Serving DeKalb & Metro Atlanta Volume 17 Number 16
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NOVEMBER 15, 2011
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DeKalb launches Lithonia elections: ‘A big mess’ secondhand smoke campaign
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eKalb County is launching a campaign this month to educate the public on the dangers of secondhand smoke. The DeKalb County Board of Health’s Picture DeKalb Healthy campaign will include radio, online and newspaper Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford advertisements in English and Spanish. The campaign, supported by the agency’s DeKalb Putting Prevention to Work program, will also host special events to help residents understand more about exposure to secondhand smoke. “There is simply no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke,” said Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford, DeKalb County Board of Health’s district director. “Picture DeKalb Healthy demonstrates our commitment to helping residents breathe cleaner air and live healthier lives.” Despite DeKalb having a low rate of people who smoke – 11 percent in DeKalb vs. 21 percent of adults nationally – everyone is at risk for exposure to secondhand smoke, officials said. Secondhand smoke contains hundreds of toxic chemicals and can cause numerous health problems, including cancer, heart disease, asthma attacks, respiratory and ear infections and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). Even brief exposure to secondhand smoke can be dangerous, health officials say. “Through this campaign, we hope to raise awareness about the importance of reducing secondhand smoke exposure and motivate people to look for ways to create and support smoke-free environments in their communities,” said Arlene Parker Goldson, chair of the DeKalb County Board of Health. “It is one step in our multi-pronged approach to helping residents live tobacco-free.” Health officials, along with elected officials, community partners and residents will unveil the print advertising aspect of the campaign at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts and Community Center on Nov. 17 at noon. The event will also showcase artwork developed by DeKalb students who participated in the Board of Health’s Red Ribbon Week art contest. For more on the student contest winners, see page 8. Get Involved Residents interested in creating and supporting smoke-free environments are encouraged to join Live Healthy DeKalb, a group of organizations, agencies, faithbased groups, businesses and residents working together to create a healthier DeKalb County. For more information on Live Healthy DeKalb, visit www.dekalbhealth. net. Residents looking for support and resources to quit smoking are encouraged to call the Georgia QuitLine at 1-877-270-STOP. INSIDE
Community News.....................................P 3 People.................................................... P 6 Class Notes............................................ P 7 Health & Wellness.....................................P 8 Business News...................................... P 10 Classifieds............................................ P 11 CONTACT THE NEWSROOM Phone: (678) 526-1910 n Fax: (678) 526-1909 E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com
City Attorney Winston Denmark
Mayor Pro Tem Kathleen de Cocq
U.S. Department of Justice never gave clearance for city’s special elections By Valerie J. Morgan
LITHONIA— Across DeKalb County, the Nov. 8 municipal elections ran smoothly for the most part, Elections Director Maxine Daniels said. But three days after the elections—Nov. 11— turmoil erupted in the city of Lithonia so much that residents there are uncertain when or if the top picks will join mayorelect Deborah Jackson on the Council. Two of those elected—Pat Miller, a registered nurse who received 132 votes, and Tracy-Ann Williams, an office administrator who earned 101 votes—were supposed to be sworn in on Nov. 14. Their installations were abruptly canceled after a special called City Council meeting was held Nov. 11. City attorney Winston Denmark told the council the special election that Miller and Williams won could be thrown out. Lithonia never submitted the proper documents—city minutes or a resolution—to the U.S. Justice Department to fill the unexpired terms of Deborah Jackson and Al Franklin, who left their seats to run for mayor. “I cannot emphasize to the city enough that this is a critically important issue. The elections could be voided,”
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
Voters and candidates crowd the doors of the Union Missionary Baptist Church precinct in anticipation of election results.
Deborah Jackson
Shameka Reynolds
Darold P. Honore’ Jr.
Denmark said. Additionally, questions are being raised about the residency of funeral director Shameka Reynolds, who overwhelming won a four-year seat in the city’s General Election. At the council meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Kathleen de Cocq said Reynolds qualified to run with an address that straddles the city’s boundaries with only a tiny portion of the property located within the city limits. Property tax records show the address as one located in unincorporated DeKalb with taxes being paid to the county—not the city. Residents who live in the city limits have the burden of paying two property taxes—those that go to city, as well as those that go to county.
Patricia L. Miller
Tracy-Ann Williams
And in yet a third upset, three hours after the special called Council meeting, write-in candidate Drucilla Woods was eliminated from the elections. The DeKalb Elections Board decided at its 4:30 p.m. meeting that Woods’ notice of intention to run in the city’s General Election was not published in The Champion newspaper, the legal organ, by the proper deadline. With the board’s decision not to certify any of the votes Woods received, Darold Honore’ was officially declared the winner. Even without the board’s decision, however, Honore’ received 89 votes versus Woods’ 86 votes, official elections results show. See Lithonia, page 5
Sunday alcohol sales gets nod
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By Joshua Smith
hen Sundays roll around, the lights in the beer and alcohol sections of stores and other businesses will be turned on—not off—in Snellville and Lawrenceville. Sunday alcohol sales in both cities start on Nov. 20. Both Gwinnett County cities are among the first in the metro Jerry Luquire Atlanta area to take advantage of the referendum residents passed on Nov. 8 permitting packaged alcohol sales on Sundays. The City of Decatur will be the first in DeKalb County to permit Sunday sales starting on Nov. 27. Other cities, including Lithonia and city of Atlanta, plan to wait until the New Year to let businesses turn their alcohol lights on seven days a week. Restaurants in the metro area have long been permitted to pour on Sundays. “It will take a bit of patchwork across the state as jurisdictions work on the legal and bureaucratic procedures to officially begin
Sunday sales in their cities,” said Jason Bragg, government affairs manager with the Georgia Food Industry Association. “Several local governments have yet to decide when they will actually begin selling packaged beer and liquor.” The Sunday alcohol sales bill, Senate Bill 10, was not on the Nov. 8 ballot statewide. State lawmakers this year ended the recurring debate over one of the country’s few remaining blue laws by giving local communities the power to decide for themselves. The Distilled Sprits Council of the United States estimates Sunday sales will raise $4.8 million in taxes
statewide. In the Barrow County city of Winder, where Sunday sales began on Nov. 13, many residents say more liquor sales will mean more economy. “I think this will help city profits and put money back into the pockets of our small business owners,” said Christopher Heard, a 29-year-old construction worker. Not everyone is glad the referendum passed. Some, including Jerry Luquire, president of the Georgia Christian Coalition, were very disappointed. “I was perplexed that more voters at the polls didn’t support our opposition to Sunday alcohol sales,” Luquire said. “More people buying alcohol on Sundays will increase the chance of deaths and more alcoholrelated tragedies for families.” Luquire, who has headed the coalition since 2006, says the coalition plans to continue to urge voters in other parts of Georgia to vote against packaged alcohol sales on Sundays. The fight, he said, is about saving more lives—not selling alcohol. Voters in counties such as Cobb and Rockdale are slated to decide on March 6 if Sunday alcohol sales will be permitted in their counties.
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NOVEMBER 15, 2011
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NOVEMBER 15, 2011
Community News
NOVEMBER 15, 2011 Volume 17, NO. 16 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 twice a month on the 1st and 15th 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.
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Volunteers gear up for ‘Shop with a Conyers Cop’ CONYERS—The Conyers Police Department is partnering with the Conyers Wal-Mart store to help make this Christmas brighter for local children. The Conyers Police Department is participating in Shop with a Cop in which police officers accompany children from families experiencing financial hardships to the Conyers Wal-Mart to shop for Christmas gifts. Children participating in the program are recommended by police department members, city of Conyers employees, school system employees, social agencies and family shelters. The criteria for a child to participate is that they should be a resident of Rockdale County between the ages of 3 and 13, have a social or economic need, have not participated in the Shop with a Cop program in the past and are not currently receiving support for Christmas through another charitable program. “This is the fourth year the Conyers Police Department has participated in Shop with a Cop,” said Chief of Police Gene Wilson. “The Conyers Wal-Mart store is an excellent partner to assist the Conyers Police in spearheading this effort. Officers interact with children who may not have had a positive encounter with law enforcement up until now. The partnership between CPD and Wal-Mart makes sure that the children are afforded a more positive holiday experience.” Other Shop with a Cop sponsors this year include Value Village, Chick-Fil-A, McDonald’s, Bell’s Grocery, Honda of Conyers, QuikTrip and Mellow Mushroom. Last year’s Shop with a Cop program allowed 97 children to shop and this year’s goal is to help approximately 110 children to shop. Shop with a Cop will take place at 8a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17, at the Conyers Wal-Mart. For more information on volunteering or donating to the Shop with a Cop program, contact the Shop with a Cop hotline at 770-483-5780 or e-mail to shopwithacopconyers@yahoo.com.
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GIVING SEASON
Kaiser Permanente employees give back through Build-A-Bike event ATLANTA—For some lucky Atlanta kids, Christmas came really early—Nov. 12—thanks to some volunteers who are making sure that exercise is a priority. As the giving season gets under way, Good Samaritans are pitching in to put smiles 0000000on people’s faces. More than 200 physicians and employees from Kaiser Permanente rolled up their sleeves and assembled 40 bikes to donate to children affiliated with the MLK, J.D. Sims and Central Park community centers in Atlanta. In addition to the bikes, the kids also got a lesson on bicycle safety. Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed thanked the community partners for the gifts given to the children. “I am grateful for the support of one of Atlanta’s most valued corporate citizens,” said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. “The work that Kaiser Permanente is doing will improve the lives of young people in our city through the meaningful act of building and donating bicycles.” Kaiser Permanente of Georgia, Atlanta Beltine, Inc. and the Atlanta Bureau of Cultural Affairs hosted the build-a-bike event at the new Atlanta Historic Fourth Ward Skatepark.
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NOVEMBER 15, 2011
Coming up
DEKALB
May to host forum on teens, sexuality and social media DeKalb County Commissioner Lee May will host the “Wake Up Call: An Adult Discussion on Teens, Sexuality and Social Media,” on Nov. 17, 6:30 p.m., at the Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia. “Recently, a 14-year-old girl made headlines for engaging in risky sexual behavior that went viral on You Tube, Twitter and Facebook. Teenagers talking about and having sex is not new, but today’s technology is taking it to a whole new level. Cyber-bullying, posting, sharing, tweeting, sexting Commissioner Lee May and the consequences of these from a physical, mental, social, legal and spiritual perspective will be addressed at this meeting,” May said. “If you are a parent, teacher, administrator, community and/or church leader or just a concerned citizen, please join us for a town hall meeting to learn what we can do.” Invited panelists include Eddie Velez, youth minister and CEO of Fellowship of Holy Hip Hop; Julianne Adams Birt, MD, OB/GYN and president of Radiant Women’s Health; Hope E. Ashby, PhD psychologist, sex therapist and Asst. Professor of Ob/GYN and Psychiatry at the Morehouse School of Medicine, Attorney Reginald Winfrey of the Winfrey & Winfrey Law Firm; relationship therapist Robin May, LPC, CEO of Virtue Speaks; and Trenny Stovall, director of DeKalb County Child Advocacy Center. 404-371-4745.
South DeKalb Y to serve Thanksgiving dinner, give away toys DECATUR—The South DeKalb YMCA is putting on a Thanksgiving dinner for those in need. Applications are being accepted now for the free dinner, which will be served from 2 to 5 p.m. on Thursday, Nov. 24, at the facility located at 2665 Snapfinger Road, Decatur. Applications for the dinner are available at the Y, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., through Nov. 18. The South DeKalb Y also is accepting applications for families who need toys to give their children for the holidays. The applications must be filled out on site through Dec. 16, noon to 6 p.m. Parents must bring a photo identification for themselves and a birth certificate or proof of guardianship for their children. Social Security cards will not be accepted. For more information on the dinner or toy program, call Sharon Heard at 770-9873500 or Sinequa Bryant at 1-888-591-5510.
ROCKDALE
Volunteers needed for Rockdale tree celebration Rockdale County is seeking volunteers to help with the 2011 Holiday Celebration and Tree Lighting Event on Dec. 3, at the county courthouse, 922 Court Street, N.E., Conyers. Volunteers are needed to help with various projects before and during the celebration. Citizens and organizations in Rockdale County are invited to join in this festive project. Times vary for needed volunteers. For more information, call Greg Pridgeon at 770-278-7001.
GWINNETT
Lithonia First UMC sets community Thanksgiving service
‘America Recycles Day’ in Gwinnett
Lithonia First United Methodist Church, 3099 Stone Mountain Street, Lithonia, will host a community Thanksgiving service on Sunday, Nov. 20, 5 p.m. Other local churches will join Lithonia First UMC for the service. The Rev. John Donaldson of Rockland United Methodist Church, Conyers, will deliver the message. Worship will be followed by a reception in the church’s fellowship hall. 770-482-6394.
Gwinnett County will host its annual America Recycles Day celebration, a nationally-recognized initiative dedicated to encouraging people to recycle more at home, at work and on the go. The event will be held on Nov. 19, 9 a.m. – noon at Coolray Field, 2500 Buford Drive, Lawrenceville. The public is invited to bring in old documents for shredding, tires and electronics. Televisions will be accepted for $10 cash. There will be children’s activities, giveaways and refreshments. Residents are also encouraged to bring canned foods to fill local Salvation Army shelves for the holidays. “This event emphasizes the importance of environmental sustainability for the future of Gwinnett County, in addition to giving back to those in need,” said Tom Keith, Solid Waste Division director.
Does Decatur need more public fountains? The Decatur Active Living Board is accessing Decatur’s public water needs and requesting residents’ opinion by Jan. 15. The committee is studying water fountain access, location of public water fountains throughout the city, the reduction of plastic bottles, the cost efficiency of adding new water fountains, fountain maintenance and a needs-assessment for future water fountains. Ultimately, the goal of the committee is to increase access to public water fountains in order to support Decatur’ active lifestyle. According to the 2010 US Census, the population of Decatur is 19,335 and currently Decatur has 14 water fountains. Does the city have enough fountains to meet the needs of its active population? Complete a five-question survey on water fountains in Decatur at www. surveymonkey.com/s/F38PJRS. The deadline to complete the survey is Jan. 15, 2012.
‘The Way’ Ministries to host fall festival The Way Christian Ministries, 2131 Snapfinger Road, Decatur, will host a fall festival for the community on Nov. 19, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. The festival will include food, games and live music. Participants can also enjoy moonwalks, pony rides and festive pumpkins. 678-427-8797.
DeKalb County Public Library employees show creative talents DeKalb County Public Library employees are showcasing their creative talents for a good cause. Beautiful artistic works by staff members--photographs, paintings, jewelry, crafts and more--are on display as part of the first Employee Expo, which runs through November at the main branch, 215 Sycamore Street in downtown Decatur. Some items are for sale. For more information, ask at the Decatur Circulation Desk. Proceeds from items sold will go to the DeKalb Library Foundation.
ATLANTA ‘State of Housing in Black America’ forum at Morehouse The National Association of Real Estate Brokers, Inc. or (NAREB) will host the “State of Housing in Black America Issues Forum” on Nov. 19, 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., at Morehouse College, Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, 830 Westview Drive, S.W., Atlanta. As consumers, real estate markets and government agencies struggle to find solutions to the ongoing housing crisis, the State of Housing in Black America Issues Forum is designed to provide important data on minority housing markets, front-line perspectives and solutions from practitioners, and information on the impact of the crisis on asset levels and wealth in the African American community, locally and nationally. The event will include panel discussions and a town hall with several community leaders. The forum is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www. NAREBshiba.com or call 770-856-0305.
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PAGE 5
Lithonia elections hang in the balance continued from page 1
Drucilla Woods plans to appeal the Elections Board’s decision.
Marcia Woods Glenn, who is Drucilla Woods’ sister and campaign manager, said she plans to appeal the Election Board’s decision and ask for a recount. Glenn faced a close race in 2003 when Honore’ defeated her by nine votes, winning as mayor. Honore’ left the Elections Board meeting beaming, but did not say anything to Woods or Glenn or look their way. Honore’ will not be sworn into office until January 2012. That’s when his four-year term and Shameka Reynolds’ four-year will begin, if she keeps her seat. The new fivemember council, as it stands now, would include Darold Honore’, Shameka Reynolds, Patricia Miller, Tracy-Ann Williams, and Ric Dodd with Deborah Jackson as mayor.
Lithonia in limbo Currently, the Council is comprised of Doreen Carter, Kathleen de Cocq, Ric Dodd and Mayor Tonya Peterson Anderson. On Dec. 31, however, Carter’s
Candidate Deborah Jackson (right) gets a hug after learning she is Lithonia’s new mayor-elect.
and de Cocq’s four-year terms will end. If Miller and Williams are not sworn into their seats by then, Lithonia will not have a quorum to conduct city business. “This is nothing but a big mess,” Barbara Lester said as the city attorney outlined what steps he planned to take to prevent the special elections from being thrown out. Denmark said he would determine what documents might satisfy the Department of Justice by the Dec. 15 deadline. Deborah Jackson said she believes the city should be able to get over the hurdle with affidavits from the City Council. Jackson said she thought the Council had actually taken a formal vote to hold the special elections. However, Carter said no vote was ever taken, although the council did agree to have the special election at the same time as the General Election—on Nov. 8—to avoid the expense of a second election at a later date. Either way, the council must provide proof
Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
Shameka Reynolds, who held a parade in the city three days before the elections, swept the elections with 182 votes—more than any candidate running for office. Her residency is being questioned since the Nov. 8 elections.
there was a consensus to hold the special elections on Nov. 8. Otherwise, the special election might have to be scheduled in March 2012.
City’s voter rolls inaccurate Meanwhile, Mayor Pro Tem de Cocq has called for the city to verify its voter registration rolls, as well as the city’s property tax records. The city has 1,164 registered voters, but only about 300 usually turn out for elections. Election results showed that only 228 voters turned out for the Nov. 8 elections. “We have a very transient population, with 75 percent of it being rental,” said de Cocq. “So what happens is we have people who have moved out, but they are
still on our voter rolls.” de Cocq points out that incorrect addresses can lead to problems such as the one the city is facing concerning the election of Shameka Reynolds. Reynolds, who has never run for office before, said she has always lived in the city and to the best of her knowledge, the property taxes have been paid to the correct entity. Her family owns several properties in the city. She said she wasn’t aware of any problems with her address until the issue was raised recently. Honore’ said Reynolds’ grandmother, Ammer Reynolds paid city taxes in the past. He said when he was mayor from 20042008, she came to City Hall to pay taxes on the house where Shameka Reynolds now lives.
Honore’ recalled the city’s tax records were kept in a crumbing ledger. He said under his administration, around 2005, the city contracted with the county to collect taxes on its behalf as a more efficient way of doing business. “We had a ledger that was falling a part. It was that way when I came into office. We used to record the payments in it, but I do remember Ms. Ammer coming in to pay her taxes,” Honore’ said. “She was a sweet lady, nice as she could be.” Ammer Reynolds passed in 2006, her granddaughter said. She said her family paid the bills sent from the county, which she thought included the city’s taxes. de Cocq said that is why the city must verify its property tax records and voter rolls. “Right is right. And it’s not right to have people who don’t live in the city and don’t pay city taxes being elected or voting in our elections,” de Cocq said. “This is not personal. If they live in the city, then they should be paying city taxes.” Elections Director Daniels said it was the city’s responsibility to check the voter registration rolls before the election. She said the rolls were sent to municipalities this summer to give her office enough time to verify the information. Lithonia may have received the voting rolls, but City Council members say if the information went to the mayor or City Hall, they were never notified. “We just didn’t know about it,” de Cocq said.
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NOVEMBER 15, 2011
People
By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
Sonja Brown named DeKalb Community Prosecutor Sonja N. Brown joins DeKalb County Solicitor General Sherry Boston’s Office as the new full-time community prosecutor. Brown is a veteran prosecutor, previously serving as a Chief Senior Assistant District Attorney with Sonja N. Brown the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, where she was most recently assigned to the Crimes against Women and Children Unit (CAWAC). She also served as the Director of Victim Services in Fulton. In those capacities, she developed policies, programs and procedures needed to ensure access to victim services; and supervised the Child Support Enforcement Unit, the Victim Witness Assistance and the Volunteer Programs. Brown formerly served as the South Fulton Community Prosecutor and the Director of Offender Re-entry Services, a program that assists ex-offenders with reintegrating back into society. Boston said Brown is a welcomed addition to her office. “I’m excited to bring Sonja, and her experience, to our team; as she will add value to our office and the DeKalb County Community as a whole,” Boston said. “Additionally, she will be the first full-time community prosecutor this office has had in any administration.” Brown will work with law enforcement, community, homeowner and business associations to proactively pinpoint misdemeanor offenses related to these areas in an effort to solve the most significant and pressing community public safety issues.
Movers & Shakers in the Community
Gwinnett’s longest-serving Superior Court Judge Jackson to retire LAWRENCEVILLE— Gwinnett Superior Court Judge Dawson Jackson has announced that he will not seek re-election in 2012. With almost 29 years of service in Superior Court, Jackson is the longest-serving Superior Court judge in the history of Gwinnett County, serving as Chief Judge since 1999. Jackson began his career in Gwinnett County as an assistant district attorney in 1973. After serving as an assistant and Chief Assistant
District Attorney for six years, he was appointed at the age of 31 by Gov. George Busbee to be judge of Gwinnett State Court in 1979. Gov. Busbee later appointed Jackson as judge of Gwinnett Superior Court, where he has been presiding since December 1982. During these years, Judge Jackson has served in many capacities including Administrative Judge of the Ninth Judicial District, member of the Executive Committee of the Council
of Superior Court Judges and the Judicial Council of Georgia. Judge Jackson, admitted to the Georgia Bar in 1972, is a graduate of Emory University and Emory University School of Law. He was a captain in the U.S. Army. He has been a member of the Gwinnett Rotary Club and is a graduate of Leadership Gwinnett. He is a member of the State Bar of Georgia, Gwinnett County Bar Association, Old War Horse Lawyers Club and Lawyers Club of Atlanta.
Gwinnett Superior Court Judge Dawson Jackson
Y Academies of South DeKalb honors Reggie Davis
Reggis Davis
The YMCA Academies of South DeKalb honored Reggie Davis as its 2011 volunteer of the year. Davis was recognized Nov. 7 at the Cobb Galleria Centre at the YMCA of Metro Atlanta annual recognition dinner. Davis has provided countless volunteer hours over the year, assisting with the Start For Life™ physical activity program at the YMCA Academies. He volunteers in his child’s classroom and also assists in the classrooms of other students. “I volunteer to teach fitness for
the kids, so I help my child’s class do their exercises,” Davis says. “I want to teach the kids about a healthy lifestyle and being physically active. A healthy life should start early to instill a good foundation for the rest of their lives.” Davis also volunteers his time at the preschool during the fall festival, field trips, Parent Read Aloud Week, the holiday luncheon, Week of the Young Child, Healthy Kids Day, and other weekly classroom activities. Davis lives in Lithonia, Georgia, with his wife, Annette, and three children.
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By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
PAGE 7
Class Notes
Voters say yes to school improvements through SPLOST
S
chool makeovers, upgrades to athletic facilities and fields, and new buses are among the $3.2 billion in SPLOST projects planned for school districts throughout the metro Atlanta area. DeKalb voters passed a referendum on Nov. 8 to continue a one cents sales tax from 2012 through 2017. Results show the measure was supported by 33,114 voters (62 percent) versus 20,141 or 38 percent of voters who opposed funding SPLOST. SPLOST referendums also passed in Cherokee (52%); Fulton (64%); Gwinnett (60%); and Henry counties (66%), as well as in the cities of Atlanta, Buford and Decatur. The school districts hope to raise $3.2 billion from SPLOST over the next five years. “We are very pleased the voters of DeKalb County were supportive of our efforts to provide the best facilities and resources for our students,” said DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Cheryl Atkinson. “We look forward over the next five years to building new schools, completing needed renovations and bringing the latest technology to DeKalb schools, upgrades that will help us achieve our primary goal of improving student success.” DeKalb’s projects list also includes $155.9 million to replace seven elementary schools: Austin, Fernbank, Gresham Park, Pleasantdale, Peachtcrest, Rockbridge and Smoke Rise. Additionally, Southwest DeKalb and Stone Mountain High schools will be renovated. “I’m happy the referendum passed with high margins. We have heard the concerns of the people and we know that they will hold us responsible to make sure these newly allocated dollars are properly used,” said District 5 School Board member Jay Cunningham. “We have an increased sense of accountability and responsibility.” SPLOST has provided $1.2 billion in revenues to support the improvement plans for DeKalb County Schools since 1997. The funding has paid for 22 new schools, 22 major renovations/modifications and many other capital projects. You can view the county’s spread sheet on how it will spend its $475 million at http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/splostiv.
Our Schools, Students & Partners
Gwinnett to launch online middle and high schools
G
winnett County students will soon have the option of going to class in pajamas and learning in the living room, café or anywhere there’s an Internet connection. Gwinnett Public Schools will host several information session to introduce the district’s online charter school. The Gwinnett County Online Campus (GOC) will serve middle and high school students in the fall of 2012. The charter school will offer students a full-time online learning option. Online courses will be offered in foreign language, health and physical education, language arts, mathematics, science, social studies and technical education. “The mission of Gwinnett Online Campus is to enhance the learning of students in a world-class virtual environment, empowering them with the 21st century knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the local, national, and global community,” said Jorge Quintana, director of media relations. Families can learn more about middle and high school registration for next year by attending one of
several information sessions. Families can also receive information about the online campus’ Guided Study for Credit Recovery program, an opportunity for a student to retake a course that he or she previously failed with a grade of 60 to 69 percent. Students can earn credit for four semester courses or two full credits. The informational sessions will be held in high school theaters, with the exception of North Gwinnett High, which will hold its GOC meeting in the school’s commons area. The meeting schedule is as follows: Nov.17, Parkview Dec. 1,Meadowcreek Dec. 8, Central Gwinnett Jan. 5, Grayson Jan. 12, Mill Creek Jan. 19, Collins Hill Jan. 26, North Gwinnett Feb. 2, Duluth. Registration for next school year takes place Feb. 1-29, 2012. Current 5th-11th graders are eligible to enroll. All meetings for students and parents interested in the middle school level will take place from 6:30 - 7:15 p.m., while the high school information sessions are scheduled from 7:30 – 8:15 p.m. Learn more about the middle school program at http:// www.gwinnettonlinecampus.com/goc/middle-schooldevelopment/ and the high school program at http:// www.gwinnettonlinecampus.com/goc/. 678-301-6000.
Youth Leadership DeKalb welcomes 35 to Class of 2012 L
eadership DeKalb has enrolled 35 students from across metro Atlanta in the Youth Leadership DeKalb Class of 2012. The 10-month training program emphasizes personal leadership skills and civic engagement. The class includes sophomores and juniors from 20 public and private high schools who will be trained in areas focused on justice and public safety, health, quality of life, business, government, banking and personal finance, career options, civic engagement and personal etiquette. “These students come from different backgrounds, but they all share the same desire to become effective leaders and community contributors. This program gives students the opportunities to explore their true potential and helps them to improve their leadership skills,” said Diane Jackson-Chapman, Ph.D., program director of Youth Leadership DeKalb.
Columbia High will serve Thanksgiving dinner to needy
DECATUR—Columbia High School, 2106 Columbia Drive, Decatur, is hosting its fifth annual Thanksgiving dinner for needy families on Nov. 19, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. The Decatur school is asking the community for help to feed more than 400 men, women and children from shelters around metro Atlanta. Families will receive clothes, haircuts and toiletries as well. Items needed include turkeys, hams, canned string beans and yams, blankets, coats and school supplies. Cash will also be accepted. Receipts will be given for cash donations. To donate, bring items to the school or call 678-874-0802. For more information, call Shomari Zachary at 404-664-9761.
Students who have been accepted into the Youth Leadership DeKalb Class of 2012 include: Arabia Mountain High School: Alivia Cromartie, 10th grade; Ayana Sears, 11th grade; Brittany Sears, 10th grade; Avondale High School: Gerald Brown, 10th grade; Cedar Grove High School: Damon Arline, 10th grade; Joshua Heard, 11th grade; Chamblee Charter High School: Ashton Jordon, 10th grade; Joya Reasor, 10th grade; Kenzie Thompson, 11th grade; Clarkston High School: Taahira Sheffield, 11th grade; Columbia Magnet High School: Oliva Perdue, 11th grade; DeKalb School of the Arts: Courtney Neapollioun, 11th grade; Richard Peay, 11th grade; Druid Hills High School: Tasneem Akbar, 11th grade; David Egas, 10th grade; Vivian Lee, 10th grade; Jada Mack, 11th grade; Jackson McCleary, 11th grade; Dunwoody High School: Madison Dill, 10th grade; Whitney Dixon, 11th grade; Lakeside High School: Viviana Coronado, 10th grade; Marist
High School: Christopher Bowman, 10th grade; Megan McKinstry, 10th grade; Leigh Peters, 10th grade; Martin Luther King High School: Dyaneisia Deshay, 11th grade; New Birth Academy: Ramzee Cooper, 11th grade; Redan High School: Jordan Bennett, 11th grade; Mekhi Seraile, 10th grade; Craig Smith, 10th grade; Southwest DeKalb High School: Kristen Peagler, 11th grade; Stephenson High School: Brittney Goss, 10th grade; Towers High School: Luwana Alfred, 11th grade; Tucker High School: Chelse Brown, 11th grade; W.D. Mohammed High School: Naim Fareed, 10th grade; Woodward Academy: Stefan Gresham, 10th grade. Created 20 years ago by Leadership DeKalb graduates to mentor high school students and foster their leadership skills and commitment to public service, Youth Leadership DeKalb has graduated more than 400 high school students from the program.
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NOVEMBER 15, 2011
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Health & Wellness
Resources & Lifestyle Tips
DeKalb officials honor “Picture DeKalb Healthy” winners
E
ight DeKalb County students are being honored this month for their artistic creativity in envisioning a healthier, smoke-free DeKalb. The eight winners were selected from 275 students from 24 schools who participated in the “Picture DeKalb Healthy” art contest, which served as the launch for a county-wide campaign to educate the public on the dangers of secondhand smoke. The DeKalb County Board of Health is officially unveiling the campaign this month. The messages will be in print, radio and online advertisements. Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford, M.D., District Health Director of the DeKalb County Board of Health, applauded the students’ participation in the initiative. “ This contest is an excellent way for students to showcase creatively the importance of saying ‘no’ to tobacco and what they think a smoke-free DeKalb would look like,” Ford said “I congratulate all of our contest winners and all of the students who First Place-K-2nd grade Aitasi Lee, Kindergarten, participated in the 2011 Red Ribbon Week art contest.” Marbut Elementary School. The winning pieces of art were chosen based on creativity, artistic quality and the student’s ability to incorporate this year’s theme. The winners are as follows: First Place K-2: Aitasi Lee, Kindergarten, Marbut Elementary School 3rd-5th grade: Royce McGuire, 4th grade, Marbut Elementary School 6th-8th grade: Nabila Islam, 8th grade, Chamblee Middle School 9th-12th grade: Désia Martin, 11th grade, Columbia High School Second Place K-2: Roysten McGuire, 2nd grade, Marbut Elementary School 3rd-5th grade: H.M. Sadman Sakib, 5th grade, McLendon Elementary School 6th-8th grade: Kaw Gay, 7th grade, Freedom Middle School 9th-12th grade: Jahson Fuller, 12th grade, Clarkston High School Aitasi Lee and Royce McGuire will receive Wii Fit game consoles and Nabila Islam and Désia Martin will receive Apple iPads. The second place winners will receive Visa gift cards. All winners will have their artwork on display at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts and Community Center. Dr. Ford will present each winner with their award at the “Picture DeKalb Healthy” campaign launch event on Nov. 16 at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts and Community Center at noon. To view artwork from this year’s contest, visit the DeKalb County Board of Health’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ HealthyDeKalb. First Place-3rd-5th grade Royce McGuire, 4th grade, Marbut Elementary School.
First Place-6th-8th grade Nabila Islam, 8th grade, Chamblee Middle School.
First Place-9th-12th grade Désia Martin, 11th grade, Columbia High School.
CALENDAR
Saint Joseph’s offers art therapy for better health Saint Joseph’s Hospital, 5665 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, N.E., Atlanta, will sponsor a Lunch ‘n Learn, “Art Therapy” on Nov. 18, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Art therapy is a form of expressive therapy that uses the creative process of making art to improve a person’s physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. The creative process involved in expressing one’s self artistically can help people to resolve issues as well as develop and manage their behaviors and feelings, reduce stress, and improve self-esteem and awareness. The session is free to attend. Registration is required by calling 678-843-5051 or e-mailing CSNinfo@sjha.org.
The last thing the community needed was “just another hospital.” Sure a state-of-the-art facility close to home would be appreciated. But what was equally important was building a place that would remind patients of the care that had disappeared from healthcare. So beyond simply launching the first all-digital master planned hospital in Georgia, we set out to give patients everything from access to a talented pool of doctors and dedicated support staff, who would engage them in their treatment, to free parking and amazing food. See, before DeKalb Medical at Hillandale was even established, we asked ourselves, “What can we do differently? What can we do better than them?” And we still ask ourselves those two questions every day. Because as far as we’re concerned, good could never be good enough.
Free diabetes screenings available at Helping Hands Helping Hands clinic in Rockdale will be joined by Rose of Hope Medical Services to offer the community free diabetes tests on Nov. 19, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. Nurses ask that participants fast six hours before the test is done, if health permits. Testing will be done at 1733 Lake Rockaway Road, Conyers. 770-860-9545.
Like what you’re reading in On Common Ground News? Go to www.facebook.com/ocgnews and To learn more, visit www.dekalbmedicalhillandale.org
NOVEMBER 15, 2011
Learn to laugh your problems away DeKalb Medical’s Wellness Center, 2701 North Decatur Road, Decatur, will host “Laughter Yoga” on Nov. 19, 10 – 11 a.m. Laugh for no reason—that’s the essence of Laughter Yoga. Participants receive direction on a number of simple scenarios to prompt you to laugh to gain all the health and emotional benefits of laughter. Take your laughter with you when you leave and learn to laugh your problems away. No aerobics or strenuous exercise involved. There will be some light stretching involved in yoga practices. The class is $15 to attend. 404-501-WELL.
Decatur offers free CPR training The City of Decatur will offer residents free CPR training on Nov. 19, 9 a.m. -1 p.m., at Decatur City Hall, 509 N. McDonough Street, Decatur. CPR may be done when a person stops breathing or the heart stops beating, such as when a person has a heart attack or nearly drowns. CPR can help keep oxygenated blood circulating in the body, which can help prevent brain and organ damage. Non-residents can attend for $50. To register, call Francisco Albizu at 404-3704100 or e-mail Francisco.Albizu@decaturga.com.
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New Birth sets blood drive, health screenings New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, 6400 Woodrow Road, Lithonia, is hosting two health-related events during November. On Nov. 20, 8:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., the church will join forces with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive. Donors will enjoy snacks, giveaways and raffles at the blood drive. On Nov. 27, the church’s Health and Power in the Pews ministries will come together to offer health screenings. The screenings will be provided outside the Health Room (Next to the Chapel) after the 7:30 and 10:30 a.m. services. Health professionals will be available to answer questions and provide information for cardiac, blood pressure, diabetes (glucose screenings) and cholesterol screenings. 770696-9600.
Learn about cancer-fighting foods Piedmont Healthcare’s Cancer Wellness Center, 1800 Howell Mill Road, Suite 700, Atlanta, will host “Eat This, Not That” for cancer patients, survivors and their families on Nov. 30, 12 – 2 p.m. Learn to read labels such as “all natural,” organic, “local food” and “fortified.” Join Chef Beci Falkenburg and Shayna Komar, RD, LD to determine which foods are best to eat to fight cancer. Participants can also enjoy tasting some of those powerful foods. The session is free to attend, however, registration is required by calling 404425-7944.
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NOVEMBER 15, 2011
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Business News
Development, News Makers & Events
BELVEDERE GRAND OPENING
CW Price retailer opens in former A.J. Wright space By Valerie J. Morgan
DECATUR—CW Price, a New York-based retailer, opened its Belvedere Plaza store on Nov. 10 to a crowd of excited shoppers who braved the crisp temperatures and formed a line that wrapped around the building. The shoppers, eager to receive $5 gift cards that were being given away, welcomed the store’s official ribbon cutting with cheers and applause. DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson, who was on hand for the grand opening, charged the store’s sales associates with the goal of greeting every customer with a smile and serving the community not just in the store, but outside the store. “Each of you are representatives of the CW Price company and you can make this (job) a stepping stone to greater things,” Johnson said. Store manager Darren Holloman and District Manager Dean Stead commended the store’s team for their hard work in getting the store open. The Belvedere store opened in the 25,000-square-foot space formerly occupied by A.J. Wright. TJX, which owned A.J. Wright (along with T.J. Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods), shut down the A.J. Wright chain in February to allow the company to focus on its more profitable businesses. Officials decided to convert 91 A.J. stores to other brands such as T.J. Maxx and C.W. Price, while closing down 71 stores across the country. The CW Price chain offers discount clothing for women, men and children, along with home fashions and accessories. Johnson said the Georgia Department of Labor worked with CW Price to hire DeKalb residents who live near the stores where they work. About 40 people were hired for the Belvedere store and another 40 were hired for the CW Price on Hairston Road in Stone Mountain. So far, CW Price has opened 18 locations in 11 states, said Belvedere store manager Daren Holloman. “We thank CW Price for investing in the community and the revitalization of Memorial Drive is continuing,” Johnson said. “It began with Aldi’s followed by Walmart and the plaza underwent a facelift and added the Hibachi Grill and we also have SunTrust Bank coming to the community. Business, government and community working together to make the difference, this is a true Renaissance and we look for more to come.” CW Price is a division of Conway Stores, Inc., which has four discount stores under that name in the metro Atlanta area, one of which is located at The Gallery at South DeKalb mall.
L-R: Welcoming shoppers at the grand opening were Dean Stead, CW Price District Manager; Chris Neal ; Darren Holloman, store manager; Tamika Cole, Georgia Department of Labor; District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson; and Anthony Utley, Georgia Department of Labor.
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
Employees happily ring up merchandise for customers on opening day at the store’s Belvedere Plaza location.
CALENDAR
Greater Lithonia Chamber elects new president
ABL to host ‘State of Black Business’ in metro Atlanta
Doreen Carter is the newly-elected president of the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce. Carter, who has served on the Chamber’s board of directors for more than 5 years, has built relationships with elected officials in local, state, and national level. She will end her four-year term as a member of the Lithonia City Council in December. Carter says she is looking forward to leading the Chamber. As a Leadership DeKalb and ARC Regional Leadership graduate, she plans to utilize training from the organizations in her new role with the Chamber. The Chamber meets monthly on the third Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the DeKalb Medical at Hallandale. The next meeting is Nov. 16.
The Atlanta Business League, along with other organizations, institutions and businesses will host the Annual Congress on the State of Black Business in Metro Atlanta on Dec. 1, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., at the Morehouse College Leadership Center, 830 Westview Drive, Atlanta. The Congress is designed to discuss and make recommendations on how black businesses and consumers can effect a greater contribution to the economic impact on the metro area by increasing business with black consumers and each other. For admission and to register, visit www.atlantabusinessleague.org or call 404-584-8126.
DeKalb Chamber to host Open House The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce is inviting businesses and those interested in starting a business to visit its new headquarters. The Chamber is hosting an open house on Nov. 17, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Two Decatur Town Center, 125 Clairemont Avenue, Suite 235, Decatur. The Chamber offers an extensive menu of services to assists with business plans, business administration, business regulations, starting a small business, and other helpful information and resources. In addition to showcasing its services, the open house will provide a chance for networking. Refreshments will be served. Registration is requested at http:// dcocopenhouse.eventbrite.com/ or call 404-378-8000.
ABWA sets networking meeting American Business Women’s Association will hosts its networking session on Nov. 23, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Express, 1302 Green Street, Conyers. Meet businesswomen of diverse occupations. The organization provides an opportunity to grow personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking support and national recognition. The cost to attend is $20. For more information, call Patti Bryson at 770918-1039.
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Week of November 17, 2011
Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, 2nd Floor, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below: REQUEST FOR QUOTATION NO.
ITEM
CLOSING DATE
11-500188 RFP
Professional Veterinary Services at DeKalb County Animal Services
CANCELLED
3002164 ITB
Crane Service
November 28, 2011
3002249 ITB
Traffic Calming Maintenance
December 1, 2011
3002261 ITB
Monitoring, Repair, Maintenance and Installation of Fire Intrusion, Elevator and Call Box Alarm Systems
December 15, 2011
3002260 ITB
Adjustable Mesh Back Ergonomic Chairs
November 26, 2011
3002209 ITB
Zebra RW 420 Printer
November 29, 2011
11-500199 RFP
Mason Mill Park Phase II Landscape Architectural and Engineering Design Services
November 30, 2011
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: Kelvin L. Walton, Director/Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
NOVEMBER 15, 2011 By Phone: 678-526-1910 By Fax: 678-526-1909 By E-mail: editor@ocgnews.com Visit Online: www.ocgnews.com
Services CircuitPlus Electronics. TV repair, computers & electronics service. We service all brands & models. Reasonable rates. All work guaranteed! Located in Lilburn, GA. Call 678-395-3003. BeDazzled Hair Salon, 2501 Columbia Dr. #C. . Licensed Stylists Wanted. $45 Weave, $15 Roller Set, $25 Relaxers. No Appointments. Walk-Ins Welcome. 678-705-3445 JAMAICA JAZZ FESTIVAL 2012. Jan. 26th - 30th. Grand Bahia, Runaway Bay AI. $890 pp dbl* Non-stop air from Atlanta, hotel & transfers. Featuring Celine Dion, Kelly Rowland & Shaggy
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