VOLUME 22 NUMBER 24
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SEPTEMBER 17, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
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My Country ‘Tis of Thee
eorgia Piedmont Technical College hosted its 13th Annual Constitution Day and U.S. Citizenship Celebration in the DeKalb Campus Conference Center on Sept. 15. During the naturalization ceremony, GPTC President Jabari Simama helped present citizenship certificates to 16 candidates. Some of the students waved tiny American flags during the celebration. For more on the story, see page 8. Photos by Glenn L. Morgan
DeKalb: Conserve Georgia launches new app to assist parents with child support cases water during drought
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he Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) has launched a new child support app to assist customers with child support cases on their mobile devices. The GA DCSS mobile app allows customers to make child support payments, review payment history, view scheduled appointments, and receive notifications/alerts on important information regarding their cases. “Children need emotional and financial support from both parents,” said DHS Commissioner Robyn A. Crittenden. “The GA DCSS mobile app gives parents another avenue to meet their child support obligations. Ensuring children in our state are receiving much needed support from both parents helps build stronger families for a stronger Georgia.” Georgia is the first state to make a full service child support mobile app available to its customers. The GA DCSS app provides self-service options by allowing cus-
DeKalb County is urging residents to conserve water as many metro area areas are in a Level 1 drought and facing unusually dry conditions this year. Persistent dry conditions have prompted the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) to declare a Level 1 Drought Response in 53 counties, including DeKalb. “We are asking DeKalb County residents and business to proactively address these drought conditions by doing everything they can to conserve water,” said DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May. The DeKalb Department of Watershed Management urges residents to follow these watering restrictions set forth by the Georgia EPD, which states that outdoor watering should be limited to the hours between 4 p.m. and 10 a.m. to avoid the hottest part of the day when more evaporation occurs. There children in Georgia. are several exceptions, such as new plantings, listed at http:// The app is available epd.georgia.gov/water-conservation. In addition, DeKalb County is encouraging residents to on Apple and Android conduct a modified outdoor watering according to the odd/ devices and can be downeven schedule: loaded via the App Store Odd-numbered addresses to irrigate on Tuesdays, Thursor the Google Play Store. days and Sundays. The following keywords Even-numbered and unnumbered addresses to irrigate on can be used to find the Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. app to download: “DeKalb County supports the efforts of the Metropolitan • DCSS North Georgia Water Planning District and Georgia Envi• GA DCSS ronmental Protection Division in conserving our precious • Child Support resource of water,” stated Department of Watershed Director • Georgia Child Sup- Scott Towler. port Additionally, DeKalb County offers these tips to residents for saving water: • DHS • Use a rain gauge to determine how much rain has • DHS Child Supoccurred over the week before watering outdoor plants. Most port For more information outdoor plants need an inch of water per week. • Water lawns and plants in several short sessions on programs and services instead of one long session. This reduces runoff and allows within DHS Division of water to infiltrate into soil and plant roots. Child Support Services, • Water lawns only when needed. If the blades of grass please visit www.dcss. don’t bounce back after walking across the lawn, it is time to dhs.georgia.gov or call water. (More plants die from over watering than under wa1-844-MYGADHS (1tering.)Water lawns and plants in the early morning and late
tomers to securely access their child support case on a mobile device. It provides easy access to case details and general information about programs and services provided by DHS Division of Child Support Services (DCSS). “The mobile app is part of the overall effort in continuing to meet the needs of our customers where they are,” said Tanguler Gray, DCSS director. “Custodial and noncustodial parents are both able to access information or updates on their child support case in the palm of their hands.” In fiscal year 2016, an estimated $737 million in child support was distributed to more than 551,000 844-694-2347).
See Drought, page 8
PAGE 2 •SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
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SEPTEMBER 17,2016 • PAGE 3
Lead testing gets underway in DeKalb school district By Mackenzie N. Morgan
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arents will be receiving letters in the mail in the coming months regarding an extensive lead testing initiative being conducted at over 150 DeKalb County schools and facilities. In a news conference on Sept. 13, DeKalb County School District (DCSD) Superintendent Dr. Stephen Green, joined by the Director of DeKalb County Board of Health Dr. Elizabeth Ford and DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May announced plans to test the schools’ water supply for lead starting Sept. 20. The testing will be completed by Summer 2017. District officials said there is no evidence of water quality issues and that the inspection is being conducted as a cautionary measure. “We made a decision to take a proactive stance to ensure our water is safe for consumption,” said Green. The school district’s decision to conduct lead testing follows recent reports of elevated lead levels found in over half of Atlanta Public Schools last spring. APS tested school facilities after Flint, Michigan gained national attention after a state of emergency was declared after water sources were found to have high levels of toxicity. Due to an aging water system, dozens of school districts across the nation have started testing after dangerous levels have been discovered in other cities such as Portland, Chicago, Newark, and
Washington, D.C. The drinking water testing in DeKalb’s school district will sample all main water meters supplying buildings, kitchens, water fountains, bathroom sinks, ice machines, water sources in teacher lounges and athletic fields. Each location will be sampled twice to ensure EPA compliancy. School district officials stated that water sources will be disconnected should lead exposure be found. Students and faculty will be provided bottled water until the problem has been resolved. “If there is lead detected, then we’ll certainly be acting on that. It’s a matter of exposure, age…there’s a lot of factors that would determine how much risk there is,” said Dr. Ford, who is also a pediatrician. Environmental Protection Agency guidelines require action be taken if a sample indicates lead levels greater
than 15 parts per billion. According to the EPA, however, there is no safe level of lead in drinking water. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that school water fountains not exceed lead concentrations of 1 part per billion. The CDC says even low levels of lead in children’s blood can result in behavior and learning problems, lower IQ, slowed growth and other issues. No federal or Georgia law requires water in schools or daycare centers to be tested for lead. Atlanta is the only metro-area school district to test school drinking water system-wide. Atlanta Environmental Management, Inc. has been contracted to conduct the testing. Testing results will be made available online at www.dekalbschoolsga.org/lead-testing. Parents will also receive testing results via letters from their children’s schools.
Two suspects arrested in murder of Aromsuk Somohot DeKalb County Police homicide detectives have arrested 23-year-old Jarvis Stanford and 20-yearold Imani Burns and charged both with Murder and Armed Robbery in the armed robbery and shooting death of 33-year-old Aromsuk Somohot. Aromsuk Somohot was leaving the Mai Thai restaurant at 4394 Hugh Howell Road on Sept. 10, 2016 when he was robbed and shot to death. Detectives investigating the case were able to identify the shooter as Jarvis Stanford. Imani Burns was identified as the vehicle driver. Burns and Stanford were arrested Sept. 14. Both are currently being held at the DeKalb County Jail.
Jarvis Stanford
Imani Burns
Conyers seeks female serial robber Conyers Police Department and Crime Stoppers are offering an increased reward of $5,000 for any tips leading to the arrest of a female serial robber. The female shown has committed three armed robberies in DeKalb (2 CVS’s) and Conyers (Walgreens). During her first robbery she brandished a revolver, pointed it directly at the cashier and robbed her of cash from the register. She is considered armed and dangerous. Any information leading to the arrest of the suspects may result in a cash reward of up to $5,000.00. Tipsters will remain anonymous and are asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or text: CSA + your tip to CRIMES (274637)
PAGE 4•SEPTEMBER 17,2016
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DeKalb Medical Hillandale celebrates National Women’s Health and Fitness Day
Coming Up
In recognition of National Women’s Health and Fitness Day, DeKalb Medical Hillandale is hosting a free women’s health event Thursday, Sept. 22, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Hillandale Radiation Oncology Theatre, 2745 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia. Moms, sisters, and best friends are invited to learn more about what it means to have a healthy state of mind and body and what practical steps a person can take to improve their physical and mental health. An expert panel of doctors and clinicians will offer information on a wide range of women’s health topics such as healthy aging, breast cancer, fitness and nutrition, heart health and stroke, menopause and more. The event kicks off with refreshments from 6 to 6:30 p.m. followed by the doctors’ panel and Q&A from 6:30-8 p.m. Admission is free. Registration is encouraged. Call 404-501-WELL (9355) or visit www.dekalbmedical.org.
Join the fun at Heart of South DeKalb Festival on Sept. 24
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he 2016 Heart of South DeKalb Festival will take place on Saturday, Sept. 24, in the parking lot of the Gallery at South DeKalb Mall, 2801 Candler Road, Decatur. The parade kicks off the daylong event at 8:30 a.m. with a motorcade, high school bands and other participants leaving from New Life Church and ending at the mall. DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson, presiding officer of the Board of Commissioners, says the event showcases the best of South DeKalb and he is encouraging the community to come out and support the event. In addition to the parade, the event will include a kids’ zone, car/ motorcycle showcase, entertainment and performances, S.T.E.M./STEP competition, food trucks and other vendors, DJ and band, giveaways, health screenings and a job fair. Sponsors to date: Discover DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau; DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court Debra Deberry; QuickTrip; D&K Suit City; Judge JP Boulee; Judge Mike Jacobs; State Rep. Rahn Mayo; Bojangles (Panola Road); Wells Fargo; BB&T; PNC Bank; New Life Church; Women of AT&T Foundation; DeKalb Public Library; Benoit Group; Planet Fitness; Waffle House and Knight Dental (Snapfinger Road). For sponsorships, vending and advertising opportunities, contact Paula Tate, festival coordinator, at hosd13@yahoo.com or 404-683-3599.
ATLANTA
Atlanta History Center to host swanky costume party The Atlanta History Center is hosting “Party in Good Taste” on Friday, Sept. 23, 6:30 p.m., at the Atlanta History Center, 130 West Paces Ferry Road NW, Atlanta. This swanky affair gives after-hours access to Swan House’s temporary exhibit, Fashion in Good Taste, which explores Atlanta’s past through fashion from the 1920s through the 1960s. Mingle with costumed interpreters in historic Swan House, enjoy a complimentary cocktail and hors d’oeuvres and dance the night away with a special performance by Atlanta band Dot.s and DJ Double Nil. To celebrate Fashion in Good Taste, guests are encouraged to choose a decade from the 1920s to the 1960s and dress to impress in costume. There will be a contest with prizes for the best of each decade, so get your costume ready. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 day of event. Ticket includes one complimentary beverage and heavy hors d’oeuvres. Proceeds benefit the museum’s free bi-monthly Party With the Past event. For more information, visit www.atlantahistorycenter.com or call 404-814-4000. .DEKALB
Voices of Faith to host fun-filled youth rally Join Voices of Faith’s mentoring ministry, The Daughters of Faith, at the “Transforming Lives – Taking Back Our Youth” rally on Saturday, Sept. 24, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at Voices of Faith Ministries, 2500 Rockbridge Road, S.W., Stone Mountain. The fun-filled day will include guest speakers, food, music, vendors, entertainment, games, giveaways and raffles. Admission is free.
GWINNETT
Atlanta Korean Festival to present free extravaganza The 2016 Atlanta Korean Festival will be held Sept. 16-18, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the Korean Community Center, 5900 Brook Hollow Parkway, Norcross. Enjoy live K-Pop performances, a Michael Jackson tribute, the Atlanta Philharmonic, Korean film, wrestling and an abundance of free food at this year’s Atlanta Korean Festival. The event is free and open to the public.
Chair Tai Chi for seniors and Parkinson’s patients Seniors 50 years of age and older are invited to practice Tai Chi Friday, Sept. 23, 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. The slow-paced workshop suited for seniors uses a chair to help seniors improve their balance to prevent falls. Join Yellow River Center, member of the PD Gladiators Metro Atlanta Fitness Network, for this specially-designed program. The cost is $5 per class. Ten classes recommended, but not required. The classes run every Friday until Dec. 16. Register online at www.pdgladiators.org. For more information, call 404786-4650.
NEWTON/ROCKDALE
Rotary Club presents Conyers craft beer festival The Rotary Club of Rockdale presents the Conyers Craft Beer Fest on Saturday, Sep. 24, 1-5 p.m., at the Olde Town Pavilion, 949 South Main Street, Conyers. Admission is $25 prior to Sept. 17 and $35 thereafter. For tickets, sponsorship opportunities and more information, email info@conyersbeerfest.com.
Rockdale County Extension to host fall festival, plant sale The 12th Annual Master Gardener Extension Volunteer Plant Sale & Festival is Saturday, Sept. 24, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Rockdale County Extension Office, 1400 Parker Road SE, Lobby A, Conyers. The free event offers fun for the entire family and will include a local artisan crafts market, children’s activities, food and drinks and a plethora of plants for sale such as perennials, shrubs, roses, trees, mums and more. Experts will offer a variety of demonstrations on cooking, canning, herbal infusions and cheese making. Attendees can also take tips from Rockdale County Master Gardeners on plant propagation, creating a butterfly garden, flower arrangement and even how to become a master gardener. The event is rain or shine. For more information, contact the Rockdale County Extension Office at 770278-7373.
Coming Up is compiled by Mackenzie N Morgan. Event details may change at any time. Please always 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. Calendar events are published weekly as space permits.
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AARP South DeKalb Chapter to present Senior Safety Day
Seniors are encouraged to mark their calendars and attend the Senior Safety Day presented by AARP South DeKalb Chapter #5334. The free event will be held Saturday, Sept. 24, 1 to 4 p.m., at Holy Cross Episcopal Church, 2005 S. Columbia Place (corner McAfee Road). There will be displays and presentations on police and fire safety, emergency preparedness and home security. Experts also will be on hand to discuss financial scams, identity and medical identity theft restoration, avoiding legal, housing and emotional problems. Light refreshments will be served.
DWD, Safe Kids DeKalb to host Baby Safety Shower
DeKalb Workforce Development (DWD), Safe Kids DeKalb County and Amerigroup are partnering to host a baby safety shower on Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at DWD’s office located at 774 Jordan Lane, Bldg. 4, Decatur. Participants will learn about various topics such as car seat safety, poison prevention and household hazards, and will receive one-on-one career development and advisement from DWD and various partner agencies. The event also will feature prizes, games and refreshments. “This unique event shows how DeKalb County agencies can collaborate on projects and provide opportunities for citizen empowerment,” DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May said. DWD serves eligible out-of-school youth ages 16-24 by offering comprehensive counseling and guidance in order to strengthen academic achievement and soft-skills development while identifying career development and training opportunities.
Rockdale Parks and Recreation Commission to meet
The next meeting of the Rockdale County Parks and Recreation Commission will be held on Sept. 19, 5 p.m., at Johnson Park recreational facility, 1781 Ebenezer Road, Conyers. This meeting is open to the public.
Gwinnett Water Resources to host Yellow River cleanup
Join the Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources on Saturday, Sept. 17, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., for its first annual Yellow River Trash Bash. The event will consist of a land, shore, and river cleanup, and it is open to all ages. The first 100 participants will receive a free inaugural T-shirt. Here are some things to remember before you come: • Wear long pants and closed-toe-shoes. • Waivers will be available on the day of the event. • Experienced kayakers and canoers are welcome, but pre-registration is required. • A celebration bash will take place after the event at Yellow River Park. For more information or to register, visit www.gwinnettH2O.com
Job fair set at Conyers-Rockdale Library Sept. 22
The Conyers Rockdale Library System is partnering with the Georgia Department of Labor, Rockdale-Chamber of Commerce and the Conyers-Rockdale Economic Development Council to host a job fair at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2 to 4 p.m. More than 20 employers will be in attendance and actively seeking local talent. The job fair will be held in the lower level library meeting room. The library is located at 964 Green St., Conyers. Register today at the Adult Services desk or call 770-388-5040, ext. 118.
Yellow River Paddle & Jam set for Oct. 1 Join the Georgia Conservancy and the Yellow River Water Trail for a peaceful 7-mile paddle on the Yellow River and music festival, Saturday, Oct. 1, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Porterdale Train Depot 2001 Main St., Porterdale. Play and picnic along the way while drifting through quiet wooded areas. Enjoy close encounters with some of the locals such as blue herons, kishfishers turtles, deer and otters. This lazy section of river is shallow, sandy-bottomed and slow—great for kids, newbies, and anyone who wants to kick back. Park your boat and grab some craft beer and food at the music festival. For more information or to make reservations, visit www.georgiaconservancy. org/yellowriver.
SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 • PAGE 5
Learn how to polish your interview skills for your next job
Need a job? Haven’t interviewed in years? The Nancy Guinn Memorial Library in Conyers is hosting a seminar to prepare you for your job search. The seminar will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., to help you update your skills. Learn about communication and interview etiquette, resume tips, pre-interview steps, presentation style, and how to answer those tricky interview questions. The seminar will be presented by P&A Training Solutions in the lower level library meeting room. Attend this seminar and earn an Early Entry Certificate for the job fair, which will be held at the library on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2 to 4 p.m. Those who attend the seminar will be permitted to enter the job fair one hour before the general public and meet with employers. Register today at the Adult Services desk or call 770-388-5040, ext. 118.
Fall enrichment camp registration open in Rockdale Registration is open for 2016 Fall Intersession Enrichment Camps now until Sept. 23 for any student in Rockdale County, grades 2-8. Whether your child is an artist, tech maven, dancer or future star there’s something for everyone. The camps run Oct. 3-6, 7:45 a.m. - 11:45 a.m., during Rockdale County Public Schools’ Fall Intersession, which runs Oct. 3-7. The camps will be held at Rockdale Career Academy, 1064 Culpepper Road, Conyers. Parents must register and pay the $50 camp fee by Sept. 23, at the RCPS Office of Teaching and Learning, 1143 West Ave., Conyers, during office hours of 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Please ask for Holly Franklin. This semester’s camps are: Recycled Creations (grade 2), Dance Experience (grades 3-5), Create Your Own Computer Program (grades 3-5), Film Making: 3,2,1, Action! (grades 6-8). To download the registration forms, visit www.rockdaleschools.org/enrichmentcamp or stop by the RCPS Office of Teaching and Learning, 1143 West Ave., M-F, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., or contact Holly Franklin at hfranklin@ rockdale.k12.ga.us . Online fee payment is now available with a $3 surcharge at http://rcareeracad.corecommerce.com.
PAGE 6 •SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Your Voice, Your Vote Elections 2016
Rockdale-Newton League of Women Voters to host political forum
The Rockdale-Newton League of Women Voters will host a political forum on Thursday, Oct 13, 6 to 10 p.m, at the Rockdale Auditorium, 909 North Main Street, Conyers. We are inviting all qualified candidates, state and local, with opposition in the Nov. 8 election. For more information, call Allene Eatman at 678 413-9520.
MARTA to observe National Voter Registration Day Sept. 27 In observance of National Voter Registration Day, MARTA will host organizations that will be conducting voter registration activities on Tuesday, Sept. 27, at the Five Points Station. Registration activities will take place from 9 a.m. to noon and from 3 to 7 p.m. Space is limited and will be allotted to organizations on a first-come, firstserve basis. In order to participate in this non-partisan event, interested organizations must register in advance. Approved organizations will also be allowed to register voters at MARTA’s end-of-line stations: College Park, Doraville, H. E. Holmes, Kensington and North Springs. Voter registration activities must not interfere with MARTA customers entering and exiting the station or impede the flow of customers in bus loops, at bus stops, on trains and buses or rail platforms. No amplifiers or bullhorns are allowed and voter registration volunteers and staff are strictly prohibited from soliciting campaign donations or advertising their affiliation with any candidate. Each participating organization or agency will be responsible for bringing the voter registration applications and any required forms from the county registrar’s office or the office of the Georgia Secretary of State. Organizations/agencies interested in participating in National Voter Registration Day should contact Toni Thornton-Sanford, Community Outreach Planner, at 404.848.5423 or tthornton@itsmarta.com, by 3 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 23.
Gwinnett voters ballots can be cast early The General Election will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 8 at all polling locations in Gwinnett County. The deadline to register to vote and be eligible to cast a ballot in the election is Tuesday, Oct. 11. There are several opportunities to vote before the election date, so take note of the dates below: Advance Voting (Main Office): Oct. 17 - 28: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Oct. 31 – Nov. 4: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday Voting (Main Office): Oct. 22: 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Oct. 29: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Satellite Voting: Oct. 29: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Oct. 31-- Nov. 4: 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Seven satellite locations will be open: Bogan Park Community Recreation Center in Buford, Dacula Park Activity Building in Dacula, George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center in Suwanee, Lenora Park Activity Room in Snellville, Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center in Norcross, Mountain Park Activity Building in Stone Mountain, and Shorty Howell Park Activity Building in Duluth. For more information, visit www.gwinnettelections.com.
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DDS urges voters to prepare documents early
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o ensure a smooth process when casting a ballot on Nov. 8, now is the time to ensure you have proper photo identification. “Don’t wait until Election Day to realize your driver’s license or identification card is missing,” said DDS Commissioner Bert Brantley. “Tuesdays are always the busiest days at our DDS centers. Add to that the extra customers who need photo IDs before the polls close, and that is a recipe for significant wait times.” DDS is planning on deploying additional staff to its busiest centers on Election Day to assist customers as quickly as possible. However, there is no reason to wait until that day. Replacing a lost license, changing an address and checking the best times to visit in person can all be done on the DDS Online Services webpage https://online.dds.ga.gov/ onlineservices/ or from the homepage at www.dds.ga.gov. If you must visit in person, use the Skip A Step! DDS Online feature to complete and submit your required paperwork before you arrive. It will save valuable time during your visit. Poll workers will accept a valid or an expired Georgia driver’s license or State Identification Card (provided it’s expired no more than one year). They also will accept the DDS Interim (temporary) license and/ or ID which is issued at the center before the laminated card is mailed to you. However, DDS urges everyone to keep their driver’s license and/or ID Card valid and current – including making any changes to a name or address as soon as possible. For voters who don’t drive or have any other type of acceptable photo identification, DDS can issue a Voter Identification Card for Voting Purposes. Customers apply in person at any DDS location and present documentation to prove identity, residency and proof of voter registration. For a list of other acceptable voter identification visit the Secretary of State MyVoter Page (MVP) to review voter requirements, verify that you are a registered voter, locate your assigned polling place and more at www.sos.ga.gov or https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/back2HomePage. For complete driver licensing and testing information, visit the DDS website at www.dds.ga.gov.
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SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 • PAGE 7
DeKalb Workforce teams up with Fulton Workforce Development to host second MARTA bus Wipro for hiring event
DeKalb Workforce Development (DWD) is partnering with Wipro Business Process Services for a direct hiring event on Tuesday, Sept. 20, 9 a.m. to noon. The hiring event will take place at the DWD office, located at 774 Jordan Lane, Bldg. 4, Decatur. Thirty jobs will be filled. Wipro Business Process Services, a part of Wipro Ltd. (NYSE:WIT), a leading global information technology, consulting and business process services company, will hire for the following jobs during the event:
operator recruitment
The Fulton County Workforce Development Division continues to collaborate with MARTA on bus operator recruitments. MARTA wants customer-focused applicants to apply for this opportunity. To apply for bus operator positions, applicants must: • Create an applicant profile @ www.itsmarta.com and apply for the Bus Operator position. Submit applications by Friday, September JOB TITLE QUALIFICATIONS 23, 2016 • Send an email to Jason.Lane@fultoncountyga.gov following Call center experience required for all positions application submission. The email must include the name and phone Customer Service Agent . number of the applicant with MARTA BUS OPERATOR in the sub$12 per hour) Six months proven call center experience, health care ject line industry preferred; high school diploma/GED equivalent. • Wait for further instructions indicating that they can move forward in the application process. Candidates must pass customer service ProveIt assessment. • Be at least 21 years old • Pass all pre-employment background screenings related to the Technical Support Agent bus operator position (Customer Service test and Physical Exam which include drug and alcohol testing) ($12 per hour) At least one year of experience in diagnosing and re• Possess excellent customer service skills pairing PCs or consumer electronics. Proficient to advanced computer skills • Meet all applicable licensing requirements in Microsoft and Mac, including Microsoft Office. Excellent interpersonal, written and oral communications skills. Additionally, a valid Georgia Class ~A~ or ~B~ CDL driver’s license or GA CDL permit is required with a Passenger Endorsement. Candidates must pass technical support ProveIt assessment. If candidates do not have the required licensing, they may visit the Professional dress, resume and photo ID required for consideration. Department of Motor Vehicles to test for the Passenger Endorsement. Candidates must provide proof that they passed the test. Successful candidates will start in their new positions over the next few Applicants who meet selection requirements will be notified by weeks. MARTA and invited to an interview at the Adamsville Career Center. During previous Wipro hiring events, approximately 240 jobseekers were interviewed and more than 150 candidates received employment offers The Adamsville Career Center is part of the Workforce Development on the spot. The positions filled included full-time customer service agents Division of the Department of Housing and Community Developand technical support agents. ment. The Career Center is located within the Adamsville Regional Health Center at 3700 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Atlanta.
PAGE 8 •SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
GPTC recognizes 16 new U.S. citizens at annual citizenship celebration
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eorgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) and immigration officials congratulated 16 candidates during the college’s 13th Annual Constitution Day and U.S. Citizenship Celebration. The Sept. 15 naturalization ceremony was conducted by Brett Rinehart, Director, Atlanta Field Office of the GPTC President Jabari Simama. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security. “Conducting the ceremony in Clarkston, which is one of the largest refugee re-settlement areas in the country, makes today’s ceremony even more meaningful,” said GPTC President Jabari Simama. “Our college benefits by being in such a vibrant community of people bringing their traditions and multi-national experiences with them. Last year, more than 1,825 students enrolled in our free English language classes. More than 100 languages are spoken by students who attend our college,” he continued. Before the candidates crossed the stage to be recognized, Director Rinehart expressed his enthusiasm for his role in the ceremony and discussed the significance of holding the event at Georgia Piedmont. “As director of the Atlanta Field Office of USCIS, I never get tired of administering this oath. Last year in Georgia, our agency naturalized approximately 23,000 new citizens in Georgia, and so far this year that number has jumped to more than 25,000,” he said. “We’re glad to hold a naturalization event here, as Georgia Piedmont is known for educating a diverse student body. I’m glad to be here on this campus for the ceremony, because education makes us all better Americans.” In addition to recognizing the 16 candidates for citizenship, three students who attend Georgia Piedmont also were honored for becoming U.S. citizens earlier in the year. Diane Hunter, English as a Second Language (ESL) Coordinator at Georgia Piedmont, welcomed Jorge Baculima from Ecuador; Helen Min Huo from China; and Letberhan Gebremariam from Eritrea. Dr. Tony Nnabue, Supervisory Immigration Services Officer with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services, Department of Homeland Security, facilitated the program. Each candidate was given a certificate after Director Rinehart administered the oath of allegiance Ravin Sijapati, one of the candidates from Nepal, said, “I am really excited about becoming a U.S. citizen. My mother and my sister were also naturalized here today, and we are very appreciative to the U.S. Government for allowing us to become citizens of this wonderful nation.”
Drought continued from page 1
evening. • Check for water leaks inside and outside and repair when found. • Shorten showers and turn off water when shaving or brushing teeth. • Fill dishwashers and washing machines to ensure there is a full load every time. • Sweep hard surfaces such as streets, sidewalks and driveways instead of washing. Throughout the duration of the Level 1 Drought Response, DeKalb will be sending out regular updates on the status of the drought and water conservation information via mainstream and social media channels. For more information on the latest drought status, go to www.northgeorgiawater.org and click on “Latest Water Stats.”
Monday Night Madness w/Mix Master Mitch @8-close (Football)
Tuesday Community Day-10% discount to all Dekalb County Employees Wanna BE Wednesday-Karakoe
Sunday-JRL Tailgate Party
$2 cheese pizza $.50 wings $2 shots $3 beers We offer happy hour Monday-Friday
Thursday-Football Thursdays/ Open Mic w/Casual Cal
4:00-8:00pm $2 off all drinks and appetizers
Friday-Flash Back Friday w/Mix Master Mitch Ross Brothers Band (9-close) $5 Fish sandwich w/fries
Open at 11:00am $7 Lunch specials Monday-Friday 11-3
Saturday Brunch & Birthdays $10 Brunch Specials
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SEPTEMBER 17,2016 • PAGE 9
On Common Ground News presents Peabo Bryson in concert
O
n Common Ground News (OCG) presented Peabo Bryson in concert at the Lithonia Amphitheater on Sept. 10. Concert goers danced and partied as the R&B artist sang and played some of their favorite hit songs. Although Peabo headlined the event, violinist Brook Alford and Heather Hayes and the Experience put on a great show as well. OCG gifted VIPs with bottles of champagne. Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson honored the newspaper, which celebrated its 22 anniversary, and Peabo during the show.
Congressman Hank Johnson and his wife, DeKalb County Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, presented a proclamation to Peabo. The concert benefited drummer and producer JFly’s How Big is Your Dream Foundation. The foundation provides mentoring and training programs for young people who are interested in the entertainment business. More photos on On Common Ground News official facebook page
PAGE 10•SEPTEMBER 17,2016
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Free Grief Counseling Workshop Every Thursday
September 8th, 15th, 22nd and 29th at 6pm at Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory, Inc. Rockdale Chapel 1999 Hwy 138 SE, Conyers, GA 30013
Don’t miss this free opportunity to speak with
Dr. Anita Green CEO of the Grief Circle
Come and fellowship with light refreshments and meet other people on the same journey of healing. For more information call (404) 294-5500 www. l e v e t t f u n e r a l h o m e . com
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SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 • PAGE 11
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Services Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs. A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters. Call for free estimates at 404-281-6503
RESTAURANTS
For Rent
King Chef Kitchen
2 BR,2.5 BA, Condo, 6016 Regent Manor, off Hillandale Drive, Lithonia. Call 770-482-6122 or 404-545-5851
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Classifieds $25 Call 678-526-1910
770-484-3355 2910 EVANS MILL ROAD, LITHONIA, GA
WEEKLY LUNCH SPECIAL
NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE The Rockdale County Board of Commissioners has tentatively adopted a 2016 millage rate which will require an increase in property taxes by 4.09 percent. This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 20.19 mills, an increase of 0.59 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 19.4 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $100,000 is approximately $50.15 and the proposed tax increase for non-homestead property with a fair market value of $300,000 is approximately $177.00. Pursuant to O.C.G.A. §48-5-32, public hearings relative to the millage rate will be held. Those public hearings will be as follows: Friday, September 23, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. in the Assembly Hall located at 901 Main Street, Conyers, Georgia 30012. Tuesday, September 27, 2016 at 8:30 a.m. in the Assembly Hall located at 901 Main Street, Conyers, Georgia 30012. Further, the Rockdale County Board of Commissioners will hold a Called Meeting on Tuesday, September 27, 2016 at 9:30 a.m. for the purposes of setting the 2016 Millage Rate. This meeting will be held in the Assembly Hall located at 901 Main Street, Conyers, Georgia 30012.
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PAGE 12 •SEPTEMBER 17, 2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM