Celebrating 19 years
Community
People
Clarkston shows off many cultures with community mural ....page 6
Facebook friends say Happy Birthday to President Jimmy Carter ....page 7
SERVING DEKALB, FULTON, GWINNETT, HENRY AND ROCKDALE COUNTIES
VOLUME 20 NUMBER 27
No Sunday voting outrages Rockdale Democratic Party By Valerie J. Morgan
The Rockdale Democratic Party is denouncing the threemember Rockdale Board of Voter Registrations for squashing a proposal that would have allowed voters to go to the polls on a Sunday. Tommy Plummer The Party is vowing to push for an even greater voter turnout since the Sunday voting measure was rejected on Sept. 28. Tommy Plummer, the Party’s chair, said getting as many people to the polls for the Nov. 4 General Election is critical with so many state offices on the ballot, along with local races in Georgia. Sunday voting, he said, would have provided an additional opportunity for people to vote early. Some counties such as DeKalb and Fulton have passed Sunday voting in the face of criticism from Republicans who opposed it, saying it is a partisan move that could be heavily supported by pastors who will push voting from their pulpits. “…When faced with the decision to provide citizens additional opportunities to participate in one of our country’s most important exercises in civic engagement, we believe the recent obstructive actions taken by members of the board run contrary to ensuring full participation in the voting process,” said Plummer. “We will use the disrespect shown to many Rockdale Citizens by the Board Chair, William Todd, to fuel an even stronger voter turnout.” The Party is especially upset with Todd. The former Rockdale judge was the swing vote. The motion in support of Sunday voting that was made by Karen James, a Democrat, died after Republican board member Johnny Brown opposed it, saying voting on a Sunday is against God’s will. Todd, who holds the non-partisan seat, failed to vote either way. “It’s right there in His word just as plain as it can be. The good Lord spent more time on the fourth commandment than any of the other nine,” Brown said during the board meeting. “Remember, the Sabbath day and keep it holy. We are not to work or do anything related to it on this day. Besides that, I don’t even think this should be an issue on our agenda because this was really popped up on us out of nowhere. This really was sprung on us.” The Rockdale Board of Elections has faced paralyzing infighting in the past. In 2011, former Superior Court Judge Sidney Nations removed all the members from the board, forcing the Democratic Party and the Republican Party to choose new representatives who were then tasked with selecting the non-partisan member. Rockdale pastors who attended the recent Elections Board meeting say they support Sunday voting and also plan to join in urging voters to go to the polls. Pastor Eric Lee of Springfield Baptist Church in Conyers said he is 100 percent behind Sunday voting and will encourage his congregation to get to the polls.
Class Notes
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
n
Atlanta Falcons bring physical fun to Lithonia elementary school ....page 8
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OCTOBER 4, 2014
FREE
Suspended DeKalb CEO takes stand in corruption trial
DeKalb Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson
S
By Joshua Smith
uspended DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis walked his defense team through hand-written notes he made, explaining how he called on county vendors for campaign contributions, putting “Xs” by those who didn’t give and check marks by those who did. Defense Attorney Craig Gillen had Ellis explain in his own words why, in a number of instances, he made several calls to the same person or company. Ellis said the calls were follow-up calls. He also explained comments he made with regards to contracts during secretly recorded conversations with vendors and the prosecutor’s star witness, Kelvin Walton, the county’s purchasing director. Walton testified earlier in the trial
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Suspended CEO Burrell Ellis explains his comments in a secretly recorded phone conversation on Oct. 2.
that Ellis told him to allow contracts to “dry up or expire.” Ellis stated on the witness stand he would never demand any vendor be cut off from doing business with DeKalb because they didn’t contribute to his campaign. He insisted he was frustrated over unreturned phones from vendors. Ellis took the stand in his corruption trial on Wednesday, Oct. 1, following
more than two weeks of testimony brought by state prosecutors, who rested their case on Tuesday, Sept. 30. Ellis is accused of pressuring county vendors for campaign contributions and threatening to take away county contracts from those who refused to See Ellis trial, page 6
Young activists organize Atlanta conference in response to Michael Brown’s death
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By Valerie J. Morgan
oping to address issues that have been raised nationally in the wake of the shooting death of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, Attorney Mawuli Mel Davis is working with an alliance of young activists to host an empowerment conference this month in Atlanta. The “Empowering Ourselves Now: Asserting Our Rights and Educating Beyond Ferguson” conference will be held Oct. 24 and Oct. 25 at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC), 700 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Atlanta. Davis, a partner of the Davis Bozeman Law Firm in DeKalb County, is co-chairing the event with Georgia State University student, Aurielle Lucier, of the #itsbiggerthanyou non-violent campaign. Davis recently traveled to Ferguson as part of a group organized by the National Conference of Black Lawyers to provide legal observer
Attorney Mawuli Mel Davis
Auriell Lucier
training to ensure the rights of demonstrators are protected. Several days of rioting and unrest erupted in Ferguson after the 18-year-old Brown, who was unarmed, was shot by a police officer during an altercation on Aug. 9. Since Brown’s death and that of Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old Florida teen who was shot and killed by a Neighborhood Watch captain George Zimmerman in February 2012, supporters have called for justice and looked for ways to stop the violence that is claiming the lives of young African Americans, especially young
men. “When we organized nearly 5,000 young people to march from the CNN Center to the Civil and Human Rights Museum after Michael Brown was killed, we knew that the time for the young people to provide leadership is now,” said Lucier, who led the event. “This is our generation’s Civil Rights Movement and we are determined to make a difference.” Davis said several organizations and businesses have developed workshops that are designed to empower youths and adults in addressing the preventable deaths of African American men and women. The alliance of organizations involved in the upcoming conference include the Department of African American Studies at Georgia State University; Let Us Make Man; #it’sbiggerthanyou non-violent campaign; Jack & Jill of America Atlanta Chapter; Save OurSelves; See Activists, page 6
PAGE 2
MLB Transportation
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OCTOBER 4, 2014
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DEC. 21, 2014
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1st Deposit Due Oct .10: $100 2nd Deposit Due Nov. 14: $130 3nd Deposit Due Dec. 14: Remainder
Contact Person: Sheila Willis at MLB Trans 404-576-2360.
OCTOBER 4, 2014 PAGE 3
Community News
OCTOBER 4, 2014 VOLUME 20, NO. 27 EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan editor@ocgnews.com GENERAL MANAGER Glenn L. Morgan gmorgan1@ocgnews.com STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith joshsmith@ocgnews.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill richardhill@ocgnews.com
ABOUT US
On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.
HOW TO REACH US On Common Ground News 1240 Sigman Road Suite 107 Conyers, GA 30012 (678) 526-1910 (P) (678) 526-1909 (F) www.ocgnews.com editor@ocgnews.com
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DeKalb awarded $1 million in federal grants to combat youth violence By Valerie J. Morgan
DeKalb County is among nine sites across the country awarded federal funding to help curb youth violence, officials announced this week. DeKalb will receive $357,000 for three years from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) to help provide the violence prevention and mentoring programs for youths in the county. “As 24 percent of the county’s population is under the age of 18, services for our youth has been a huge priority for DeKalb,” said DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May. “This generous grant and the services it will provide greatly helps further DeKalb’s commitment to sustaining a strong foundation for our youth and keeping our county safe.” The DeKalb Board of Health, under the leadership of Dr. Sandra Ford, director, applied for the grant. She said health officials plan to work with DeKalb County Police, DeKalb County government and the City of Clarkston to conduct outreach activities to mentor youths. “The ills of the world are always interrelated and there is no single agency that can attack any issue. These collaborative types of grants are the only ways we’re going to attack these issues,” Ford said. “I’m happy that at the federal level, they recognize that these partnerships are critical. When this grant came up, everybody got together and said this is something we need to do for DeKalb County.” Dr. Cedric Alexander, also said he believes the partnership will be beneficial. “Being trained as a clinical psychologist,
Officials held a news conference on Sept. 30 at the DeKalb Board of Health to announce the federal grants. They included interim CEO May; J. Nadine Gracia, MD, deputy assistant secretary for minority health and director of the Office of Minority Health, Health and Human Services; Ronald L. Davis, director, Department of Justice, Office of Community Oriented Policing Services; Cedric Alexander, deputy chief operating officer, DeKalb County Office of Public Safety; and Sandra. E. Ford, MD, district health director, DeKalb County Board Health.
we understand the sociological effects of what these crimes do to these individuals and our communities. A lot of this violence stems from around a lack of a lot of things that did not happen to young people very early on their lives,” Alexander said. “I think that’s where the whole public health piece fits in, being able to address these issues.” Funding is being provided through the Minority Youth Violence Prevention: Integrating Public Health and Community Policing Approaches (MYVP) program. The MYVP is a joint effort by the HHS Office of Minority Health and the DOJ Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) to support interventions aimed at addressing youth violence, improving academic outcomes, increasing access to public health and social services and reducing violent crimes against minority youths, as well as negative encounters with law enforcement. DeKalb County will follow suit with the other sites to field initiatives that combine community policing and prevention approaches within a public
health framework. Under the MYVP grant program, the DOJ COPS Office plans to award a $500,000 grant to support an organization that will provide coordination, technical assistance and evaluation across the demonstration sites. The nine recipients for the federal grants include: • Asia Media Access, Inc., Minneapolis, MN, $380,000 • Chatham County Board of Commissioners, Savannah, GA, $220,000 • City of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, $345,000 • DeKalb County Board of Health, Decatur, $357,557 • Health Education Council, West Sacramento, CA $370,000 • Our Lady of Lourdes Memorial Hospital, Inc., Binghamton, NY, $325,536 • Public Health Authority of Cabarrus County, Kannapolis, N.C., $362,668 • City of West Palm Beach, West Palm Beach, FL, $340,000 • Youth Alive, Oakland, CA, $133,333
Rockdale County seeks students for Georgia Civic Awareness Program for
DeKalb Board of Education sets public hearings and meetings The DeKalb Board of Education will hold the following public hearings and meetings on Wednesday, Oct. 8: 1:30 p.m. - Second Charter District Public Hearing J. David Williamson Board Room Robert R. Freeman Administrative & Instructional 1701 Mountain Industrial Boulevard, Stone Mountain 2 p.m. - Work Session Cabinet Room Robert R. Freeman Administrative & Instructional 5:45 p.m.- Community Input Session & Third Charter District Public Hearing J. David Williamson Board Room Robert R. Freeman Administrative & Instructional 7 p.m. - Business Meeting J. David Williamson Board Room Robert R. Freeman Administrative & Instructional Meeting agendas can be accessed online by visiting www.dekalb.k12.ga.us. Click on Leadership and go to eBoard Home Page and click on the date for the meeting agenda\information.
For the third consecutive year, Rockdale County will provide civic education to youths going to school in the county through the Georgia Civic Awareness Program for Students (GCAPS). Developed by the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG), the program spotlights the ongoing need for increased civic awareness and engagement among Georgia’s youth. The program gives high school students direct access by educating them about the responsibilities of local government and the essential services it provides citizens. The County funds the program through an ACCG grant. “We are excited to bring County government closer to another group of Rockdale youth,” Rockdale County GCAPS Program Manager Brittany Johnson said. “This course offers our high school students a vital opportunity to experience government beyond the classroom and showcases the importance of local officials and citizens working together.” In 2012, ACCG chose Rockdale County as one of four new GCAPS programs in Georgia. Last year, 10 high school students from across
Rockdale were selected to participate in leadership training and team building exercises. They also toured County facilities such as the Jail, Wastewater Treatment Plant and Rockdale 23, the County’s government-access cable channel. The students also visited the State Capitol and interacted with state public officials including Gov. Nathan Deal. Students eligible to participate in the sixmonth program must live in or attend school in Rockdale County, and be at least a high school sophomore or junior as of August 2014. GCAPS participants must be able to attend meetings once a month after school. Public, private and home schooled students are encouraged to apply for one of 15 available slots. The first 10 applicants selected for the program will receive a $10 Starbucks gift card as an early registration incentive. The program will run from October to April. The deadline to apply is Friday, Oct. 10. For more information or to apply, contact Brittany Johnson at 770-278-7373 or britj112@ uga.edu.
DeKalb NAACP to mark 58th Annual Freedom Fund Awards Xernona Clayton, founder and CEO of the Trumpet Awards Foundation, will be the guest speaker at the DeKalb NAACP’s 58th Annual Freedom Fund Awards Dinner. The awards dinner will be held on Oct. 18, 7 p.m., at St. Philip AME Church, 240 Candler Road, S.E., Atlanta. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. Veteran journalist Alexis Scott and Bishop Quincy Carswell of The Covenant Cathedral in Decatur will serve as emcees of the event. Eleven honorees have been selected to receive awards for outstanding community service: Benjamin L. Hooks Award............................................... Adrienne Ware David C. Albert Award..................................................... Al Chatman Thurgood Marshall Award............................................... State Sen. Steve Henson Patricia C. Jones Community Service Award.................. Nadine Ali Narvie J. Harris Award..................................................... Lance Hammonds Thomas C. Wilson Youth Services Award....................... The Enchanted Closet Faith-Based Award........................................................... The Rev. Darryl Roberts, Mt. Welcome Baptist Medgar Wiley Evers Freedom Legacy Award ................ Commissioner Larry Johnson John H. Evans Lifetime Achievement Awards will be presented to: Rev. Joseph Lowery, Rev. Jasper Williams and State Sen. Vincent Fort Banquet tickets are $75. For more information, call the DeKalb branch office at 404-241-8006.
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OCTOBER 4, 2014
Coming Up
Rockdale/Newton Democrats welcome “Fabulous Five” The Rockdale and Newton County Democrats will come together to welcome “The Fabulous Five” for a rally and campaign support meeting on Sunday, Oct. 12, 4 – 6 p.m., 1264 Parker Road, Conyers. The “Georgia Wins When Women Win” event will bring together Democrats running for state offices: Connie Stokes, Lt. Governor; Doreen Carter, Secretary of State; Valarie Wilson, State School Superintendent; Robin Shipp, candidate for Labor Commissioner; and Liz Johnson, candidate for Georgia’s Insurance Commissioner. The candidates have already marked their page in Georgia’s history books because this is the first time there are five African-American women on the ballot for state offices. Also in attendance will be members of the Georgia Federation of Democratic Women, as well as the Henry County and Walton County Democratic parties. For more information, email GFDWdemocraticdivas@gmail.com or visit http:// rockdaledems.org.
ATLANTA CAU sets Harvest of Health Wellness Fair Oct. 18 The Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development at Clark Atlanta University, in partnership with the English Avenue and Vine City Ministerial Alliance, will host the third annual “Harvest of Health” Wellness Fair on Saturday, Oct. 18, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Greater Bethany Baptist Church, 786 Thurmond St., N.W., Atlanta. The free wellness fair will offer various preventive screenings, with the main focus on prostate cancer screening for men in this community. In addition, other preventive screenings will be available for general health conditions and risk factors for diabetes, obesity, HIV, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases and behavioral health conditions, which are prevalent in ethnic communities. The wellness fair also will provide information and education services to empower people in the areas of health, wellness and nutrition to address health disparities. This fair also is sponsored by the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority. For more information, contact the Center for Cancer Research and Therapeutic Development at 404-880-6878 or via email at cancerinfo@cau.edu.
New study group series examines healthy activities offered by Beltline The Atlanta BeltLine is seeking public input in developing a fun culture of health and activity in Atlanta. Several study group meetings are scheduled in October to discuss “Health on the Atlanta BeltLine.” These meetings will include an open forum presentation followed by discussions to identify, create and provide unique opportunities for healthier, more sustainable living in Atlanta BeltLine communities. The sessions are scheduled as follows:
Friends of Stonecrest Library to host Meet & Greet The Friends of Stonecrest Library will have a “Meet & Greet” on Monday, Oct. 6, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Gladys & Ron’s Chicken & Waffles restaurant, 7301 Stonecrest Concourse, Suite 123, Lithonia. The community is invited to come out and meet the group’s members and new officers. For more information, call 770-668-3060 or 404-408-8329.
Put on your dancing shoes to support DeKalb History Center The DeKalb History Center invites you to come out for a night of dancing on Thursday, Oct. 9, 7:30 to 11 p.m., at the Historic Courthouse, 101 E. Courthouse Square in downtown Decatur. D.J. Trey Caples of Soul Spin Studios will play some of the best dance music from the 1970s to the present. Tickets are $10. The fundraiser benefits the DeKalb History Center. To pay by PayPal, visit http://dekalbhistory.org/dekalb or call the office at 404-373-1088, ext. 22, to make reservations via credit card. You are also welcome to stop in at the DeKalb History Center and pay by cash or check. Tickets include light snacks.
GWINNETT Mummy and Son Ball to offer “spooktacular” fun
Northside Study Group: Monday, Oct. 6, 6:30 p.m. Piedmont Hospital, McRae Auditorium 1968 Peachtree Road NW, Atlanta
Southwest Study Group: Thursday, Oct. 23, 6:30 p.m. Fulton County Central Training 425 Langhorn Street SW, Atlanta
The Mummy and Son Ball will be held Friday, Oct. 17, 7 to 9 p.m., at George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center, 55 Buford Highway N.E., Suwanee. Superheroes, pirates, and other cute critters will dress up to enjoy this spooktacular annual dance. There will be games, a costume contest, and kids will do the Monster Mash, and enjoy light refreshments. Ages 4 and up are invited. The cost is $11 person and must pre-register by Oct. 10 online with code GPCC14397, or call 678-277-0910.
Southeast Study Group: Monday, Oct. 13, 6 p.m. Trees Atlanta 225 Chester Ave. SE, Atlanta
Westside Study Group: Monday, Oct. 27, 6:30 p.m. Atlanta Community Food Bank 732 Joseph E. Lowery Blvd., Atlanta
ROCKDALE
Northeast Study Group: Thursday, Oct. 16, 6:30 p.m. Our Lady of Lourdes Atlanta 25 Boulevard NE, Atlanta
DEKALB Community Cabinet breakfast rescheduled Nov. 1 DeKalb International Food and Music Festival set Oct. 18 DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson has canceled his DeKalb Community Cabinet Breakfast on Saturday, Oct. 4. The next meeting will be on Saturday, Nov. 1, 9 to 11 a.m., at Tucker High School. Watson, along with DeKalb County, will present the 4th DeKalb International Food and Music Festival Oct. 18, noon to 6 p.m., at the Northlake Mall. Watson invites the community at large to join him for a day of family fun. There will be a host of food and internationally “inspired” retail vendors featured as well as a variety of entertainment from local artists and students who want to share their talent with the community. There is no fee to enter the festival. For more information, call 404-371-3681 or visit www.dekalbfoodandmusicfestival.
Restore DeKalb sets forum on property values
Restore DeKalb will host a community forum to discuss how property values are appraised, assessed and appealed in the county. The forum also will provide information on how to file a complaint against violations that decrease property value. The forum will be held Saturday, Oct. 11, 9:30 a.m., at Sanford Realty Company Conference Center, 4183 Snapfinger Woods Drive, Decatur. The confirmed presenters include: • Calvin C. Hicks, Chief Appraiser • Debra DeBerry, Clerk of Superior Court • Byron Scott, Board of Equalization (BOE) Supervisor
Nesbitt to host round table to mentor young men Rockdale Commissioner Oz Nesbitt, Sr. is hosting a round table for young men, “The Man Event,” to discuss issues related to young men and the transformation from boyhood to manhood. The gathering will be on Sat., Oct. 18, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., in the large meeting room at the Johnson Park Recreation Center, 1781 Ebenezer Road, Conyers. This is a free event and young men of all ages and backgrounds are encouraged to attend. No RSVP or preregistration is required. For questions or more information, call the Board of Commissioners Office at 770-278-7001 or Commissioner Nesbitt directly at 770-278-7011. He can also be reached at oz.nesbitt@rockdalecounty.org.
Conyers Olde Town Fall Festival returns for 34th year Fall brings Conyers’ longest-running festival, the Olde Town Fall Festival, in its 34th year, to be held on Saturday, Oct. 25, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Coordinated by the city of Conyers, the festival draws residents and visitors to historic Olde Town for a day of browsing among artists, crafters and local merchants in Olde Town Conyers. “From woodworking and jewelry to baked goods and crocheted items, there is a fantastic variety of vendors lined up for this year’s festival,” said Harriet Gattis, tourism manager for the Conyers Convention and Visitors Bureau and one of the festival organizers. “Started by the Rockdale County Historical Society in 1980, we are proud to continue this tradition of fall fun in the streets of Olde Town.” A variety of food and children’s activities and a number of local non-profit organizations will be part of the event. There also will be a costume contest for kids and a pet costume contest. The Conyers Police Department and Rockdale County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department will be on hand for fun safety activities and interaction with children and adults The festival takes place on Center, Commercial and Railroad Streets and those streets will be closed to traffic beginning at 6 a.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, until approximately 6 p.m. that evening. Admission and parking are free for the festival. For more information, visit www.oldetownfallfestival.com or call the Conyers Welcome Center at 770-6022606.
OCTOBER 4, 2014 PAGE 5
‘Soul of DeKalb’ promotes community unity
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Marching bands, Greek groups, government officials, schools and even princesses with tiaras came together on Sept. 27 for the Heart of South DeKalb outdoor festival in Decatur. Held for the second annual year at the Gallery at South DeKalb, the free event included one-on-one sessions with County Sheriff Jeff Mann and Clerk of Courts Debra DeBerry and other county staff members. Sponsored by Commissioner Larry Johnson, the Heart of South DeKalb featired a parade, give-a-ways, vendors, food, a kids’ zone, car/motorcycle showcase, stage entertainment and a health fair. Other highlights included acknowledgment of area schools and their achievements, as well as the recognition of south DeKalb history and the DeKalb workforce van. “There is so much to be proud of in south DeKalb, and there’s no time better than the present to pause and show the world just how great our region is,” said Johnson, who represents DeKalb’s District 3.
DeKalb Sheriff ’s sweep targets warrants for felonies, misdemeanors
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ome 18 suspects are off the streets following an intensive overnight search throughout the community by the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office for individuals wanted on criminal charges ranging from misdemeanor Reckless Conduct to Aggravated Stalking, which is a felony. “The diligence of Major L.J. Roscoe and our Field Services Division has resulted in a successful initiative
to locate and arrest people in our community who obviously have little respect for the law,” says DeKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann. During an eight hour sweep on Wednesday October 1, Sheriff’s Deputies made attempts to serve more than 300 warrants - a process that involved going to last-known addresses and following referrals from informants. Deputies made nine felony arrests
consisting of 12 charges that included burglary, forgery, theft by taking, theft by shoplifting, arson, and theft by deception. Included in the nine arrests on misdemeanor charges - clearing 23 misdemeanor warrants - were charges of cruelty to children, family violence battery, simple battery, criminal trespass, and reckless driving. “Often individuals know that there are warrants out for their arrests, so
they stay on the move or they leave the community or the state entirely,” says Sheriff Mann. “However, the warrants will continue to follow them wherever they go. They can still be arrested and we will bring them back to the DeKalb County Jail to await trial.” The Sheriff’s Office serves warrants resulting from crimes in all 11 of DeKalb County’s separate police jurisdictions.
Monday, Oct. 6, is the deadline to register and be eligible to vote in the Nov. 4 General Election. To register to vote in Georgia, you must be a U.S. citizen, a legal resident of Georgia and of the county in which you wish to vote. You must also be 18 years of age by Election Day. You may not register to vote if you are currently serving any sentence imposed by the conviction of a felony or judicially determined to be mentally in competent. You can contact your local public library, public assistance office, recruitment office, schools or government offices for a mail-in registration form. You may also register to vote online. Visit the Secretary of State’s website at www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/. To use your smartphone or tablet to register to vote, download “GA Votes” from the Apple Store or the Droid Play Store on your device. You may also use the App for updates or to make changes to name and/or address information as well as to get information on polling locations, sample ballots and satellite voting locations.
Police precinct to open in Mall at Stonecrest The DeKalb County Police Department has opened a new East Precinct substation at the Mall at Stonecrest in unincorporated Lithonia. The substation will primarily accommodate officers assigned to the East Precinct Neighborhood Enforcement Team (NET). “The new substation provides a great opportunity for our officers to provide increased service and visibility to this vital corridor. It’s also an example of the ongoing collaboration between the Department and business community to pool resources to fight crime,” said James Conroy, DeKalb County Interim Police Chief. The substation was developed through a partnership with the DeKalb County Police Department, The Mall at Stonecrest Mall and Stonecrest Business Alliance.
Fall Convocation
Oct. 6 is deadline to register to vote
To All Alumni of DeKalb Area Vocational School (1961 - 1963) DeKalb Area Technical School (1963 - 1972) DeKalb Community College-Technical Division (1972 - 1986) DeKalb Technical Institute (1986 - 2000) DeKalb Technical College (2000 - 2011) Georgia Piedmont Technical College (2011 - 2014)
Please join President Jabari Simama for
fall Convocation
Bridging from Our Past, Building for Our Future
Thursday, october 23, 2014 11:00 a.m. Georgia Piedmont Technical College Conference Center, DeKalb Campus 495 N. Indian Creek Drive Clarkston, GA 30021
RSVP by October 16, 2014, to Seddrick Hill at hills@gptc.edu or (404) 297-9522 ext. 1828 Celebratory lunch to follow
PAGE 6
OCTOBER 4, 2014
Clarkston shows off many cultures with community mural
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By Joshua Smith
rench, Spanish, English, Kirundi and Swahili are just some of the dozen languages representing the cultural melting pot of residents who comprise the city of Clarkston. Recently, the city’s residents spent time stenciling, painting and drawing pieces that included catchy words from the various languages for a 36foot mural entitled “The Diversity Mural.” The mural reflects the city’s vast diversity—refugees representing more than 50 countries call Clarkston, a city located 10 miles east of Atlanta, home. “We invited the entire community to come out and come together to paint a wall that represents all of us. This mural will represent Clarkston for many years to come,” said Clarkston resident Shannon Willow, lead designer of the mural. “Making art together is a way to speak an international language of color and shapes, an avenue for team building and sharing something that will become a part of Clarkston history. This Diversity Mural will say to every Clarkston
resident: ‘I see you, I hear you, and you are important.’ ” The mural project was made possible from a grant that Willow received through a local competition, The One Region Idea Challenge, which promotes bridging cultural gaps in local communities. The One Region Atlanta Ideas Challenge is a Facebook initiative that asked residents of the Greater Atlanta region: How would you use $5,000 to bridge cultures and faiths in your community? More than 150 people responded with their ideas to make Atlanta a more inclusive region. “We gathered both positive and catchy words from 12 different languages spoken throughout Clarkston. Our own community members came up with the concept and words we would put on the mural,” said Clarkston Mayor Ted Terry. “This is just the kind of project we love because it promotes how diverse our community is and shows off how creative our residents are and shows everyone one more thing we can do together when residents are all on the same page.”
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Clarkston residents of all different races, ages and religions came together to represent the city’s diversity with a public mural that will be displayed at the Clarkston Community Center.
Ellis trial continued from page 1
support his campaign. He faces up to 20 years in prison, if he is convicted. Ellis maintained his innocence, especially when asked about alleged perjury charges stemming from a January 2013 special grand jury testimony held to question Ellis about contracts dealing with DeKalb’s Watershed Management contracts. “Every statement I’ve made I believed to be true and believe to be true today. I have read the indictment and I am not guilty of those charges. I have done nothing wrong,” Ellis said this week. But several times during Ellis’ testimony, District Attorney Robert James objected to Defense Attorney Craig Gillen’s line of questioning and Ellis’ responses, fraying DeKalb Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson’s patience. “You are not going to make a circus out of my courtroom,” Judge Johnson said to Ellis’ defense team. “I will allow you to lead Mr. Ellis in certain instances but he cannot just carry on with his answers. You seem to be under the impression you can ask what you want and disregard orders. We’ve had that on at least three different instances already.” The defense brought on Congressman Hank Johnson and former Ambassador Andrew Young to testify as character witnesses for Ellis. Phillippa Ellis, Burrell Ellis’ wife, also testified as
a character witness. All three vouched that Ellis was a man of integrity. Ellis’ testimony began with him discussing his educational and political background. Prior to becoming DeKalb County CEO, Ellis practiced law for more than 20 years, mainly in real estate development. Ellis also taught courses at Georgia State University’s College of Law. As a part of his defense team “laying the foundation,” Ellis discussed growing up as a Boy Scout. He said his interest in politics began at the age of 10. Ellis went on to share stories of being the youngest usher at his church for his then pastor, the Rev. Channing E. Phillips, who led the presidential campaign of Sen. Robert F. Kennedy in D.C. in 1968. Later that year, Ellis said he was lucky to witness one of his favorite moments in his life, sitting in front of the television watching intensely as Phillips became the first African American nominated for President by a major party during the 1968 Democratic National Convention. By the sixth grade, Ellis’ interest in politics translated into a successful bid for class president. Ellis also shared stories of running cross-country in high school and being the captain of the school’s Varsity basketball team. Ellis is married to Attorney Philippa V. Ellis, a partner with Atlanta law firm Owen, Gleaton, Egan, Jones & Sweeney. The couple has
two young children, twins. After Ellis shared his background and how he developed his love for politics, he then took off his glasses and rubbed his eyes for a few seconds and after adjusting, Ellis kept eye contact with the jury for the reminder of his testimony. Ellis kept his gaze on the 15-member jury, comprised of mostly women. At one point, one juror was nodding, fighting sleep. Several jurors, however, took notes as he spoke. While this was going on, District Attorney James continued to take notes and then used some of Ellis’ testimony when he questioned Ellis. James attempted to use Ellis’ own words against him by taking out key words in Ellis’ testimony and writing those words on a board located directly behind Ellis on the witness stand: “People do Not Have to Call Me Back!” “Vendors knew why I was calling!” and “Terrorist!” Ellis said he never persuaded any vendor to contribute to his campaign in order to keep their contracts with the county. He explained the telephone calls and how he felt frustrated in dealing with vendors such as NPI who he said “hung up in his face” and were “unresponsive.” NPI is a real estate and construction company. “One of my top beliefs is that everyone deserves great customer service. How can a vendor who can’t
stay in contact with me and would hang up in my face have good customer service to serve the residents of this county? So, yes, I was upset, yes, I was frustrated, but I never ordered anyone to end a contract with them (NPI) or any other vendor,” said Ellis. “Greg and Trina Shealey (co-owners of NPI) still got work with the county because when their contract came across my desk, I signed it and kept things moving as I did any other contracts at that time. I’m not in the business of cutting contracts off. If anyone donated to my campaign, it was because they wanted to. I never asked anything in exchange for a campaign contribution. I never promised anything.” Ellis said the only way he would even suggest to end a contract with a county vendor is if they were not doing their best to serve the residents of the county. Prosecutors say, however, that Ellis would not stop calling vendors until they answered him about making a campaign contribution. Greg Shealey, co-owner of NPI testified earlier in the trial that after several calls, he gave into the pressure and made a donation of $2,500 (the campaign maximum). Sheleay said he gave the donation to someone who was “twisting my arm and stepping on my neck.”
Activists continued from page 1
Thankful Baptist Church; Malcolm X Grassroots Movement; FTP Movement; Sankofa United Church of Christ; Attorneys for Peace and Justice; and SisterCare Alliance. The conference is free and will include workshops that address youth knowing their rights when encountering police, developing legislation for police body cameras, techniques for organizing protests, using Hip Hop to influence social change, stopping violence against women and examining successful programs that redirect youth from gangs and violence. “This incredibly diverse group of organizations and businesses recognize the need to discuss and develop strategies and solutions that save our children and communities,” Davis said. “Michael Brown, Trayvon Martin and other young men and women’s deaths cannot be in vain.” To register an individual or group for the conference, visit www. empoweringconfernece.org or email registration@empoweringconference. org.
Discover your passion. Attend a GPC Open House. RSVP at openhouse.gpc.edu GPC Open Houses, October 11–28 • Receive a $20 GPC application fee waiver • Learn about Dual Enrollment and Transfer Admission Guarantee options • Enjoy snacks and refreshments #OpenGPC A BETTER WAY FORWARD OnCommonGroundAd 9-29.indd 1
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OCTOBER 4, 2014 PAGE 7
People Facebook friends say Happy Birthday to President Jimmy Carter
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Movers & Shakers in the Community
F
ormer U.S. President Jimmy Carter celebrated his 90th birthday at The Carter Center in Atlanta on Oct. 1 with cake and birthday wishes from Facebook friends from around the world. He and his wife, Rosalyn, also took a tour of a new butterfly garden created in honor of his birthday. The Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Pollinator Garden at The Carter Center is filled with flowers and plants native to Georgia and is part of the Rosalynn Carter Butterfly Trail, developed by the former first lady to draw attention to the plight of endangered monarch butterflies. Volunteers from Trees Atlanta and the De Roode Lab at Emory University, which provided the seedlings for the garden, will help monitor and maintain its plants. The garden is certified by Monarch Watch as an official monarch way station, and is listed as a certified wildlife habitat of the National Wildlife Federation. The garden features milkweed, the host plant monarch butterflies need to complete their life cycle, and a variety of plants that can host Georgia’s state butterfly, the tiger swallowtail. An
array of nectar plants also will appeal to other pollinator species, particularly bees and wasps, and birds. The garden features two Japanese-style arbors made by local artist Jesse Reep. Mary Ann Peters, Carter Center CEO, presided over the presidential
birthday celebration, which was attended by staff, interns, volunteers and board members of The Carter Center and the Jimmy Carter Library and Museum. Attendees sang “Happy Birthday” to President Carter and presented him with a cake.
President Carter was born Oct. 1, 1924 in Plains, Georgia. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy and spent seven years serving in the Navy before returning to Georgia, where he ran the family farm before entering politics. Carter served two terms as a state senator, was elected governor in 1970, and became the 39th president of the United States in 1976. During his time in office, he normalized U.S. relations with China, brokered peace between Israel and Egypt, signed a nuclear arms reduction treaty with the Soviet Union, and achieved the Panama Canal treaties. In 1982, he founded The Carter Center, a not-forprofit, nongovernmental organization working to “wage peace, fight disease, and build hope” worldwide. It has since monitored 96 elections in 38 countries and virtually eradicated Guinea worm disease, reducing cases by 99.9 percent. In 2002, President Carter was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts. Today, he remains active in the Carter Center’s work and spends leisure hours writing books, fly fishing, handcrafting furniture, and painting.
Rockdale will celebrate Teen Read Week® Oct. 13-17 The Conyers-Rockdale Library will celebrate Teen Read Week® with activities planned for youths ages 12 – 18. Opening Night is Monday, Oct. 13, 6-7 p.m., in the Young Adult area on the main floor of the library. Teens can enter a raffle, play Quote
Trivia, and receive information about the week-long activities, and join or follow the library’s social media sites. Activities Tuesday through Friday include “Caught Reading” Book Giveaway Day; a Library Scavenger Hunt; Book-in-a-Jar Game; and ongoing “Quote
Trivia” questions. Prizes will be awarded all week and there will be a grand prize awarded for the raffle drawing at the end of the week. Teen Read Week® is a national adolescent literary initiative created by the Young Adult Library Services Association
(YALSA). It began in 1998 and is held annually during the third week of October. Its purpose is to encourage teens to be regular readers and library users. For more information, contact Ashley Pearson, Youth Services Department, 770388-5041, ext. 113.
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PAGE 8
Class Notes
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OCTOBER 4, 2014
Our Schools, Students & Partners
Atlanta Falcons bring physical fun to Lithonia elementary school
S
tudents at Princeton Elementary School got a special visit from Atlanta Falcons players, cheerleaders and “Freddie the Falcon” on Sept. 30 in Lithonia. In partnership with SCANA Energy, the Falcons played games of tug-o-war with students and teachers, while other faculty members and students went through a series of physical activities
such as push ups and jumping jacks. “Fitness Fun with the Falcons” focussed on increasing the wellness of young fans by encouraging the students to be active and take part in physical activities every day. Falcons tight end Bear Pascoe got in on the fun, leading students through a football toss game and a hula hoop challenge. At the event, SCANA also
established the Princeton Homework Center at the school to operate from 3-5 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays. “Today we celebrate building a community of vibrant leaders and our partnership with SCANA as they provide us with this wonderful opportunity,” said Principal Kyia Clark. “The homework center will provide a safe and structured study environment where students can
complete their class assignments and learn great study skills.” The homework center will be maned by two teachers and an assistant and will provide funds for the participating staff members, as well as after school snacks and student incentives. SCANA has similar centers in Tucker, East Point, Lilburn, Marietta, Rome and Macon.
Wadsworth Magnet named Blue Ribbon School DeKalb County’s Wadsworth Magnet School for High Achievers has been selected by the U.S. Department of Education as a National Blue Ribbon School. Wadsworth is among 337 schools to receive the national award. Twelve schools were honored in Georgia. Among those, Wadsworth is one of only four with 40 percent or more disadvantaged students.
“We are honored by the recognition of Wadsworth Magnet School for High Achievers,” said Michael Thurmond, superintendent of the DeKalb County School District. “Wadsworth shows that we can overcome the effects of socioeconomic disadvantage and achieve academic excellence in all of our schools.” National Blue Ribbon Schools
are chosen for exceptional levels of high academic achievement, or for their success in closing the gap between different student subgroups. Wadsworth was recognized for its high overall academic achievement. “These great schools are fulfilling the promise of American education — that all students, no matter their name or ZIP code, can flourish when
schools provide safe, creative, and challenging learning environments,” U.S. Education Secretary Arne Duncan said. “National Blue Ribbon Schools are models of consistent excellence and a resource for other schools and districts. We celebrate them for their tireless effort and boundless creativity in reaching and teaching every student.”
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Business News
Tokyo-based manufacturer to create 170 jobs in Gwinnett County
H
aso USA Inc., a Tokyo-based manufacturer of personal use cleaning products, will create 170 jobs and invest $7 million in a new location in Gwinnett County. Peachtree Corners. Haso USA Inc. will lease a 100,000-square-foot building in Peachtree Corners, located at 2850 Northwoods Parkway. The 170 jobs will be in the areas of manufacturing and distribution, with potential for future job creation as the company continues to grow its presence in the U.S. market. “In terms of choosing a location for our U.S. production facility, a large part of our decision to move to metro Atlanta was based on the relationships we developed,” said Haso USA Inc. President Yuji Sogawa. “Yumiko Nakazono and Joseph Huntemann at the Georgia Department of Economic Development, along with Troels Adrian at Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development, teamed together to help us
realize the benefits of locating our facility to Gwinnett County. It made perfect sense for us to begin our U.S. operations here.” Gov. Nathan Deal welcomed Haso’s move to Georgia. “When internationally-based businesses such as Haso USA choose Georgia, it shows the strength of our No. 1 business climate’s reputation on a global scale,” said Deal. “I have no doubt that our dynamic manufacturing network, coupled with our top-ranked workforce and solid transportation infrastructure, will allow this company to succeed and remain globally competitive. Our state shares a rich and longstanding cultural and business relationship with Japan, and I’m proud to welcome Haso USA to Georgia.” Haso Ltd., the parent company of Haso USA Inc., has a large share of products in its domestic market that are distributed under a private label at Japanese super markets, convenience
stores, home centers and drug store chains. Haso Ltd. also is a contract manufacturer for leading consumer product companies such as Proctor and Gamble and S.C. Johnson. Haso’s new facility will manufacture personal wet wipes, including baby wipes, flushable wipes and disinfecting wipes, as well as wet and dry mopping wipes and fluff dusting products. The economic development team in Gwinnett County and the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) provided key contacts and assisted Haso USA, Inc. in identifying suppliers, logistics companies, accounting firms and employees. Haso Ltd. worked with Yumiko Nakazono, GDEcD’s managing director in Tokyo, to find the Peachtree Corners location. Joseph Huntemann, project manager on the international investment team at GDEcD, worked closely with the company alongside Troels Adrian, senior project manager at Gwinnett Chamber
Economic Development, in helping the company locate to Georgia. “Gwinnett is proud to be home to more than 110 Japanese businesses,” said Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash. “Haso USA’s expansion comes on the heels of our 2013 global trade mission trip to Japan and speaks to the success of our global recruitment efforts. I want to congratulate Haso USA on their decision to invest in Gwinnett County and welcome them as a new member of our international business community.” “Companies such as Haso USA solidify our manufacturing presence in the global marketplace and are a great addition to our growing network,” said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Carr. “Japan is one of our top five investor nations and this project reflects our longstanding and ever-growing partnership with this region. We look forward to seeing Haso USA Inc. thrive in Georgia.”
DeKalb Workforce Development to offer Work Readiness Workshops DeKalb Workforce Development will host several Work Readiness Workshops throughout October. The workshops are held at the DWD building located at 774 Jordan Lane, Building #4, Decatur and are offered free of charge. The Work Readiness Workshops are designed to empower job seekers with essential work readiness skills needed to secure employment. Workshop training topics include
“Resume Writing,” “Interviewing Techniques,” “Personal Branding & Marketing,” “Networking,” and “Basic Computer & Introduction to Microsoft Office Suite.” Since the program’s inception, more than 2,000 customers have attended DWD’s Work Readiness Workshops. At right are scheduled times and days for the work readiness workshops for October 2014:
Career Expo, job fair set at Mount Welcome Missionary Baptist DeKalb County District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson has partnered with Mount Welcome Missionary Baptist Church, DeKalb/North Metro Career Center Veterans Unit and Goodwill of North Georgia Decatur Career Center to present Mount Welcome’s second annual career expo and job fair. The event takes place Wednesday, Oct. 8, 10 a.m. until 2 p.m., at Mount Welcome, 581 Parker Ave. SE, Decatur. This career expo and job fair is open to anyone who is unemployed. A wide variety of staffing agencies and companies interested in hiring will be in attendance, and there will be opportunities for participants to receive resume and interview coaching as well as a multitude of services related to securing opportunities for gainful employment. Businesses and staffing agencies participating include Gate Gourmet, the Department of Juvenile Justice and Corrections, Frito Lay, Family Dollar, AFLAC, Hawks LLC, Apollo Staffing, Federal Bureau of Prisons, Georgia Department of Labor, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Georgia Piedmont Technical College, Primerica, Snyder Trucking, Teachers R Us, Manpower, and the DeKalb County Workforce Development Mobile Career Unit in addition to many more. “We realize that the downturn of the economy has placed countless people in less than comfortable situations,” said Johnson. “It’s a wonderful thing to be able to bring these opportunities to the people, and we hope as many as possible will come out and take advantage.” For more information, contact Kendra Kelly in Commissioner Johnson’s office at 404-371-2425 or email kkelly@dekalbcountyga.gov.
DeKalb Workforce Development exceeds state performance standards DeKalb Workforce Development (DWD) exceeded its performance standards for the eleventh consecutive year, county officials announced this week. Since 2003, the department has surpassed standards set by the state of Georgia by training and placing adults and youths in high demand occupations. “DeKalb Workforce Development has achieved a level of service and commitment that has been consistent for more than a decade,” said DeKalb Workforce Development Director Sheryl B. C. Stone. The department has assisted dislocated workers at retaining employment at a rate of 94.2%, and contributed to the economic health of DeKalb County with participants securing an annual average salary of $46,846 in 2013 after completing DWD programs. Through DeKalb Workforce Development’s efforts, more than 1,200 job seekers found and retained employment for this program period. In addition, DeKalb Workforce Development through its year-round youth program assisted 89 youths ages 14 to 21 with securing employment or enrolling into post-secondary education. DWD helped 90 youths obtain their high school diplomas or industry recognized credentials.
Resume Writing Mondays, 10 a.m. – noon Thursdays, 10 a.m. - noon Personal Branding Tuesdays, 10 a.m. – noon Marketing Wednesdays, 10 a.m. - noon
Networking Mondays, 10 a.m. – noon, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Tuesdays, 1 p.m. - 3p.m. *2nd Tuesday of the month, 10 a.m. – noon only* Wednesdays, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Interviewing Techniques Mondays, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Wednesdays, 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. Basic Computer Mondays, 10 a.m. – noon Tuesdays, 10 a.m. – noon Introduction to Microsoft Office Suite Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – noon Thursdays, 10 a.m. – noon
PAGE 10
OCTOBER 4, 2014
Congressman Johnson applauds healthcare grants to assist Georgia U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) applauded the Department of Health & Human Services for awarding $3.3 million in grants for health care navigators in Georgia and $460,000 for two Hank Johnson local health care centers. The Rockdale County Treatment Court Collaborative also will receive more than $234,000 in Mental Health & Substance Abuse Service Grants. The funds will help Georgians sign up for health care through the Marketplace Exchanges under the
Affordable Care Act and assist community health centers that provide coverage for underinsured and uninsured constituents. Open enrollment will be held Nov. 15, 2014 through Feb. 15, 2015. Structured Employment Economic Development Corporation or SEEDCO will receive $2.1 million and Health Care Central Georgia/Community Health Works will receive $1.1 million for navigators to assist people in signing up for health insurance plans. Oakhurst Medical Center in Stone Mountain will receive $250,000 and Four Corners Primary Care Center in Norcross will receive $210,000. Navigator funds are part of more
Brookhaven amends alcohol pouring hours
The city of Brookhaven will begin enforcing a new ordinance next year that will end pouring an hour earlier throughout the week. The last call for alcohol that is served Monday through Friday will be 2:55 a.m., instead of the current 3:55 a.m. On weekends, the last call for alcohol will remain 2:55 a.m. Bars and other establishments that pour also must close by 3:30 a.m. under the new ordinance. Currently, such establishments are permitted to close by 4:55 a.m. J. Max Davis The changes take effect on June 1, 2015. Mayor J. Max Davis said the city amended the pouring ordinance for the public’s safety. Brookhaven, which launched its cityhood in 2012, has made a number of changes to enhance its citizens’ quality of life since incorporation, its leaders say. “These new earlier hours allow the entertainment and nightlife establishments in Brookhaven to remain competitive, but also help to regulate public safety,” said Davis. The Brookhaven City Council approved amendments to four sections in Chapter 4 of the Code of Ordinances. Davis signed the amendments on Sept. 23. Councilmember Bates Mattison said the changes should not require establishments to drastically change their business models. “It was essential that we allowed our businesses to remain competitive and not require them to drastically change their business models,” said Mattison. To view the new ordinance in its entirety, visit http://brookhavenga. gov/home/showdocument?id=1592.
than $60 million in grant awards to 90 organizations in states with federallyfacilitated and state partnership Marketplaces. These awards support preparation and outreach activities in year two of Marketplace enrollment. The community health center funds are part of $295 million for 1,195 health centers nationwide to increase access to primary care services. The Affordable Care Act funding will assist health facilities in every state, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and the Pacific Basin. “Having access to quality care when dealing with my own health issues, I think everyone deserves the right to quality, affordable healthcare,”
said Johnson, who fought and beat hepatitis C. “Community health centers like Oakhurst and Four Corners – the life blood of our communities – help make that possible. In a state where Republican leaders refuse to expand Medicaid – denying more than 650,000 Georgians access to health care – funds to help our citizens sign up for affordable care or access care at a community center are crucial to the well-being and quality of life for all our citizens in Georgia.” For more information on finding a local navigator, visit localhelp. healthcare.gov/ or for more information, visit https://www.healthcare.gov/whatkey-dates-do-i-need-to-know/2015/.
Greater Piney Grove to host “Get Financially Fit” seminar Coinciding with a national campaign to teach consumers about credit, the “Get Financially Fit” seminar will take place on Saturday, Oct. 11, 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., at The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, 1879 Glenwood Ave. SE, Atlanta. The Concerned Black Clergy of Metro Atlanta in collaboration with Wells Fargo are sponsoring the free event. There will be seminars on student lending, home buying, purchase-renovation home loans, getting ready for retirement, starting and running a small business and a special session to teach teens about money management. Wells Fargo and other financial experts will share their expertise. ClearPoint Counseling will lead a session exploring credit scores and credit. The Urban League of Greater Atlanta will offer its Homeownership and Entrepreneurial program, while the United Way of Greater Atlanta will offer sessions to participants in its Financial Capability Network initiative. Financial coach and author Rob Wilson, whose latest book is Wealth Increasing Now, will co-lead the sessions for small businesses.
Dr. William E. Flippin, Sr., senior pastor of Greater Piney Grove, said his church is looking forward to hosting the “Get Financially Fit” program. “We’ve heard such great things and I hope many members of the church and many others across Atlanta will devote a morning to their financial health,” Pastor Flippen said. The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church is the ninth church across the metro area to host the seminar, which will be held during “Get Smart About Credit” month, a national initiative of the American Bankers Association, “With fall in the air and students back in school, and the holidays around the corner, it’s a perfect time to get active and get better financially,” said Concerned Black Clergy president Rev. Frank Brown. Registration is encouraged, but walkins are welcome. The first 30 people to register and complete course will receive a $25 gift card. Breakfast and lunch will be served and childcare will be provided. Register at www.concernedblackclergy. org or call 404-755-4900.
Senior Connections among 13 nonprofits honored with ‘TrueBlue’ award
Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
Decatur Army Youth, YMOA celebrate seniors at Lane Manor
T
wo community youth organizations, the Decatur Army Youth Athletics Program and Young Men of Admiration, Lodge 25, sponsored a free barbecue for the Lane Manor senior community in Decatur. The youths, along with and adult volunteers, prepared and served barbecue chicken, baked beans, cole slaw, potato salad and cupcakes at the event, which was held Sunday, Sept. 28. In addition to the cookout, the seniors were entertained by the adult volunteers and the kids. Some of the adult volunteers who came with the youths pantomimed “oldies” by R& B
artists. “We try to instill more than just football into the kids. We give back to the community in a number ways including feeding the homeless, we give away Easter baskets, tuxedos for students graduating from high school and a number of other activities,” said Bert Miller, president of Decatur Army Youth Athletics. The athletics program is open to boys ages 5 to 12. Decatur Army is seeking volunteers for its program. For more information, visit the organization’s web site at Decaturarmy.com or e-mail decaturarmy@gmail.com.
Senior Connections has been selected as a Georgia Natural Gas (GNG) TrueBlue Community Award recipient. The TrueBlue community award acknowledges non-profit organizations throughout Georgia that are making a difference in their communities in areas of seniors, children and education, energy assistance and environment. Senior Connections is one of 13 non-profit organizations that will receive a financial grant ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 in one of three award categories. A total of $50,000 will be awarded at the fourth annual GNG TrueBlue Awards ceremony. The event will be held at the Biltmore Hotel in Atlanta on Thursday, Oct. 16. In 2011, Senior Connections was awarded one of four Blue Flame Awards and $5,000. Other past recipients include Wesley Glen Ministries, the Georgia Appalachian Trail Club Inc., HOPE Atlanta and Prevent Blindness Georgia. “We are deeply honored to be considered for the GNG TrueBlue Community Award alongside other worthwhile organizations,” said Debra Furtado, CEO of Senior Connections. “The grant will be used to provide meals for low-income seniors in Atlanta and middle Georgia. With the number of poor seniors increasing, and funding for this essential program continually being cut, this award will be of great help to us.” In addition to the award, Furtado thanked Georgia Natural Gas for its volunteer service with Senior Connections. “We are also especially grateful to Georgia Natural Gas for their volunteer hours with Senior Connections. Many of their employees routinely help out packing meals in our Chamblee kitchen.” Founded 41 years ago, Senior Connections is a leading provider of home and community-based services for seniors in Metro Atlanta and Middle Georgia. In the last fiscal year, Senior Connections produced 563,654 nutritionally-balanced and freshly prepared meals, provided 71,142 hours of In-Home Care to its senior clients and spent more than $1.68 million on home repairs.
OCTOBER 4, 2014 PAGE 11
CLASSIFIEDS SERVICE Master Mechanics is working to save the ta-ta’s! Offering 15% off services for all affected by Breast Cancer. Call 678-933-7246 for all your automotive needs! Get rid of that odor in your carpet with our highly effective hot water extraction. Four rooms and one hallway for only $99.00. Call now (678) 973-9991 All Fresh Carpet Cleaners. Need a Personal Care Home? Unlimited Care Inc. located in Lithonia, GA is a fully licensed Personal Care Home. You can contact us at 678-526-7260. Music lesson available. Voice, keyboard, music theory and choir directing. Tutoring for reading also offered. Call 404-284-3935.
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Chevrolet Caprice PPV, V6
November 5, 2014
Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2nd Floor, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030. For additional information, please view the DeKalb County Website at: http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/purchasing/index.html DeKalb County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise. By: Scott M. Callan, Acting Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
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NEW LOCATION
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Weave STOP
4717 Covington Hwy Suite 103 • Decatur, GA 30035
404 - 284 - 8833
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OCTOBER 4, 2014
Cosmetic & General Dentistry Recline in Comfort & Watch TV During Your Treatment !!
Mon- Thurs 8am-5pm Every other Friday 8am-5pm
New Patients Welcome! Power Bleaching- Zoom Invisible Braces (Invisalign) Dental Implants Tooth-Colored Fillings Crown & Bridges Porcelain Veneers Low- Radiation X-Rays Amber Jenkins Dabney ,DDS
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Se Habla Espanol!
8200 Mall Parkway , Suite #155 Lithonia, GA 30038 • (770) 484-4051 Shops at Turner Hill Plaza (Across from Panera Bread Company)