Ocgn 03 25 17

Antioch Lithonia

Baptist Church March 26

Celebrating

Worship Services Sunday at 7:30 am, 10:30 am 2152 Rock Chapel Rd., Lithonia, GA 30058 770-482-1277 www.antiochlithonia.org VOLUME 22 NUMBER 49

FREE

our

148

th

Church

Anniversary

Pastor James C. Ward MARCH 25, 2017

Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews

Jason Lary elected new mayor of Stonecrest

OPERATION SAFE DEKALB Sheriff Jeffrey Mann: 106 arrested in warrants sweep

D

eKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann announced that a recent three-day attack on crime in the county has resulted in 106 arrests.

Operation Safe DeKalb 2017 is the sixth such initiative by the DeKalb Sheriff’s Office Field Services Division that focuses on serving warrants and making arrests for felonies and misdemeanors with the assistance of other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies.

“To date, we have arrested 31 felony suspects and 98 misdemeanor suspects,” said Mann.

“Among the felony arrests are two for murder, two for rape, and eight for aggravated assault. There were 13 arrests for violation of Georgia law for possession of controlled substances. The apprehension of individuals who are believed to have committed crimes of any degree has a very positive impact on the overall safety of our citizens.”

Participating agencies included the DeKalb County Police Department and police departments from the cities of Atlanta, Avondale Estates, Brookhaven, Chamblee, Decatur, Doraville, Lithonia, and Pine Lake; the DeKalb District Attorney’s Office, the DeKalb Probation Office, the Emory Police Department, the Georgia State Patrol, and the DeKalb County Marshal’s Service.

Operation Safe DeKalb 2017 involved 416 primary and more than 888 secondary attempts to serve 1,200 arrest warrants. During the operation, sheriff’s deputies also conducted unannounced safety checkpoints and issued 438 citations and 95 warnings for violations such as lack of drivers’ licenses, vehicle insurance and child seat restraints.

By Valerie J. Morgan

J

ason Lary arose the day after the election, on his birthday, with the best present ever: Voters elected him as the first mayor of the new city of Stonecrest, giving him 52.20 percent of the vote (2,200).

Lary, who turned 55 on March 22, galloped to victory in a three-way race, defeating Charles Hill and Doug Favors. Hill placed second, earning 39.4 percent (1,664 votes) while Favors came in third with

Mayor Jason Laryand wife,Debra Lary. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCGNEWS

8.10 percent (342).

Lary thanked his wife,

Debra, for standing by him “through all of the sleepless

nights.” He also thanked supporters for their dedication and hard work. A crowd gathered for his victory celebration, which was held at Arizona’s restaurant in Stonecrest.

Lary said he did not hear from his opponents to congratulate him.

The mayor’s race turned ugly just days before the election after postcards were mailed to Stonecrest residents suggesting Charles Hill had mental health issues.

Hill, who came in second in the mayor’s race, found him-

See City of Stonecrest, page 10

DeKalb Commissioner Gregory Adams presents “Hidden Figures of DeKalb” Awards

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he movie, “Hidden Figures,” isn’t just a movie on the big screen.

It’s the inspiration for DeKalb County Commissioner Gregory Adams first awards program.

The new commissioner honored 18 female trailblazers at his inaugural Hidden Figures of DeKalb” awards luncheon on March 23 at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts and Community Center in Decatur. Adams was joined by DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond, DeKalb Commissioners Larry Johnson, Jeff Rader, Steve Bradshaw and actress Kim Fields (sitcom “Living Single” and “The Facts of Life.”) in presenting the awards during Women’s History Month.

“It was such a great program. I am so humbled to be celebrated among women who have made such an impact on our community. I thank Commissioner Adams and all of those who worked

so hard to make the event successful,” said On Common Ground News Editor Valerie J. Morgan, who was among the “Hidden Figures” honored.

DeKalb’s former first

lady, Philippa Ellis, received the “Woman of Strength Award.” Her husband, former DeKalb CEO Burrell See Hidden Figures, page 11

PAGE 2 •MARCH 25, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

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

GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com

On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties.

The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers.

No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher.

We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.

On Common Ground News

P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com

MARCH 25,2017 • PAGE 3

Lawsuit filed against DeKalb’s ethics officer Attorney Dwight Thomas has filed a lawsuit on behalf of former Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton against DeKalb Ethics Officer Stacey Kalberman and the DeKalb County Board of Ethics.

The suit, filed on March 21 in DeKalb County Superior Court, alleges Kalberman and the board violated state law by directing her to lobby the DeKalb County Legislation Delegation.

The suit marked the second legal challenge Kalberman now faces. Last week, State Rep. Vernon Jones filed an ethics complaint against her with the DeKalb Ethics Board also alleging she was at the State Capitol lobbying legislators.

Meanwhile, Barnes Sutton filed a police report on March 23 with DeKalb County Police Department’s Tucker Precinct stating that she was accosted by a man who drove up to her car and threatened her. She said the man asked her if she was Sharon Barnes Sutton and when she replied yes, he

Rate hikes proposed to replace Rockdale County’s aging water/ sewer system Water and sewer utility rates would go up 6 percent per year over a five-year period under a proposal Rockdale County officials are considering. The rate hike would amount to about $3 per month on an average water bill for residential customers, county officials said.

Rockdale Water Resources is working with a consulting firm to study water and sewer rates to support replacement of the county’s aging infrastructure.

The $57.4 million Capital Improvement Program includes $18 million for a new 3 MGD Wastewater Plant. The 3 MGD wastewater plant to increase the county’s existing sewer capacity for growing business opportunities.

The funds also would pay for the latest technology—touch read meters and radio read meters (smart meters). The smart meters will promote efficient and quick turnaround, reducing the need for onsite meter readings.

“Adoption of the new suggested rate structure will enable RWR to move forward on many of the vital projects needed to sustain the utility and to provide our customers with the best possible customer service,” RWR Director Dwight Wicks said.

Town hall meetings will be scheduled over the next several weeks to present the information to citizens.

said she had better get out of DeKalb County.

“Now she has be made a target of violent threats.

That’s going a little far,” Thomas said. “She did the right thing to challenge policy by going through a court of law. Now, she’s a target.”

Kalberman stated last week she could not comment on Jones’ complaint because she had not seen it, but denied that she was involved in lobbying.

Thomas’ lawsuit said that Kalberman contacted House Rep. Scott Holcomb, Sen. Elena Parent and other political officials asking them to amend legislation concerning how ethics board members are appointed. The meetings took place on or about March 6, 13 and 14, the suit states.

Thomas said Kalberman also gave a television interview to Channel 2 where she accused Jones of trying to prevent the Board of Ethics from reviewing allegations of misconduct among elected county officials and employees. Thomas

Sharon Barnes Sutton

said in addition to violating state ethics laws by being involved in politics and lobbying without a state license, Kalberman also has “consistently and publicly made negative comments about Barnes Sutton even as the former commissioner awaits pending action challenging the validity of the board.

Jones said state lawmakers should not make any moves to change the laws concerning the ethics board until a judge rules in the Barnes Sutton case.

Meanwhile, DeKalb Commissioner Kathie

Stacey Kalberman

Gannon, who serves as the presiding officer of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners, said Thomas “is working very hard for his client.”

“He’s pulling out all stops. The Ethics Board is moving forward hearing their cases,” Gannon said.

Thomas said Barnes Sutton has a right to challenge the constitutional legality of the board.

“Every elected and public official should be demanding accountability from the Ethics Board,” Thomas said. “We must have an ethical Ethics Board.”

DeKalb parks and rec hiring for summer employment DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs is accepting applications for numerous seasonal summer employment opportunities such as summer food monitors, camp counselors, recreation assistants and bus drivers until March 27.

Applicants must be 18 or older unless applying for lifeguard or pool manager positions. Lifeguards and pool managers are required to be 16 or older. Proof of current certification from American Red Cross or other nationally recognized aquatic training programs is required for all aquatic positions. All applicants selected will be required to successfully complete a drug and alcohol screening and criminal background check prior to employment.

To view available positions or complete an application, visit DeKalb County’s job search portal here, or visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov, select How Do I, then Apply For Jobs.

For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs public relations specialist, at 404-371-3643 or lsdavis@dekalbcountyga.gov.

PAGE 4 •MARCH 25, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Coming Up

Compiled by Mackenzie N. Morgan.

The event will include hors d’oeuvres, a keepsake memento, a photo booth, and music and dancing in the courthouse ballroom. Participants are encouraged to sign up for the selection of Prom King or Queen. Seating is limited. For ticket information, call 770-822-5450.

ROCKDALE/ COVINGTON Charity run set to benefit homeless families in Conyers and Covington The first annual run to benefit Family Promise of New Rock and homeless families in Conyers and Covington will be held on Saturday, April 1, 8 am. To 10 a.m. at the Rockdale County Government Complex, 1400 Parker Road, Conyers. Race registration begins at 7 a.m. Participants can register at active.com or call 770-262-7816.

Pillow fight in the park

A free community pillow fight will take place on Saturday, April 1, 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Grant Park, 840 Cherokee Ave. SE. Bring your best friend or worst enemy to join the rest of the world in International Pillow Fight Day. This is a free event for adults and kids, but donations are appreciated. Participants are asked to bring soft pillows without feathers and to avoid being too aggressive as this is a family friendly event. The event will take place on the corner of Cherokee Ave. SE and Sydney St. SE. For a full list of safety rules or more information, visit www. skysthelimitclub.com.

ATLANTA

Inman Park Restaurant Week Get a special deal on a three-course fixed-price meal at a dozen restaurants during Inman Park Restaurant Week, March 27 through April 2, in the historic Inman Park neighborhood, located two miles east of downtown Atlanta. For a list of participating restaurants, visit http://www.inmanparkrestaurantweek.com.g.

DEKALB

Read to Rover reading program returns Children ages 5 to 10 years old can practice their reading skills with Rover on Saturday, April 1, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia.

Kids will get an opportunity to read to a therapy dog. This event is free and open to the first 20 participants. For more information, call 770-482-3828.

Spring break movie matinee Spring breakers are welcome to attend a free movie on Monday, April 3, 2 to 4 p.m. at the Salem-Panola Library, 5137 Salem Road, Lithonia.

The featured movie is Zootopia (PG) in which a rookie bunny cop and a cynical con artist fox must work together to uncover a conspiracy. Screening time is 108 minutes. Guests may bring their own snacks. This event is open to the first 48 participants. For more information, call 770-987-6900.

GWINNETT

Spring fashion show and tea for seniors set Chico’s retail store will present a ladies apparel fashion show on Friday, March 31, f 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m., at the Bethesda Park Senior Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville.

Ladies are invited to view the latest spring fashion trends and enjoy finger sandwiches, tea and tasty sweets. The cost is $6 per person and guests must pre-register online at gwinnettcounty.com or call 678-277-0179.

Prom set for Gwinnett homeschool students Students are invited to attend the “Moonlit Garden Dreams” homeschool prom edition on Friday, March 31, 6:30 to 10 p.m., at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 186 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

Community bike ride set Grab your bicycle and take a ride on Sunday, April 2, at 3 p.m. Riders will meet in downtown Covington on the Square. The ride begins and ends at the Square. The first loop is a gentle, family-friendly 4.5-mile ride around historic downtown Covington.

For a little more fun, take a ride on the scenic Eastside Trail.

This event is co-hosted by the Newton Trails, Main Street Covington and the Covington/Newton County Visitors Center and occurs every first Sunday of the month. For more information, visit www.newtontrails.org. .

Please check with the event organizer before you go.

To submit your event to Coming Up, email editor@ocgnews.com. We choose events that are free or a nominal cost to our readers.

RYFA to kick off flag football season on Saturday CONYERS--The Rockdale Youth Football Association (RYFA) will kick off the start of its 2017 flag football and cheerleading season with a draft on Saturday, March 25, 11 a.m., at the Earl O’Neal Sports Complex, 2709 Covington Highway, Conyers.

During the draft, all coaches will select their team members from an extensive roster. The first game of the season will be held Saturday, April 8, and end with a season tournament Saturday, May 13. All games will be played at the Earl O’Neal Sports complex.

RYFA’s coed flag football and cheerleading program is a member of the NFL Flag Football Program for boys and girls ages 4-12. The Flag Experience provides players and cheerleaders a fun and exciting opportunity to learn lessons in teamwork, sportsmanship, physical fitness and achieving goals.

Dewey Blaise, RYFA’s president, said he is looking forward to an outstanding season. “We are looking at our biggest numbers for Flag Football this year. RYFA’s number one priority is to make sure our youth football and cheer program provides a positive and fun-filled experience for all participants and their families. Our coaches are here to teach skills, rules, strategies and discipline while encouraging good sportsmanship, building self-confidence and instilling the importance of teamwork.”

Registration for RYFA’s Tackle Football program is currently being held with the season beginning in July. For more information, visit the website at www.rockdaleyouthfootball.com.

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MARCH 25, 2017 • PAGE 5

DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond adds evening State of the County address DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond will deliver an evening State of the County Address to citizens and community stakeholders on Tuesday, April 4, 7 p.m., at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center, located at 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur.

Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for the event.

“I am eager to recap my first 90 days in office with the community and share the upcoming initiatives for the remainder of the year,” Thurmond said. “This is truly an exciting time for the county.”

DCTV will live stream the CEO’s speech on www. dekalbcountyga.gov.

DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond

DeKalb Tax Commissioner: Deadline to file for exemptions is April 3 DeKalb County Tax Commissioner Irvin J. Johnson is reminding residents that all homestead applications must be received by the April 3 deadline in order for the exemptions to be granted and applied to the 2017 annual property taxes. Although applications are accepted year round, any approved application received after the April 3 deadline will be granted for the 2018 tax year.

DeKalb residents who owned and resided in their property on Jan. 1, 2017 may qualify for a Irvin J. Johnson basic homestead exemption. The homestead exemption, which provides a significant tax savings to homeowners, must be applied for in person, by mail or via the internet.

Exemptions are not automatically granted. Neither mortgage nor any other companies can file applications for property owners. By law, exemptions are not available for rental or commercial property and there is never a fee to file. Please note, if an exemption is in place, there is no need to re-apply; the exemption remains in place as long as you own and occupy the property.

In addition to the basic homestead exemption, there are special exemptions for citizens age 62 or older, disabled veterans, their widows or widowers, disabled residents, as well as for spouses of peace officers and firefighters killed in the line of duty. Applicant(s) for these special exemptions must apply in person so that required documentation can be reviewed. Senior or disability exemptions must present copies of the previous year’s federal and state income tax returns, all Social Security Form 1099s, proof of age and/ or proof of 100 percent total and permanent disability. Disabled veterans should also be prepared to provide a letter of adjudication or other documentation regarding disability or widow(er) status. If disabled, disability must be 100 percent permanent and total.

For more information, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/taxcommissioner or call the Tax Commissioner’s office at 404-298-4000.

Dominique Richardson receives life sentence for gunning down girlfriend A DeKalb County jury has convicted a man who shot his girlfriend and left her to die in the middle of the street, moments before she was run over by another vehicle. Jurors returned guilty verdicts against 27-year-old Dominque Richardson on charges of murder, felony murder, aggravated assault and possession of a firearm during the commission of a felony. Richardson was convicted of the shooting and subsequent death of 22-year-old Taylor Holcombe.

The incident happened on Oct. 24, 2015 at the intersection of Glenwood Road and Meadow Lane.

Dominque Richardson The two were riding in the victim’s car, when the defendant suddenly pulled a weapon on the victim as he drove. The victim jumped out of the car from the passenger seat in fear. After crashing into a pole, the defendant exited the vehicle and chased his girlfriend down the street, shooting her once in the back of the head as she tried to escape.

The victim collapsed in the roadway. She was fatally struck by another motorist while defendant Richardson ran back to the car and fled the scene. He was captured several days later at an apartment complex near Kensington Road.

The couple had dated less than two weeks prior to the victim’s death. Their brief relationship was marred by the defendant’s controlling and jealous behavior.

DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Mark Anthony Scott sentenced Richardson to life without the possibility of parole, plus five years in prison.

PAGE 6 •MARCH 25, 2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

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RCPS to send two students to FBLA Nationals

ockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) is proud to announce two students from the International Entertainment and Business Leadership Academy at Salem High School (SHS) – senior Gradea Harris and junior Demetrious Sampson – will compete at the national Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) competition in Anaheim, California this June. This is the first time RCPS students have advanced to the national FBLA stage in more than 14 years.

Gradea Harris won first place in Healthcare Administration, beating out 206 students at the state competition. She previously placed fifth in the same category at the regional level.

Demetrious Sampson won second place in Impromptu Speaking, succeeding 13 competitors at the state competition.

He previously won first place in the same category at the regional level.

Under the guidance of SHS Business Education teacher Karleta Sigman, 31 FBLA members, including Gradea and Demetrious, participated in

the regional FBLA competition and 29 participated in the state FBLA competition, which took place March 12-14.

“I am extremely proud of these students and Ms. Sigman,” says Tonya Bloodworth, Salem High School principal. “I am confident that both Gradea and Demetrious will do well in the national competition and will represent Salem High School and all of Rockdale County very well.”

Karleta reiterated how proud she is of her students and their achievements. “We are determined to grow our FBLA Chapter so that our students will continue to have experiences such as this one,” says Ms. Sigman. “The business department at Salem High is working to motivate and prepare students to realize their full potential. Ms. Bloodworth, our principal, encourages all teachers to take pride in molding our young adults to be better individuals, citizens and leaders.”

Under Ms. Sigman, an alumnus of FBLA, Salem’s

FBLA chapter has grown tenfold over the last four years, from 10 members in 2013 to about 100 members currently.

The chapter was recognized as the state conference as a “50 Member Club” for having more than 50 members.

A crowdfunding donation account has been created to help Gradea Harris and Demetrious Sampson make the 50,000 mile trip to California. If you would like to help, please go to www.rcpspartner. com.

Salem High School’s International Entertainment and Business Leadership Academy prepares students for the global workforce by completing rigorous courses of study along with two or more focused pathways.

Pathway offerings include film production, radio production and management, music production, and global studies with an emphasis on world languages. Along with their pathways, students have the opportunity to participate in dual enrollment courses with local area colleges and universities and/or work-based learning.

Brookwood High junior Christopher Smith elected to lead state FBLA

Christopher Smith, a junior at Brookwood High School in Gwinnett County, is the new state president of the Future Business Leaders of America(FBLA). As president for 2017-2018, Smith will lead the largest chapter in the nation with over 25, 000 members.

Smith was elected at the Georgia FBLA State Leadership Conference, which was held in Athens March 12-14.

In addition to his election as president, Christopher Smith Smith also received the Business Achievement Award-America Level and he placed ninth in “Website Design.“ His two teammates, Jayden Shepherd and Jeremiah Adeola, placed second in the “Emerging Business Issues” category, advancing to the national competition, which will be held in June in Anaheim, CA. Smith is the son of Solina and Archie Smith. Solina Smith is a marketing and social media strategist and Archie Smith is an insurance agent

(Pictured left to right) Salem High School International Entertainment and Business Leadership Academy students Gradea Harris, left, and Demetrious Sampson, right, with SHS Business Education teacher and FBLA advisor Karleta Sigman.

International Entertainment and Business Leadership Academy students will participate in Academy workshops featuring guest speakers from industry, business, and the community.

These workshops will provide students with the opportunity to enhance their leadership and communication skills, develop

business knowledge and abilities, and enhance their cultural understanding and appreciation.

Students will graduate ready to be 21st Century leaders in the business, entertainment, and global community. For more information, go to www.rockdaleschools.org/specialty.

Ten DeKalb 4-H students win public speaking honors

Ten DeKalb County 4-H members received honors in their project areas in the Northwest District Project Achievement competition held on March 10-12.

Twenty-three students represented the DeKalb Cooperative Extension’s 4-H club at the district competition at Rock Eagle 4-H Center, which attracted 275 middle school and 378 high school 4-H members from 36 competing counties in the Northwest District.

Senior District project winners include: • Ansley Lockett, Nia Morrison, and Artis Trice of Arabia Mountain High School, first place, food safety and preservation, environmental, and fruits, nuts and vegetable categories.

• Quan Usher of Columbia High and Evans Bryn of Greater Atlanta Christian School, first place, science, engineering and technology and human development categories.

• Amina Daugherty of DeKalb Early Learning College Academy, who place third and won a sweepstakes trip to state congress.

• Chante’ Lively, Arabia Mountain High School, third place, history.

• Carmen Mitchell, Druid Hills High, third place, public speaking.

• Dalean Thompson, Arabia Mountain High School, third place, environment.

• Christopher Terry, Stephenson High, third place, performing arts piano.

For information about joining DeKalb County’s 4-H program, contact the DeKalb Cooperative Extension Office at 404-298-4080 or visit www. ugaextension.com/DeKalb. 4-H is the youth program of the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.

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MARCH 25, 2017 • PAGE 7

Registration underway for DeKalb Senior Olympics DeKalb homeowners participating in Rent-to-Own Heating & Air Program DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will host the 31st

Annual DeKalb County Senior Olympics, May 1-10, at venues across the county. Participant registration is available through April 15.

Participants are encouraged to register as individuals or as teams and will compete in a variety of sports, including free-throw basketball, bowling, horseshoes, track and field, billiards, swimming, table tennis and water volleyball. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each event.

The DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games is open to all residents of DeKalb and surrounding counties. Online registration is available at www. dekalbcountyga.gov/parks by clicking Register Now on the home page, or registration packets are available at all recreation centers, libraries and select senior centers.

Seniors needing special assistance regarding transportation should call MARTA Mobility at 404-848-5389.

For more information about the DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games, contact 404-371-2711.

Rockdale County’s Johnson Park under renovation Rockdale County’s Johnson Park Recreation Center, at 1781 Ebenezer Road, Conyers, is undergoing renovation that is expected to take three months to complete.

The project, which began March 13, includes a facelift, new non-slip flooring, paint, and new carpet throughout the facility. It will also provide a new check-in counter in the reception area and a separation wall with controlled access to the gymnasium.

The pool area will also be renovated with new windows, a new pool deck, and new drains and grates. The gymnasium will receive new ventilation fans and the public restrooms will be renovated to be ADA compliant and to match the finishes of the newly renovated locker rooms.

The facility will remain open during renovations but two areas will be closed: • The public restrooms will be closed starting March 13, but the locker rooms will remain open.

• The pool will be closed from April 3 through April 21.

This project is funded through 2011 SPLOST dollars.

For more information, contact the facility at 770-278-7529.

During the first two months in business, the National Sustainable Energy Group (NSEG) has approved 321 homeowners for the Rent-To-Own, Heating and Air Conditioning Program in DeKalb County. The program still has about 1,170 slots available. We had to recruit additional heating and air contractors to keep pace with the call volume said Percy Brooks, CEO of the NSEG. Qualification for approval: Homeowner property taxes must be current.

Monthly payments range from $89.95 to $109.95, depending on the size of the heating and air-conditioning unit and upgrades. All Goodman heating and air units come with a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Approval and installation can be completed within 5 business days.

We are extremely honored to be able to assist so many homeowners that had given up on securing consumer financing to purchase a heating and air- conditioning unit. We view this alternative option as one of the finest in the country, said Brooks. I’m sure that we will exceed our goal of assisting 1,500 homeowners across the Metro Atlanta area.

We are expecting to see a record high of 50+ days of temperatures in the high 80s and 90s this summer season. Our goal is to improve the quality of life for homeowners. Our customer testimonials have been heartfelt, said Brooks.

The program meets the EPA requirements for the new R-410A refrigerant upgrades. It also improves the quality of life and increases property value for homeowners.

Our major objective is to share our program among the Faith-based community and Homeowners Associations (HOA’s) said Brooks.

“We needed an alternative option for homeowners with less than perfect credit, who paid their property taxes on time, but couldn’t obtain traditional consumer financing for heating & air service. We all hit speed bumps in life. Our typical client has lived in their home for an average of 12+ years,” said Brooks.

Energy improvements are among the most expensive home improvement projects for homeowners, said Brooks. There are over 120,000 homeowners without heating and air service and over 700,000 units working at 40 percent capacity or less. We see this as an excellent opportunity for homeowners to rent and relax.

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PAGE 8•MARCH 25,2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

MARTA rolls out 30-foot buses for enhanced neighborhood service

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he Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA) will roll out ten, 30-foot buses, offering right-sized service to neighborhoods with narrow and challenging roadways.

The recently purchased “Vicinity” buses will allow MARTA to better navigate Community Circulator routes located throughout MARTA’s service area. The first communities to see the new buses will include Belvedere, Boulder Park and Lovejoy and will expand “last mile connectivity.” Additionally, the new vehicles will also be used on routes with lighter ridership, such as Routes 56 and 192, until additional Community Circulator routes are introduced.

The superior turn radius, light curb weight, increased gas mileage and reduced cabin capacity makes the 30ft bus option ideal for traveling narrow roads while adequately addressing ridership demands. The new Vicinity buses, which seat 23 passengers and two on-board mobility aids, will replace both the full-size and repurposed Mobility buses, which currently serve MARTA’s Community Circulator routes.

“We are committed to creating more efficient transportation options for our customers. That means building a more highly layered, customized service model,” said MARTA GM/ CEO Keith Parker. “These new Vicinity vehicles allow our bus operators to

travel safely into neighborhoods where our standard fleet could not easily navigate while offering more space than our current Mobility bus options.”

The new buses, which are manufactured by Grande West Transportation and distributed locally by College Park-based Alliance Bus Group, are scheduled to be in service during the month of April.

MARTA’s 30-ft Bus Routes Route 800-Lovejoy/Justice Center Route 823-Belvedere/Decatur Route 865-Boulder Park (*new route*) Route 56-Adamsville Route 192-Justice Center/Tara Blvd./Old Dixie Road

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MARCH 25,2017 • PAGE 9

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PAGE 10•MARCH 25,2017 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM City of Stonecrest continued from page 1

self in the media spotlight refuting the mailer. His doctor confirmed that he does not have any mental health issues during a news conference, which was held on Monday. Lary said he had nothing to do with the mailer.

Lary said he would be sworn in as mayor once results are certified on March 27. by the DeKalb Board of Elections. Elections director Maxine Daniels said provisional ballots would be counted but she did not expect a significant change in the votes.

Lary said a public swearing-in ceremony for him, Jimmy Clanton, who was elected for the District 1 City Council seat, and Jazzmin Cobble, who was elected for District 3, is being planned for later and details will be forthcoming.

He said the location of City Hall has not yet been determined but several sites are under consideration. A temporary site, he said, will probably be used for about six months.

Meanwhile, Stonecrest candidates running for District 2, 4 and 5 City Council seats are headed for runoffs. The runoff elections will be held on April

18. The candidates need 50 plus one to win.

Runoffs: Rob Turner will face Plez Joyner in District 2; George Turner will face Mary-Pat Hector in District 4 and Diane Adoma will face Tammy Grimes in District 5.

Here’s a look at how the races stacked up (unofficial numbers, which must be certified): City of Stonecrest Elections, All Races, All 16 Precincts Ballots Cast 4,267 (13 percent) Registered Voters 32,831 Unofficial and Incomplete Mayor Jason Lary 2,204 (52.20) Charles Hill 1,664 (39.41 percent) Doug Favors 342 (8.10 percent) District 1 Jimmy Clanton 314 (65.97) Charles Ross 156 (32.77 percent)

Registration deadline for DeKalb’s Poetry Slam is April 7

In celebration of National Poetry Month in April, DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will host its second annual Poetry Slam on Friday, April 21, at 7 p.m., at Mason Mill Recreation Center, 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur.

DeKalb youth ages 5 to 17 can participate in the slam and must register by April 7.

The Poetry Slam features young poets and writers from DeKalb during a special evening that celebrates the power of words, music and the triumph of hope. Admission is $5.

To access online registration, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks and click the “Register Now” button on the department’s home page or register in person at any DeKalb recreation center.

For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, Recreation, and Parks and Cultural Affairs public relations specialist, at 404-371-3643 or lsdavis@dekalbcountyga.gov.

District 2 Rob Turner 184 (31.08 percent) Plez Joyner 179 (30.24) Alexis .Morris 150 (25.34 percent) Gretchen Torbet 75 (12.67 percent) District 3 Jazzmin Cobble 387 (66.15 percent) Eric Hubbard 196 (33.50 percent) District 4 George Turner 569 (37.98 [percent) Mary-Pat Hector 439 (29.31 percent) Geraldine Champion 118 (7.88 percent) Jay Cunningham 187 (12.48 percent) Jonathan Phillips 183 (12.22 percent) District 5 Diane Adoma 511 (48.21 percent) Tammy Grimes 427 (40.28 percent) Lloyd Morrison 55 (5.19 percent) Richard Stone 60 (0.66 percent)

Rep. Michele Henson to host “Take Back Your Community” Event State Rep. Michele Henson (D-Stone Mountain), along with Towers Action Group, Partners in Action for Healthy Living, Inc. and Belvedere East Lake Terrace, invite the community to attend “Take Back Your Community: Communities in Action!” on Tuesday, March 28, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., at Bethune Middle School, 5200 Covington Highway, Decatur.

The event will include presentations and a question-and-answer period with the DeKalb County Police Department and Tapestri Inc. To RSVP, contact Towers Action Group at: towersactionsgroupdekalb@ gmail.com.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS Hidden Figures continued from page 1

Ellis was cleared of corruption charges after a four-year battle that included two trials, an eight-month prison sentence and winning an appeal.

Steen Miles, politician and journalist, also received a special tribute. She was honored with a page in the program as the” 2017 Hidden Figure Spotlight.”

Miles, who is recovering from cancer, was unable to attend the Commissioner Gregory Adams and wife luncheon.

“I believe Steen Miles is one Jacqueline Adams Walker Seniors Dancers performed of the original Hidden Figures. I wanted to make sure she was honored. during the program.

Here are the 2017 Hidden Figures It was really her idea to do something on this level,” said Angela Moore who of DeKalb: Nadine Ali helped coordinate the program. “I Carrie Briscoe mentioned it to Commissioner Adams Carleen Cumberbatch and his wife and we just ran with it.”

Debra DeBerry Adams also honored his wife, Philippa Ellis Jacqueline, for her hard work, dedicaXernia Fortson tion and commitment.

Janel Green Adams stated the Hidden Figures Dr. Cynthia Hale of DeKalb awards program was a Teresa Hardy chance to honor women who have Tracy Hutchison aided in making DeKalb County Anne Lerner successful and for the public to “meet Dionne McGee women you don’t know who are beValerie J. Morgan hind the missions that you do.”

Jennifer Parker The movie is based on the Lena Render non-fiction book by Margot Lee ShetKelsi Queen-Robinson terly about African American matheKaterina Taylor maticians who worked at the National Myra Surratt-Walters Aeronautics and Space Administration (NAASA) during the Space Race.

Serenity Lemons, 14, and the Lou

MARCH 25,2017 • PAGE 11

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Celebrating the 148th Church Anniversary March 26,2017

Bridging The Past. Blessing The Present.

Birthing The Future.

Worship Services: Sunday, 7:30 am & 10:30 am 2152 Rock Chapel Rd., Lithonia, GA 30058 770-482-1277

www.antiochlithonia.org