August 23, 1014

Celebrating

Community

Community

People

19 years

Rockdale residents reject garbage pickup proposal ....page 4

Historic slate pitch campaigns to Lithonia business group ....page 5

SERVING DEKALB, FULTON, GWINNETT, HENRY AND ROCKDALE COUNTIES

VOLUME 20 NUMBER 21

Rep. Johnson announces $4.6M to help local homeless veterans

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100 Black Men of DeKalb installs 13 new members ...page 8

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AUGUST 23, 2014

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Atlanta demonstrators demand justice in Michael Brown shooting

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ongressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced four Atlanta-based groups will receive more than $4.6 million from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to fight veterans’ homelessness.

United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta, Action Ministries Inc., Congressman Hank Travelers Aid of Johnson Metropolitan Atlanta Inc. and Decatur Cooperative Ministry Inc. will receive a share of funds to provide services to very low-income veteran families living in or transitioning to permanent housing in the Fourth District and throughout metro Atlanta.

“As a member of the House Armed Services Committee since 2007, every day I’m inspired to work on behalf of our men and women – and their families – in uniform,” said Johnson, who sent letters of support to the VA for the grants. “I’m pleased to have voted on the VA health reform bill last month, and I’m committed to doing what I can to help our veterans get their lives back on track.”

The grants are part of more than a $300 million nationwide effort in homeless prevention that is going to 301 non-profit community agencies in 50 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia that will help more than 115,000 homeless and at-risk veterans and their families.

The program, Supportive Services for Veterans Families (SSVF), is part of President Obama’s pledge to “be relentless” in his pursuit of ending veterans’ homelessness within the decade.

“By working with community non-profit organizations, we have enlisted valuable partners in our fight to end homelessness,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Robert A. McDonald.

“The work of SSVF grantees has already helped thousands of homeless veterans and their families find homes and thousands more have been able to stay in their own homes.”

Through the Eliminating Veteran Homelessness Initiative, VA committed over $1 billion in FY 2014 to strengthen programs that prevent and end homelessness among veterans.

VA provides a range of services to homeless Veterans, including health care, housing, job training, and education.

More information about the VA’s homeless programs is available at www.va.gov/homeless. Details about the Supportive Services for Veteran Families program are online at www. va.gov/homeless/ssvf.asp.

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Elle Lucier (center with bullhorn) leads hundreds of protestors in downtown Atlanta to speak out against the shooting death of Michael Brown.

By Joshua Smith

H

undreds of demonstrators flooded downtown Atlanta chanting “Hands Up, Don’t Shoot!” and “I am Mike Brown!” to protest the Ferguson, Missouri police shooting death of 18-year-old Michael Brown.

Brown, an African American, was reportedly shot six times on Aug. 9 during a confrontation with Darren Wilson, a white, six-year police officer with the Ferguson Police Department.

The shooting, which sparked rioting in Ferguson, a small city of 21,000 near St. Louis, has spurred protests across the nation, including Atlanta where a rally and march were held on Aug. 18 by #ItsBiggerThanYou, a coalition of college students and young activists.

See Protest, page 6

Congressman John Lewis joined the demonstration to show support for Michael Brown.

GPTC Law Enforcement Academy first in state to receive national accreditation

G

eorgia Piedmont Technical College’s (GPTC) Law Enforcement Academy was recognized recently for becoming the first training academy in Georgia to achieve accreditation by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA).

CALEA is responsible for accrediting numerous law enforcement agencies, public safety communications agencies, law enforcement training academies and campus security agencies throughout the nation and abroad.

GPTC President Jabari Simama welcomed law enforcement, community, state and local leaders on the college’s Newton campus on Aug. 19 to acknowledge the college’s achievement. In his remarks, See GPTC, page 6

PAGE 2

AUGUST 23, 2014

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Community News

AUGUST 23, 2014 VOLUME 20, NO. 21 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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Conyers residents raise their hands to oppose a proposed countywide trash collection program in Rockdale.

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Rockdale residents give thumbs down to garbage pickup proposal DeKalb conducts survey on pilot program

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By Joshua Smith

ockdale County residents packed a town hall meeting and overwhelmingly voiced their opposition to a proposed countywide curbside garbage collection program.

“I’ve lived in Rockdale County for more than three decades. We don’t need to reinvent the wheel. A program like this would take away jobs from collectors that we’ve worked with and have gotten to known on a personal level over the years,” said resident Susan Landress. “I pay over $5,000 a year on taxes. I don’t mind if 15 different garbage trucks come down my street because I pay enough taxes already. We want to keep our current collectors or we can just take the trash to the center ourselves.”

Commissioner Oz Nesbitt, who hosted the Aug. 19 meeting at Johnson Park Recreation Center, said he heard the concerns loudly and clearly. The meeting was the second town hall held on the subject.

“As far as I’m concerned, when I walk out this door tonight, it’s a moot subject. It’s over,” Nesbitt told the crowd of about 70 residents.

Commissioner Janice Van Ness, who was also in attendance, agreed the county would not press the issue.

“In April, I gathered all the local haulers together to explore the possibility of establishing trash collection districts and assigning a select few collectors to handle those districts. But after this feedback, we know that our energies need to be redirected to other projects in the county,” said Van Ness.

Currently, residents may contract with a private service for garbage

Susan Landress comes to the microphone to explain to Rockdale Commissioners Oz Nesbitt and Janice Van Ness why residents want to keep their current trash collection system.

pickup. Household garbage and recyclables also may be dropped off at the Recycling Center on Sigman Road for a fee: 50 cents for a normal sized white trash bag and $1 for a large bag.

Recyclables are taken for free.

The new trash program proposed in Rockdale would have brought a county contract to a single vendor to collect trash for all property owners. A variation of the proposal would have been to divide the county into districts and contract with selected trash haulers to serve each district.

Meanwhile, in neighboring DeKalb County, county officials are conducting online and phone surveys to determine whether to keep a pilot program that reduced trash pickups to only once a week in some areas.

DeKalb launched the once-a-week garbage pickup on April 28, providing 28,000 households with larger trash containers, recycling bins and yard waste bags. The county wanted to reduce sanitation workers’ exposure to harmful materials and chemicals.

The pilot program officially

ended on July 31. But the county is continuing the program as it conducts a survey to determine if residents like the way it has worked.

“As a part of the decision making process, we would like to hear from residents and county employees on what they think about the pilot program so we can give that information to the proper elected officials,” said Sanitation Director Billy Malone.

Malone said a research group from Kennesaw State University’s A.L. Burruss Institute of Public Service and Research will collect and analyze the survey data and submit a report to the county.

DeKalb residents who are participating in the pilot program may visit www.yourdekalb.com and look for the Sanitation Pilot link to take an online survey. The survey also is available by calling 404-294-2900 on Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. You can also email your thoughts and concerns to sanitationpilot@ dekalbcountyga.gov.

PAGE 4

AUGUST 23, 2014

COMING UP

ATLANTA Jones to hold first Senate hearing for School Discipline Study Committee

DeKalb Medical offers scholarship to nursing students

State Sen. Emanuel Jones (D-Decatur) will hold the first hearing for the School Discipline Senate Study Committee on Thursday, Aug. 28, 2 p.m., at the Georgia State Capitol, Room 125 Capitol Building, 18 Capitol Square, S.W., Atlanta.

Jones, who serves as chairman, was appointed to the study committee by Lieutenant Gov. Casey Cagle along with Senators Hardie Davis (D-Augusta), Bill Heath (R-Bremen), Lindsey Tippins (R-Marietta) and John Wilkinson (R-Taccoa).

Jones initiated the study committee to review the type of punishments imposed by local school boards, the time State Sen. Emanuel Jones spent in alternative schools by students in various school systems, and the high rate of expulsion of students. He will also use the study committee to identify any operational disparities between students of different racial backgrounds.

Community leaders, experts and professionals in the education field will be on hand to present various findings on the topic.

DeKalb Medical, 2675 North Decatur Road, Suite G-05, Decatur, and the hospital’s foundation are offering a scholarship to nursing students in memory of one of its late physicians, Mark Coppage, M.D. An anonymous donor established the Dr. W. Mark Coppage Nursing Scholarship Fund to sustain his memory and the principles he stood for.

Scholarship applications are being accepted until Monday, Sept. 15, from individuals actively enrolled in a nursing program for initial licensure who represents the “outstanding human qualities for which Dr. Coppage was so well known.”

The scholarship will provide funding payable to the nursing school chosen by the recipient(s). The funds do not have to be re-paid. Individuals actively enrolled in a nursing program for initial licensure are encouraged to apply for this scholarship by submitting a letter addressing four critical points: Discuss your commitment to making a difference in your community and your concern with your acts; discuss how you see your ability to balance a medical academic model of learning while still stressing the compassionate nature of medicine; discuss how you see yourself as a leader; and discuss the attributes you possess that resemble the qualities exemplified by Dr. Coppage.

Since this scholarship was established in 1993, more than 135 scholarships have been given totaling more than $334,000.

For more information or to submit an application, call 404-501-1000 or visit the hospital at the above address.

Atlanta-Fulton Library to provide update on new branch

GWINNETT

The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System will host a meeting to provide an update on the new Southeast Atlanta branch that will be built in 2014 – 2015.

The meeting will be held on Thursday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m. at the Arthur B. Langford Recreation Center, 1614 Arthur B. Langford Place, S.E., Atlanta.

The new building design will be presented for the public to view and architects of the project will be on hand to answer questions.

“Community engagement has been the cornerstone of Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System’s Building Program, and we want to update residents about the status of the new library,” said Kelly Robinson, the library system’s marketing director.

Those who are not able to attend may direct their questions or comments by e-mailing librarycomments@fultoncountyga.gov, faxing 404-335-5291 or mailing: Branch Services, Central Library, One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta, GA 30303.

Online help available for new Georgia drivers seeking permit Worried about passing the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Service’s driving permit exam?

The Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Services is offering free online help to prepare for the written exam. Five practice exams are provided online, along with other resources. Study materials for the Georgia Motorcycle permit exam are also available.

For more information or to take the online tests, visit www.dds.ga.gov/ training/pt_intro.aspx.

DEKALB Mobile career center comes to Decatur DeKalb County’s mobile career center or “jobs bus” will be stationed at two locations in Decatur. The bus will be at the North LakeBarbara Loar Library, 3772 LaVista Road, Decatur on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., and at the Department of Family and Children Services, 178 Sams St., Decatur, on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 10 a.m.

– 4 p.m.

“The mobile unit supports the community by providing work readiness services and putting DeKalb County citizens back to work,” said DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May. “Through an outreach approach, the mobile unit provides residents with essential services, including job search assistance, adult workshops and training, resume writing pointers, and interviewing tips.”

May says businesses are also able to use the mobile unit for recruiting, preemployment screenings, interviewing, and training.

More than 2,500 DeKalb residents have used the mobile career center’s services since its launch in February 2012. The mobile center is funded through the Workforce Investment Act grant and all services offered are free. 404-3712000 or 404-294-2000.

County sets “Walk the Talk” series Gwinnett County will host a new health series, “Walk the Talk,” this month.

The “Your Risk for Fatty Liver Disease” walk will be on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 8 a.m. at Bethesda Park Senior Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville. The “Healthy Weight Loss” walk will be held on Thursday, Aug. 28, 7 p.m. at Rhodes Jordan Park playground, 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville.

“Walk the Talk” is a free, informative walk with health and wellness professionals at an enjoyable, easy pace. Nurse practitioners, fitness trainers will be able to answer your questions during the walks and share tips on healthier living. 770-822-8000.

H.O.O.K.E.D. Teen Club Kickoff Gwinnett County is inviting youths ages 12 to 18 to a kickoff meeting for Helping Others Organize Kreative Everyday Differences (H.O.O.K.E.D).

The organization’s kickoff meeting will be held Saturday, Sept. 6, 10 a.m., at the Shorty Howell Park Activity Building, 2750 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth.

This year, the group will focus on drug and alcohol prevention. Students earn service hours for their time. Participants will learn how to be an effective leader and will be called on to assist with several events throughout the county.

For more information or to register, visit www.gwinnettcounty.com or call 678-277-0906.

ROCKDALE Democratic Party sets general meeting The Rockdale Democratic Party will meet on Saturday, Aug. 23, 9 a.m., at the Party’s headquarters, 1264 Parker Road, Suite K, Conyers.

The meeting will provide updates on the 2014 races and a forum for attendees to discuss the issues.

Dr. Doreen Williams, a candidate for Rockdale County Board of Commissioners Post 2, will discuss how to volunteer and support her campaign efforts. Delegates also will provide updates on actions taken at the state convention in Dublin, GA.

STAY CONNECTED Get the latest news updates ANYTIME.

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AUGUST 23, 2014 PAGE 5

Georgia’s historic slate pitch campaigns to Lithonia business group

By Joshua Smith

T

he Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce welcomed a group of women looking to make history in the state of Georgia in the November election.

Four of the five African-American women on the Democratic Party ticket for statewide offices came to the Chamber luncheon to network and garner support. They say although the moment is historic, their experience is what should shine through in their respective political race s to represent Georgia residents.

“I’ve been in the industry since 1973. I have 40 years of experience and knowledge and I am ready to put that to work for the people of this great state,” said Elizabeth “Liz” Johnson, who is running for Insurance Commissioner.

Connie Stokes, who recently received an endorsement from former U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young in her bid for lieutenant governor, said she is ready to put her experience of serving as a state senator and former DeKalb County Commissioner, to one serving the entire state, especially Georgia’s less fortunate.

“So many people are hurting today. My story is no different than many in that I never knew my father, my mother was an alcoholic and I had to be raised by my grandmother so I know the pain of many Georgia residents” said Stokes. . “I’m running for Lt. Governor because I want to make sure that the people of Georgia continue to have the same opportunities I had. If elected, I will work diligently everyday to expand Medicaid and bring more jobs to Georgia.”

Secretary of State candidate Doreen Carter said while the office she is running for oversee corporations, securities and professional licenses, the elections department is where she is especially needed.

“My commitment to the people of Georgia is that I will protect your voter rights,” said Carter, who also serves as president of the Greater Lithonia Chamber. “We’ve seen voter suppression at its worst in Georgia. We have a fight in front of us.

We will not sit back quietly and allow district

State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, left, served as moderator for a panel featuring Robbin Shipp, Doreen Carter, Connie Stokes and Elizabeth “Liz” Johnson.

lines to be drawn base on race or any other form of discrimination. We can’t have that any more in Georgia.”

Robbin Shipp, who is running for Labor Commissioner, said she is deeply honored and humbled to run for the office with these women.

“I don’t take this election and my potential responsibilities lightly. If elected, I know there will be a lot of work to do. The last seven years has shown us the likes of unemployment figures we have not seen since the 70’s or the great depression,” said Shipp. “Help me break this cycle.

We have to get about the business about helping people get back to work. I will work in the high schools to train students and bring in industries to educate the community on the importance of furthering education. I have an obligation to make

Georgia better.”

Valarie Wilson, who is running for state school superintendent, did not attend the luncheon.

State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, who is helping the women put together a bus tour across the state, says the group is pushing to make the constitutional offices look more like Georgia’s population.

“In Georgia, 51 percent of the population are women, yet there are no women constitutional officers. These group of women bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the positions in which they are running,” said Dawkins-Haigler, who moderated the Aug. 20 panel discussion hosted by the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce. “With this type of expertise and the tenacity that they have, I’m sure that these women will propel this state to where it needs to be.”

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AUGUST 23, 2014

Protest continued from page 1

“The time has come for us to fight for our right to be human,” said Elle Lucier, a 19-year-old Georgia State University student helped lead the Atlanta rally. “How good must we look to be considered innocent?”

Lucier, a communications major, remembered not only Michael Brown, but Trayvon Martin, a 17-year-old African-American who was shot to death on Feb. 12, 2012

by George Zimmerman, a Sanford, FL neighborhood watch coordinator who said he thought the teen looked suspicious. Martin was leaving a convenience store after buying a pack of Skittles and iced tea when he was killed.

He was unarmed. Zimmerman was tried and acquitted of second-degree murder and manslaughter in July 2013.

“Whether it’s Trayvon being gunned down or Michael being executed in the streets, we have to take a stand for our young black men and take a stand against police brutality before more blood is shed in our communities,” said Lucier.

On the same day that protestors filled the streets of downtown Atlanta, more than 100 people, mostly white, came together in St. Louis to support Wilson. The 28-year-old officer has been on leave since the shooting Meanwhile, with tensions high in Ferguson, President Barack Obama called for peace.

“The death of Michael Brown is heartbreaking. I know the events of the past few days have prompted strong passions, but as details unfold, I urge everyone in Ferguson, Missouri, and across the country, to remember this young man through reflection and understanding,” President Obama said in a press release. “We should comfort each other and talk with one another in a way that heals, not in a way that wounds. Along with our prayers, that’s what Michael and his family, and our broader American community, deserve.”

Community leaders in Atlanta such as U.S. Congressman John Lewis say a change must be made in the way police treat African Americans and other minorities.

“How many more young men of color will be killed before we realize that we have a problem in America?

This is a good time to consider the words of Martin Luther King Jr., who said that peace is not the absence of conflict, but the presence of justice,” said Lewis, who marched in the Atlanta demonstration. “We are permitting the incarceration and shooting of thousands of black and brown boys in their formative years who might have become great artists, leaders, scientists, or lawyers, if we offered support instead of suspicion.”

Hip-hop artist “Stuey Rock,” better known as “J Nicks,” also attended the rally in Atlanta. Rock said that although the Michael Brown shooting is a tragedy, unfortunately, it is not a shock for people from St. Louis.

“This hits home for me because I’m originally from St. Louis. This is nothing new to us. Tragedies like this may not make the news but have been happening all along, even when I was growing up there,” said Rock, who is a 107.9 FM radio personality and rap artist. “Everybody is looking at the riots saying that the people there are crazy.

We are not crazy. We’re just tired. Tired of going through the same thing over and over with nothing being done.”

Chad Edwards, a 22-year-old Clark Atlanta University political science major who attended the rally, agrees.

“There were small children leading in the chants out here. To say that their lives have no worth, that they can be gunned down in the streets without any consequences for those who have gunned them down is just deplorable,” said Edwards.

GPTC continued from page 1

Simama said that the officers who graduate from Georgia Piedmont’s Law Enforcement Academy are not only technically skilled but also culturally sensitive.

“All of our law enforcement graduates are familiar with strategies for community policing,” said Simama.

Simama read a letter from Gov. Nathan Deal, who praised the academy for being the first agency of its kind in Georgia to receive CALEA accreditation.

District 43 State Sen. Ronald B. Ramsey, Sr., District 43 congratulated the academy for attaining national accreditation, referring to CALEA as “the gold standard in public safety accreditation.”

Mitch Jones, director of the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Council spoke after the senator, saying that attaining accreditation is much like passing a final, comprehensive exam in school.

“Achieving accreditation is proof you’ve done everything right, but then you also have to maintain it. I’m particularly proud that Georgia Piedmont’s Law Enforcement Academy achieved CALEA accreditation because it means the students here are participating in the best possible learning environment,” Jones said.

The academy’s director, Major Harry C. McCann, Jr., said the formation of the academy was a joint effort between the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG) and the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) Council.

“This academy was basically built from scratch, with the planning stages occurring throughout 2008 so the academy could open in January of 2009,” McCann said.

Eric Dorsey, a current student at GPTC’s law enforcement academy, said the program is great.

“I can’t put into words how great this program is. The instructors here have provided me with more knowledge and training than I could have ever dreamed of,” Dorsey said.

CALEA voted unanimously to award accreditation status to GPTC after assessors determined that the college had met all 159 required standards.

GPTC’s 17-week Law Enforcement Academy program consists of 700 basic mandate hours; 40 P.O.S.T. advanced hours; and 42 college credit hours (60 college credit hours are required to earn an Associate’s degree). It is taught using a paramilitary style structure and is an intensive physical training program.

For more information about Georgia Piedmont Technical College’s Law Enforcement Academy, please visit www.gptc.edu or call Major McCann at 404297-9522, ext. 5031.

Attorney Mawuli Davis of the Davis|Bozeman Law Firm and DeKalb County Public Safety Director Cedric Alexander were among leaders who left Atlanta and headed for Ferguson, Missouri to offer help.

Davis responded to a request by the National Lawyers Guild (NLG) to observe and ensure protesters’ constitutional rights were not being infringed on by law enforcement and the National Guard. Davis released an online video via YouTube, addressing police brutality and offering tips and strategies to help young people safely interact with police.

“Police should not be allowed to continue to militarize our communities with weapons, guns and tanks. Our communities are communities, not war zones,” said Davis. “Be nonconfrontational. You have to stay calm.

Don’t run or resist. Be aware of what you say. Keep a reasonable tone and make sure when you leave the house your phone is fully charged. Your cell phone video may be critical in getting rogue officers out of the police force.”

Alexander, who was recently

elected as president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, told CNN that he was in Ferguson to encourage the Ferguson Police Department to be as transparent as possible with the community.

“Much of the problem here is that there is a great deal of distrust between police and this community. The community here just does not trust the police. Those bridges have to be worked on,” said Alexander. “Hopefully, we can ease the tensions with residents.”

While members of NAACP branches from across the country traveled to Ferguson to stand with protestors, members of the Atlanta and DeKalb NAACP branches held an Aug. 18 press conference in Atlanta to “condemn the tactics used by police officials in Ferguson.”

DeKalb NAACP President John Evans said police officers need racial and cultural sensitivity training to avoid incidents like the one in Ferguson.

“We can’t afford to have that kind of mess happen here in Georgia. We are calling for police departments across Georgia to require sensitivity training to get a better understanding of the differences, the cultures of various ethnic groups,” said Evans. “We also have to train our young African American men on the proper behavior with police. We have to train them how to stay alive when they are stopped by police.”

Michael Brown’s funeral will be held on Monday, Aug. 25.

To view Attorney Mawuli Davis’ online video in its entirety, visit http://davisbozeman.com. You can also follow the social media hash tags #ItsBiggerThanYou and #JusticeforMichaelBrown to stay up-todate on events and conversations dealing with this issue.

AUGUST 23, 2014 PAGE 7

APS to host ‘community visioning’ sessions Atlanta Public Schools will host Community Visioning Sessions across the district to inform and gather feedback from stakeholders about the Georgia Department of Education school system operating models and flexibility options.

The sessions are opportunities to inform the community of the potential choices facing the district and collect feedback from stakeholders – parents, guardians, students, district employees and community members.

Atlanta Public Schools, like other school districts, is legally required to notify the Georgia Department of Education which flexibility option it intends to adopt

by June 30, 2015.

An advisory committee has been created with representatives

from the district’s schools and administration, as well as appointments from community groups and PTAs. The advisory committee will consider the community’s input in a recommendation it will make to the superintendent in October.

The three major school system operating models and flexibility options are Investing in Educational Excellence (IE2) system, Charter system, and Status Quo system.

This is a major decision for school districts across the state. Public school systems in Georgia are governed by the state’s education law, better known as Title 20 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated (O.C.G.A.).

The operating models vary in requirements for governance

structure and allow systems the flexibility to innovate and increase autonomy, including waivers from state laws, rules and guidelines in exchange for greater accountability and for improving student performance.

In recent school years, the district has used waivers from state requirements such as mandatory class sizes, expenditure controls, and staffing. Depending on the operating model chosen, Atlanta Public Schools and other Georgia districts can continue to receive these and similar waivers.

All APS vision meetings will be held 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., except the Sept. 6 meeting, which will be held from 10 a.m. to noon. Here’s a look at the meetings calendar:

Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office to host gun safety classes

T

he Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office (RCSO) is set to host two citizen gun safety classes. The classes are designed to give citizens of Rockdale County training on handgun safety.

The classes will consist of classroom portion and time at the RCSO range. Each class will be open to 25 participants for each class. Classes will be held on Saturday Sept. 13 and Oct. 11, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees are required to bring their own lunch.

Course topics will include basic firearms safety, current Rockdale County gun laws, and basic nomenclature of the revolver and semiSheriff Eric J. Levett automatic handguns. At the end of the classroom portion of the course, participants will get the chance to use their firearm at the RCSO’s firing range under the supervision of certified firearms instructors from the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office.

“I am pleased to offer two more gun safety classes for the citizens of Rockdale County,” said Sheriff Eric J. Levett. “It is very important for someone who owns a gun to know the law and how to use the weapons safely. The RCSO firearms instructors will be updating the attendees on all the changes that just took effect July 1.”

Requirements for the course are as follows: • Must be a resident of Rockdale County • Must be at least 21 years of age • Must not have been convicted of a felony • Must bring a legal, modern handgun that will pass instructor inspection for safety and reliability

• Must bring your own ammunition • Must adhere to all rules of the RCSO firing range, which will be taught during the classroom portion of the course.

Those interested in taking the course can pick up an application in person at the Rockdale County Sheriff¹s Office from the Judicial Bureau or download a copy from the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office website.

Applications include basic participant information, course requirements and a background check. Completed applications must be turned in at the RCSO to Lieutenant Darold Vissering, along with a copy of your driver¹s license.

The Citizen’s Firearms Safety Courses are fee of charge. The deadline to turn in an application is Friday, Aug. 29. 770-278-8000.

APS Vision Meetings Tuesday, Aug. 26 B.E.S.T. Academy High School, 1890 Donald L. Hollowell Pkwy, NW

Wednesday, Aug. 27 Henry W. Grady High School, 929 Charles Allen Drive

Thursday, Aug. 28 Crawford W. Long Middle School, 3200 Latona Drive

Tuesday, Sept. 2 Frederick Douglass High School, 225 Hamilton E. Holmes Drive

Wednesday, Sept. 3 Carver High School, 55 McDonough Blvd

Thursday, Sept. 4 North Atlanta High School, 4111 Northside Drive

Saturday, Sept. 6 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Martin Luther King Middle School, 1550 Hosea Williams Drive, NE

Clarkston mayor offers town hall for residents to cover several issues Clarkston Mayor Ted Terry and other city officials are hosting an open town hall meeting for the Clarkston community on Monday, Aug. 25, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. at the Clarkston Community Center’s east room, 3701 College Ave., Clarkston.

Town Hall subjects include: MARTA’s Comprehensive Operations Analysis (COA) presentation for improving Clarkston services; Compassion Atlanta, an annual Compassion Games program filled with ways for residents to be more passionate towards each other; and Participatory Budgeting for 2015.

Clarkston Mayor Ted Terry “It has been awhile since we had a Town Hall meeting.

We’ve got some important and exciting things to talk about, so please plan to join us,” said Mayor Terry. “As always, we will slot time for folks to discuss any concerns or ideas they have.”

Mayor Terry says if you can’t make the town hall, you can join him and Clarkston City Manager Keith Barker for an informal coffee chat on Aug. 25, 10 a.m. at Abyssinia Café, 926 Montreal Road, Clarkston. 404-296-6489.

Interim DeKalb CEO to host “Community Conversations” Interim DeKalb County CEO Lee May will host his “Community Conversations” series. The meetings will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 26, 7 – 8:30 p.m., at Welcome Friend Baptist Church, 3198 Bouldercrest Road, Ellenwood and on Wednesday, Aug. 27, 6:30 – 8 p.m., at the Dunwoody Library, 5339 Chamblee-Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody.

“The meetings will focus on the accomplishments and issues over the past 12 months in DeKalb County, and contemplate some of the issues in DeKalb’s future Interim DeKalb as it pertains to governance structure, cityhood and other County CEO Lee May issues,” said May. “I look forward to hearing from the community on these issues and suggestions on how we can work together to move the county forward.”

PAGE 8

AUGUST 23, 2014

People

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T

Movers & Shakers in the Community

100 Black Men of DeKalb installs 13 new members

he 100 Black Men of DeKalb has recruited 13 new members to serve as mentors to youths enrolled in the organization’s Leadership Academy.

The organization’s president, Cornelius Stafford, said the new members join a group of men devoted to training young people to become leaders. He said as the group’s new president, he plans to continue building on the organization’s legacy.

“When you choose to be significant, you are willing to sacrifice your time and resources to serve the children of underserved communities in DeKalb County,” said Stafford.

The DeKalb 100 hosted an all-white affair at Chateau Elan to install the 13 new members, who represent an array of professionals: Emmanuel Ajarvon President/CEO, Advance Carpet Restoration, Inc. Maurice Calhoun Facilities Maintenance Administrator, City of Atlanta

Cleveland Crumbley Sr. Manager, Enterprise Data Services Cox Communications Mawuli Davis Founding partner of the DavisBozeman Law Firm

Emmanuel Ajarvon

Maurice Calhoun

Chris Kunney

Andre Deas Director, Youth Sports Department for Wade Walker Family YMCA Bauer Harris Logistics Program Manager, UTC Aerospace Systems Kenneth Kirk Director, IT Services for Sons Automotive Group

Chris Kunney Managing Partner and Healthcare IT Strategist, Infinite Options Technology Consulting Group, LLC

Cleveland Crumbley

David Manuel

Mawuli Davis

Craig McEwen

Craig McEwen Consultant, Northeast Georgia Medical Center David Manuel Executive Director, Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center Steaven Misher Teacher, Clayton County Schools Wayne Morris Senior Systems Engineer, IBM Corporation Temano Shurland Consultant, Deloitte & Touche LLP

Andre Deas

Steaven Misher

Bauer Harris

Wayne Morris

“The strength of any organization like ours is measured by the effectiveness of their programs, the ability to recruit and maintain members and support from sponsors in the form of contributions and donations,” said Stafford. “Last year at the National 100 Black Men of America Conference we were awarded “Mentor of the Year” and “Mentee of the Year” for the work we have done. The only thing left for us to do, is to make sure we get the word out to existing and potential sponsors, about the life-changing transformation taking place with our students

Kenneth Kirk

Temano Shurland

through the Leadership Academy.”

The DeKalb County chapter of the 100 Black Men of America has been active in the community for the past 22 years. They can be reached at (404) 241- 1338 or www. dekalb100blackmen.org.

Donations and contributions are welcomed.

AUGUST 23, 2014 PAGE 9

City of Atlanta seeks input on proposed infrastructure projects The City of Atlanta and Mayor Kasim Reed are hosting a series of community meetings to receive input on proposed projects the city should pursue to improve roads and streets through a proposed infrastructure bond.

The City of Atlanta wants to pay for the projects with a diversified funding plan with a $250 million general obligation bond that will be presented by referendum to voters in March 2015.

City officials say Atlanta currently faces an infrastructure backlog totaling more than $900 million.

“In order to begin improving our city’s roads, bridges, sidewalks and upgrade critical public buildings and facilities, the city is proposing an infrastructure bond referendum to pay

for these repairs and improvements,” said Mayor Reed.

The 2015 Proposed Infrastructure Bond was first introduced in June and July when the Departments of Public Works and Planning and Community Development in coordination with the Atlanta City Council held a number of public information meetings.

With residents’ input, the City of Atlanta has gathered information to begin a second round of public information sessions. The city will share the results of the first round of meetings, provide a draft list of potential projects to be considered and receive additional feedback from residents.

The meeting, will be held from 6 to 8 p.m., and are scheduled as follows: Sept. 9 Atlanta Metropolitan State College 1630 Metropolitan Parkway, SW

Sept. 23 John C. Birdine Recreation Center 215 Lakewood Way, SW

Sept. 11 Atlanta Speech School 3160 Northside Parkway, NW

Sept. 25 Atlanta City Hall Auditorium(Old Council Chambers) 68 Mitchell Street, SW

Sept. 18 Adamsville Recreation Center 3201 Martin L. King, Jr., SW Additional meetings to be announced.

Sept. 30 Piedmont Hospital - Sheperd Center Callaway Auditorium, 7th Floor 2020 Peachtree Road, NW

DeKalb Charter District public hearings set The DeKalb County School District is seeking to become the largest charter system in the state of Georgia. In order to accomplish this goal, the district must submit a petition to the Georgia Department of Education seeking charter system status, and your input in this petition is sought. The district is seeking your thoughts on autonomy and flexibility at your school and how that autonomy and flexibility can lead to innovations in how students are taught and how the school is governed.

Five community engagement sessions have been scheduled, and anyone seeking the opportunity to provide input is invited to attend. All of the meetings are scheduled for 6 p.m.:

Trinity Awards honor outstanding small nonprofits, community leaders

S

mall nonprofit organizations that these nonprofits are doing and shined in the spotlight this month, encourage them to continue keeping on, 11 of them honored as recipients reminding them that their labor is not in of the Non Profit Trinity Awards. vain and that their selfless giving will The third annual program, held ultimately reap a divine reward.”

Aug. 17 at the Porter Sanford III The 2014 Nonprofit Trinity Award Winners are: Performing Arts Community Center in Decatur, recognized organizations and Be About It, Inc. Dexter Kilgore The Charity Award The Achievement Award people who are dedicated to making a

difference in the community.

Bridge of Hope, Inc. Rosemerry Nobe-Nelson The program included a red carpet, The Community Outreach The Lifetime Award reception, vendors, networking and Award

entertainment by an array of local artists.

Sherronda Dudley “The Nonprofit Trinity Awards’ Be Someone, Inc. The Inspirational Award focus is about being able to recognize, The Mentorship Award

honor and support small nonprofits with Voice Today, Inc. a big heart as they regularly help to meet Kingdom Now Ministries, The Cruelty Prevention the needs of others, regardless of the Inc. Award The Ministry Award

fact that they themselves operate with

Keondrea “Skool little finances and few volunteer staff,” Family Life Restoration Girl” Dupree and said Linda Brooks Horton, executive Center, Inc. Jai Lee “Little Miss director of the awards program. “Our The Educational Award Renaissance” desire is to bring to light the great work

The Motivational Award

LEGAL NOTICE

DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Thursday, August 28, 2014

Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, 2nd Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: REQUEST FOR QUOTATION NO.

3003315 ITB

ITEM

Roadway Bulk De-icing Material

CLOSING DATE

September 23, 2014

14-100427 ITB

South Fork Peachtree Creek Trail Phase IV, PI 0007632

October 9, 2014

14-500325 RFP

Food Service Operations for the Central DeKalb Senior Center and/or the Lou Walker Senior Center

September 26, 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

Region IV Region II Region I Region V Region III

Lithonia High School Lakeside High School Dunwoody High School Towers High School Stephenson High School

Tuesday, Aug. 26 Wednesday, Aug. 27 Thursday, Aug. 28 Tuesday, Sept. 2 Wednesday, Sept. 3

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Seniors

Lou Walker seniors to present gospel musical The Lou Walker Senior Center Performing Arts Group will present a musical, “Hallelujah: In that Great Gettin’ Up Mornin,’” on Tuesday, Sept. 9, 7 to 8 p.m., at the Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore Street, Decatur.

The event is supported by the Friends of the Library. For more information, call 404-370-3070.

Wednesdays, Sept. 3 and 17 Writers Group, 11 a.m.—1 p.m., Toco Hill-Avis G. Williams Library, 1282 McConnell Drive, Decatur. This is a writing opportunity for people 55 and older who want or need to reflect on what they have experienced and learned during their lives. Stories hold us together. As we grow older, some of us feel the call to write our stories—for ourselves and/ or for those we love. If you have ever thought about writing your story, this group can help you. Class limit 10. To register, call 404.508.7190, ext. 2257.

Thursday, Sept. 11 Senior Craft, 2 to 3 p.m., Doraville Library, 3748 Central Ave., Doraville.

Join us for an afternoon of crafting!

Make a beautiful glass ball ornament to take home. 770-936-3852.

Tuesday, Sept. 16 Golden Classic Films, 2 p.m., Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore Street. Movies especially designed for those 55 and older. Check with branch or dekalblibrary.org for movie title. 404370-3070.

Sept. 13, 19, 20 and 27 New Movie Series begins at the DeKalb Public Library. Enjoy a recently-released, blockbuster movie.

Check with branches for movie title or visit dekalblibrary.org.

Saturday, Sept.13: 2 p.m. Stone Mountain-Sue Kellogg Library, 952 Leon Street, Stone Mountain. 770413-2020.

Friday, Sept. 19, and Saturday, Sept. 20, 2 p.m. Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia. 770482-3828.

Saturday, Sept. 27, 2 p.m., Covington Library, 3500 Covington Highway, Decatur. 404-508-7180.

Wednesday, Sept. 24 Brain Development for Seniors: Supplements and Sleep for a Healthy Brain, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore Street, Decatur.

Join Connie Keck, brain health expert, to find out more about what it takes to keep your brain healthy.

Vitamins and Supplements for Brain Health-- Learn which vitamins and supplements are best and how to take them.

Sleep for a Healthy Brain --Find out about tips and techniques to enhance sleep. For more information call, 404508-7190, ext. 2257.

AUGUST 23, 2014

News for our Senior Community

AUGUST 23, 2014 PAGE 11

CLASSIFIEDS SERVICES Music lesson available. Voice, keyboard, music theory and choir directing. Tutoring for reading also offered. Call 404-284-3935.

Mr. Handy. Small and large jobs.

A/C services, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, lawn service, gutters. Call for free estimates at 404-281-6503.

CHURCH Women of Hope Conference Oct. 10-11, 7 p.m. Rockdale County Auditorium, 903 Main Street, Conyers GA. Public baptism. www.womenofhope2014.eventbrite. com. Information call 720-270-2558.

Conyers-Rockdale County Chamber of Commerce. High commission plus monthly bonus. Please send resumes and history to ConyersRockdale County Chamber of Commerce, P. O. Box 483 Conyers, GA 30012 or call 770-483-7049 and ask for Fred.

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PAGE 12

AUGUST 23, 2014

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