28 DeKalb—Aug. 11 Gwinnett—Aug. 5 City of Atlanta—Aug. 4 Fulton County—Aug.11 Henry—August 4

DFCS seeks help with school supplies The DeKalb County Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) is hosting an ongoing back to school drive for needy children.

“It’s never too early or too late to think about back to school and the students who cannot afford necessary supplies,” said DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson, who is helping get the word out about the drive. “DeKalb DFCS would like to provide school supplies for hundreds of DeKalb children in every grade level and could use your help.”

Needed supplies include: book bags (boys and girls; elementary and middle school; clear and pattern book bags); notebook paper (wide rule), subject notebooks with wire; number 2 pencils; ink pens (black or blue); mechanical pencils; rulers; calculators; binders; glue sticks; tissue; crayons; index cards and highlighters.

If you or an organization would like to contribute items for the supply drive, contact. Johnnie Carey at 404-370-5493, 404-387-1131 or jacarey@dhr.state.ga.us.

New Hope sets Back-to-School rally New Hope Christian Ministries, 1738 Fairview Road, Stockbridge, will host a Back-to-School rally on Saturday, July 26, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Free book bags and other school supplies will be given to needy children while supplies last. Church organizers say the rally is being held to bring out families and show them the importance of having a healthy family unit.

For more information, visit www.nhm-inc.org or call 678-368-3929.

Canaan Land Church International ready to “Give a Kid a Chance” Canaan Land Church International, 3755 Centerville Highway, Snellville, will host its 8th annual “Give A Kid A Chance” back-to-school event on Saturday, July 26, 10a.m. – noon.

Children will receive new book bags packed with school supplies.

There’ll be health screenings, parent forums, children’s activities, free haircuts and various vendors as well.

With the support of local businesses and community partnerships, the church hopes to provide the school supplies to 500 students.

On Tuesday, Aug. 19, 2 p.m., the system’s Central Library, One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta will offer study materials, practice tests, exercises, skillbuilding courses and eBooks on standardized test preparation. Reservations are required: 404-730-1875.

On Saturday, Aug. 23, 12:30 p.m., the Mechanicsville Branch, 400 Formwalt Street SW, Atlanta, will offer all teens a stress-free, four-hour ACT practice exam to determine their strengths and weaknesses. Reservations are required: 404-730-4779.

On Thursday, Aug. 25, 4 p.m., the Fulton Branch, 4055 Flat Shoals Road, Union City, will conclude with “Testing Resources at Your Library.” Students and parents are invited to come to the branch and become familiar with online testing and tutoring resources available at the library for Praxis, GED, SAT, ACT, LSAT, ASVAB and other standardized tests. 770-306-3092.

New immunization requirements for seventh-graders Beginning this school year, all students entering seventh-grade are required to have the meningitis vaccine and the “T-dap” booster shot for tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.

In the past, it was highly recommended to have the meningitis vaccine administered around age 11; Now the state has made the vaccine mandatory.

Pertussis, commonly referred to as whooping cough, can first appear masked as the common cold, with symptoms such as a runny nose, low-grade fever and occasional cough. Symptoms worsen over one to 10 weeks, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Meningitis is an infection of the membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. Viral meningitis is fairly common and not as dangerous, but bacterial meningitis, typically passed from one infected person to another, can be deadly.

The only way a family can opt out of the required vaccinations in Georgia is by having a medical or religious waiver.

The Center Helping Obesity In Children End Successfully, Inc. DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson & The Fulton DeKalb Hospital Authority

Greenbriar Mall ready for Back-to-School Jam Greenbriar Mall, 2841 Parkway, S.W., Atlanta, will host its “Back-to-School Jam” on Saturday, July 26, 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.

The annual event features a book bag giveaway, Kids Zone, Youth Teen Summit, voter registration drive, vendor fair and live entertainment. Book bags will be distributed to students in Grades 1-5. This year, Amerigroup will also distribute 100 pre-K book bags.

Supplies will be given on a first-come, first-served basis. Children can enjoy inflatables, face painting, balloon artists and a game truck.

Book bag give away requirements: Child (or) children must be present to register and receive book bag(s). Pre-registration for book bag(s) will be on the day of the event starting at 10 a.m. Parents or guardians will receive a wristband after registering. Book bags will be distributed at 4 p.m.

Last year, more than 3,500 Southwest Atlanta families attended the annual Back to School Jam. 404-344-6611.

Oakhurst Medical Center Back 2 School Health Fair and Family Fun Day Oakhurst Medical Center, 5582 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain, will host a health fair and back-to-school rally on Saturday, Aug. 2, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The free event will offer school supplies to families while supplies. Children ages 4 – 17 can receive immunization shots, if parents bring immunization record.

Healthy, food beverages and snacks will be provided.

The community can also take advantage of free health screenings such as blood pressure and HIV testing, and visit informational booths focused on optimal health and breast cancer awareness.

There will be live entertainment, carnival games, face painting, rock climbing, obstacle course zones, and contests and prizes. For more information, call 770808-0144.

Atlanta library system offers help for critical tests The Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library System will host the “Testing Resources at Your Library,” series to offer free help for high school students during the month of August.

BACK TO SCHOOL SUPPLIES! Free Admission.

(While supplies last. Child must be present)

Nutrition that’s fun. Fitness for all ages.

Tastes of C.H.O.I.C.ES. Cooking

JULY 19, 2014 PAGE 7

ELECTIONS 2014

Lithonia Senior Center takes field trip to vote

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Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

embers of DeKalb County’s Lithonia Senior Center were among those who made it to the polls during the early voting period to cast their ballots in the run-off elections.

Maxine Daniels, director of the Voter Registration and Elections in DeKalb, said she and her staff welcomed the seniors on July 15.

“We actually reach out to our senior centers to invite them to come in to vote, so we are pleased with their response. I always try to interact with the seniors when they come and find that they are extremely happy with the extra attention that we provide,” said Daniels.

“Our emphasis has been to make voting as accessible as possible for seniors and disabled voters.”

Early Voting and Absentee

Mail Voting ended on July 18. At On Common Ground News’ deadline, 6,913 had voted in DeKalb. The county has about 455,000 registered voters, according to Daniels.

Elvera L. Winston, 68, says she went on the bus with Lithonia seniors to avoid long lines on July 22, Election Day. “I like early voting because with no crowds, we can get in and get out,” Winston said. “Voting is a critical part of what keeps America going. If you don’t vote and someone gets into office that you don’t care for, it’s your fault.”

If you would like to see the candidates before you vote, sample ballots are available on the Voter Registration website at www.dekalbvotes.com under the “Current Election Information” tab. 404-2984020.

DeKalb announces precinct changes DECATUR—The DeKalb County Board of Registration & Elections reports that due to unforeseen circumstances and as an emergency measure, the voting location for all registered voters in the Redan Trotti Library Precinct and the Wesley Chapel Road Library Precinct for the General Primary Runoff Election on July 22, 2014 will have to relocate.

Lack of air conditioning at these facilities has resulted in them being closed to the public. These changes are in compliance with O.C.G.A. §21-2-265(a).

Redan-Trotti Library Precinct voters are relocated to: Redan Elementary School, 1914 S Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road, Lithonia.

Wesley Chapel Library Precinct voters are relocated to: Rainbow Elementary School, 2801 Kelley Chapel Road, Decatur.

In-person early voting for the July 22 election will continue at the Voter Registration and Elections Office, located at 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur through Friday, July 18, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sample ballots are available on the VR&E website: www.dekalbvotes.com under “Current Election Information.” The office is currently accepting absentee by mail applications. Application forms are also available on our website.

To find your polling place and see your sample ballot, go to My Voter Page at www.sos.state.ga.us. 404-298-4020.

Thank you for your Vote!

Vickie B. Turner DeKalb School Board District 5

We’re In A Runoff

VOTE July 22,2014

www.electvickiebturner.com

Paid for by the Committee to Elect Vickie B. Turner

PAGE 8

JULY 19, 2014

Shooter simulation continued from page 1

at the Sheriff Department’s South Precinct, included a presentation from the department and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Deputies received an overview of mass shootings and covered case studies of historical incidents including several school shootings.

Following the presentation, deputies ran through tactical drills inside the hallways and classrooms of the Honey Creek Elementary to simulate various active shooter scenarios.

“This training is a continued effort between local law enforcement and Rockdale County Public Schools to focus on keeping Rockdale County students and teachers safe in the event of a school shooting,” said Sheriff Eric J. Levett. “While we hope that we never have to utilize it, we will continue to provide our deputies with the knowledge and tactical skills necessary to respond to such an event.”

Overall, about 50 deputies, split in groups of 3 – 5 people, and investigators from the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office participated in the training. Participants came from various divisions and units such as the Criminal Investigations Division, Uniform Patrol Division and the Warrants & Civil Division.

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Grant continued from page 1

superintendents while reducing the number of principals they supervise.

DeKalb currently has five regional superintendents and each oversees an average of 27 principals.

Decentralizing authority, redirecting funding from the central office to the school house and redefining the role of regional superintendents are key components of Superintendent Thurmond’s plan to improve academic growth and achievement.

“The additional funding and technical assistance provided by the Wallace Foundation will enhance and strengthen our ongoing efforts to transform and improve our school district,” said Dr. Melvin Johnson,

TRANSIT MANAGEMENT

chairman of the DeKalb County School Board.

The six districts will also participate in an independent, $2.5-million evaluation that will help answer whether and how boosting the supervisor post leads to more effective principals.

The new Principal Supervisor Initiative grew out of Wallace’s 14 years of work to improve school leaders. Feedback from the field to the foundation suggested that principal supervisors often lacked the right training and support – and that this can jeopardize principal effectiveness.

Nationwide, there’s no consistency across districts about principal supervisor positions. Job titles and definitions vary. Hiring criteria can be

DESIGN AND MEDIA

vague, and these supervisors rarely have the training to help principals improve instruction. Another problem is that most principal supervisors say their top task is ensuring bureaucratic compliance with district procedures, instead of spending valuable time helping principals lead schools more effectively.

That concern was heightened with research Wallace commissioned from the Council of the Great City Schools, a coalition of the nation’s largest school districts, which released a report last fall, Rethinking Leadership: The Changing Role of Principal Supervisors. Based in part on a survey with responses from 43 large school districts, the report found that principal

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supervisors – whose job titles range from area superintendent to zone supervisor to instructional coach – often juggle overseeing large numbers of principals with handling extensive administrative responsibilities. It concluded that many supervisors lack experience as a human resources, operations or central-office instructional administrators and don’t have access to instructionally-focused professional development.

The Wallace Foundation is an independent, national foundation dedicated to supporting and sharing effective ideas and practices that expand learning and enrichment opportunities for children.

JULY 19, 2014 PAGE 9

Statement by Commissioner Kathie Gannon regarding ethics complaint In April, I sponsored a resolution to audit all of the commission’s expenditures. None of the Commissioners are exempt, and in that spirit my budget will be the first one to be audited. That audit is already underway. Its results will be made public and given to the Ethics Board.

The Ethics Board has its own process, and the complaint

will proceed according to those procedures. Let me be clear: I am confident that all my budget expenditures are legitimate and in due time I will be vindicated.

Please continue to follow the work being done in District 6 and DeKalb County on my website at www. kathiegannon.com.

Editor’s Note: Currently,

all of DeKalb County’s Board of Commissioners are under investigation for ethics complaints filed by residents.

Commissioner Jeff Rader is under investigation for his public role and the one he had with his former employer, Jacobs Engineering.

Other residents have filed complaints against commissioners

DeKalb County students improve in five of seven tests over the previous year 2014 End-of-Course Tests (EOCT) Results Released

D

eKalb County School District (DCSD) students demonstrated improved performance on five of seven End-of-Course Tests with one remaining steady (U.S. History) and one (Biology) dropping by one percentage point.

“We are proud of our students, parents and educators who contributed to the District’s academic growth and achievement on this year’s tests,” said Michael Thurmond, superintendent of the DeKalb County School District. “We also recognize that more work is left to be done.”

Following are the percentages of students demonstrating proficiency: EOCTs

2013

2014

Growth

9 Grade Literature

77

79

+2

American Literature

86

88

+2

U.S. History

70

70

0

Economics

78

80

+2

Biology

63

62

-1

Physical Science

67

68

+1

Coordinate Algebra

26

30

+4

Analytic Geometry

n/a

30

n/a

th

Coordinate Algebra, a more rigorous test in mathematics, demonstrated growth with an improvement of four percentage points. However, the overall proficiency levels for both Coordinate Algebra and Analytic Geometry need greater improvement.

“The EOCT indicated a need for more rigorous intervention in improving performance in mathematics and we are responding with actions that will directly address this need,” said Mr. Thurmond.

The District is addressing this need with a set of strategies that will incorporate teacher training, more critical thinking skills for students, and additional student practice time in the new school year.

According to the Georgia Department of Education, beginning next year, all students statewide in grades 3-12 will take the Georgia Milestones test, which will consist of one program across all grades rather than a series of individual tests.

Larry Johnson, Sharon BarnesSutton, Stan Watson and Elaine Boyer, for their use of their DeKalb County issued Purchasing Cards, or “p-cards,” for personal purchases. Commissioner Watson is also being investigated for allegedly being involved with two men who sought to facilitate bribes. Watson maintains no wrongdoing.

Kathie Gannon

Harry West, former ARC director, dies

H

1941 – 2014

arry West, former executive director of the Atlanta Regional Commission (1973 to 2000), died Monday, July 14 at Emory University Hospital from a serious lung infection.

Mr. West was the longest-serving executive director in ARC’s history and is credited with building stronger ties among community leaders and fostering a regional approach to tackling metro Atlanta’s most challenging issues. He was 72.

“Harry West’s legacy to the Atlanta Regional Commission and to the Atlanta region is immeasurable,” said Doug Hooker, current ARC executive director. “He developed programs and created a sense of regional connectedness, which still reverberate positively today. More importantly, he had a vision, a dedication, and a high set of standards, which will continue to Harry West propel metro Atlanta far into the future.”

Among his many accomplishments, Mr. West aggressively pursued efforts to ensure adequate water resources for the Atlanta region, as well as protection for the Chattahoochee River corridor. He conceived and launched the Regional Leadership Institute in 1991, which has graduated some 1,500 leaders from the immersion program on key regional issues. Mr. West also launched the annual LINK city visits program (Leadership, Involvement, Knowledge and Networking) to learn how others are dealing with similar urban challenges, and he spearheaded the 16-year-old regional youth leadership program, Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC).

In the mid-1980s, during West’s tenure, ARC also began conducting reviews of development proposals of a certain size to determine the potential impacts to the region’s water supply, transportation capacity, air quality and other infrastructure. The “Developments of Regional Impact” review was later instituted statewide in the Georgia Planning Act of 1989.

In 1991, Mr. West led the largest collaborative visioning and planning effort ever conducted in the United States as of that time, known as VISION 2020.

It sought to provide a new style for community decision-making in the Atlanta region by creating a shared future vision through extensive citizen participation.

Many other American communities have copied the VISION 2020 initiative.

“Working closely with Harry West for 15 years, I was inspired by his ability to do what was best for the Atlanta region, even if it was the most difficult and politically treacherous approach,” said Julie Ralston, director of ARC’s Center for Strategic Relations. “Where solutions seemed impossible and answers ambiguous, Harry would always determine a clear and viable approach and move forward with courage and conviction.”

BE INSPIRED... at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit. isitors are welcome year-round at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit, the inspirational home of Georgia’s Trappist Monks. Nestled on 2,300 acres in Conyers, the Monastery offers a scenic and peaceful environment to explore.

Experience a day in the life of a monk, or learn about the Trappists in Georgia at the Historic Museum. See the beautiful Abbey Church. Browse through the Bonsai Garden, Bonsai Nursery and gift shop. Visit the Abbey Store for monk-made biscotti, fruitcake, fudge, free trade items and the largest selection of Christian books in the state.

Stay for the day – or experience our overnight retreats.

www.trappist.net

240 Candler Road, SE • Atlanta, GA 30317 • 404-371-0749 • www.saintphilip.org

To the Next Level Upward • Surpassing Faith • Strengthening Family

• Superior Fitness • Soaring Finance

Worship Services: Sundays at 7:30 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.

Church School: Sunday at 9:15 a.m.

Youth Church Ages 5-16: Sundays at 10:45 a.m.

Bible Study: Tuesdays at 7:00 p.m.

Always remember....

“God has a vision for our lives that is greater than any vision we can have for ourselves or that others can have for us.”

– Reverend William D. Watley, Ph.D., Senior Pastor

PAGE 10

JULY 19, 2014

TO CONTACT US

BY PHONE: 678-526-1910

BY FAX: 678-526-1909

BY E-MAIL: EDITOR@OCGNEWS.COM VISIT ONLINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

For more church news, visit

ChurchesNow.com

We Worship

Faith-Based News & Inspiration

Bishop T.D. Jakes to visit House of Hope Atlanta

G

By Amanda Usher

et ready to tap into your instinct Sunday at 7 p.m. at the House of Hope ATL as longtime friends Dr. E. Dewey Smith, Jr. and Bishop T.D. Jakes come together for “A Night of

Purpose.”

The event is free of charge and open to the public.

Dr. Smith, senior pastor of House of Hope Atlanta (formerly Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church), will conduct a one-on-one interview with his close friend, Bishop Jakes, pastor of The Potter’s House. They will discuss Jakes’ new book, “Instinct: The Power to Unleash Your Inborn Drive.”

In following Bishop Jakes’ ministry for more than 20 years, Dr. Smith says that it is an honor to be able to interview him and host this event.

Throughout the creation process for “Instinct,” Bishop Jakes e-mailed excerpts of the book to Dr. Smith for him to preview over a span of 10 months.

“One of the things that I like about the book is that Bishop wanted it to not just be for the faith community, but to also be used for leadership purposes as well,” Dr. Smith said. “The angle and approach he took can even be used to draw interest into somebody to know more about his faith and

about his God.” Though he has followed Bishop Jakes’ career for so long, the two have only known each other for two years, according to Devon Ward, pastor of congregational care at House of Hope Atlanta.

Over time, these two spiritual leaders have grown extremely close and supported one another, Ward said.

This will be Bishop Jakes’ second time visiting

House of Hope Atlanta. The first time was earlier this year when he spoke at Dr. Smith’s 10th pastoral anniversary.

In August 2013, Dr. Smith journeyed to Dallas to preach at Bishop Jakes’ ManPower Conference at MegaFest. Going to Dallas wasn’t the first time that Dr. Smith has made a trip for his spiritual brother.

He drove a van with about 12 women to see Bishop Jakes’ very first Woman Thou Art Loosed Conference, which coincidentally was held at the cathedral that is now House of Hope Atlanta.

For someone on the outside of their bond looking in, Pastor Ward believes that Bishop Jakes genuinely supports his friend, Dr. Smith.

“Bishop Jakes has followed Pastor Smith’s ministry from afar,” he said. “He has begun to be a very loyal confidant and friend. They’ve developed a great friendship with each other.”

Dr. Smith also views his friend as loyal, among other characteristics such as shy and giving. He says that he is a person who has a heart to help people.

“He’s a country guy from West Virginia who God has blessed to minister to the world,” Dr. Smith said.

The House of Hope Atlanta (formerly Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church), is located at 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur.

OCGNEWS

JULY 19, 2014 PAGE 11

Community Market Place

CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES Music lesson available. Voice, keyboard, music theory and choir directing. Tutoring for reading also offered. Call 404-284-3935.

Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs.

A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters.

Call for free estimates at 404281-6503.

CHURCH Catch the Spirit. Whites Chapel UMC celebrating homecoming on August 3, 2014 at 11 am. 2020 Whites Chapel Rd, Conyers.Pastor Lillian Owens 770-679-0938.

CLASSES

“The Best” Dance & Performing Arts Classes.

Classes offered to students

Ages 18 months - Adults. $25 monthly fee. Georgia Stars Academy of Dance, 927 Main Street, Stone Mountain, 30083, Call. 679-499-1035.

MINI MALL 7173 Covington Hwy ,Lithonia, GA 30058

HELP WANTED Honest, reliable, dependable, hard-working Help Wanted!

Supreme Cleaning, Painting & Janitorial is searching for experienced painters and cleaners. Call 770-8821334. Apply online at www. weRsupremeclean.com Barber Shop located in Lithonia looking for License barbers. For barber apprenticeship opportunities call for more information. Free Booth Rent Specials! Call 770780-2557

ALL EVENT FACILITY • Parties

• Church Meetings

• Seminars

• Business Meetings

• Wedding

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A$20 -$125 per hourA

Come See Our Summer Collections And Celebrate Our Expansion!

MINI MALL Booth Rental $50 1st Month

A $500 MOVES YOU IN A

E-MAIL YOUR CLASSIFIED TO:

classifieds@ocgnews.com

678-755-5955

DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Thursday, July 24, 2014

Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, 2nd Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: ITEM

X’Clusively Yours Consignment Store 4462 Rockbridge Road, Suite G Stone Mountain, GA 30083 Wednesday - Thursday 12:30 p.m.- 6 p.m.

Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

678-330-8411

CALL TODAY!

LEGAL NOTICE

REQUEST FOR QUOTATION NO.

We carry Children Clothing, Men Clothing, and household items.

BRING AD FOR ADDITIONAL DISCOUNTS.

Kutz town B arbershop

CLOSING DATE

3003260 ITB

Disaster Recovery & Sewage Cleaning Services

August 19, 2014

3003293 ITB

Chevrolet Impala Limited LS Mid-Size Sedan

August 13, 2014

3003299 ITB

Rental Uniforms for DeKalb County

August 18, 2014

14-100409 ITB

DeKalb County Family Protection Center Interior Renovation at 1950 West Exchange Place

August 27, 2014

14-100421 ITB

Street Sweeping and Debris Removal Services for Public Works Stormwater Projects

August 5, 2014

14-500304 RFP

DeKalb County Police Promotional Selection and Testing Process Services

August 19, 2014

14-500319 RFP

State Legislative Lobbying Services

August 21, 2014

14-500320 RFP

Request for Proposal to Provide Services and Instruction for ESL, Refugee, and/or Immigrant Youth

August 21, 2014

14-500321 RFP

Request for Proposal to Provide Services and Instruction for Out of School Youth

August 21, 2014

A Full Service Barbershop

Professional Barbers Quality Cuts • Special Touch 7986 Rockbridge Road, Suite 102 Lithonia, GA 30087

Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2nd Floor, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030. For additional information, please view the DeKalb County Website at: http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/purchasing/index.html

770-482-5033 770-780-2557

DeKalb County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise.

By: Scott M. Callan, Acting Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting

40

$

Sew ins

THE

Weave STOP

4869 Covingtom Hwy Suite D, Decatur, GA 30035

404 - 284 - 8833

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Mon 9 a.m.- 6 p.m.

Tue – Thur 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fridays by appointments.

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PAGE 12

JULY 19, 2014