Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties Volume 18 Number 12
www.ocgnews.com SEPTEMBER 15, 2012
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DeKalb School bus drivers up in arms over pay, benefits
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By Joshua Smith
eKalb County school bus drivers are vowing to protest at every DeKalb School Board meeting until they get higher pay and better benefits. Hundreds of them packed the Sept. 10 School Board meeting, wearing yellow T shirts, the color of the school buses that they drive. The turnout was so great that protestors filled not only the board’s auditorium, but an overflow room at School Board headquarters in Tucker. “They say we ought to be glad we have a job? Is that how you reward people who have been working hard for this county for years, some even decades? We will not stop until something is done,” said 20-year veteran Cathy Douglass, who spoke on behalf of the drivers at the board meeting. “With food costs and every thing else going up, I don’t think it’s right that I get paid less now than I did four years ago. We are really hurting. We care about the children, but who cares about us?” DeKalb’s school bus drivers’ protest came as teachers in Chicago, the nation’s third-largest school district with 350,000 students, went on strike to demand better pay and benefits. Chicago teachers earn about $76,000 annually without benefits and are among the highest paid in the nation, according to Chicago Public Schools officials. The strike there has left parents scrambling to find somewhere to place their children. Meanwhile, in DeKalb, school bus drivers complained about eeking out a living in one of the district’s lowestpaying jobs. According to the district’s
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
web site, the starting pay for a school bus driver is $13.50 per hour. Drivers work about five hours Monday through Friday. In addition to their regular routes, drivers may also volunteer to drive extra activities such as field trips or transporting teams to athletic events to earn more. The DeKalb School Board said bus drivers will not get a raise this school year, regardless of whether they protest or not. The board finalized its $774 million 2012-2013 general operating budget on June 20, eliminating over 500 positions that included teachers, librarians and bus monitors. The cuts also included the elimination of health benefit subsidies and a 25 percent salary reduction for all employees, slashing $128,551,284 in district expenses. “I have the utmost respect for our
Angry DeKalb County school bus drivers took to the School Board and to the streets on Sept. 10 to voice their concerns and anger regarding pay, health insurance and other factors.
drivers, but the money just isn’t there. Often times, bus drivers are the first faces our kids see in the morning and we entrust in them the safety of our children every day, but everybody is taking a hit because of the financial problems facing the district,” said Eugene Walker, school board chair. “Drivers have been reduced from 180 days of work to 178 days. That’s a 1.1 percent decrease in pay. Everyone across the board—teachers, custodians, everyone—has had to take furlough days and accept other options as a result of the budget cuts.” Dave Schutten, president of the Organization of DeKalb Educators (ODE), which represents 3,500 school workers, said the district is not singling out bus drivers for the budget cuts. None of the district’s employees have
received raises in the last several years, he said. “This is my question: Where’s the money going to come from? The money just isn’t in the budget. Everyone is feeling the hit from the budget cuts,” said Schutten. School Board Chair Walker said board members will not get a raise and School Superintendent Cheryl Atkinson also will not get a bonus. “People are frustrated. A lot of rumors are going around. Let me be first to say no school board members are getting raises and Dr. Atkinson is not receiving a bonus,” said Walker. “Property values have plummeted and until the economy can turn around, I don’t see anyone in the county getting a raise.”
Aiming High: Magic Johnson Bridgescape Academy opens in Atlanta to help dropouts
Magic Johnson
By Valerie J. Morgan
ATLANTA—Here’s a new way to fight the dropout rate that is plaguing the nation. Create a school exclusively for students who are not likely to graduate from high school. Said another way: Put struggling kids in a school that focuses strictly on helping them to get their high school INSIDE
Community News......................... P 3 Business News............................. P 8 We Worship.................................. P 9 Health & Wellness...................... P 10 Classifieds................................. P 11 CONTACT THE NEWSROOM Phone: (678) 526-1910 n Fax: (678) 526-1909 n E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com
diplomas. That’s what basketball great Magic Johnson has done in a new partnership with EdisonLearning. Together, they are opening Georgia’s first Magic Johnson Bridgescape Academy in Atlanta. The new school, located at 100 Edgewood Ave. N.E., is designed to help youths who have dropped out or who are at risk of leaving school, earn a basic high school diploma. The academy is open to youths ages 14 to 21. Anyone in Georgia may attend—at no charge. As a state-authorized charter school under Provost Academy Georgia, the Magic Johnson Bridgescape Academy is free to those who are enrolled in the program. Currently, there are about
400 students enrolled and the school is now recruiting more students who would like to attend. “Our goal is to ensure that no student falls through the cracks,” said Earvin “Magic” Johnson. “All students should have the opportunity to receive their high school diplomas and be fully prepared for college or the workplace.” This year in DeKalb County, 1,194 seniors–one in five–failed to graduate. Nationwide, nearly one in three U.S. high school students fails to graduate with a diploma. In total, approximately 1.1 million students drop out each year – averaging 6,000 every school day or one every 29 seconds The academy in Atlanta launches
as Georgia voters prepare to decide in November whether the state or local school districts should have the final say in approving charter schools. Opponents of the referendum want local districts to retain that authority, saying the measure will create more bureaucracy at taxpayers’ expense and take away funding from local school districts. But proponents say charter schools offer more alternatives to education and should not be turned down by local districts. Two DeKalb leaders weigh in on the issue in guest editorials published on page 7. Magic Johnson Bridgescape
See Magic, page 7
DeKalb seeks to wipe out blight with new permitting program
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eKalb County has launched a 60-day pilot program to expedite the permitting process for partially-constructed homes that have been abandoned as a result of bankruptcies and foreclosures. The county hopes to attract builders who want to finish the homes by allowing them to pay as little as $500 in permitting fees, said Gary Cornell, the county’s interim planning director. Residential building permit fees normally run $1,500 to $2,000. County officials say there are currently between 1,500 and 2,000 incomplete homes throughout the county. The structures range from concrete slabs to deteriorating framed buildings that are now eyesores. The slashed fees will be offered to homebuilders through
Dec. 28. The program applies to previously permitted construction where work has been suspended for more than 90 days. A number of the homes have been bought recently “as is” by homebuilders who wish to complete the construction, receive a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) and place them on the market for sale. County officials say that if the existing structures are so deteriorated that they would fail an initial structural inspection, the builder would then be required to submit a full building permit for a new residential structure. For more information, builders may contact David Moss, senior inspector, at 770 572-4830.
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september 15, 2012
SAVE THE DATE
Witness The Making Of History Sunday, October 21, 2012 • 6:00 P.M. Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church
Mark Hayes In Concert With The
James C. Ward Chorale
Mark Hayes in one of the most soughtafter concert pianists in the world today. Many in the music industry are of the opinion that he is the greatest pianist of this era. Hayes is increasing in demand as a performer, composer, arranger, orchestrator and conductor. He earned a Bachelor’s of Music degree in piano performance, graduating magna cum laude from Baylor University. His personal catalog includes 600 published original compositions and arrangements, many of which are regularly featured by the American Choral Directors’ Association and the Music Educator’s National Conference. His predominate output is Christian choral music; Many believe his arrangements of traditional African-American spirituals are his greatest works. He also has a number of solo piano albums and keyboard folios to his credit. Hayes has served as an adjunct professor of composition at Midwest Baptist Theological Seminary in Kansas City, Missouri. He is a recurring recipient of the Standard Award from The American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers, and his album, “I’ve Just Seen Jesus,” received the Dove Award in 1986 for the best Praise and Worship album.
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Hayes has performed in many countries and renowned venues across the globe, including England, France, Austria, Germany, Singapore, Taiwan, Australia, New Zealand, Brazil, Canada, The National Cathedral, Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center. To many music lovers his name is a “household” word.
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september 15, 2012
Community News
september 15, 2012 Volume 18, NO. 12 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 twice a month on the 1st and 15th 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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Larry Johnson gets the masses moving at annual DeKalb Walks By Joshua Smith and Valerie J. Morgan
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undreds of walkers cheered and chanted before hitting the path with DeKalb County District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson for his recent “DeKalb Walks…for the Health of It.” The event, in its seventh year, featured not only a 4-mile walk, but health vendors and a one-of-a-kind workout with dance fitness guru Stepp Stewart at Exchange Park in Decatur. “It touches me to see more and more people making walking a part of their daily routine,” said Johnson, who sponsored the Sept. 8 event. “A healthy community means a vibrant community. This year, we decided to also focus on violence prevention. Both of these subjects affect public health. ” Johnson, who has a background in public health, has sponsored several advocacy programs promoting exercise, particularly walking. In 2005, he declared “walking” as DeKalb’s official exercise, while launching the DeKalb Walks Initiative in response to an unhealthy report released by DeKalb Board of Health. The Status of Health Report revealed that South DeKalb residents suffered from a disproportionate incidence of diabetes, high blood pressure, heart attack and stroke. DeKalb’s problems underscored a glaring one for the whole state: In Georgia, which has the nation’s second highest rate of childhood obesity behind Mississippi, nearly 40 percent of children are obese. These numbers are even higher in AfricanAmerican and Hispanic communities,
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PAGE 3
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson joins hundreds in working out to some old school jams with dance fitness guru Stepp Stewart on Sept. 8 in Decatur.
health officials report. The epidemic is one that Johnson is fighting by urging residents to get out and exercise more, especially during warm weather. For the past two years, Johnson has served as an advocate for First Lady Michelle Obama’s national Let’s Move! campaign. Johnson cosponsored the first Let’s Move! DeKalb event in June 2011 at the Porter Sanford Center in Decatur. In May 2012, Johnson co-hosted the first ‘DeKalb Day of Play’ and in June 2012, he hosted the first DeKalb Diabetes Awareness 8-mile bike ride, both in support of Let’s Move! Johnson hosted the 2nd Annual “Let’s Move! DeKalb” event on July 28
at the Exchange Park Intergenerational Center in Decatur. Julian Smith, who participated in Johnson’s September walk, praised the commissioner’s efforts. “Our community is facing a health epidemic, especially with the kinds of snacking our kids are exposed to,” Smith said. “I know being active and staying active with fun activities like this one is one way to help fight that epidemic.” Nearly one in three children in the United States is overweight or obese. In Georgia, which has the nation’s second highest rate behind Mississippi, nearly 40 percent of children are obese. These numbers are even higher in African-American and Hispanic communities, officials say.
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september 15, 2012
Coming up
DEKALB
ATLANTA
Workforce Development sets job fair DeKalb County’s Workforce Development Department will host its 7th annual Workforce Development Day Job Fair, “Making ONE DeKalb Work” on Sept. 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at the Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur. The event offers job seekers the opportunity to meet with representatives from various departments and companies, including One DeKalb Works contractors and private sector employers. DeKalb Workforce Development (DWD) is a division of the DeKalb County Government. DWD provides education, training and employment programs for job seekers and workforce development services to businesses. For more information, visit www.dekalbworkforce.org or call 404-687-3400.
DeKalb NAACP prepares for Freedom Banquet The NAACP DeKalb County Branch will host its 56th Annual Freedom Fund Awards Banquet on Oct. 27, 7 p.m., at the Courtyard by Marriott Decatur, 130 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. This year’s theme is “NAACP: Your Power Your Decision Vote.” The Freedom Fund Awards Banquet is held each year to acknowledge those in the community who have gone above and beyond in their commitment to public service. The keynote speaker will be distinguished attorney, author, Michael Thurmond lecturer and public servant, Michael Thurmond. Thurmond is the former Commissioner of Labor for the state of Georgia, and also the first African-American elected to the Georgia General Assembly from Clarke County (in 1986), since Reconstruction. He authored “Freedom: Georgia’s Antislavery Heritage, 1733-1865,” which was awarded the Georgia Historical Society’s Lilla Hawes Award. This year’s Master of Ceremonies is WSB TV’s news reporter Eric Phillips. Tickets for the banquet are $75 per person. For more information, call the branch office at 404-241-8006 or Teresa Hardy at ageetah@ymail.com.
GWINETT Police offers teen driving classes The Gwinnett Police Department’s crime prevention officers are offering P.R.I.D.E. Program (Parents Reducing Injuries and Driver Error) safe driving classes to assist new drivers and their parents on Sept. 19, 6 – 8 p.m. at the department’s West Precinct, 6160 Crescent Drive, Norcross. The P.R.I.D.E. program is a free, two-hour course designed to educate teen drivers ages 14 - 16. Officers do not conduct any behind-the-wheel training but instruct parents and teens on what to expect during the 40 hours of supervised practice driving time required by Georgia law and throughout their driving experience. For more information or to register, call 678-442-6553. Organizers suggest registerting as soon as possible; classes fill up fast.
A
Take your dog to Paws in the Park The Atlanta Pet Rescue and Adoption agency will host Paws in the Park on Sept. 23, 12 – 5 p.m., at Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Ave., N.W., Atlanta. Paws in the Park is a full day of activities for you, your dog and the whole family. There will be demonstrations that may include K-9 nose work, sheep herding, Police Dog Work and agility training. Various rescue groups will attend and have available dogs and cats for adoption. Other non-profit groups will be there to help educate and inform the public on animal related issues. There will be a wide variety of vendors and sponsors that offer plenty of great products for you to check out. The event is headlined by a walk, which raises funds that benefit animals at Atlanta Pet Rescue & Adoption (APRA), a no-kill shelter dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating dogs and cats so they can be adopted into safe and loving homes. The walk is a about a mile around the perimeter of Centennial Park. Walkers may participate for $30 each. General admission to the park and other activities are free. All dogs must be on non-retracting leashes and up to date on shots. 404815-6680.
ROCKDALE
Monastery of the Holy Spirit presents Fall Festival The Monastery of the Holy Spirit and the Monastic Heritage Center, 2625 Georgia 212, Conyers, will host its second annual Fall Festival on Sept. 29, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Organizers say the event will offer fun for all ages. Activities include food, rides, activities for kids and tours of the Monastery grounds. Attendees can also shop in the Abbey Store, which is filled with relics, homemade biscotti, fudge and other unique goodies. Free admission. Donations accepted. 770-760-0959.
Wade Walker YMCA officially opens
fter 10 years in the making, DeKalb County officials have opened the new state-of-the-art Wade Walker Park Family YMCA at 5585 Rockbridge Road, Stone Mountain. Several county officials joined Eston Hood, Chief Operating Officer for the Metro Atlanta YMCA, and Winston Myers, II, executive director for the Sept. 12 official ribbon cutting ceremony. “I believe this will be the most beautiful YMCA in metro Atlanta because it has everything you could imagine in a facility and is equipped with plenty of extra features that you just won’t find everywhere else,” said DeKalb County Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton, who represents District 4 where the new Y is located. The opening is especially meaningful to Barnes Sutton, who lobbied for the completion of the YMCA. The Y had spent years developing plans for the project. DeKalb broke ground on the public-private $20 million project in May 2011. “There was a million dollars standing in the way to get this done. Opening the YMCA in our community was the first thing I took on when I got on the board; and through the County working together with us, we got it done,” said Barnes Sutton. Former DeKalb County Commissioner Connie Stokes was among officials on hand at the ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate. “It took the involvement of the state legislature to ensure that the policies were in place to allow DeKalb County to partner with the YMCA,” said Stokes, who also recalled the amount of work involved in getting the project off the gorund. On Sept. 16, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., residents can enjoy tours of the 60,000-square foot facility, which includes a teen room; gymnasium; a fitness area equipped with machines that use Fitlinxx, a computer system to log your progress; indoor and outdoor pools; outdoor recreation space; and sports fields. The facility will be available for membership at the grand opening. Wellness and other vendors will be on hand. Childcare will be provided. For more information, call 678-781-9622.
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PAGE 5
Amateur boxing tournament to spotlight kids from Southeast By Joshua Smith
youths something positive to get involved with,” said Kaufman. Kaufman and Foster started the Ruff House Boxing Academy, which also teaches Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) and kickboxing, in 2006. Their clientele includes youths and adults, both males and females. Boxing is an ancient combat sport dating back to around 688 BC where the Greeks in the first Olympic games used it. Ruff House is training five fighters in particular for the upcoming tournament: Mike Proctor, Shawn Thomas, Carlton McDonnough, Darnell Gibson and Randy Foster. One product of their teachings is in the form of Carey Foster’s teenage son, Randy. “This tournament means a lot to us because people outside our county don’t know the talent that Covington has and we are ready to let them know what we’ve been working hard on. I’m anxious to put that work out for everyone to see on Sept. 22,” said 18-year-old Randy Foster. “I started boxing from horse playing and slap boxing with cousins, then I really started enjoying the sport and couldn’t let it go. I plan to go professional.” The Newton County High school student is a three-time Georgia Olympic Games Gold Medalist, a three-time Georgia State and Gold Gloves Champion, as well as a twotime National Tournament Champion. Products like Foster are why Coach Kaufman says boxing is
W
hen the bell clangs on Sept. 22, some of the fastest jabs, uppercuts and hook punches will be on display as fighters throughout the South compete in the Ruff House Boxing Academy’s King of the Ring Tournament in Covington. “We have fighters coming from all over Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and even Virginia,” said Carey Foster, who owns and operates the boxing gym with business partner and head boxing coach, Richard Kaufman. “This is a great event because we are showing off the talents of kids who could be doing anything else in the streets, but sacrifice their time every night to come out, work hard and train. When you see them fight, you witness the end result live in action.” Kaufman says this is the first boxing tournament of this level to come to Covington, which is located just over the Rockdale County line in Newton County. The tournament is part of the Georgia Amateur Boxing Association (GABA) and the USA Boxing Organization, which means trophies and medals are up for grabs as fighters as young as 7 hit the ring to compete. Tournament boxers compete on two levels: 7 – 17 and 18 and up. “We will have about 20 bouts. That means at least 40 fighters will enter the ring. This will bring exposure to this area and hopefully, give
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
L-R Ruff House King of the Ring competitors: Shawn Thomas, Mike Proctor, Randy Foster, Carlton McDonnough and Darnell Gibson.
such a great sport for youth to take part in. “Boxing just gives you a whole new confidence when you survive the training and become a real fighter,” said Kaufman. “Take Randy for example, when he first started high school he had problems with being accepted by people. Some may have picked on him or whatever, but now he’s a different person. You can see it in his walk, in his talk and how he carries himself n general. Now, he has the respect and admiration of his peers. It’s been a complete 360 turn around for him.” The King of the Ring tournament will be held at the Covington National Guard Armory, 4124 Carroll Street, Covington. Admission is $10. Bouts will begin at 2 p.m.
28th Annual Super tuesday conference tuesday, September 25, 2012 | 8:00 am - 4:30 pm atlanta Marriott Marquis 265 Peachtree Center avenue
One Great Day: ready. Set. Gold! 2012 Co-Chairs
Karen Duckett
President Duckett Design Group, Inc.
Millennium Pacesetter Honoree
felicia Lewis
Senior VP Small Business Banking Manager Bank of america
precious Anderson Scott
The Hon. Stacey Abrams
CEO The anderson Firm
House Minority Leader Georgia General assembly
28tH AnnuAL Super tueSDAy conference AgenDA Opening Plenary | 8:00 am - 9:00 am Concurrent Workshop | 9:10 am - 12:20 pm 9:10 am - Getting Certified | no Health, no Wealth, no Gold 10:15 am - Promoting your Brand! | Managing your Gold (Goal) 11:20 am - Million Dollar Lady | Lights, Camera, action! Super tuesday awards Luncheon | 12:30 pm - 2:00 pm Post Luncheon activities | 2:15 pm - 4:00 pm Looking the Part: Fashion show for the Business Savvy Professional HIGHLIGHtS Incredible Silent auction Vibrant awards Luncheon networking Opportunities Dynamic Seminars Featured exhibits Great Door Prizes 2012-2013 resource Guide to african-american Female Business Owners & Professionals
2012 Super tuesday awards Finalists
Ona Brown
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Thomas W. Dortch, Jr., ABL Board Chair Leona Barr-Davenport, ABL President & CEO For more information: www.atlantabusinessleague.org or call 404-584-8126
Boxers Mike Proctor and Carlton McDonnough spar during a couple of rounds to prepare for the Sept. 22 tournament.
PAGE 6
september 15, 2012
DeKalb confirms three West Nile Virus cases
T
he DeKalb County Board of Health has received its first reports this year of human cases of West Nile virus infection. They are an 84-year-old Doraville man and a 63-year-old woman who lives in central DeKalb. Both are recovering at home. Additionally, a routine screening found West Nile virus in the blood of a 25-year-old man who also lives in central DeKalb. He has not had symptoms. Instead, he was identified through a routine screening of blood he had donated. His donation did not get into the blood supply. “It is very unfortunate that any of our DeKalb residents have developed a West Nile virus infection. I hope this reminds everyone to continue using precautions to avoid mosquito bites, since mosquitoes can carry the virus,” said S. Elizabeth Ford, district health director of the DeKalb County Board of Health. Only 20 percent of people who become infected with West Nile virus have any symptoms at all. Mild symptoms of an infection are fever, headache, body aches, nausea, vomiting and sometimes swollen lymph glands or a rash on the chest, stomach and back. These can last from a few days to several weeks. Less than one percent of infected individuals develop severe illness. Severe symptoms of an infection are a high fever, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, muscle weakness and numbness. These symptoms may last several weeks and the effects can be permanent. The Board of Health recommends the following to protect yourself and your community:
• Reduce outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk, when the mosquitoes that transmit West Nile virus are most active.
• Use an insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus or IR3535. Apply according to label instructions.
• Spray clothing with products containing permethrin according to label instructions.
• Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outdoors, particularly at dawn and dusk and in areas with lots of mosquitoes.
• Eliminate standing water on your property. Dump the water weekly from outdoor containers like planters, toys, wheelbarrows, recycling bins and tires. Keep gutters clear. • Trim tall grass, weeds and vines. • Make sure window and door screens fit tightly.
For more information, contact the DeKalb County Board of Health at 404-5087871 or visit http://www.dekalbhealth.net/envhealth/west-nile-virus/.
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DeKalb Chamber’s leader now living in a world of girls By Valerie J. Morgan
DeKalb Chamber President Leonardo McClarty is the lone male in his household for sure now. McClarty, his wife, Shaneka, and their 5-year-old daughter, Sage, welcomed identical twin girls to the family on Sept. 5. Sydney and Sarai were born at DeKalb Medical Center around 2:30 a.m. They both weighed about 4 pounds and 2 ounces. Twins run on both sides of their family: McClarty’s wife’s family tree includes four sets of twins, while McClarty’s mother, Daisy McClarty, who lives in Lithia Springs, is a twin. Leonardo McClarty McClarty said he was hoping for a boy--despite high technology. “I asked the ultra sound technician how accurate is your screen? She showed us different angles and said it was pretty accurate,” McClarty said. Mcclarty said he and his wife spent a week caring for the twins in the neonatal unit before they were released. After the first night home, the couple took turns getting some rest. “At one point, we changed three diapers in 30 seconds,” McClarty said. Help and well-wishers have come from family and friends both near and far, including his church, Ben Hill United Methodist Church in Atlanta, McClarty said.
8/6/12 7:30 AM
september 15, 2012
Yes
The Charter School Referendum Debate
PAGE 7
No
Where has exclusive control by local school systems gotten us so far?
Vote no to ensure public schools remain under local control
By State Rep. Rahn Mayo
By Dr. Eugene Walker, PhD
It is not true that public charter schools select their students and only admit the most privileged or academically-gifted children. Any parent who wishes to enroll their child in a public charter school has that option, so long as they live in the attendance zone or county in which the charter school is located. In my opinion, opposition to the charter amendment is not focused on what’s in the best interest of children and parents. Rather, it is focused on protecting the power and control currently held by local school boards and systems. Considering a history of underperformance, State Rep. Rahn Mayo fraud, waste and abuse of taxpayer resources, local systems have not proven in any way to be deserving of exclusive control--free of state intervention. In DeKalb County, a former superintendent and school system leadership are currently under indictment on charges of running a criminal enterprise. The DeKalb School Board has recently been under review by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) for mismanaging the district and budget. In 2008, Clayton County lost its accreditation over alleged corruption among board members and mismanagement of that system, which put the academic well being of thousands of students at risk. SACS issued a scathing report in which it labeled the Clayton County School Board “dysfunctional” and “fatally flawed.” Until 2011, the Atlanta Public School System enjoyed tremendous support by status quo leaders and politicians who defended the success of its superintendent, Dr. Beverly Hall, until it was discovered that APS leadership attempted to cover up one of the largest cheating scandals in U.S. history. The APS cheating scandal has been an embarrassment to the state. In Dougherty County, criminal charges were filed against a school board member who was removed from the board by the governor. The Dougherty County School System is not eligible to receive at least $10 million in federal funds because of concerns that the district has inflated the number of students who qualify for federal meal assistance. These are a few of the reasons why I believe it is a misguided notion to suggest that local school systems always know and do what’s best for our children. With respect to the charter amendment, the belief that money to fund state authorized charter schools will be taken from local school systems is false. State authorized charter schools will be paid for with state taxpayer money. HB 797 explicitly states that no deduction shall be made to any state funding which a local school system is authorized to receive as a result of a student in that district enrolling in a state charter school. It is my belief that most parents are more concerned with the quality, culture and academic performance of their child’s school, rather than which level of government creates the school. It is time for the state of Georgia, which provides approximately 45% of funding for public schools, to maintain a true partnership with local school systems in the creation of quality public school options for parents. Georgia can no longer afford to fiddle while Rome burns and allow another generation of children to suffer and remain trapped in struggling schools. We should vote yes on Nov. 6 to re-create the state charter commission and enable the state and local school systems to authorize public charter schools.
While most of us are going about our daily lives in our normal routines, there are a handful of folks at the State Capitol who have been up to no good. These state lawmakers have approved a referendum that will appear on the ballot during the November elections. On the surface, it appears voters will be deciding whether more charter schools in Georgia may be created. However, this is not the case. This referendum will have devastating effects on the DeKalb County School District and the children we are charged with educating. The referendum reads: “Shall the Constitution of Georgia be Dr. Eugene Walker, PhD amended to allow state or local approval of public charter schools upon the request of local communities? Yes or No?” I’m urging you to vote no. If passed in November, a governing organization called the Georgia Charter Commission would be created as a result. Local residents would have no control over this new commission, yet taxpayers would shoulder the burden for funding the charter schools it approves. To be clear, this has nothing to do with the whole charter school debate. DeKalb County has 13 charter schools and the Board of Education believes in them and supports their work. This commission would be yet another new state entity that would operate new charter schools in areas that already have charter schools or public schools or both. It is estimated that the costs would amount to $430 million in state funding alone. It goes without saying that in our current economy, local school systems cannot take a $430 million hit. But there is something more sinister about the referendum: It will send us back more than half a century when we had racial barriers in education. Separate school systems used to be the norm in America. Prior to 1954, children who were white went to one school, and children who were black went to a “separate but equal” school. The Supreme Court unanimously ruled in Brown vs. the Board of Educationthat “separate educational facilities are inherently unequal”. I could have told them that, because I was in school then. You see, public schools are constitutionally mandated to educate all children. Charter schools can pick and choose. No, children won’t be divided on the pure basis of race, but on the basis of economic class. Now as long as all of the children remain under the control of a single, locally controlled school system, there is stability of the funding mechanism for all of the students, regardless of their means. The referendum before voters is, in short, the beginning of the end of universal free public education, and the decline of the control of local residents to control their own school systems. It would be turning back the clock to pre-1954 segregation, and we must fight to keep this from happening. Dr. Walker, a former educator and state legislator, serves as chairman of the DeKalb County Board of Education.
Magic academies put magic into learning continued from page 1
DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis reminds you of the Best Practices for Proper Disposal of
F.O.G.
(Fats, Oils, and Grease) F.O.G. enters plumbing through garbage disposals, sinks and toilets. It coats the inside of plumbing pipes and also empties into DeKalb County’s sewer system. Here are three simple guidelines to help keep F.O.G. out of our pipes and sewers:
1.
POUR fats, oils or grease into a sealable container, allow it to cool and throw it in the trash. Do not pour down the drain or toilet.
2. 3.
SCRAPE plates and cookware before washing.
Do not throw scraps of any kind down the drain. Instead, place them in waste containers or garbage bags.
WIPE excess grease from all plates, pots, pans, utensils, and surfaces with a paper towel before washing. Throw the greasy paper towels away.
Plumbing and sanitary sewer systems are simply not designed to handle the F.O.G. that accumulates in pipes. When it gets into the pipes and hardens, blockages occur and cause sewage to backup and overflow out of manholes or into homes. This is expensive for you, and for the County. The damages caused by fats, oils and grease in the sewer system are costly to repair. Over time, they increase the costs of our water and sewer services.
F.O.G. directly impacts your wallet! DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management 1580 Roadhaven Drive * Stone Mountain, GA * (770) 270-6243 dekalbwatershed.com
Academies is a charter school that is growing and underscores proponents’ point of view that charter schools are not just for well-off students. The Atlanta academy will become the 15th Magic Johnson Bridgescape Academy to open nationwide. Johnson formed a partnership with EdisonLearning last year in response to the nation’s high dropout rate, especially in urban areas. Magic Johnson Bridgescape Academies also are operating in Ohio, Missouri, New Jersey, North Carolina and Pennsylvania. Additional Georgia locations are planned for Augusta, Macon and Savannah. Unlike a traditional school setting, the Magic Johnson Bridgescape Academy offers a
blend of one-on-one and small group instruction to its students. The Academy is staffed with on-site education teams to assist students in their daily studies, and includes teachers, counselors and other coaching professionals who work together to provide academic support and post-graduation assistance for traditional students and those with learning disabilities. Instruction at the Magic Johnson Bridgescape Academy is provided in both, morning and afternoon sessions. Students interested in attending the Magic Johnson Bridgescape Academy can enroll by calling 888725-9501. For more information, visit ga.provostacdemy.com.
Are the banks finally providing help for foreclosed homeowners? The OCC (Office of Comptroller of Currency) has required the largest banking institutions to give into a fund run by a private company known as Independent Foreclosure Review. The review was implemented to provide a detailed report on illegal actions, errors, mistakes, and misrepresentations pertaining to the home loan. So there is help. But sadly, the banks are not doing much, if anything at all, to make sure homeowners know that this service is available. Since April 2011, my company, The Mortgage Reduction Man, has been following the progress of this Independent Foreclosure Review closely. The Mortgage Reduction Man, which has offices in DeKalb and Fayette counties, assists homeowners in all 50 states in illegal foreclosures, principal balance reductions, and more. The Independent Foreclosure Review is giving $500- $125k plus equity to homeowners who have been violated. If you feel you have been wrongfully foreclosed on, forced into a loan modification, refinance, or if your property value has depreciated you have until Sept. 31 to be a part of this settlement. This is a no cost service that can help financially, if you qualify. We strongly believe this is a step in the right direction, but only if homeowners become aware and take advantage of the program. If you are with one of the servicers listed below you need to call today 404-551-4949. Americas servicing company Countrywide National City Mortgage Aurora Loan Services Bac Home Loan Bank of America Beneficial Chase Citibank CitiFinancial CitiMortgage MetLife Bank EMC Mortgage Corporation HSBC Pnc Mortgage IndyMac Mortgage Services U.S Bank Sovereign Bank SunTrust Mortgage HFC GMAC Mortgage Wilshire Credit Corporation Wells Fargo Washington Mutual EverBank/EverHome Mortgage Company Wachovia Mortgage
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september 15, 2012
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Johnson discusses proposed tax cuts for entrepreneurs Congressman Hank Johnson will address DeKalb County’s business community and provide an update on pending legislation designed to help start-up businesses. Johnson will present his “Help Entrepreneurs” listening event to the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce on Sept. 27, 10 a.m., Hank Johnson at the DeKalb Medical Hospital’s Women’s Center, 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur. The goal of the information session is to discuss the Help Entrepreneurs Create American Jobs Act (H.R. 4032), which Johnson is sponsoring. Under the legislation, tax cuts for start-up businesses would double from $5,000 to $10,000 and the overall ceiling for deductions would increase from $50,000 to $60,000. Johnson, who represents the 4th Congressional District covering DeKalb, Gwinnett and Rockdale counties, hopes to get feedback from stakeholders on the bill and other issues impacting local businesses. The bill, co-sponsored by Georgia’s Congressman John Lewis, was introduced by Johnson earlier this year. “This legislation is actually part of President Obama’s Start Up America agenda,” said Andy Phelan, a spokesperson for Congressman Johnson. “The bill is designed to help small businesses get established.” Capacity is limited at the forum. Advance registration is mandatory. To register, visit www. dekalbchamber.org and click the events link or call 404-378-8000.
Business News DeKalb, Rockdale Chambers tee off for fundraisers
T
he DeKalb Chamber of Commerce and Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce are inviting golf lovers to come out and hit the greens, network and help them raise money. Both chambers are hosting golf tournaments on Sept. 24. The DeKalb Chamber will host its 8th Annual Golf Classic on Sept. 24, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m., at the championship golf course at Smoke Rise Country Club, 4900 Chedworth Drive, Stone Mountain. The annual event will help to raise money to fund education and student achievement programs in DeKalb. The cost to play is $225 per person and includes breakfast, lunch, an evening reception, awards program and goodie bags that include a golf shirt, shoe bags and other gifts. Group rates and sponsorships are also available. Registration begins at 8 a.m. For more information or advance registration, call 404-378-8000, ext. 222 or email lmcclarty@ dekalbchamber.org. The Rockdale Chamber’s golf outing, a fundraiser to benefit the chamber’s operations, will be held at Cherokee Run Golf Club, 1595 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers. Registration is at 10:30 a.m., followed by a putting contest and shotgun play to start at noon. The cost is $500 for a team of four, or $125 for a single. The fee includes 18 holes of golf, boxed lunch and a heavy hors d’oeuvres dinner. A silent auction featuring various items will be held. For those who don’t want to play golf but want to participate, there is a ball drop in which
golf balls are dropped from a platform and the closest ball to the hole wins. Tickets for the ball drop are $10 for one or $50 for six tickets. Entrants do not have to be present to win. If 1,000 tickets are sold, the first prize will be $1,000. There also will be cash prizes for second and third places. For more information, call 770-785-7904 or contact Stephanie Layson at 770-483-7049 and stephanie@conyers-rockdale.com.
Calendar Attorneys set workshop for government contractors Members of the business community are invited to join Dixon Hughes Goodman LLP and McKenna Long & Aldridge LLP as they discuss strategies that can help government contractors succeed in a turbulent fiscal environment. The workshop will be held Sept. 20, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m., at 103 West, 103 West Paces Ferry Road, N.W., Atlanta. Presentations include: “Value Drivers for Government Contractors,” “Run Lean: Be Effective and Make Strategic Decisions,” “Litigation Risks: Protests, Terminations and Whistle Blowers.” The workshop is free to attend and includes breakfast and networking before the presentations. For more information, contact Meredith Maddry at 404-575-8943 or meredith. maddry@dhgllp.com.
ABWA sets monthly networking The American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) will host its monthly networking session on Sept. 26, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Rockdale Leadership Center, 2826 GA Hwy 20 S.E., Conyers. Businesswomen of diverse occupations will come together for professional leadership, education and networking support. The cost to attend is $20. For more information or to register, call Patti Bryson at 770-918-1039.
BBA to present Atlanta Symphony president The Buckhead Business Association will welcome Atlanta Symphony Orchestra President Stanley Romanstein as the keynote speaker for its business breakfast on Sept. 27. The meeting will be held 7:30 – 9 a.m., at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, Suite 1850, Atlanta. Romanstein was appointed president of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra in May 2010. Organizers say under Romanstein’s leadership, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra has enlarged its reputation as one of America’s most innovative musical ensembles and strengthened its commitment to nurturing the talents of Atlanta’s young, aspiring artists. Stanley Romanstein Romanstein will discuss operations, non-profit establishments, non-profit work and management. He has conducted music or worked with businesses in Minneapolis, Baltimore, Jerusalem, New York, Romania and Japan. The cost to attend the breakfast is $20. The fee includes breakfast and parking. For more information or to register, visit www.buckheadbusiness.org or call 404-467-7607.
Shakers and Stirrers, a recipe for networking Networking For Professionals will host “Shakers and Stirrers” on Oct. 2, 6 – 8 p.m. at Tantra Restaurant, 2285 Peachtree Road, N.W., Atlanta. The event offers a relaxing environment to mingle with top professionals while enjoying complimentary light nibbles and drink specials ($5 for house cocktails and martinis, house bubbles and select beers). The cost to attend is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For more information or to register in advance, visit http://networkingforprofessionals.com or email events@networkingforprofessionals.com. 404-228-7963.
GSU to host speed networking session The Georgia State University Alumni Association is currently accepting registration for its speed networking session on Oct. 3, 6 – 8:30 p.m., in the school’s Brookhaven Center, 4362 Peachtree Road, Atlanta. The event features casual networking and a presentation “It’s not what you say that is heard, It’s your body language.” GSU alumni Debbie Rodkin, executive director of Re: Focus on Careers, will lead the speed networking session. The cost to attend is $10 in advance and $15 at the door. Georgia State alumni are free with membership card. The Alumni group will offer free resume reviews from 4 – 6 p.m. For more information or to register, call 404-413-2190.
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Week of September 13, 2012 Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, 2nd Floor, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below:
REQUEST FOR QUOTATION NO.
3002609 ITB 12-500240 RFP
ITEM
CLOSING DATE
Concrete Forming, Placing and Finishing and Retainer Walls
October 4, 2012
Construction Management (CM) Services for Snapfinger Creek Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant Expansion – Phase II
October 16, 2012
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 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: Kelvin L. Walton, Director/Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
september 15, 2012
We Worship
To Contact Us
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PAGE 9
Faith-Based News & Inspiration
Worship in Movement: Antioch-Lithonia sets liturgical Dansical
F
By Valerie J. Morgan
or Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church, liturgical dance is as much an integral part of worship as the church’s varied choirs that offer music ranging from traditional to contemporary to classical on Sundays. In other words, the Southeast DeKalb church loves to praise the Lord through the arts. On Sept. 29, 5:30 p.m., Antioch’s True Worshippers Ministry plans to showcase all of its liturgical dance
groups when it presents its annual “Dansical” under the direction of Wanda Normal, who heads the dance ministry. Pastor James C. Ward said he is excited about the upcoming worship experience and he is personally extending an invitation to the community to come out. “God gave us many talents and the arts are just many of the ways that we can praise Him,” said Pastor Ward, who prides himself on being an artist. The Morehouse College graduate sang in the Glee Club and he continues to direct the James C. Ward Chorale at Antioch.
Calendar Beulah sets 101 seminar to aid job seekers Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, 2340 Clifton Springs Road, Decatur, will host a job seminar with the Dawnbreakers Toastmaster Club on Sept. 22, 12 – 2 p.m. Dawnbreakers Toastmaster Club and Beulah will sponsor the free job seminar to give tips and insights on how to prepare and land your next employment opportunity. Come hear topics such as the “One Thing You Should Never Do on An Interview,” “How to Dress,” “What are the Top 10 Questions An Employer Will Ask,” and “Salary Negotiations and Resume Writing.” The resume of the first 10 people who arrive and sign up for resume critiquing will be reviewed. Participants will meet in the church’s Community Life Center, conference rooms A and B. To learn more about this event, visit www.dawnbreakerstm.com or call 770-255-9596.
New Birth offers financial workshop New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, 6400 Woodrow Road, Lithonia, will continue its workshop on government funding with “Doing Business With Government II,” on Sept. 29, 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. This session will cover SBA certification programs: The Woman-Owned Small Business “Set-Aside Program, a new initiative by the Small Business Administration.
Ward said the Dansical will feature young people performing mime, seniors and babies performing liturgical dancing, flag teams and others. “The costumes that they will be wearing are beautifully designed. It is a program that is done with excellence,” said Pastor Ward. “Our church is very artistic and artful. Our members love doing what they do for the Lord. We have a large following as a result of our excellence in the worship arts.” Antioch is located at 2152 Rock Chapel Road, Lithonia. The SBA HUBZone Program, designed to promote job growth, capital investment, and economic development to Historically Underutilized Business Zones (HUBZone) by providing contracting assistance to small businesses located in these economically distressed communities. The SBA’s “8(a) Business Development Program,” named for a section of the Small Business Act, is a business development program created to help small disadvantaged businesses compete in the American economy and access the federal procurement market. 770-696-9600.
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september 15, 2012
Health & Wellness
McDonald’s menus now reveals calorie content
S
tarting this month, McDonald’s will provide calorie content on restaurant and drive-through menus nationwide, including Atlanta. The fast-food company will become the largest chain to do so on a national level, although some chains such as Panera Bread Company and some Starbucks stores already post calories on their menus. The educational effort is part of McDonald’s commitment to help customers make nutrition-minded choices. “At McDonald’s, we recognize customers want to know more about the nutrition content of the food and beverages they order,” said Donavon Groen, president of the Greater Atlanta McDonald’s Operator’s Association. “As a company that has provided nutrition information for more than 30 years, we are pleased to add to the ways we make nutrition information available to our customers and employees in Atlanta and throughout the U.S.” McDonald’s also has announced that it plans to test foods next year that would increase the number of wholesome choices on its menu. The menu items being explored for 2013 include:
§ More seasonal fruit and vegetables options,
§ Additional produce side options and grilled
such as blueberries and cucumbers, during peak seasons. § The McWrap, inspired by McDonald’s Europe, features fresh vegetables and is available in three flavors – Chicken & Bacon, Sweet Chili Chicken, and Chicken & Ranch – starting at 350 calories. § New breakfast choices, including an egg-white breakfast sandwich on an English muffin made with 8 grams of whole grain.
chicken choices for Happy Meals. McDonald’s new Happy Meal, launched in March 2012, now automatically includes Apple Slices, and a kids-size fry. Fat-free chocolate milk was also added as an additional beverage choice. The new Happy Meal is anticipated to introduce about 100 million cups of apples annually into the diets of young customers. Since February 2011, McDonald’s has reduced sodium across its national core menu of food choices by more than 11 percent. In total, 38 of McDonald’s 75 total national food items had a reduction in sodium, ranging from 1 percent to 35 percent. In addition, McDonald’s oatmeal entrées provides two servings of whole grain. Since the introduction of the oatmeal line in January 2011, the company sold more than 427 million servings of whole grains. “The transparency and availability of nutrition information enables consumers to make choices and can help caregivers teach and model decision-making behavior to children,” said Judith C. Rodriguez, chairperson and professor, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Brooks College of Health. “These are life skills that will benefit them not only at McDonald’s but in every aspect of life.”
Calendar
DeKalb Medical covers cancer genetic testing
Piedmont to offer Mindfulness Training 101
DeKalb Medical will host an informative discussion on the BRCA gene on Sept. 20, 6 – 7 p.m., in the hospital’s theater, 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur. Find out what is involved in genetic testing for the BRCA gene and how it can identify your risk for developing breast cancer. Attend this seminar led by DeKalb Medical oncologist, Jayanthi Srinivasiah, M.D. A breast cancer (BRCA) gene test is a blood test to check for specific changes (mutations) in genes that help control normal cell growth. Finding changes in these genes, called BRCA1 and BRCA2, Jayanthi Srinivasiah can help determine your chance of developing breast cancer and ovarian cancer. A BRCA gene test does not test for cancer itself. This test is only done for people with a strong family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer, and sometimes for those who already have one of these diseases. Genetic counseling before and after a BRCA test is very important to help you understand the benefits, risks, and possible outcomes of the test. This workshop is free to attend. For more information or to register, visit www.dekalbmedical.org or call 404-501-5200.
The Piedmont Hospital Cancer Center, 1800 Howell Mill Road, Suite 700, Atlanta, will host a free workshop for cancer patients, “Mindfulness Training 101,” on Sept. 25, 10:30 a.m. – noon. Organizers say participants will learn to meditate and move through the world in a more peaceful way. Benefits of this practice include a more enhanced immune system, reduced anxiety and depression symptoms, an increased ability to relax, better ability to reduce or work with chronic pain, and more ability to cope with the stress that life presents. No previous knowledge or experience necessary. Each participant receives a CD for daily practice. Angela Buttimer, LPC will facilitate the session. For more information or to register, call 404-425-7944.
Great Healthcare is Close to Home Dr. Eddie Whitehead
Lunch and Learn to focus on alternative medicine Saint Joseph’s Cancer Survivors’ Network, 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, N.E., Atlanta, will host a Lunch and Learn, “Complementary and Alternative Medicines,” on Sept. 21, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Adina Hirsch, Pharm.D., will lead the discussion. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is the term for medical products and practices that are not part of standard care. Standard care is what medical doctors, doctors of osteopathy and allied health professionals, such as registered nurses and physical therapists, practice. Alternative medicine means treatments that you use instead of standard ones. Complementary medicine means nonstandard treatments that you use along with standard ones. Examples of CAM therapies are acupuncture, chiropractic and herbal medicines. This workshop is free, but an RSVP is required for lunch. For more information or to register, visit www.gacancersurvivors.org or call 678-8435051.
is a board-certified internist who has been practicing medicine for almost 30 years. He received his medical degree from Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN and before that received his undergraduate degree from Valdosta State College (now VSU). Dr. Whitehead considers it a privilege to be entrusted by patients in their healthcare.
Extended Office Hours on Mondays!
• • • • • •
Dr. Whitehead’s services include, but are not limited to: Care of patients 17 + Treatment of chronic conditions and illnesses Health screenings Preventive medicine Women’s healthcare and gynecology Select vaccines and immunizations
487 Winn Way, Suite 202, Decatur, GA 30030 Telephone: 404.294.0702 • Fax: 404.299.7499 www.winnwayinternalmedicine.com Most insurance plans accepted.
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PAGE 11
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 404-281-6503. Now Hiring Kutztown Barbershop located in Lithonia. Looking for license barbers. Call 770-780-2557. For Sale Barber Shop for Sale $35,000 will negotiate. Fully equipped, great location. Call 678-478-2206.
Rent Music Studio for rent $650 monthly, 678-755-5955. Two Hair Salons for Rent $500 & $866 monthly, 678-755-5955. Commercial Kitchen use it when you need it $60hr, 678-755-5955. Sunday Church Services. Seats 125. $50hr-$75hr, 678-755-5955. Room for rent furnished 6-month lease $500 month mature adult 45 and older. Call 404-286-7744. 4BR 2.5BA Condo located 6080 Regent Manor Lithonia. Sec 8 Ok.$875 mo. Deposit negotiable, call Paul at 404-422-7285.
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