VOLUME 22 NUMBER 30
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OCTOBER 29, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Anthem Inc. to create False report leads to arrest of Jeffrey Breedlove, DeKalb Commissioner Nancy Jester’s top aide 1,800 IT jobs in effrey Breedlove, DeKalb it would be from the man in the Midtown Atlanta County Commissioner room. No drugs were found in the
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Tom Miller, senior VP
ATLANTA – Anthem, Inc., one of the nation’s largest health benefits companies, will create 1,800 information technology(IT) jobs in Midtown Atlanta and invest more than $20 million in the community over the next six years, officials have announced. Anthem’s new facility will be located at the Bank of America Plaza, allowing for close collaboration between the IT hub and the Anthem Innovation Studio that recently opened in Tech Square, officials said. “I am excited that Anthem has chosen Atlanta for its consolidated IT business, where the company will have access to a base of highly skilled workers and a thriving business community focused on building for the future,” said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. “This move demonstrates that Atlanta is the region’s leader in technology and IT talent. This year alone three major Fortune 500 companies have established IT and innovation centers in our city.” Gov. Nathan Deal praised Anthem for its investment. “As Georgia continues to grow its reputation as the nation’s top destination for the health IT industry, major companies like Anthem continue to strategically position themselves here,” said Deal. “Georgia’s qualified workforce and the collaborative partnerships on both state and local levels will allow Anthem to improve customer outreach while maintaining its competitive edge on a national scale. We value See IT Jobs, page 11
NancyJester’s chief of staff, is facing felony charges after falsely telling police he was held against his will in a motel room during a bizarre incident in which he admitted he was a crack cocaine addict and tried to convince police not to arrest him. Breedlove, 49, was arrested on Monday, Oct. 24, at the Budget Inn and Suites on Memorial Drive. DeKalb County Police found him inside Room 222 with a 26-year-old man and an 18-year-old woman. Police were responding to a call that someone needed help and that a gun was at the location. The officers ended up arresting Breedlove on charges of filing a false imprisonment report, a felony, and taking statements from him in which he admitted that he was addicted to crack cocaine. Breedlove allegedly told police that “theoretically speaking” if he bought crack,
room, however, and the man and the woman were not charged in the incident, police said. According to the police report, Breedlove said he owed the man $200 and intended to give him an American Express card worth $2,700. He allegedly asked the officer if he could “make this go away,” telling him if he needed anything from him, he would do it. said. Breedlove said he was a “very important person,” the chief of staff for DeKalb County Commissioner Nancy Jester, the police report said. Jester could not be reached for comment, but told CBS 46 that she had fired Breedlove immediately upon learning he had made a false report to police and was arrested. The television station said Jester issued the following statement: “I do not condone or tolerate lack of performance in an employee and I have taken swift and immedi-
Jeffery Breedlove
ate action regarding this situation. I look forward to moving forward to continue to add value to the citizens of District 1 and all of DeKalb.” Breedlove’s arrest surprised many in the community. Recently, he had sent out several news releases on behalf of Jester criticizing DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson and ICEO Lee May for not See Crack addiction, page 2
DeKalb’s Hank Stewart to be saluted As Poet Laureate
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eKalb County resident Hank Stewart, who is celebrating 25 years as a poet and community servant, will be honored as Poet Laureate by Congressman Hank Johnson and DeKalb ICEO Lee May. Atlanta City Councilman Michael Julian Bond also will be among community leaders and friends who will pay tribute to Stewart on Monday, Nov. 7, 5 p.m., at Atlanta City Hall. Stewart, who is the author of seven books, will release a new work,“25 Years and Still Counting,” during the celebration. The new book highlights Stewart’s 25-year journey, recapturing some of his favorite poems, the lives he has touched with his messages, an overview of his awards and special moments during this quarter of his life. The icon has worked with many prominent officials over the years. Stewart has recited his poems for First Lady Michelle Obama; the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson; former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin; the Rev. Hosea Williams; and Dr. Joseph E. Lowery, civil rights leader. Stewart also has performed for Ruby Dee, Johnny Cochran, Harry Belafonte, Xernona Clayton and Ambassador Andrew Young. Singer, actress, Jill
Scott says “Hank Stewart’s poems get all up in your bones.” Stewart has been called a catalyst for action and a messenger of hope. A devout Christian, he considers spirituality, history and love as his major influences for delving into the world of literature. “As one would expect, my (life) experiences have had a great influence on the poetry I write and perform. Poetry has helped me to deal with many issues,” says Hank, who released his first book titled, “The Answer” in 1993. Stewart has perHank Stewart formed spoken word at the Trumpet Awards Against the Call,” a breast cancer and Essence Music Fesawareness initiative that has raised tival. He has written and performed more than $100,000. He also is d commercials for the McDonald founder of the Annual White Linen Corporation called “365 BLACK,” Affair, Hot Chocolate, Love Jones and African American poetic rendiSundays and Five Men on a Stool. tion commercials for WAGA TV in Stewart is a member of the Board Atlanta, which earned him an Emmy, Promax and Gabby awards. Stewart is the founder of “Walk See Hank Stewart, page 10
PAGE 2 •OCTOBER 29, 2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
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OCTOBER 29, 2016 • PAGE 3
DeKalb Pastors Alliance to hold prayer vigil on Election Night By Mackenzie N. Morgan
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fter the polls close on Election Day, Dr. Steven N. Dial, Sr. of Rainbow Park Baptist Church in South DeKalb County will begin preparing for a new chapter that will not only include a new leader for our nation but also a new CEO for DeKalb County. Dial and the DeKalb Pastors Alliance, a group of 11 South DeKalb pastors, plan to hold a prayer vigil from 11 p.m. to midnight on Nov. 8, Election Day, on the steps of the DeKalb County Courthouse in downtown Decatur. “I do believe this is the most important election of our lifetime,” said Dial, referring to the fact that the new President will either be the nation’s first woman, Democrat Hillary Clinton, or one of the most controversial Republican nominees, Donald Trump. “As clergy, we have to be proactive and pray for our newly-elected officials. We vote, but at the end of the day, God is in control,” said Dial, who heads the DeKalb Pastors Alliance. Formed in 2013, the coalition of pastors and churches goal is to bring biblical and practical solutions to DeKalb County, Dial said. The Pastors Alliance includes
Bishop Quincy Carswell, The Covenant Church; Rev. Micheal Benton, Fairfield Baptist Church; Dr. Cynthia Hale, Ray of Hope Christian Church; Dr. William E. Flippin, Sr. and Dr. Richard Flippin, Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church; Pastor Karl D. Moore, Clarkston First Baptist Church; Pastor Marlin D. Harris, New Life Church; Apostle Collette L. Gunby, Green Pastures Christian Ministries; Bishop Eddie Long, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church; and Dr. Kerwin B. Lee, Berean Christian Church. “These dedicated pastors are seeking to be a voice in the community to help people grow spiritually, educationally, socially, economically and politically,” Dial said. “The pastors understand the spiritual and practical battles facing our community and want the public to aid them in combating key issues facing the citizens of DeKalb County.” Dial says the election of local leaders is as critical as choosing leaders for the nation. “Whoever is DeKalb’s next CEO has to be held accountable. We can’t keep talking about the problem and it can’t just be business as usual,” said Dial. “Our prayer—my prayer—for the next CEO is vision.” The Alliance invites the
Dr. Steven Dail
community to come out for the prayer vigil. Dial said the group is bi-partisan and welcomes people from across DeKalb, regardless of their political party. The vigil will be held at 556 N. McDonough Street, in downtown Decatur. To learn more about the DeKalb Pastors Alliance and get more information on the about the prayer vigil, visit www.dekalbpastorsalliance. com or email dekalbpastorsalliance@ gmail.com. Dr. Steven N. Dial, Sr., executive director, can be reach at 404-288-1910.
Former DeKalb schools superintendent Dr. Robert Freeman is remembered
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hose in the DeKalb County School District who knew Dr. Robert R. Freeman as superintendent for 16 years simply called him “Bob.” It fit the gentleman cowboy’s modest style. “Bob was my mentor. He was my friend,” said Dr. Melvin Johnson, chairman of the DeKalb County (Georgia) Board of Education. “He was one of the most influential people in my life.” Dr. Freeman passed away at age 84 on Oct. 21 in Alpharetta, Georgia, a north-Atlanta suburb. Born in Jordan, Montana in 1931, Dr. Freeman brought the lessons of a Western upbringing to a long career in education. “He had a deep belief in self-reliance and on people being true to themselves,” Dr. Johnson said. “But he also believed that teamwork and shared goals led to success.” As a young man, Freeman ex-
celed as an athlete, earning 10 varsity letters in high school sports – football, basketball, and track. After four years of service in the United States Air Force, he played a freshman year of basketball at Indiana University in 1954. With a Doctor of Education degree from Indiana University in 1965, Dr. Freeman began a 43-year career as a teacher, administrator, superintendent, and consultant. He guided systems as a school superintendent in Menominee, Michigan; Mishawaka, Indiana; Muncie, Indiana; and Pueblo, Colorado. Dr. Freeman capped his long career with the superintendent’s post at the DeKalb County School District from 1980-1996. He was instrumental in DeKalb Schools obtaining unitary status in 1996, at the conclusion of the Pitts vs Cherry desegregation lawsuit. Among many honors, Dr. Free-
man received the Human Relations Award, DeKalb Community Relations Commission; Outstanding School Administrator of the Year, Peachtree-Atlanta Kiwanis; President of the National Federation of Urban-Suburban School Districts; Superintendent of the Year, American Association of School Administrators; and two Executive Educator 100 awards. “All of us who knew Bob admired his wit, grace, humor, intellect, and story-telling,” said Dr. Johnson. “He surely made his mark in this world.” Dr. Freeman is survived by two sons, Robin Freeman (Frankie) of Grayson, Georgia, and Timothy Freeman (Teresa) of Big Canoe, Georgia. He had seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and five nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wives Jean Ann Jessup and Mary Lou Day.
At Dr. Freeman’s request, a private graveside service in Conyers, Georgia was held on Oct. 27. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Alzheimer’s Association at alz.org.
Crack addiction continued from page 1
working harder to condemn the dilapidated Creekside Forest Apartments, which is in Johnson’s district. Jester even made a video about the apartments, saying that it was a public health hazard, “a haven for anybody who wants to come into this community and conduct illegal activity.” DeKalb Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson said she had received several calls about Breedlove’s arrest, and would pursue an audit of his and Jester’s expenses if constituents demanded one. “First of all, my heart goes out to Jeff and his family and to Commis-
sioner Jester,” Johnson said. “DeKalb County has been under a cloud of corruption. One of the things we have promised is transparency, that no taxpayer funds have been misappropriated. If constituents want an audit, I would have to support that.” Jester hired Breedlove at asalary of $30,000 a year in January 2015. Breedlove received raises that put his salary at $107,000 a year at the time he was terminated, county officials said. Commissioners, as part-time employees, earn between $38,375 and $42,758 a year, based on longevity.
PAGE 4 •OCTOBER 29, 2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Coming Up
Compiled by Mackenzie N. Morgan.
Mobile dairy to visit Atlanta-Fulton Central Library The Mobile Dairy Classroom will take place on Wednesday, Nov. 2, at 10:30 a.m., at the Atlanta-Fulton Central Library, 1 Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta. The Mobile Dairy Classroom is a dynamic and fun educational program operated by the Agricultural Commodity Commission for Milk. A fully operational milking parlor with a live cow used for milking and feeding demonstrations will be inside of the classroom.
ATLANTA
Gwinnett church hosts free international Thanksgiving food festival The public is invited to attend a free international food festival on Sunday, Nov. 13, 12 p.m., at Trickum Middle School, 130 Killian Hill Rd SW, Lilburn. There will be lots of food, fun and music. Attendees can expect to try a variety of international fare from traditional American Thanksgiving foods, Mexican and Latin American foods, Indian, Chinese, Korean foods and others. Bring your favorite dish to share or just come and sample great food from all over the world.For more information, call 770-359-9022 or visit www.di.church.
ROCKDALE
Mental health summit to provide community resources, Q&A
Rockdale County Probate Judge Charles K. Mays is hosting a community mental health summit Saturday, Nov. 5, 9 a.m., at the Rockdale Career Academy, 1064 Culpepper Drive, Conyers. A diverse panel of professionals, advocates and elected officials will Sixth annual Chastain Park Arts Festival set provide information and resources from the mental health community and conduct a Q&A session. The sixth annual Chastain Park Arts Festival, Nov. 5-6, will feature apTopics will include medical care and treatment, mental illness versus proximately 185 artists and artisans. The festival, which will be held at 4469 developmental disabilities, lay affidavits, legal awareness, proper diagnosis, Stella Drive, takes place on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and on Sunday support for families, housing, support care, personal care homes and more. from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. There will be live entertainment from local acoustic musicians, fine art and crafts, a children’s area and local food and beverage concessions includOlde Jail Museum offers tour ing gourmet food trucks. This free event is organized by the Atlanta Foundation for Public Spaces Join the Rockdale County Historical Society for tours of the Olde Jail and volunteer artists. For more information, visit www.chastainparkartsfesMuseum on Saturday, Nov. 5, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., 967 Milstead Ave., Cotival.com. nyers. Built in 1897 to serve Rockdale County, this two-story red brick struc.DEKALB ture housed offenders until 1969. The lower floor was the residence for the sheriff and his family, and the upstairs comprised three rooms for prisoners: Fall color hike offers nature enthusiasts mini getaway jailer’s room, drunk tank and maximum security. Donations are welcome and benefit the efforts of the Rockdale County Historical Society. For more information, visit rockdalehistory.com. Enjoy the changing colors of fall leaves as you hike with guides up Panola Mountain, on Sunday, Oct. 30, 1 to 3 p.m., at the Panola Mountain State Park Nature Please always check with the event organizer before you go. Center, 2620 Highway 155, S.W., Stockbridge. To submit your event to Coming Up, email editor@ocgnews.com. We The tip of Panola blooms yellow with Confederate Daisies. Dress appropriately choose events that are free or a nominal cost to our readers. for the weather. Wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of water for this moderate to strenuous hike. Pack a snack and your camera. Pre-registration is required. The hike will only be canceled only if the mountain is too slippery to hike. Hikes are led by park staff or members of Friends of Panola Mountain. No pets are allowed in the conservation area. For more information and to pre-register, visit www.arabiaalliance.org. .Stephenson High hosts basketball scrimmage The public is invited to the Blue and White basketball scrimmage on Thursday, Nov. 3, 6 to 9 p.m., at Stephenson High School, 701 Stephenson Road, Stone Mountain. There will be a 3-point shootout, slam-dunk contest and cheerleaders and dance teams from neighboring schools. Entry is $3 (cash only). DTLR clothing is sponsoring the event. For more information, call Jamie Mitchell 678-687-9820.
Super book sale, Scribes & Vibes set at Stonecrest Library The Friends of Stonecrest Library will present a super book sale on Saturday, Nov. 12, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. The community is invited to buy used books, magazines, encyclopedias, video tapes and CDs at bargain prices. The monthly Scribes & Vibes celebration, a blend of poetry, music and fine art through musical performances, and open mic and art exhibits will be held the same day from 1 to 4 p.m. Funding is provided by the Friends of Stonecrest Library.404-482-3828
GWINNETT
Centerville Writer’s Group to meet Writers seeking constructive feedback can join the Centerville Writer’s Group on Thursday, Nov. 3, 10 a.m. to noon. There will be a critique format. All genres are welcome. No pre-registration is required. The cost is $1 per person. The event is free for first-time visitors and $1 per meeting after that. The last meeting is Dec. 15. No pre-registration is required. For more information, e-mail cammie927@yahoo.com.
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OCTOBER 29, 2016 • PAGE 5
MARTA to conduct annual police training exercise Pimp sentenced to 19 years for prostituting minor
The MARTA Police Department will create a simulated full-scale training exercise (Operation Deep Impact) Nov. 5-6. The exercises will begin on Saturday at 11:30 p.m. and end on Sunday, Nov. 6, at 3 a.m. The exercises will be conducted at the Sandy Springs and Decatur MARTA stations. The annual drills are designed to evaluate emergency response capabilities in the event of an actual threat to the system. The training exercise provides the opportunity for MARTA Police, MARTA staff and other emergency response agencies to address potential incidents such as terrorist attacks, pandemics or natural disasters, in a real-life setting. MARTA will be single-tracking at the Decatur Station from 11:30 p.m., with rail service ending at midnight. Bus service will continue at the Decatur bus loop for the entire evening. A bus bridge will start between East Lake and Avondale from 11:30 p.m. until end of revenue service to accommodate for the closed rail lines at Decatur. Regular service will not be interrupted at the Sandy Springs Station. Customers will be guided by MARTA personnel who will be posted near the platform entrances, since portions of the parking deck will be closed for the exercise. The Federal Transit Authority and the Department of Homeland Security require that transit agencies of MARTA’s size conduct these exercises to assess plans and response capabilities.
How to Make the Most of Your Health Insurance Don Rubin, a professor at the Center for Health and Risk Communication at the University of Georgia, will present “How to Make the Most of Your Health Insurance” on Nov. 7. The workshop will be held 11 a.m. to noon at the Northlake-Barbara Loar Library, 3772 LaVista Road, Tucker. 404-679-4408. Rubin also will hold the workshop from 2 to 3 p.m. at the REdan-Trotti Library, 1569 Wellborn Road, Lithonia. 770-482-3821.
Get the scoop on government grants Grants.gov is the federal government’s website for the 26 federal grant-making agencies to post their grant opportunities for the public. A presentation on Nov. 7, 1 to 2 p.m., at the Flat Shoals Library, will cover the registration process, how to search for funding opportunities and how to apply for those opportunities. The library is located at 4022 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. The workshop is open to the first 70 participants. 404-244-4370.
ATLANTA-- Andre Jones was sentenced to 19 years in prison after pleading guilty on Oct. 21 to Human Trafficking, Pimping a Minor, and Pandering a Minor, in a case prosecuted by the Georgia Attorney General’s Office. Jones will have to serve 9 years for the 2014 incident where he trafficked a 17-year-old girl in Fulton County. On Nov. 14, 2014, Jones drove the girl to a luxury hotel in Buckhead for the purpose of prostitution where she was recovered by the FBI’s child trafficking task force. Jones had enticed her to work Andre Jones for him to make money to go to college. He originally told her to charge $200 for one hour, saying they would split the money. However, she was never allowed to keep any of the money. Thanks to the efforts of law enforcement, the victim was recovered on the second day she was trafficked. Prior to trafficking the 17-year-old, Jones had been arrested for pimping an adult in Sandy Springs. After the incident with the 17-year-old, an undercover officer posing as a 16-year-old responded to an advertisement Jones placed on Backpage.com for “military minded hoes” to work for him. He tried to recruit the undercover officer to come work for him as a prostitute. Assistant Attorney General Camila Wright Zolfaghari and Laura Pfister prosecuted the case. The case was investigated by FBI Special Agent Taylor Dervish. The prosecution of this case was a joint effort between the Georgia Attorney General’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigations, as well as the Atlanta Police Department, the Smyrna Police Department, the Gwinnet Police Department and other agencies that are a part of the Metro Atlanta Child Exploitation Task Force (MATCH). The co-defendant, Daeun Jones, will be tried at a later date.
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People
Movers & Shakers in the Community
Larry Coles honored for work at Highland Assistant Police Chief Mike Yarbrough among at Hidden Hills Condo DeKalb public safety professionals honored
The Highlands at Hidden Hills Condominium Community in Stone Mountain, recognized Larry Coles, at its August 2016 HOA Meeting, for his dedicated service to the community. Coles, president of the Board of Directors since 2007, was presented the “Above and Beyond the Call Award” in recognition of his commitment and outstanding service. Coles has worked tirelessly to improve and restore the 32-year-old community to its original beauty, the HOA said. “I am proud of what the Board has been able to do to improve the appearance and finances which have helped maintain and improve our property values,” Coles said. Larry Coles has lived in the Highlands since 2000 and has served on the Board of Directors since 2003.
GPTC’s Kye Haymore named President-Elect of American Association for Paralegal Education The American Association for Paralegal Education (AAfPE) has tapped Georgia Piedmont Technical College(GPTC) instructor Kye Haymore to serve as the 2017 president-elect of the national organization.. “Kye Haymore’s dedication to paralegal education is evidenced by her commitment to her students at Georgia Piedmont, as well as to this important national organization,” said GPTC President Jabari Simama. “During her 10 years as an instructor at GeorKye Haymore gia Piedmont, she has demonstrated her dedication to paralegal education and is widely respected by her colleagues. These same skills will contribute greatly to the success of the association,” Dr. Simama said. Haymore was nominated for the president-elect post at the association’s 35th annual conference, which was held October 12-15, 2016 in San Antonio, Texas. As president-elect, Haymore will serve a three-year term. “I have been deeply engaged in representing my region and its members on the AAfPE Board of Directors,” said Haymore, who has served the organization for the past eight years. “I’ve enjoyed learning about the history of this association, as well as contributing to its future. AAfPE has helped me become a better educator, and I want to help others involved in paralegal education to share in all that AAfPE has to offer. I look forward to serving in this leadership capacity for the next three years.” As a paralegal studies instructor, Haymore teaches courses such as Legal Research and Writing; Real Estate Law; Intellectual Property; and Introduction to Law and Ethics. Additionally, she served as chair of Georgia Piedmont’s faculty advisory committee. She also has assisted in writing state standards for courses offered through the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG), the governing agency that oversees operations of 22 public technical colleges throughout Georgia. Haymore was instrumental in developing Georgia Piedmont’s paralegal studies curriculum so it would garner approval from the American Bar Association (ABA). A member of the State Bar of Georgia, Haymore is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of the University of Georgia, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in political science. She graduated from the University of Georgia’s School of Law in 1995. As a member of her church, Haymore is currently co-chair of the youth council at the First United Methodist Church of Covington.
Public safety professionals from across DeKalb County were honored at the DeKalb County Police Department awards ceremony, which was held on Oct. 20. The ceremony, held at Rehoboth Baptist Church, honored men and women who have performed heroic and extraordinary acts to protect and serve the citizens of DeKalb County. Assistant Police Chief Mike Yarbrough was one of the honorees. He received the certificate of merit. DeKalb County Assistant Police Chief, Mike Mike Yarbrough Yarbrough “It’s not about me. It’s about the men and women of valor who represent our department so well,” said Yarbrough. Yarbrough has been with the DeKalb Police Department for nearly 28 years. He has worked in the Special Operations Division, the Uniform Division and Criminal Investigations. Yarbrough currently leads the Special Services Division. DeKalb County Chief of Police James Conroy said the certificate of merit is rarely given to merit staff members. “Our expectations of our merit staff are very high but he has exceeded those expectations over and over again,” Chief Conroy said. “He deserves this honor.” More than 70 officers, administrative staff and private citizens were honored at the ceremony.
Sgt. Calvin Stevens special guest speaker at St. Paul AME Veterans Day Celebration
Local author, consultant and retired Air Force Reservist, Calvin Stevens, will be the featured speaker at the Annual Celebration of Veterans Day, on Sunday, Nov. 13, 10 a.m., St Paul A.M.E. Worship, 1704 S. St. Mountain-Lithonia Road, Lithonia. Stevens, former First Sergeant for the 94 Civil Engineer Squadron, Dobbins Air Reserve Base, entered the Air Force in June 1966. He retired from military service on March 29, 2007 with 31 ½ years of service and several awards including: Meritorious Calvin Stevens Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award (3 devices) and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal. Sergeant Stevens and his wife, Eleanor, have two sons and one daughter; three grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. The community is invited to attend this year’s celebration of Veterans Day.
Gwinnett to host annual Veterans Day Ceremony Make plans to attend Gwinnett County’s annual Veterans Day Ceremony, which will be held Friday, Nov. 11, 11 a.m., at the Gwinnett Fallen Heroes Memorial at in Lawrenceville. This event is held each year to celebrate the county’s military veterans and public service personnel. Gwinnett ‘sBoard of Commissioners will provide remarks. In addition, honor guard units from the Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services and Police departments, Sheriff’s Office, and Corrections, and the city of Lawrenceville Police Department will take part in this event. The Fallen Heroes Memorial is located on the grounds of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, 75 Langley Drive in Lawrenceville. For more information about the Gwinnett Fallen Heroes Memorial, visit www.gwinnettfallenheroes.com.
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Sundiata Washington named “Youth of the Year” at Boys & Girls Club
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undiata Washington has been named Youth of the Year at the A.R. “Gus” Barksdale Boys & Girls Club in Rockdale County. Washington, a junior at Rockdale County High School, joined the Boys & Girls Club in sixth grade. He has a passion for the Civil Rights Movement, and cares deeply about the youths of today, wanting them to be free of stereotypes that would hinder their opportunities for tomorrow, according to the Boys & Girls Club’s web site. Washington speaks with a profound level of confidence and commitment that is rare among his generation. At Rockdale High, Washington is on the basketball team and is a member of the National
Society of High School Scholars. He is enrolled in several AP classes including Language, Chemistry, U.S. History, and Pre-Calculus. He has served as vice president of the NAACP Youth Council, served as a page for State Sen. JaNice Van Ness and is part of the Model Atlanta Regional Commission. Washington plans to attend Georgia Tech and pursue a degree in aerospace engineering. He credits the Boys and Girls Club for helping shape his life. Sundiata is the son of David Washington and Tisa Smart Washington, Tax Commissioner-Elect of Rockdale County. Sundiata Washington
Mercer Butts of Stone Mountain earns Eagle Scout rank
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Mercer Butts
ercer Butts, 16, of Stone Mountain, has earned the highest award the Boy Scouts of America offers to Scouts, the Eagle Scout Award. Butts received the award after earning 60 merit badges and completing a campus beautification project to benefit Tabitha’s House for his Eagle Scout Service Project. A member of Troop 2600 chartered to The House of Hope Atlanta (The Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church), Butts is one of approximately seven percent of all Boy Scouts who ever achieve this rank. Mercer is the son of Markus and Sonya Butts. A leader in both Scouting and the community, Butts, the first Eagle Scout in the history of Troop 2600, served as Senior Patrol Leader, and Chaplain. He is an 11th grader at DeKalb Early College Academy and is a dual enrollee at Georgia State University, where he is
an active member of the History and Politics Club. The Eagle Scout rank carries a special significance both in and outside of Scouting. Butts joins other prominent Americans including former President Gerald Ford, astronaut Neil Armstrong, filmmaker Steven Spielberg, and former Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. In 2013, 690 Atlanta-area Scouts earned the Eagle Scout rank. In doing so, these Scouts contributed approximately 114,814 hours of service to improving schools, parks, churches, and communities through their Eagle Scout projects. Butts was recognized in an Eagle Scout Court of Honor presentation on Oct. 23 and received over 20 awards and commendations including congratulatory letters from President Barack Obama and former Presidents George W. Bush, William “Bill” Clinton, George H.W. Bush, and James “Jimmy” Carter.
PAGE 8•OCTOBER 29,2016
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2016 Elections: Your Voice, Your Vote
DeKalb Dems set to rally the voters on Oct. 29 The DeKalb County Democratic Party will host its monthly meeting on Saturday, Oct. 29, 9 a.m., at the Manuel Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Dr., (Downtown) Decatur. Free Catered Breakfast Topics: Get Out The Vote, OSD and Winning on Nov. 8 Guests: Mike Thurmond; DeKalb Elected Officials; neighborhood associations; community groups; OSD activists; NewDayGA; 100 Black Women of DeKalb; DeKalb Young Democrats Come out and meet the candidates running for office!!! Wear Your Favorite Democratic Candidate Gear! Bring Your Candidate Signs! DeKalb Democratic Party Officers:Chair, Sandra Austin Barbara Campbell, 1st Vice Chair State Sen. Gloria Butler, 2nd Vice Chair Leona Perry, 3nd Vice Chair Sandra Daniels, Secretary Nadine Ali, Treasurer For more information, contact Chair Sandra Austin at 678-886-5805 or email: sandra_austin1@hotmail.com.
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Sherri Len WASHINGTON ROCKDALE COUNTY COMMISSIONER - POST 1 Washington Works Passionate about our present but preparing for our future.
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OCTOBER 29, 2016 • PAGE 9
Op/Ed: Opinions and Editorials Note: Ed Williams, an opponent of cityhood, has written Why I Oppose the City of Stonecrest Editor’s numerous editorials on why he stands against the movement. He By Mereda Davis Johnson Odds are that a new City of Stonecrest will force citizens to pay higher taxes to support an additional layer of duplicative government. A new city is unnecessary and will not, in and of itself, achieve greater commercial sector growth. Citizens living in the proposed City of Stonecrest would not only pay county taxes; they would also have to pay city taxes to support a new bureaucracy. DeKalb has been and continues to be a great county. As its demographics changed, the county has been fragmented by municipalization. The City of Dunwoody incorporated around MARTA rail service and took within its boundaries the vibrant retail/office commercial hub of Perimeter Center. The trend continued with the City of Brookhaven, also incorporated around MARTA rail service with well over a million square feet of retail/office commercial space within its boundaries. These cities became viable at the expense of the DeKalb County’s commercial base. Last year, the City of Tucker was created, taking with it more of DeKalb’s commercial tax base. There is now an effort on the south side to incorporate the City of Stonecrest. The proposed new city has no MARTA rail service to incorporate around, and its only vibrant commercial cluster is the Stonecrest Mall area, which is not as mature as the commercial sectors that Brookhaven and Dunwoody incorporated. Stonecrest backers claim that if you create a new city, then businesses will come. However, the “build it and they will come” theory has been repeatedly debunked. South DeKalb citizens cannot afford to take this risk. DeKalb County’s 5th Commission District, which covers the boundaries of the proposed City of Stonecrest, is very unique in that it features abundant green space amid an urban, suburban and rural setting, through which flows the South River. It is home to the Arabia Mountain Heritage Area, and to the historic Flat Rock community. The City of Lithonia is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Georgia State Perimeter University and the Georgia Piedmont Technical College South Campus anchor the district, along with libraries, medical institutions and the Lou Walker Senior Center. DeKalb County has appropriated $4 million to build the new Lithonia Senior Citizens Center, and has also approved $3 million for a study to bring MARTA rail service to Stonecrest Mall. New businesses have relocated to the 5th district, including Source One, Silas-Almex, Acuity Brand and Food Chef, all bringing in more than 1,500 jobs to the district. DeKalb County’s Office of Economic Development continues to market the county to the world, and as one of the last areas close in to Hartsfield Jackson International Airport with abundant industrial space and open land to build on, we have much to offer. To those who say that DeKalb County government is corrupt, I say that the creation of more government will not solve the problem. I am confident that under the leadership of our new soon-to-be-elected CEO and District Attorney, much better days are ahead for our county. It is time for us to work together, rather than be divided with further fragmentation. For these reasons I respectfully ask that you VOTE NO on incorporating a new City of Stonecrest.
outlined several reasons why he opposes the incorporation of Stonecrest In the Oct. 21 edition of On Common Ground News. Proponents responded to Williams’ editorial with the following of their own:
What voters should know about Ed Williams’ opposition to the Stonecrest referendum By the Stonecrest YES Committee Here’s what voters should know. Ed Williams is a proponent for expanding county government, only. He’s campaigned against other cityhood movements, but most vigorously against proposed South DeKalb cities with majority black populations - targeting Greenhaven and Stonecrest. Williams makes the false claim that the economic development plan would move taxpayer money into the hands of “some unelected committee.” There is no unelected committee in the government structure as defined by the bill (Page 22/Line 763). He also falsely claims that Brookhaven, Dunwoody, and Sandy Springs are full service cities and that Stonecrest proponents have no such intent, that the city charter does not address the intergovernmental costs and administrative overhead for a full-service city, and that any projected budget surplus would disappear when services such as police, road maintenance, and sanitation are added. All of this is intended to mislead. First, neither Brookhaven nor Dunwoody are as yet full service (no Fire departments), and Sandy Springs did not initially provide all those services. Second, the estimated initial budget for Stonecrest is $10 million in revenue versus 8million in expenses ($2 million surplus). We would be gradually taking on services. Third, Williams still doesn’t account for the city’s ability to leverage local revenue to obtain federal and state grants and programs. We agree that a city does not automatically mean economic development. However, local city government can and has helped to facilitate growth in other cities through advocacy and promotion – something that we have not gotten here. A city government may, within its powers, create an economic development department to draw jobs and commerce, redirect tax dollars back into the community for improving existing assets and developing new opportunities, and leverage local revenue to obtain additional funds from existing state and federal grant programs to boost the impact of local funding. Another false claim is that millage caps in the city charters are not binding and that an increase in property tax millage rate can be made by City Council vote. Millage rates cannot increase unless qualified electors (voters) of the City vote in favor of increase. (Reference Line 224/Page 7 of the city charter.) The statements that Mr. Williams made in his article are easily disproven by anyone with internet access and basic reading comprehension. It strikes me as odd and shameful that Williams assumes voters wouldn’t research for themselves. It should also be noted that Williams does not live in the proposed City of Stonecrest.
Mayor Kasim Reed says no to OSD Amendment 1
Today, I am announcing my opposition to Amendment 1 on the November 8th ballot, which calls for a constitutional amendment to create a state-controlled school district in Georgia. I oppose this proposal because I believe it will inevitably result in the diversion of public funds for public schools to private entities, with inadequate oversight, and without accountability to parents. I believe such a change in our state, through the permanent measure of a constitutional amendment, will weaken our public schools and create conditions where they become the last resort for desperate families, rather than a symbol of excellence and source of community pride. I am a proud graduate of Fulton County schools. My brothers and I attended Utoy Springs Elementary and Westwood High School, now Westlake High. Our success demonstrates what is possible when children have access to strong public
institutions. I want the same for all children in the City of Atlanta and across our great state. Certainly, we must acknowledge that some of our state’s public school systems – including Atlanta Public Schools – face challenges. I understand the frustration among parents and community advocates with the slow pace of change. I also appreciate the strong desire by proponents of this measure to take action now. But I disagree with the method. I emphatically believe that the Georgia General Assembly is the right body to make changes to state education and school policy, through the legislative process. When I served in the General Assembly, I had to make some tough choices, knowing I would need to defend my decisions to voters in my district. By asking voters to decide on a constitutional amendment, responsibility automatically shifts away from
the legislators who are elected to address our needs. A constitutional amendment is the wrong vehicle for reform in an area where so much uncertainty exists. By amending the constitution, the public will be restricted in its future Mayor Kasim Reed ability to make the many adjustments a program like this will surely need. By creating a new bureaucracy accountable only to the executive branch, parents are disempowered and discouraged from being active and engaged in their local school system. Ultimately, I cannot support any measure that weakens our public school system in this manner and threatens its future.
PAGE 10 •OCTOBER 29, 2016 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Are you making ‘smart’ choices for your womb?
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By Tanya Smart
ould you pour bleach on your private parts? Probably not, but what if I told you that that is exactly what millions of women are unknowingly doing all around the world? Toilet paper, a staple household item in the developed world, is one of the most uncivilized items found in homes and public places across the globe. On average, individuals use toilet paper three to six times a day completely unaware of the toxic chemicals to which they are being exposed. More than 100,000 chemicals are used in commercial paper products, including toilet paper. The most dangerous of these toxins is chlorine and unfortunately, most conventional toilet paper is processed with chlorine bleach to achieve the fluffy, white texture we’ve grown to prefer. What’s worse? It’s found in most of the products we use on a day-to-day basis such as baby wipes, paper towels, coffee filters, milk cartons and tons of other household goods. Fortunately, there is a growing number of companies on the market that offer alternatives. “Seventh Generation” offers a natural unbleached toilet paper that is much safer to use. I do not get paid to endorse their products, but I swear they make a difference. I take a roll with me wherever I go because this gives me the reassurance that I am protected. After prolonged use, bleach users could experience issues from years of toxic buildup. Health problems
can appear in the form of cancer, infertility, birth defects, immune system impairments and hormone imbalances. In addition to fragrances, dyes, and other harmful chemicals, chlorine bleach contains dioxins, which are a known hormone disruptor. Since our bodies cannot excrete dioxins, they just accumulate over time creating a breeding ground for disease. Women need to understand that the daily intake of harmful toxins negatively affects pH balance and when a woman’s pH is out of balance, that can cause a range of complications with women’s womb (uterus) and emotional state. The core reason women have repeat yeast infections, odor, itchiness and/or dryness is because of daily compounded toxic exposure. Here are four things you can do to take care of cause we all know around our “time of the month” we your womb: have a strong craving for sweets like chocolate but this can cause all types of disruptions to our vagina. Avoid/limit alcohol and caffeine consumption. Avoid scented feminine hygiene products. Use Alcohol and caffeine can disrupt the vagina’s pH level unscented soap to clean the outer layers of your vagina. and cause dryness. Drink in moderation and increase The vagina is self-cleansing and easily disrupted with water intake to flush your system. Replace alcoholic the use of commercial douches, feminine sprays, powand caffeinated beverages with alkaline water. Aim to ders and other unnecessary feminine hygiene products. drink 8 to 10 glasses a day for optimal health. Research shows that these products can cause cancer Avoid tight fitting clothing. The vagina needs to and kill good bacteria leaving you vulnerable to diseasbreathe so opt for loose, unrestrictive clothing and wear es. cotton underwear. Tanya Smart is a feminine hygiene care expert and Avoid sugar. I know that it seems like God would the owner of Smart Self Care Products. For more inforhave included chocolate somewhere in our DNA bemation, visit www.healmyvagina.com.
Hank Stewart continued from page 1
of Directors of the new American Voters League, which was founded by the late Maynard Jackson, former mayor of the city of Atlanta. Stewart co-founded with Gwendolyn Mason, a youth leadership development foundation focused on strengthening the whole mind, body and soul
of children. The Hank Stewart Foundation has impacted more than 10,000 youths over the course of its existence.
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OCTOBER 29, 2016 • PAGE 11
IT Jobs continued from page 1
Anytime Anthem’s investment in Georgia and look forward to the company’s plans for renewed growth and significant expansion.” Anthem’s decision to establish an IT hub in Atlanta will allow for the expansion of consumer access to high-quality, affordable health care through a next-generation IT strategy centered on modernization, digitization and innovation. “For more than 75 years, Anthem companies have invested in the Georgia workforce. Atlanta has become known as an innovation hotbed with research facilities, incubators and start-ups in a highly concentrated area,” said Tom Miller, senior vice president and chief information officer of Anthem, Inc. “We’re looking forward to opportunities for partnerships that help transform health care and support exceptional consumer experiences. Additionally, this allows us to tap into the IT talent pipeline in this state.” “Anthem’s announcement represents the eighteenth information technology or software development operation to set roots in Georgia within the last year, representing approximately 4,500 new quality Georgia jobs,” said Chris Carr, Commissioner of Georgia Department of Economic Development. “We are excited about this new growth, and we look forward to helping Anthem fill these quality jobs with Georgia’s highly-skilled talent.” More than 72 million people are served by Anthem’s affiliated companies, including more than 38 million enrolled in its family of health plans.
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