August 9, 2014 by On Common Ground News

Celebrating

Community

Class Notes

19 years

Johnson hosts tours to promote potential green space at Y....page 3

Encouraging words at Rockdale drug court graduation....page 7

SERVING DEKALB, FULTON, GWINNETT, HENRY AND ROCKDALE COUNTIES

VOLUME 20 NUMBER 19

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Muralist Phillip Parker transforms DeKalb schools into works of art...page 8

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DeKalb officials plan to use helicopter patrols to catch copper thieves

By Joshua Smith

opper thieves, beware. DeKalb County officials are waging a war in the skies against thieves looking to steal copper for some quick cash. Through a partnership with the DeKalb County School System, the office of the CEO and the DeKalb County Police Department, police helicopters—“choppers”—will now fly over target areas at night to patrol and help capture copper thieves. “The DeKalb County School System has been victimized on a on a wide scale. These thieves are vandalizing our schools and are putting at risk a quality education for literally tens of thousands of students,” said DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Michael Thurmond. “We are moving forward aggressively to do what is necessary to protect our schools. We are going to do everything possible, leave no stone unturned, to ensure that those responsible are apprehended and hopefully, convicted for these horrendous crimes.” The helicopters are equipped with infrared sensors to detect body heat, night vision cameras to capture images of the thieves and monitors with compass-like measurements to pinpoint the location of the thief or thieves. Police want the public to call 911 if they suspect thefts are taking place. “You’re talking about $600,000

DeKalb County officials rolled out a new line of defense, helicopters, in the fight against copper thieves in the county.

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

“ DeKalb will get you. You will be tried and convicted.” – Interim CEO Lee May

See Copper Thieves, page 6

New director ready to take the lead at Rockdale Extension office

R Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church Pastor William E. Flippin, Sr. and First Lady Sylvia Flippin lead hundreds of members and a host of politicians in a historical walk to their new worship center on Aug. 2.

Greater Piney Grove dedicates new sanctuary in celebration of 100 years

By Joshua Smith

ore than a thousand people filled the Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, singing “We’ve Come this Far By Faith,” “We’re Marching to Zion” and other gospel songs as the church celebrated its 100-year anniversary on Aug. 2. The church’s senior pastor, William E. Flippin, Sr., led the crowd in a ceremonial walk from the building

where they worshipped for the last time to the church’s newly built sanctuary. Flippin recalled the church’s humble beginnings a century ago. “God has brought us from a threeroom house with a pot-bellied stove for heat to a magnificent tabernacle for God with more than 30,000 square feet for us to build on,” said Flippin, who oversees a congregation of about 7,000. See Greater Piney Grove, page 6

By Joshua Smith

ockdale gardeners should see a smooth transition from the “bug lady” to the “plant guy” when they visit the Rockdale County Cooperative Extension office in Conyers. On Common Ground News was the first publication to interview Stephen Pettis as he moved into his office as the new County Extension agent.

Stephen Pettis Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

“My background is as about as green as you can get. I’m a certified arborist and have years of work in the green industry as a nursery manager and a University of Georgia County Extension Agent in Gwinnett,” said Pettis, who has a bachelor’s degree in Horticulture and a master’s degree in Plant Protection and Pest Management, both from the University of Georgia. “It is my hope to pass along some of the knowledge and passion I have gained over the years from my various experiences.” Pettis, an avid gardener, has hosted a radio show on the subject in Athens. He served as the Gwinnett County’s Extension agent for three years from 2004 - 2007. Rockdale’s previous Extension agent, Julie-Lynn Macie, says she believes Pettis will be a valuable asset to the community. “We narrowed it See Rockdale, page 6

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Community News

AUGUST  9, 2014  VOLUME 20, NO. 19 EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan  editor@ocgnews.com 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.

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DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson (right) and South DeKalb YMCA Executive Director Curtis Winston survey the land that they are hoping will become the sight of a greenspace project in the county.

Johnson hosts tours to promote potential green space at Y

By Joshua Smith

eKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson has been leading a series of tours this month touting the benefits of adding walking trails, a small splash park and other green space amenities that are part of a proposed expansion of the South DeKalb YMCA at 2565 Snapfinger Road in Decatur. The project is one that has divided the DeKalb Board of Commissioners, with Kathie Ganon, Elaine Boyer and Jeff Rader opposing the project, saying they do not want to use taxpayer dollars to pay for a private entity’s expansion. They have said the county should invest more money into renovating existing recreation centers. The Board of Commissioners is expected to discuss the Y proposal at its Aug. 12 meeting. Commissioner Under the Larry Johnson proposed privatepublic partnership, the county would buy the South DeKalb YMCA for $4.9 million, and then lease the property back to the Y for $1 a year over the next 50 years. The money from the sale would go to renovate the Y and expand programming. Commissioner Johnson, who represents District 3 where the Y is located, says the purchase is a great deal overall because the property was initially appraised at $6.8 million. He said the proposed deal is similar to other privatepublic partnerships that the county has with other entities to enhance residents’ quality of life. “Just like the DeKalb History Center and the Callanwolde Arts Center, this is a private-public partnership that will benefit the community,” said Johnson. “It also has the potential to help fight health disparities in South DeKalb. The project’s plan calls for trails to be built throughout five acres of wooded land surrounding the Y, benches to enjoy nature, more soccer fields, but also comes the ability to host classes and other programs, especially for seniors and teens, to educate them on living healthy and having a positive influence on the generations after them.” Curtis Winston, executive director of the South DeKalb YMCA, has been helping Johnson lead the tours. He agrees there are a number of positive benefits for the partnership. “Some residents may feel that we are

just in this to get money for the center but that is simply not true. This project will open up the green space facility for all. Not only will members benefit, but families who are not Y members will benefit as well, said Winston. “Just like any other county park, families will be able to use the trails and other features that have nothing to do with memberships. Furthermore, if people would like to join this Y or any other Y, we offer scholarships or reduced fees for families that seek financial assistance.

to use the green space facilities,” said Turman. “We can always go back and improve the other centers in DeKalb later and we should do that later. But for now, I’m in support of this purchase because I think it’s just too good to let it go by us.” Commissioners Watson and Johnson say they will share in the costs of buying the Y, utilizing green space acquisition funds from their districts. Watson would put up $651,842 and $307,250 would come from Johnson’s funds. The remaining $4 million will come from the

“Just like the DeKalb History Center and the Callanwolde Arts Center, this is a private-public partnership that will benefit the community.” – DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson Hundreds, if not thousands of families, have already taken advantage of the Y’s financial assistance program.” The proposed expansion would include additional space dedicated to seniors and youths. The 46,000-squarefoot Y, which sits on 18 acres, would grow to just over 50,000 square feet, officials say. Some residents such as Amber Sanchez, share the views of DeKalb commissioners Ganon, Boyer and Rader, saying taxpayer money could be better spent. “There will always be a need for facilities like this in the county, but with other YMCAs in a very close vicinity, I think about 10 miles away or less, I think it will be a tough sell,” said Sanchez, who lives in Decatur. “You may not have one place in the county with all the proposed features they want to bring to the South DeKalb Y, but those features are in DeKalb at other centers.” Proponents like Gil Turman, president of the South DeKalb Neighborhood Coalition, says he believes the project will be beneficial. “A deal like this doesn’t come around everyday and I don’t think we should let it pass us up. This project would improve the South DeKalb community and bring residents closer together as they come

countywide acquisition money from the 2001 and 2006 parks bond funds approved by voters. At a June DeKalb County Commissioners meeting, Commissioners Gannon and Boyer voted against the proposal, while Rader abstained from voting so that interim DeKalb CEO Lee May, who supports the project, would not get to break the tie for the board. Johnson says the arguments that opponents have with regard to spending money to upgrade and renovate existing county recreation facilities is like comparing apples and oranges. “We aren’t taking from Tobie Grant or any other center to do this project,” said Johnson. “Land acquisition funds can’t be used for renovations. They are putting together two banks of money that are used for two completely different things.” “Right now, it’s about education. I’ve invited the other commissioners to come out and see the land. See the need up close and the large amount of land that is just sitting here and tell us you still don’t see the need,” said Johnson. The next green space tours will be hosted by Johnson and Winston on Saturdays, Aug. 9 and 16. Tours will run concurrently from 8:30 – 10 a.m. For more information, call 770-987-3500.

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AUGUST 9, 2014

Coming Up

Piedmont Park Arts Festival celebrates creativity Piedmont Park, 1215 Piedmont Park Ave., N.E., Atlanta, will host the 5th Annual Piedmont Park Arts Festival on Aug. 16, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., and Aug. 17, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. The two-day outdoors event, created by local artists, brings together artists from all over the country. This event will feature up to 250 painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metalwork, glass blowers, jewelers and crafters. The festival will also offer artists’ demonstrations, acoustic music, a Street Market, children’s play area plus festival foods and beverages with healthy alternatives. Admission is free. 404-845-0793.

Stonecrest Library welcomes bestselling author Pearl Cleage Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia, will welcome Pearl Cleage, the award-winning playwright and bestselling author, on Monday, Aug. 11, 7 p.m. Cleage, who has many ties to Atlanta, will visit the Stonecrest branch to read and sign her work, “What Looks Like Crazy on an Ordinary Day.” In addition to being one of the most popular living playwrights in America, Cleage is a bestselling author with an Oprah Book Club pick and multiple awards to her credit. However, there was a time when such stellar success seemed like a dream. In Things I Should Have Told My Daughter, a revelatory and deeply personal work, Cleage takes readers back to the 1970s and ’80s, retracing her struggles to hone her craft Pearl Cleage amid personal and professional tumult. This is a Georgia Center for the Book Event. It is free and open to the public.

ATLANTA City of Atlanta offers free swim days to beat summer heat The City of Atlanta’s Parks and Recreation Department is offering free swim days during the month of August until Labor Day, Sept. 1. “Although school is back in session, the Department of Parks and Recreation continues to make a splash in our outdoor pools with free access during the week,” said Annika Holder, executive director of Atlanta’s Office of Recreation. “Residents are encouraged to visit the pools to swim laps and enjoy a game of Marco Polo while creating lasting memories.” Free swim schedule is as follows: Adams Park, 1581 Lagoon Lane, Monday – Friday, 4 – 7 p.m.; Candler Park, 1500 McClendon Ave., Monday – Friday, 4 - 7 p.m.; Grant Park, 625 Park Ave., Monday – Friday, 4 - 8 p.m.; Powell at Mozley Park, 1690 MLK Jr. Drive, Wednesday – Friday, 4 - 7 p.m.; John A. White, 1101 Cascade Circle, Monday – Friday, 4 - 8 p.m.; Pittman Park, 950 Garibaldi St., Wednesday and Friday, 4 - 7 p.m.; Chastain Park, 235 W. Wieuca Road, Monday. - Friday, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.; Garden Hills, 355 Pine Tree Drive, Monday. – Friday, 10:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.; Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive, Monday – Friday, 3 - 5 p.m. Weekend daily rates for outdoor community pools are $4 for adults and $2 for children and senior citizens. The daily rate for children under 5 years of age is $1. 404-330-6100.

DEKALB Watson to host free health, job fair DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson invites the community to attend his 4th Annual “Community Check-Up” Wellness, Health and Job Fair on Saturday, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will be held at the House of Hope Atlanta (formerly Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church, 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. Free health screenings including HIV, blood pressure, diabetes, spinal and scoliosis will be provided. Walgreens will be at the event to give flu shots. Other informational resources include representatives from American Red Cross, Amerigroup, DeKalb Medical Center, Oakhurst Medical Center, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Medical Ministry from House of Hope Atlanta, MedPost Urgent Care, and companies that provide life insurance, dental services, chiropractic services and services to help you relax. DeKalb County and the Georgia Department of Labor have secured several companies for the job fair. DeKalb County’s Workforce Development, Human Resources, Police, E-911, Sheriff’s Office, Fire and Rescue, Bojangles, Target, and Walmart are among the companies participating. The event is co-sponsored by the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., Tau Pi Omega (Stone Mountain-Lithonia) Chapter, and Council for Community Enrichment, Inc., and DeKalb County Workforce Development. About 500 to 800 people are expected to attend.

GWINNETT Free herb gardening class set A free class, “Herbs in the Garden Class,” will be held on Thursday, Aug. 14, noon – 1 p.m. at the Gwinnett County Extension Office, 75 South Perry St., Lawrenceville. Extension staff say herb gardening is relaxing and rewarding. Your own homegrown herbs will provide you with fresh flavors for cooking, teas, crafting, and maybe even herbal medicines. For more information: 678-377-4010.

Kids invited to read to a furry friend Tails will be wagging at “Paws and Pages” on Saturday, Aug. 16, 1 – 2 p.m. at the Gwinnett Animal Welfare and Enforcement Center, 684 Winder Highway, Lawrenceville. Bring your kids to the animal shelter to read with some therapy dogs. Families will get to meet “Crash Dog,” who came from the Gwinnett County Animal Shelter as well. Children of all reading levels and abilities are invited to sit and spend some time sharing a story with a furry friend. No advance registration is needed. Children who wish to participate should not be allergic to or fearful of dogs and must be able to quietly sit for a 10 to 15 minute reading session. Handlers are all volunteers and their dogs are registered and insured through Therapy Dogs International. 770-339-3200.

ROCKDALE Second trash collection town hall set Rockdale County Commissioner Oz Nesbitt will host a town hall meeting to address the possibility of starting a countywide curbside trash pickup program on Tuesday, Aug. 19, 6 p.m., at the Johnson Park Recreation Center, 181 Ebenezer Road, S.W., Conyers. The town hall will serve as a meeting for residents to give their opinions on the county possibly providing trash service, instead of residents using private haulers or driving their trash to the county recycling center. “If we were to approach this, I think there are some advantages, 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,” said Nesbitt, who represents Post 1 in Rockdale. “Right now, I’m not for or against it. I just want to get all of our residents opinions before I bring the issue back up to the other commissioners.” About 50 residents attended the first town hall on the subject on July 15. 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. 770-278-7011.

AUGUST 9, 2014 PAGE 5

May unveils new purchasing policy for vendors By Joshua Smith

eeking to rebuild confidence in the county’s administration, DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May unveiled a new purchasing policy to regulate vendors doing business with the county. “We can’t control what happened in the past, but we can improve the process moving forward, developing these safeguards on a secure level to ensure the trust of our residents and the integrity of this county,” May said. “This new policy has the best value for our residents at heart, offers a transparent and competitive process and holds administrative and public parties responsible for any wrong actions.” May and the county’s Interim Purchasing and Contracting Director Scott Callan unveiled the new Purchasing and Contracting policies and procedures, a 39-page document at a news conference on Aug. 6. The new polices cover everything from exemptions, expenditures, ethics and grants to purchasing responsibilities, procurement procedures, and competitive bidding. Other issues such as bonds and insurance also are covered. Some examples of policy violations that can cause a company to lose a DeKalb contract or be placed on an “Ineligible Source List” are: willfully or repeatedly breaching a country contract, establishing a pattern of unethical or immoral business practices; and being the subject of a claim or lawsuit filed by the county concerning goods, commodities, services or construction. Callan said the new purchasing policies will provide guidelines, rules, regulations, laws and

directions for all county staff. Callan said the new policies will fulfill objectives recommended in a 2013 Special Grand Jury report on county policies. “These new polices create the framework for all procurement activities in a simplified, easy to understand manner that all parties engaged in the process must follow,” said Callan. “The new policy will enable this county to simply and positively communicate with internal departments, the business community, and citizens about DeKalb’s new standards and for purchasing and contacting.” The Special Grand Jury’s yearlong investigation into DeKalb contracting was released on Aug. 21, 2013. The report recommended criminal charges against former DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis. In particular, the report called for investigation into the facts and circumstances surrounding the bidding, awarding and management of contracts in DeKalb. Ellis is currently awaiting trial on a 15-count indictment that accuses of him of illegally pressuring county contractors into giving him campaign contributions. Ellis is charged with extortion and other felonies for soliciting campaign contributions under threat. May said the new policies spell out what county officials can and cannot do concerning vendors as well as vendor responsibilities. “These new polices will create a transparent and known environment that seeks to achieve fundamental and public sector procurement goals. In the past, a CEO could just change the policies as they saw fit. A CEO could come up with polices and change them back and forth however they wanted. Those days are gone,” said May. “Rather than have a knee-jerk reaction to

DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

the recommendations made by the Special Grand Jury, we took the recommendations to heart and acted both immediately and deliberately.” Callan says he looks forward to restoring residents’ confidence by implementing the new policy. “These new policies will enhance the county’s efforts to increase a business-friendly atmosphere and will continually improve internal operations,” said Callan. Interim CEO May says the new polices and procedures will be posted on DeKalb County’s web site’s homepage. He says he will also post any updates or changes to the polices on the site as well. To see the new polices and procedures, visit www. dekalbcountyga.gov.

DeKalb is one step closer to filling vacant District 5 seat

By Joshua Smith

eKalb County residents should see a new commissioner for District 5 by the end of August. “The citizen panel has sent in their recommendations and we should be able to make a nomination to the Board of Commissioners within the third week of August, if not sooner,” Interim CEO May said. “We should then be able to make the appointment for the District 5 seat at the end of August.” In July, May announced that a citizen review panel, made up of Lithonia resident and community activist Lisa Allen; Stone Mountain resident and attorney Rosalind Newell; and State Representative Rahn Mayo, who lives in Decatur, were assisting in the appointment project. “We’ve done our part of the process. Now, we join everyone else in anticipation. I think everyone is excited to see who will be appointed to this

seat,” said State Rep. Mayo. “Before the redistricting process, I lived in District 5 for at least 10 years. Now, a resident of District 3, I am absolutely looking forward to this appointment

The seat has been empty since May was appointed interim CEO on July 16, 2013 by Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal. because it means a lot for the future of local government and happenings in DeKalb.” The seat has been empty since May was appointed interim CEO on July 16, 2013 by Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal. In June, advertisements were placed in local newspapers to solicit

candidates to fill the temporary appointment to Commission District 5 of DeKalb County as set forth in SB 367, signed in April by Governor Deal. A total of 20 DeKalb residents have asked to be consider for the District 5 seat, which represents 145,000 residents: Tarnisha Dent; George Turner, Jr.; Gina Smith Mangham; Charles Smith Hill; Kenneth R. Saunders III; Markus J. Butts; Kathryn T. Rice; Randal Mangham; Faye Coffield; Jacqueline Tumbling; Pierre Louis; Melvin D. Mitchell; Belinda M. Myers; Harmel Deanne Codi; Joscelyn C. O’Neil; Andre R. White; Geraldine A. Champion; Kamau K. Mason; Angela Moore; and Wendolyn Peters. DeKalb spokesman Burke Brennan said the field of candidates will be narrowed to tw people. Interim CEO May will choose one and present that name to the Board of Commissioners for consideration for confirmation. The appointment will begin

upon approval by the Board of Commissioners and continue until CEO Burrell Ellis’ suspension is terminated or the need for the candidate ends, whichever is earlier. Gov. Deal suspended Ellis in July 2013 amidst Ellis being indicted on 15 charges including extortion and conspiracy. The Interim District 5 Commissioner shall receive the normal salary rate of an elected commissioner. The salary for the commissioner seat is $35,000 a year. Lithonia resident Imani James says with all the negative coverage the county has received, it is critical that the seat is filled immediately. “The sooner, the better. We need some positive news coming out of DeKalb to show that we can get things done,” said James. “I hope the appointment will go over smoothly and no one from outside the county will have to come in on this decision.”

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AUGUST 9, 2014

Copper Thieves

Greater Piney Grove

continued from page 1

worth of damage to make $100, that’s it. The school system and other public areas such as libraries and churches as well as some residents are being hit. It was imperative for the Police Department to do something like this,” said Chief of Public Safety in DeKalb, Cedric Alexander. “These thefts are way over a million dollars that the taxpayers are paying for in damages and repairs. All of us in the community have to work together to try to stop these crimes.” The announcement about the steppedup efforts to fight copper thefts was made at a news media conference on Aug. 7 at Stephenson Middle School. The Stone Mountain school is one of the latest of 16 DeKalb schools hit by copper thieves. Thieves stripped air conditioning units. In the last month, the damages have cost the school system more than $800,000 in repairs. Officials say the choppers, which serve as DeKalb Police Aerial Support equipment, will be a part of a DeKalb Schools Burglary suppression unit. Interim DeKalb CEO Lee May says the copper thefts are a problem for the entire county and the state, not just DeKalb’s school system. He says he is open to ideas on how to approach state legislation to help stop the thefts. “We are fighting together for our children and want to send out a strong message to the perpetrators of these crimes: DeKalb County will not tolerate copper theft. We will get you. You will be tried and convicted,” said May. “DeKalb Commissioners passed an ordinance years ago to make pawn shops register copper but these thieves are bypassing pawn shops to go to specialty metal dealers, so we have to lean heavily on them next to say something. We also understand they are going out of the state to sell the copper. If we can get one thief we can get others to deter.”

“To all of our members and friends who have sacrificed your time, your talents, and your dedication to bring this vision to fruition—I give you my deepest and sincerest gratitude and I pray God’s blessings upon you.” Local leaders and politicians who joined Pastor Flippin on the ceremonial walk included: U.S. Congressman Hank Johnson; U.S. Senatorial candidate Michelle Nunn, State Senators Vincent Fort and Ronald Ramsey; State Representative Earnest “Coach” Williams; Interim DeKalb County CEO Lee May, DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson and DeKalb District Attorney Robert James. The walk led to a ribbon cutting ceremony for the church’s new sanctuary, which is located at the back of the church’s campus. The 7,200-square-foot sanctuary has 1,400 seats. The new place of worship features a large cross centerpiece, designed by Pastor Flippin, and a 100-seat choir loft. PAR Construction of Macon, Georgia built the new edifice. The more than 30,000-square-foot facility will also serve as a community outreach center. The Rev. Dr. H. Beecher Hicks, Jr., of Metropolitan Baptist Church in Washington, DC, delivered the opening-day sermon for the church, which was founded in 1914 on Bell Street in North East Atlanta. Some of the church’s accomplishments include paying off a $400,000 mortgage on a 30-acre land tract that was purchased in 1996. Earlier this year, the church set up an exhibit in the church chronicling its history. The exhibit has historic artifacts such a letter of appreciation from Martin Luther King, Jr.; a

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Gospel singer and host of “Moments of Inspiration,” the Rev. William Womack, joined the celebration singing a solo, “May The Work I’ve Done Speak For Me.”

10x10 quilt that was handmade by congregation members to highlight the church’s five pastors and original church choir robes. The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, located at 1879 Glenwood Ave., S.E., Atlanta, will continue to celebrate its 100th anniversary with a host of events during the remainder of August. The month-long celebration continues on Sunday, Aug. 10, 3 p.m., when the church will host a dedication service for the new worship center. The guest speaker will be Pastor Jerry D. Black, senior pastor of Beulah Baptist Church in Decatur. On Sunday, Aug. 17, the church will host “The Official Day of Celebration,” where

Rockdale continued from page 1

down from nine candidates to three and Steve’s experience with helping others and greenery shined through. He is great and has a background in service,” said Macie, who will work with Pettis for about two weeks and help him transition. “Now, we’ve got to get him set up to meet the county commissioners and all other government officials, master gardeners club, get his contact list in order, those types of things. Steve has a wealth of knowledge and I know the people will love him.” Pettis is replacing Macie, who was promoted in February to be the Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Development Coordinator for the Northwest District. Her new position is in the city of Griffin, where the University of Georgia Extension’s Northwest District Office is located. Pettis says he knows he has big shoes to fill and he says he is ready for the challenge. “Juile has been great showing me the ropes. She’s built a legacy here of more than 20 years, coaching state champs, receiving national wards for her 4-H work and a list of other accomplishments,” said Pettis, who says he plans to keep all the programs the office is known for such as ‘Ag Day’ and the ‘Insectival.’ “I’m not here to change, but just improve in any way that I can. I would like to incorporate some home gardening programs and teach more classes on trees and gardening overall, like I did in Gwinnett.” For tips on gardening, plants, pests and upcoming events, call the Extension Service at 770-278-7373.

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motivational speaker, Dr. Samuel Chand, will speak at 7:15 a.m. and Bishop Jerry Hutchins will follow at 10:30 a.m. Festivities also include a church revival where the Rev. Winfred Hope of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Athens and the Rev. Marcus Cosby of Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church in Houston, Texas, will join Pastor Flippin nightly, Aug. 18 – 20, at 7 to spread words of encouragement and inspiration for the community. For more information on the church’s events, call 404-377-0561 or visit www.pineygrovebapt.org. To see more pictures of the celebration, visit www.facebook.com/ ocgnews.

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AUGUST 9, 2014 PAGE 7

Rockdale residents receive words of encouragement at drug court graduation

By Joshua Smith

or three Rockdale County residents, Aug. 7 marked a day of change, of new beginnings and a second chance at living a life of sobriety. The first class of graduates of the Rockdale County Adult Drug Court received encouraging words from Judge Robert Mumford, who is heading up the program, and Chief Judge David Hammonds. Also in attendance at the inaugural graduation were State Court Judge Nancy Bills, Magistrate Court Judge

Phinia Aten, Clerk of Courts Ruth Wilson, Viewpoint health officials and Rockdale officers and staff. Along with gifts and awards for completing the program and remaining sober for 18 months, the three graduates were also serenaded with a song from Apostle Charlotte Hammonds who sang “His Eye is on the Sparrow.” Pastor Aldren Sadler, Sr. of the Church of New Beginnings in Conyers was the guest speaker for the graduation. “You can conquer this mountain. Everyday you will face mountains in this new journey for the rest of your life.

Rockdale Tax Commissioner Hadley tapped for ARC leadership program Rockdale County Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley has been named to the Atlanta Regional Commission’s (ARC) Regional Leadership Institute (RLI) Class of 2014. Hadley will join 55 leaders from the metro Atlanta area to study the region’s major opportunities and challenges. The class of 2014 begins in September. “This leadership program brings together people who are already leaders in their local communities and helps them see things through a regional and national lens,” said Doug Hooker, RJ Hadley ARC executive director. “RLI helps community leaders reach across jurisdictional lines and develop the strong ties necessary for a regional stewardship network. This type of regional vision and cooperation is critical for the future of the Atlanta region.” Developed in 1991, RLI is a weeklong leadership immersion program in which experienced and emerging leaders from the Atlanta region learn more about local and national trends and key issues, and share experiences and knowledge relevant to advancing the Atlanta region. Since its inception, more than 1,000 leaders have participated in the program. “I am honored to represent Rockdale at the RLI and look forward to learning how our county can benefit from economic growth in the metro region,” said Hadley.

DeKalb library expands digital collections for children and teens The DeKalb County Public Library now has an online materials collection for children and teens in its branches. This summer, the Library began offering a digital collection through OverDrive that only includes titles for young patrons. OverDrive is the service through which patrons in the DeKalb system check out eBooks and downloadable audiobooks. The new, separate collection will offer a safe environment for children and teens to browse library materials. It also will help children and teens find the titles they want easily and faster. “The online page has a very appealing layout and is very user-friendly. Patrons can browse by subject, interest or even reading level,” says Joyce Baker, Library acquisitions manager. The service is free to patrons with a library card and available anytime, anywhere. In addition, digital titles expire automatically, so there is no need to worry about late fees. To access the new collection, visit dekalblibrary.org and click on the “Kids” icon, then click the link “OverDrive eReading Room for Kids.” You also may access the collection from the link on the Library’s “OverDrive” page.

Admit to being drug free, build a strong relationship with a mentor, be prepared for temptations, determine how you must change yourself or your group of friends and commit to overcoming this habit,” said Sadler. “Your failure is not final. We’ve all made mistakes but it’s up to us to make the turnaround. I flunked out of one college and ended up graduating from three others ones later in life. ” Judge Mumford says he plans to offer another program in October. For more information on the program, call by Joshua Smith/OCG News 770-278-7734 or email adultdrugcourt@ Pastor Aldren Sadler, Sr. of the Church Photo of New rockdalecounty.org. Beginnings in Conyers.

DeKalb’s Public Safety Director Alexander named NOBLE President DeKalb County’s Director of Public Safety Cedric Alexander is ready to take on his new role as the national president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement (NOBLE). “I look forward to being a part of this prestigious national organization that has had positive influence in law enforcement, not only for this nation, but around the world,” Alexander said. In his role, Alexander may be called on to serve on White House panels for counsel and advice about criminal justice and human rights issues. Cedric Alexander NOBLE is a membership group of primarily black law enforcement CEOs and command level officials in local, state, county, and federal government. Headquartered in Washington, D.C., NOBLE has 57 chapters in the United States, one in St. Kitts & Nevis and one in the United Kingdom. Alexander was sworn in as the 37th president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives at its 38th Annual Conference & Exhibition in Grand Rapids, MI in July. On Aug. 2, DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson and the DeKalb Community Cabinet presented Hadley with a plaque for his community service.

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Hundreds stock up at Rockdale’s mobile food pantry By Joshua Smith

Dozens of cars filled the parking lot in Rockdale County before the Resource Center for Community Action’s (RCCA) mobile food pantry set up shop at the County’s Government Annex Building. Needy families and individuals got curbside service, receiving canned goods, tuna, salmon, chicken and other assorted meats, juices, water, pasta, cereal and a variety of snacks. The center distributed mops, light bulbs and blinds as well. About a dozen volunteers carried the items to cars. “We hosted the mobile food pantry to continue the tradition we are building in the community to help those in need,” said RCCA founder Siddiya Swift. “The present economy and unemployment rates have people coming for pantry items from across the state, not just Rockdale.” More than 300 people came to the mobile pantry on July 31. Jarvis McCollyn says the mobile food pantry is a big help to those in need. “I went there to receive food for myself and my uncle. He is disabled. Everybody there is nice and treats you

with you respect,” said McCollyn, a Conyers resident. “You can tell the people there are doing this because they care.” Local grocery stores and ministries donated most of the items. U-Haul donated a truck to haul all the goods. Along with the food pantry and a clothes closet, the center also provides emergency financial assistance, employment services through “LinkedIn,” community entrepreneur building, life coaches and life skills training, as well as referrals for employment, education and housing. “We have a passion here for helping people. I get a real joy out of this and I have a team of supporters that share the same feelings that I do. We are always looking for volunteers and donations because the more items we have in stock, the more people we can help,” said Swift. The center tries to host mobile food pantry once a month. For more information on the next event or to help the center with contributions of any kind, call 770-760-1346 or visit http://www.rccaction.org. You can also find the center on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ ResourceCenterforCommunityAction.

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AUGUST 9, 2014

Class Notes Muralist Phillip Parker transforms DeKalb schools into works of art TO CONTACT US

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Our Schools, Students & Partners

By Amanda Usher

f you’ve walked through the halls of a DeKalb County Public School recently, you likely have seen murals of mascots and more that were painted by local artist Phillip Parker. Parker’s artwork can be seen in schools such as Stephenson Middle and Stephenson High in Stone Mountain, Princeton Elementary and Shadow Rock Elementary in Lithonia, and most recently, Ronald E. McNair High in Atlanta. At McNair High, Parker has transformed the gymnasium into a coliseum with the stroke of a paintbrush. In the gym lobby, he painted a mural that features their mascot, a Mustang bursting through a wall. He also painted two students with a gold rope holding books and a globe, which can be seen in the school’s front lobby. When students return to Ronald E. McNair Middle in Decatur, they will find Parker’s handiwork. He has been working on a mural in the front lobby of the school. The mural, which depicts an astronaut in space handing a book down to a person, portray the school’s slogan for the 20142015 school year: “We will, we can, because we must.” Parker is set to begin working on a painting soon for the Ronald E. McNair Discovery STEM Academy in Decatur, which focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Parker got his start with art at his Kentucky high school when he drew his first mural, which featured the school mascot, the Colonel. Ever since, he has been inseparable with his brush, painting portraits of professional athletes, high school and college graduates and more. He also designs T-shirts and art plaques, and is owner of the Brush and Pen Gallery located in Stone Mountain. After the 1996 Olympic Games, which were held in Atlanta, he painted a portrait of former professional boxer Muhammad Ali. He received the opportunity to not only meet Ali, but to also have him sign the portrait. This is a moment that he says he treasures dearly. He credits his childhood community with helping him to move forward with what he believes

Phillip Parker shows off his mural at McNair High School in Atlanta.

Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

to be his God-given talent. “I’m naturally gifted as an artist, and the community that I grew up in commissioned me to do artwork for different churches, schools and [other places within] the community,” he said. When he’s not partaking in his passion, he’s participating in another love that he has: working with youths. He volunteers at school cafeterias within DeKalb, mostly at Stephenson High, and also designs and prints shirts for the students. Brush and Pen Gallery’s Sharon Nelson, customer service and sales representative, truly believes in Parker and his skills and says that he’s a good friend and artist. “In general, Mr. Parker is a wonderful person, father, husband, volunteer and artist,” she said. “His art is amazing, very neat and magnificent.” For more information and samples of Parker’s artwork, visit phillipparkergallery.com.

Principals’ Assignments/Reassignments for the 2014-2015 School Year

AUGUST 9, 2014 PAGE 9

Business News

TO CONTACT US

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Connie Stokes

Doreen Carter

Valarie Wilson

Robin Shipp

Elizabeth “Liz” Johnson

GLCC to host minority females running for statewide offices The five minority female candidates running for statewide offices will lead a panel discussion at the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce’s Minority Enterprise Development Week luncheon. The luncheon will be held Aug. 20, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at This Is It Banquet facility, 2853 Panola Road, Lithonia. State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler will moderate the history-making panel of black women who are seeking office. The candidates running are Connie Stokes (lieutenant governor); Doreen Carter (secretary of state), Valarie Wilson (state school superintendent); Robin Shipp (labor commissioner); and Elizabeth “Liz” Johnson (insurance commissioner). A meet and greet will be held at 11:30 a.m., followed by the luncheon and panel forum. The cost is $20 in advance or $25 at the door. To RSVP, visit greaterlithoniachamber.com.

DeKalb Workforce Development Offers Work Readiness Workshops DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May announces the August 2014 schedule for DeKalb Workforce Development’s (DWD) Work Readiness Workshops. The workshops are held at the DWD building located at 774 Jordan Lane, Building #4, Decatur, and are offered free of charge. The Work Readiness Workshops are designed to empower job seekers with essential work readiness skills needed to secure employment. Workshop training topics include “Resume Writing,” “Interviewing Techniques,” “Personal Branding & Marketing”, “Networking” and “Basic Computer & Introduction to Microsoft Office Suite.” Since the program’s inception, more than 2,000 customers have attended DWD’s Work Readiness Workshops. Below are scheduled times and days for the work readiness workshops for August: Resume Writing

Mondays, 10 a.m. – noon Thursdays, 10 a.m. – noon

Personal Branding

Tuesdays, 1 – 3 p.m.; Second Tuesday, Aug. 12, 10 a.m. – noon only Wednesdays, 1 – 3 p.m.

Tuesdays, 10 a.m. – noon

Marketing

Mondays, 10 a.m. – noon, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.

Interviewing Techniques

Networking

Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – noon Mondays, 1 – 3 p.m.

Wednesdays, 1 – 3 p.m.

Basic Computer

Mondays, 10 a.m. – noon Tuesdays, 10 a.m. – noon

Introduction to Microsoft Office Suite Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – noon Thursdays, 1 – 3 p.m.

PAGE 10 TO CONTACT US

BY PHONE: 678-526-1910 BY FAX: 678-526-1909 BY E-MAIL: EDITOR@OCGNEWS.COM VISIT ONLINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

AUGUST 9, 2014

Seniors

News for our Senior Community

DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson

Health screenings, living wills, other resources at “Community Check-Up” Seniors can learn about transportation to doctors appointments, get free health screenings and have a simple will drafted at the 4th Annual Community Check-Up presented by DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson on Saturday, Aug. 16, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The community event, which will include a job fair, will be held at the House of Hope Atlanta (formerly Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church), 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. I-Care will be on hand to provide information about transportation to doctor appointments for those ages 65 and older. Attorney Pam Stephenson will be drafting simple living wills for seniors for a flat rate of $25. The event is free to attend.

Gwinnett County encouraging seniors to register for computer classes The Gwinnett Senior Learning Center is encouraging Gwinnett seniors to register for free computer classes being offered in September. The center offers computer classes for adults age 50 and up, covering basic and advanced computer skills, as well as Internet, email, and photo editing. Fall registration for senior computer classes will be held at Bethesda Park Senior Center, located at 225 Bethesda Church Road in Lawrenceville on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2014, from 10 – 11 a.m. The classes are open to Gwinnett residents. For more information and class schedules, visit www.gsrlc.org or call 770-564-4699.

AUGUST 9, 2014 PAGE 11

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A quality childcare learning environment supported by the ABEKA & Creative Curriculums to assist children in meeting developmental milestones (intellectual, social, emotional and physical) including Spanish for ages 3-5.

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PAGE 12

AUGUST 9, 2014

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