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VOLUME 24 NUMBER 5
APRIL 28, 2018
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HIGHER LEARNING
IN THIS ISSUE, SPECIAL SECTION
ELECTION COVERAGE 2018
DeKalb awarded $3.6 million in mass transit Improvements
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19 Stone Mountain High students earn associate degrees in dual enrollment program
Photo provided
Route 121 to get new buses
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eKalb County will receive $3.6 million in mass transit improvements through a federal grant issued to MARTA. The award will enhance public transportation in the county and includes new buses that are environmentally friendly, officials announced. The funding from the Federal Transit Administration will upgrade and replace 40foot diesel-fueled buses with 60-foot Compressed Natural Gas buses. The new buses will be stationed in central DeKalb County at the Laredo Bus Depot in Scottdale. They will be used to enhance service on MARTA Route 121, which connects riders to the Avondale Station and the city of Stone Mountain. The bus route travels the Ponce de Leon Avenue corridor and is one of DeKalb's most heavilyused routes. "This investment in DeKalb County transit infrastructure and rolling stock will begin to bring more service into south DeKalb County, while also improving the emissions with cleaner CNG fuel and improving our rider experience from the central into the eastern and southern segments of our county,” said DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond.
Frederick L. Daniels, who represents DeKalb County on the MARTA Board of Directors, applauded the upcoming improvements. “This grant will allow MARTA to provide more service in DeKalb County, along one of our busiest routes,”said Daniels. Additional service expansions also are being developed in the DeKalb
Transportation Authority (GRTA). The funding also will pay for the construction of a new operations and maintenance facility along I-20. "As we build out More MARTA across the region, we will continue to partner and enhance existing service options with the jurisdictions in our core service areas. Our goal is to simply become and maintain the status of being one of the
‘This grant will allow MARTA to provide more service in DeKalb County, along one of our busiest routes.’ County Master Transit Plan under Thurmond's administration with significant public and rider input. MARTA also modified several bus routes in DeKalb County to improve overall service, on-time performance, ridership and safety, based on customer feedback and service analysis. Routes 39 (Buford Highway), 116 (Redan Road) and 121 (Memorial Drive/ North Hairston Road) schedules have been adjusted to enhance weekday and weekend service. Park-and-ride lots also will see upgrades, thanks to a $3.6 million grant awarded to the Georgia Regional
best transit and transportation systems in the nation," said MARTA General Manager and CEO Jeffrey Parker. The county, in partnership with DeKalb Municipal Association, has also engaged the Atlanta Regional Commission to produce a Transit Master Plan to provide a comprehensive vision for public transit in DeKalb. The Transit Master Plan will review additional public transportation service expansions and serve as Phase I of the DeKalb Comprehensive Transportation Plan Update that will be completed in 2019.
On Common Ground News salutes Stone Mountain High School. Nineteen of its students have earned Associate Degrees in business management before completing high school. Stone Mountain High School partnered with Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) in a dual enrollment initiative, “Onward Academy.” The partnership between GPTC and the DeKalb County School District through the Office of Student Advancement. Currently, four DeKalb County schools have students who are graduating from dual
degree programs this school year: Stone Mountain High School, Clarkston, Cross Keyes, and Ronald E. McNair. The following students from Stone Mountain High will graduate from GPTC on May 19: Anttwan Alford; Aiyana Ali; Kyra Chism; Diomonay Cole; Monnighan Crowell; Gissell Duran; Kayla Jenkins; Jordan Johnson; Nyisha Jones; Lisa Le; Lyndy Le; Arletha McClendon; Cameron Moore; Demonte Peeples; Cristian Reyes; Mariama Sheriff; Valdina Tchoute; Kiara Thomas; and Mu’nisah Ujima.
DeKalb gang members convicted in retaliatory double homicide Victims killed after alleged insult to gang leader
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hree members of the 9 Trey Bloods gang were convicted in a murder case involving two female victims, DeKalb County District Sherry Boston announced. Jurors returned guilty verdicts on April 26 against 24-year-old Demetre “Flame” Mason and 25 year-old on charges of Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act, and weapons offenses in connection with the murders of Shaniqua Camacho, 20, and Sonia Williams, 21. A third defendant, Michael “Slim” Jenkins, 24, was convicted of Aggravated Assault and Violation of the Street Gang Terrorism and Prevention Act for his role in the crime. The victims were gunned down on May 19, 2014 in the 2700 block of Shell Bark Road in Decatur. The young women were with the men visiting a nearby home when a dispute erupted with several other
gang members. The argument escalated with one of the gang members becoming enraged after being “disrespected” and called a derogatory name. The gang members beat up the women. The women escaped the house on foot. Jenkins, Henderson, and Mason, who was dating victim Williams, chased the women by car. After locating the victims inside the parking lot of an apartment complex, Henderson and Mason exited the vehicle and fired multiple shots, fatally wounding the women. Their bodies were discovered by a resident the next day. The defendants were identified and arrested following an extensive investigation. Each will be sentenced at a later date by DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Linda Hunter. A fourth defendant, Malcolm “Dot” Brown , will be prosecuted separately. A trial date has not yet been set. The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorneys Buffy Thomas and Dwayne Brown, with assistance from DA Investigator Waine Pinckney. Detective M.S. McLendon of the DeKalb County Police Department led the initial investigation.
PAGE 2 • APRIL 28, 2018
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Summer lifeguards needed
DeKalb seeking to hire E911 Operators The DeKalb County 911 Communications Department is seeking qualified applicants to join its communications team. Interested candidates can apply for E911 Communication Officer I positions beginning Tuesday, May 1, 2018, closing Thursday, May 31. All applicants must complete and submit the online application listed in the “job opportunities” section on the county website: DeKalbcountyga.gov. All candidates must meet minimum requirements: • At least 18 years of age • U.S. citizen • High School diploma or
GED Applicants must successfully pass a computer skills test (keyboarding, data entry, listening and prioritization), pass a background investigation and complete a physical examination. The E911 Communication Officer I salary range is $34,364 – $51,713, with benefits including group insurance, a competitive pension plan, paid vacation and sick days, deferred compensation plan and opportunities for career advancement. For more information on the E911 Communication Officer I position please call the DeKalb County Police Department Background and Recruiting Unit at 770-724-7445.
PET OF THE Week
LifeLine Animal Project presents our DeKalb County Pet of the Week, Momma. With Mother's Day around the corner, Momma would love to celebrate motherhood at home with her new family. This three-year-old girl is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a calm and gentle dog who is good natured. Momma's favorite things to do include taking long naps on a comfy dog bed, resting her head in her human's lap and going for slow walks. This wonderful girl is great on a leash, never pulls and sticks right by your side. If Momma sounds like the pup for you, please email foster@dekalbanimalservices.com to arrange a meeting with her.
Stress or Physical Pain?
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DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs is hiring lifeguards for the 2018 swimming season. Applications are open through July. Pool lifeguard applicants must be 16 or older, have American Red Cross certification or certification from a nationally-recognized aquatics training program and successfully pass a criminal background check. To view available positions or complete an application, visit DeKalb County’s job search portal by visiting www. dekalbcountyga.gov, clicking on “How Do I?” and selecting “Apply for Jobs.” For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, public relations specialist, at 404-371-3643.
DeKalb County Police to host 2018 Citizens Academy
The DeKalb County Police Department is currently accepting applications for the 2018 Citizens Academy beginning on Thursday, June 21, 6 to 8 p.m., at the DeKalb County Police Training Facility, 2484 Bruce St., Lithonia. The academy will run every Thursday until Aug. 23. The Citizens Academy provides a unique opportunity for DeKalb County citizens to learn how their department works and take courses similar to those that police recruits have to pass to become officers. There is also a scenario portion of the curriculum requiring participants to complete simulated situations that officers are involved in every day. Interested DeKalb citizens and those who work in the county must RSVP to Ms. Patricia Williams, Training Section Administrative Assistant, by Friday, May 11: Call 770-724-0336 or email phwilliams@dekalbcountyga.gov to receive an application.
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APRIL 28, 2018 • PAGE 3
DeKalb Parks Department announces initial summer food sites PUBLISHER Glenn L. Morgan
gmorgan1@ocgnews.com
EDITOR Valerie J. Morgan
editor@ocgnews.com
ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill
richardhill@ocgnews.com
STAFF WRITER Mackenzie Morgan
mackenzie@ocgnews.com
PRODUCTION MANAGER Travis Hudgons travis@ocgnews.com
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.
On Common Ground News P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910 www.ocgnews.com
DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will host the Summer Food Service Program June 4 – July 27. This ongoing effort ensures that students have nutritious meals during the summer. Applications and full program site participation requirements can be found at www. dekalbcountyga.gov/parks under “Programs/Events” or picked up Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at the Mason Mill Recreation Center, 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur, GA. Agencies interested in becoming a program site must apply by May 11 and should call Rose Myrick at 678698-1114 with questions. Current program sites for summer meals are listed below. June 4 – July 27 Browns Mill Recreation Center 2101 Browns Mill Road Lithonia, GA 30038 Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Crown of Glory Church International 2007 2nd Avenue Decatur, GA 30032 Breakfast: N/A Lunch: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Exchange Recreation Center 2771 Columbia Drive Decatur, GA 30034 Breakfast: 8 – 9 a.m. Lunch: Noon – 1 p.m. Four Season Sport Camp 1855 Brockett Road
Breakfast: 8:45 – 9:30 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 12:45 p.m. Lucious Sanders Recreation Center 2484 Bruce Street Lithonia, GA 30058 Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11:15 a.m. – 12:45 p.m.
Tucker, GA 30084 Breakfast: N/A Lunch: Noon – 1 p.m. Greater Friendship Church 648 Jordan Lane Decatur, GA 30033 Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Gresham Park Recreation Center 3113 Gresham Road Atlanta, GA 30316 Breakfast: 7:15 – 8:15 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Hamilton Recreation Center 3262 Chapel Street Scottdale, GA 30079 Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Inventors Club at Redemptive Life 406 Pleasant Hill Road NW Conyers, GA 30012 Breakfast: 8:30 – 9 a.m. Lunch: Noon – 12:45 p.m. Latter Rain Church 4633 Covington Highway Decatur, GA 30035 Breakfast: 8 – 9 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Lou Walker Park 3569 Larkspur Terrace Decatur, GA 30032
Mason Mill Recreation Center 1340-B McConnell Dr. Decatur, GA 30033 Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Midway Recreation Center 3181 Midway Road Decatur, GA 30032 Breakfast: 7:30 – 8:30 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. N.H. Scott Recreation Center 2230 Tilson Road Decatur, GA 30032 Breakfast: 8:30 – 9 a.m. Lunch: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. OCTOP 1719 Redan East Lithonia, GA 30058 Breakfast: 9:30 – 10 a.m. Lunch: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m. Porter Sanford 3181 Rainbow Drive Decatur, GA 30034 Breakfast: 8 – 9 a.m. Lunch: Noon – 1 p.m. Temple of Faith C.O.G.I.C. 1550 Glenwood Ave. SE Atlanta, GA 30016 Breakfast: N/A Lunch: Noon – 1 p.m.
The Potter’s House 2300 West Park Place Blvd., Suite 135 Stone Mountain, GA 30087 Breakfast: 10 – 11 a.m. Lunch: 1:30 – 3 p.m. Tobie Grant Recreation Center 644 Parkdale Drive Scottdale, GA 30079 Breakfast: 8 – 8:30 a.m. Lunch: Noon – 12:30 p.m. Voice of Praise Church of God 1368 Stephenson Road Lithonia, GA 30058 Breakfast: 8 – 10 a.m. Lunch: Noon – 1 p.m. June 4 – July 6 Decatur/DeKalb Housing Authority 481 Electric Ave. Decatur, GA 30030 Breakfast: 8 – 9 a.m. Lunch: 12:05 – 1:05 p.m. June 11 – July 6 I Discover Camp 105 Electric Avenue Decatur, GA 30030 Breakfast: N/A Lunch: 10:50 a.m. – 12:50 p.m. June 11 – July 20 Fugees Family 141 East College Ave. Building, Buttrick, 2nd Floor Breakfast: N/A Lunch: 11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs public relations specialist, at 404-371-3643 or lsdavis@ dekalbcountyga.gov.
CITY OF STONECREST PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, MAY 1ST 2018 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, MAY 21ST 2018 AT 6:00 P.M. CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 The following Land Use Petition located within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above.
Road closure expected for Conyers Hardin-O’Kelly Street project Motorists can expect detours at the city of Conyers Hardin/O’Kelly Street Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) streetscape project continues. The intersection of Oakland Avenue and O’Kelly Street will be closed beginning Monday, May 7, to construct a roundabout. The road closure and detours are tentatively scheduled for 90 days, weather permitting, through July 9. The Hardin/O’Kelly LCI project, endorsed by the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), is designed to make the area more walkable and livable. The project length is 0.77 miles, beginning at the intersection of Hardin Street and Dogwood Drive and ending at the intersection of O’Kelly Street and Green Street. The roads will be widened and there will be lanes for bicycles and sidewalks, along with the roundabout. Construction began in early
January. The estimated completion date for the entire project is summer 2019. “The construction of the roundabout at Oakland Avenue and O’Kelly Street is integral to the overall design and functionality of the road project,” said Brian Frix, deputy director of the city’s Public Works and Transportation department. “When it’s finished, citizens will more fully realize the magnitude of the enhancements and how it will simultaneously better accommodate motorists, cyclists and pedestrians in the area.” The Hardin/O’Kelly LCI project is funded through federal transportation dollars and local SPLOST funding. The cost of the project is $3.9 million. For more information, contact the city’s Department of Public Works and Transportation at 770785-6690.
LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING:
RZ-18-002 Beverly J. Searles Foundation 6757 Covington Hwy C-1 (Local Commercial) District MR-2 (Medium Density Residential) District Conditional PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Request to rezone property to construct senior living facility LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
SLUP-18-002 Pawanjit Kavr 6721 Covington Hwy C-1 (Local Commercial) District C-1 (Local Commercial) District Request Special Land Use Permit to construct liquor store.
TEXT AMENDMENT: PETITIONER: PROPOSED AMENDMENT:
TMOD 18-0003 City Staff Amendment to Article IX, Section 9.1.3 to add a definition for “Short Term Vacation Rental”.
TEXT AMENDMENT: TMOD 18-0004 PETITIONER: City Staff PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Amend IV, Table 4.1 Use Table as to the permitted locations of Short Term Vacation Rentals, Amend Article IV, Section 4.2.5.8 to provide supplemental regulations for Short Term Vacation Rentals, Amend and Adopt. TEXT AMENDMENT: TMOD 18-0005 PETITIONER: City Staff PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Chapter 14, in its entirety, relating to Land Development, subdivision, soil and erosion, and tree regulations.
PAGE 4 • APRIL 28, 2018
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Rotary Club of South DeKalb honors“Laws of Life” essay winners
Photos by Travis Hudgons
Fresh on DeK Farmers Market to kick off new season DeKalb County’s Fresh on DeK mobile farmers market is gearing up for a new season. The community is invited to the kickoff on May 19, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the DeKalb County Extension, 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur. There will be free food, free biometric screenings and
prizes, as well as discounted produce while it lasts. The mobile market was established to provide fresh produce and other goods in “food desserts.” Fresh on DeK is a program of the DeKalb County Cooperative Extension, DeKalb County Government, and the
DeKalb County Board of Health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides funding for the program. To find out the schedule and locations of the Fresh On Dek mobile farmers market, visit freshondek.com or call 404-2984080.
Senior Olympic Games to showcase array of talent from metro area The 32nd Annual DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games featuring contestants ages 50 and older will be held May 2 – 11. The kickoff for the games will be Wednesday, May 2, 10 a.m., at Exchange Recreation Center, 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur. The Olympic-style sports festival will include free-throw basketball, bowling, golf, horseshoes, track and field, billiards, swimming, table tennis and water volleyball. Events will be held at
various venues across the county. The DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games, which is open to all residents of DeKalb County as well as residents from surrounding counties, is part of National Older Americans Month, which is celebrated in May. For more information, contact Dawn Cribb or LaShanda Davis, Recreation, and Parks and Cultural Affairs public relations specialists, at 404-371-6295 or 404-371-3643.
The Rotary Club of South DeKalb honored its “Laws of Life” essay winners on April 18 at the Community Achievement Center, 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. The club honored five Arabia Mountain High School students, giving each winner $50 and a $100 check to Alicia Hamilton, who teaches English and served as the Laws of Life advisor at Arabia. The club also donated $500 to the Georgia Laws of Life campaign. In a previous story, it was reported that the club awarded $1,700 to Arabia students. That amount actually was awarded statewide by Rotary Clubs across Georgia. The awards program, open to high school students in grades 9-12, asks students to write about their life experiences and values such as loyalty, generosity, compassion and courage. The Rotary Club of South DeKalb presented awards to: Patra Williams, the 11th grade winner and school-wide Samirra Smith, Jalen Ellzy, Aranta Pena Popo and Janai Tucker, who are all seniors.
Town Hall set to combat underage drinking, drugs Beyond The Bell will host a Town Hall meeting on May 17, 6 to 8 p.m., at the DeKalb County Police Department’s South Precinct, 2842 H.F. Shepherd Drive, Decatur. The focus of the forum is to educate the community on the dangers of underage drinking and marijuana use and mobilize communities for prevention. For more information, contact Beyond The Bell at 770-285-6037.
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APRIL 28, 2018 • PAGE 5
ELECTION COVERAGE
A slew of incumbents face challengers in local elections State Rep. Michele Henson, District 86 State Rep. Earnest “Coach” Williams, District 87 State Rep. Pam Stephenson, District 90 State Rep. Karen Bennett, District 94
Larry Johnson L-R: Judge Courtney Johnson and her opponent Attorney Genet Hopewell at a candidate forum. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan
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by Valerie J. Morgan
eKalb Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson is being challenged by long-time Attorney Genet Hopewell in the non-partisan election on May 22. Johnson is seeking her third term. She was elected in 2010 and re-elected in 2014. Hopewell is a partner at Johnson Hopewell Coleman, where DeKalb Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson is also a partner in the law firm. She has sat as a judge in DeKalb’s recorder’s, magistrate and juvenile courts. The hotly contested race is one of several local races where DeKalb incumbents are facing challengers including:
Gregory Adams
Earnest “Coach” Williams
DeKalb District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson DeKalb District 7 Commissioner Gregory Adams DeKalb School Board District 2 Board member Marshall Orson State Sen. Fran Millar, District 40 State Sen. Steve Henson, District 41 State Sen. Gale Davenport, District 44 State Sen. Tonya Peterson, District 43 State Sen. Gloria Butler, District 55 State Rep. Taylor Bennett, District 80 State Rep. Scott Holcomb, District 81 State Rep. Howard Mosby, District 83
At a recent candidates’ forum, the contest between Hopewell and Judge Johnson got heated. Hopewell criticized Judge Johnson for refusing to allow a public defender to take a break during a trial last June, forcing the woman to “pee” on herself. Hopewell said she would bring more fairness and compassion to the bench. The Georgia Judicial Qualifications Commission is investigating the incident. “There are some of my political opponents who are making allegations against me that are untrue and are false allegations. I have always treated everyone who has appeared before me with fairness, dignity and respect,” said Judge Johnson, who said she hopes she will be judged on record and her experience. The race to fill the seat of retiring Superior Court Judge Dan Coursey has lots of choices. Six candidates are vying for the seat: Tunde Akinyele, Gina Bernard, Roderick Bridges, Kirby Clements Jr., Latisha Dear-Jackson and Nicholas Smith. If no candidate gets a majority of the vote, the runoff will be held on July 24.
DeKalb, Rockdale elections officials appointed to commission to review Georgia’s next voting system Details on the calendar of meetings and locations for the commission will be released at a later date, according to Kemp’s office. The SAFE Commission’s members include the following: Co-Chairs Secretary of State Brian Kemp State Representative Barry A. Fleming (R – Harlem)
H. Maxine Daniels
Cynthia Welch
H. Maxine Daniels, retired director of Voter Registration & Elections in DeKalb County, and Cynthia Welch, supervisor of Rockdale County Board of Elections & Voter Registration, have been appointed to Secretary of State Brian Kemp’s 18-member SAFE Commission. Kemp created the Secure, Accessible & Fair Elections Commission (SAFE) to study options for Georgia’s next voting system. The SAFE Commission will conduct thorough discussions on all options – including the feasibility of using all hand-marked paper ballots to all electronic machines with a voter-verified paper trail – and travel the state to solicit feedback from stakeholders. Members will conduct cost analysis of market options, research post-election audit procedures, and provide legislative recommendations to lawmakers before the next session of Georgia’s General Assembly. "This distinguished group of public servants is diverse, knowledgeable, and ready to engage with stakeholders to research the options for our state's next voting system," said Kemp. "It is an honor to serve alongside these individuals, who are committed to an open, transparent, and inclusive process where we set our politics aside and focus on how we can keep Georgia’s elections secure, accessible, and fair.” Daniels, who retired last year as DeKalb’s elections supervisor, said she is looking forward to serving on the commission and developing a report for the future. “Even though I have retired, I am still very interested in the elections,” said Daniels. “I’m excited that I was selected for the commission. Welch said she also is looking forward to serving. “I really appreciate being selected.It will be the beginning of looking at improvements and establishing a timeline to implement those changes after receiving input from the community, ” said Welch.
State Legislators State Representative James Beverly (D – Macon) State Senator Lester Jackson (D – Savannah) State Senator Brian Strickland (R – McDonough) Elections Officials Lynn Bailey, Executive Director, Richmond County Board of Elections Nancy Boren, Director of Elections & Voter Registration, Muscogee County H. Maxine Daniels, retired director of Voter Registration & Elections, DeKalb County Deidre Holden, Supervisor of Elections & Voter Registration, Paulding County Darin McCoy, Probate Judge and Election Superintendent, Evans County Cynthia Welch, supervisor, Rockdale County Board of Elections & Voter Registration Office Information Technology and Cyber Security Expert Wenke Lee, Co-Executive Director, Georgia Tech’s Institute for Information Security & Privacy (IISP) Political Party Representatives Michael Jablonski, General Counsel, Democratic Party of Georgia John Monds, Libertarian Party of Georgia, Executive Committee Vincent Russo, Deputy General Counsel, Georgia Republican Party Voter Accessibility Expert Amy Howell, Assistant Commissioner and General Counsel, Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) Voters At-Large James “Jimmy” McDonald, Managing Principal, McDonald Firm, LLC Sheila Ross, director of Capital Litigation, Prosecuting Attorneys’ Council of Georgia
Photo by Glenn. L Morgan
Stacey Abrams for Governor kicks off Early Voting bus tour
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n Monday, April 30, the first day of early voting, candidate for governor and former House Democratic Leader Stacey Abrams will kick off a bus tour throughout Georgia. She will be joined by Uzo Aduba, Tracee Ellis Ross, Aisha Hinds, Rashida Jones, and local leaders as they visit Atlanta, Albany, Macon, Fort Valley, Columbus and Atlanta. The bus tour stops in Macon, 8:30-9:30 a.m., 1501 Mercer University Dr. Abrams and the group will be in Fort Valley, 10:15-11:15 a.m., at 1005 State University Drive. The bus will be in Albany from 12:45 p.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Ray Charles Memorial Riverfront Trail. From 3 to -4:30 p.m., the group will be at the Emmanuel Christian Community Church, 1819 Midtown Drive, Columbus. The tour wraps up in Atlanta, where the group will gather from 6 to 8 p.m., at the Gathering Spot, 384 Northyards Blvd. N.W. Abrams has picked up several key endorsements including the Georgia Association of Educators, Care in Action, which represents 2.5 million domestic workers, the Caring Across Generations Action Fund, a project of Bend the Arc Jewish Action, announced and the board of Georgia Equality, which announced its choice for the 83rd governor of the Peach State on April 19. Abrams, a Democrat, was minority leader of the Georgia House of Representatives from 2011 to 2017, the first African-American to serve in that position. She was first elected to the Georgia House in 2007. If elected, Abrams would become the nation’s first African-American female governor. According to the board of Georgia Equality’s press release, Jeff Graham, executive director, said “I’m very excited that the board has chosen to endorse Stacey Abrams. Not only is she exceptionally strong on LGBTQ issues, I believe she has an effective strategy to win in November. “It is important for the LGBTQ community and our allies to recognize the importance of this race in terms of continuing to keep Georgia free of anti-LGBTQ laws. Stacey Abrams has not only supported our issues, she has actively supported openly LGBTQ candidates at the legislative level and has been instrumental in building the progressive infrastructure across issues that will make Georgia a better place for all to live, work, and visit.”
PAGE 6 • APRIL 28, 2018
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eKalb County Board of D Commissioners: District 3
Dee Dawkins Haigler
Larry Johnson
Stacey Abrams
Felton Wright
Larry Johnson, Incumbent Public Health Educator
Why are you running for re-election? I want to continue to use my over 25 years in public service, experience and effectiveness to build on the great assets of the people of District 3 by getting our roads paved, cutting county taxes, help in recruiting strong businesses, making our parks and recreation stronger for our children and seniors and building a strong public safety and prevention infrastructure. Some of my key accomplishments include supporting: • $100,000,000 investment in infrastructure improvements in District 3 including the pavement of roads, more sidewalks and parks and greenspace. • $7.2 million to clean the buildup of grease and the removal of oils along the more than 5,000 miles of water and wastewater pipes. • Investment in public safety by securing funding for the new South Precinct Headquarters, supporting pay increase for sworn police, fire and medical examiner employees, 3 percent cost of living adjustment and holiday pay incentive. If re-elected, what are your goals? I will continue to work toward ensuring DeKalb has world-class infrastructure. Rebuilding our roads, shoring up and replacing bridges, establishing walking/biking trails, making our communities walkable through sidewalk installations and above all, incorporating rail in our transit plans remain a top priority. I plan to continue to focus on building an innovative economy by providing resources, education and training to continue to grow our workforce and assist entrepreneurs to meet the needs of the 21st Century. Some examples of the work that I have done include support of the creation of the East Metro and Conley Commercial Improvement District, the First Source Jobs Ordinance, Blackhall Movie Studios ($70 million investment). I will push for initiatives that promote healthy living and support the arts including the Grady Health Clinic at Kirkwood, the amphitheater planned for the Porter Sanford Performing Arts & Community Center and the opening of the Intergenerational Center at Exchange Park. I will make community-oriented policing interconnected with prevention that leads to the most productive district and county as a whole. Last but not least, we must stress community-oriented policing interconnected with prevention that leads to the most productive district and county as a whole.
Felton Wright
Retired AT&T Communications Why are you seeking this position? I am seeking this position to make the government in this district efficient. District 3 needs leadership. The commissioner in District 3 should respond to the people and be accountable to the citizens in District 3. If elected, what are your goals? After I'm elected, I will work for litter control, a much more efficient Sanitation Department (and other departments), and reduce crime.
Triana Arnold James
Janice Laws
Black girl magic Dee Dawkins Haigler is running for Georgia’s Secretary of State. The former State Representative, who is a Democrat, is a standout: She’s the only female in a race with five men: two Democrats and three Republicans. Dawkins-Haigler, who lives in Lithonia, is part of the black girl magic. She joins three other black women who are running for statewide seats: Gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams; Triana Arnold James, who is running for Lt. Governor; and Janice Laws, who is running for insurance commissioner.
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APRIL 28, 2018 • PAGE 7
Ride to the polls
eKalb County Board of D Commissioners: Super District 7 Gregory Adams, Incumbent Bishop, Reserve Deputy Sheriff
Why are you seeking re-election? As Commissioner of District 7, I have led the efforts to rebuild DeKalb County by investing in parks, roads, seniors and families of DeKalb. I have successfully handled constituent concerns for over 350,000+ residents. I currently oversee hundreds of millions of dollars that are allocated for DeKalb’s infrastructure and growth. I am the ONLY candidate in this race who has successfully managed and allocated millions of dollars of taxpayer funds. I have faithfully served all of DeKalb County. If re-elected, what are your goals? In my next term I plan to lead efforts to: decriminalize simple use and possession of marijuana, invest more in our parks & recreation, provide additional tax relief for residents, provide real raises to all of DeKalb County’s hard-working employees, increase economic development opportunities by investing in real mass and light transit and securely protect our seniors, children and furry family members.
Lorraine Cochran-Johnson
VP Business Development for Atlanta Daily World and Atlanta Tribune Why are you seeking this position? I’m seeking the District 7 Commissioner seat because DeKalb County is in a unique position to recruit industry and move the county forward, but we need the right people at the table. With the election of our new CEO Michael Thurmond there is a renewed confidence in DeKalb government. We need commissioners who understand the landscape of our community and are willing to work together to find solutions to tough problems to achieve meaningful change and growth.
Gregory Adams
Lorraine Cochran-Johnson
If elected, what are your goals? My top priority is economic development. We need to leverage our resources to recruit new industry. Many areas of DeKalb lag behind our counterparts and we are not seeing the business growth we should in our communities. Beyond economic development, education in every sense is a fundamental factor in both personal and professional development, so we must focus on education. When you have strong schools, property values increase and communities thrive on all levels. Additionally, public safety is a top concern as violent crime is on the rise in our county, so I plan to work with local police to provide the resources they need to ensure safe streets in our communities.
John Tolbert Jr.
Regional manager at General Motors Why are you seeking this position? I’m seeking this seat again to ensure transparency as it relates to the allocation of county monies for items such road improvements to where it’s needed the most, making sure our police officers can remain in DeKalb instead of leaving to work for competing counties with higher wage offers/benefits and being a real voice for the people who often are ignored. We must make the necessary improvements to drive better businesses/consumers to the county to increase revenues to make much needed improvements. My corporate experience will help me work with other teams in order to bring effective change that the people seek.
John Tolbert Jr.
Ed Williams
If elected, what are your goals? My goals are to listen and execute the initiatives of what the constituents of District 7 want; build the right relationships, which will benefit District 7; and adhere to the ethics of DeKalb County and provide real leadership.
Ed Williams
University Professor Why are you seeking this position? I am seeking this position to bring some leadership, integrity, honesty, accountability and commitment to the Board of Commissioners (BOC) for residents of DeKalb. I want to make the mission of DeKalb County government and BOC a reality. When I vote on an issue you will know that I have done my homework, and asked the questions that are relevant before I vote. I want to give the people’s government back to them. If elected, what are your goals? My primary goals are to improve public safety, Watershed Management, Automatic County Services, and make county government more efficient, accessible, transparent and open to the residents of DeKalb County through robust oversight and legislation. I will not complain about my compensation or abuse the office or my oath of office.
Stonecrest City Councilwoman Diane Adoma is inviting voters who need a ride to the polls to join her on the Blue Bus Diane Adoma on Election Day, May 22. The Blue Bus (www. catchthebluebus.com) will provide free transportation. Adoma will meet constituents at the Arabia Mountain trail, located near the intersection of Evans Mill Road and Salem Road in the city of Stonecrest. Please arrive by 11:30 a.m. The bus departs at noon and will return by 3:30 p.m. “There will be a free catered lunch and water provided. Anyone can join us,” Adoma said. To RSVP and for more information, email dadoma@ stonecrestga.gov
DeKalb NAACP to give rides The DeKalb NAACP plans to offer rides to the polls on May 22, Election Day. Branch President Teresa Hardy said those who need a ride may call the office and leave a message with their address and approximate time they would like to be picked up: 404-271-8006 or they may email naacdek@comcast.net.
PAGE 8 • APRIL 28, 2018
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Upcoming Political Forums
DeKalb Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson, Incumbent Why are you seeking re-election? I am seeking re-election to the DeKalb County Superior Court because serving the citizens of this county for the last 8 years has been an honor and a privilege. My experience as a former Assistant District Attorney, Assistant Solicitor, and Advocate for Victims of Domestic Violence make me uniquely qualified to hold Judge Courtney Johnson this position. I have worked in the court system in DeKalb County for the last 17 years and I understand the importance of having someone on the bench who not only knows the law but is competent and compassionate in applying it. I have been a public servant my entire career and I want to continue to use my legal experience, education, and sense of fairness to serve the county that I have called home for over 40 years. If re-elected, what are your goals? If I am re-elected I will continue the work that I have been doing the last 8 years, including streamlining the disposition of cases in my courtroom so that they are handled as efficiently as possible. Also making the courthouse accessible to all citizens by expanding resources for self-represented litigants including additional information sessions for those needing assistance with family law cases. Additionally, I will also continue to work to expand the services offered by the DeKalb County Accountability Court Program. The program services individuals accused of non-violent offenses whose criminal behavior is driven by addiction or mental health issues. Since I was first elected the program has expanded to not only include the Drug Court, but also the Mental Health Court and Veteran’s Court. I currently preside over the Drug Court; however I will work to expand the entire program to ensure that those individuals who suffer from addiction and mental health issues have alternatives to incarceration. I will also continue to mentor young people in the community by serving as a mock trial judge and hosting high school interns in my chambers each summer.
Coffee with the Candidates
Genet McIntosh Hopewell
Attorney and Partner at Johnson Hopewell Coleman, LLC Why are you seeking this position? DeKalb deserves judges who are competent, fair and impartial and will treat litigants, witnesses and attorneys with respect, no matter what their lot in life. The incumbent, Courtney Johnson has deviated on a number of occasions on these core principles, causing the Genet McIntosh Hopewell County to pay out 1.1 million dollars in the Burrell Ellis case, and refusing to allow a defense attorney a bathroom break causing the attorney to urinate on herself in the courtroom. Lastly, I am disturbed by the words, of our own Ambassador Andrew Young in describing his experience testifying in Courtney Johnson’s courtroom “I have testified before the toughest of the tough and the meanest judges in the country. I have never felt so disrespected in a courtroom in my life.” All of these reflect negatively of the County in which I grew up and which I love. I am uniquely qualified for this position. I have served on the Magistrate, Recorders and Juvenile Courts of DeKalb County. I have also sat by special designation as a Superior Court Judge. I am a graduate of Notre Dame University and received my law degree from Catholic University. I am co-founder of the DeKalb Lawyers Association, Lifetime Member of DeKalb NAACP and a graduate of Leadership DeKalb. If elected, what are your goals? I will treat every person who come before me fairly with dignity and respect. I will respect the rule of law and apply the same to the facts and decide each case on its individual merit. I will make sure that the Justice System works in a fair and impartial manner for everyone regardless of who they are or what their economic status is.
Candidate questions complied by Valerie J. Morgan and Travis Hudgons
State Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick will host a Coffee with the Candidates on Thursday, May 17, 7 to 9 a.m., FunXcess, 8000 Rockbridge Road, Lithonia. The forum will include candidates who are running for office in DeKalb and Gwinnett counties. RSVP at www. kendrickforgeorgia.com
State Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick
DeKalb League of Women Voters, Antioch A.M.E. Church The DeKalb League of Women Voters and the Social Action Committee of Antioch A.M.E. Church will host a candidates’ forum on Thursday, May 3, 6:30 p.m., 765 S. Hairston Road, Stone Mountain. Candidates from the following races have been invited to the forum: U.S. Congressional District 4 DeKalb County Superior Court Divisions 1 & 7 DeKalb School Board Districts 2 & 6 DeKalb Board of Commission Districts 3 & 7 Georgia Senate District 40, 41, 43, 44, 55 Georgia House Districts 83, 86, 87, 90, 94
DeKalb NAACP and the Dream Center The DeKalb NAACP and the Dream Center, 2600 H F Shepherd Drive, Decatur, are planning to host a forum. The tentative date is May 15. DeKalb NAACP President Teresa Hardy said she is looking forward to the event because it will be an opportunity to get young people involved in the elections. The church’s congregation is primarily comprised of young people ages 19 to 34. Hardy said the DeKalb NAACP held a voter registration drive on April 15 and registered 54 people at The Dream Center. For more information on the forum, contact the church at 770-396-9884 or the DeKalb NAACP at 404271-8006 or email naacdek@comcast.net.
Compassionate. Respectful. Fair.
Early Voting Begins April 30th
Election Day May 22nd judgecourtneyjohnson.com
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Where should residents in the new city of Stonecrest vote? Early Voting will be held at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, for residents in the new city of Stonecrest who would like to cast their vote in person. The precinct will be open May 14-18, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Stonecrest residents who plan to vote on Election Day, May 22, however, must go to their regular precinct to cast their ballot. Those precincts will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day. No votes will be counted after 7 p.m. If you are unsure of your precinct, visit My Voter Page at https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do.
APRIL 28, 2018 • PAGE 9
Key Dates for the 2018 Elections April 30 - Advanced (Absentee In-Person) Voting begins for the General Primary/Non-Partisan/ Special Election. May 10 - Earliest day to apply for an absentee ballot for Nov. 6 General Election.
We’re with Genet Hopewell, The Better Choice for DeKalb Superior Court Endorsed by more than 50 elected officials and community leaders
Ambassador Andrew Young
Congressman Hank Johnson
Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson
Gale Walldorff, former DeKalb County Commissioner
Representative Earnest “Coach” Williams
Commissioner Kathy Gannon
Vote for a better DeKalb. Early voting now-May 18. Election Day is May 22nd.
✔
www.electgenetjudge.com
Democratic Sample Ballot
May 12 - Mandatory Saturday Voting for the General Primary/ Non-Partisan/Special Election May 18 - Last day for a registrar to issue absentee ballots for the General Primary/Nonpartisan/ Special Election. June 25 - Last day for a person to register and be eligible to vote in the General Primary Runoff for Federal Races.
July 2 - Advanced (Absentee In-Person) Voting begins for the General Primary/Non-Partisan/ Special Runoff Election. July 24 - General Primary/ Non-Partisan/Special Runoff Election.
PAGE 10 • APRIL 28, 2018
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DeKalb County Board of Education - District 2 Marshall D. Orson, Incumbent
The DeKalb County Board of Registration and Elections has approved advance voting locations in DeKalb County for the upcoming general primary and nonpartisan elections. Beginning Monday, April 30, through Friday, May 13, in-person advance voting for the May 22 election will be as follows:
What's your current occupation? I am a consultant and attorney. I am a five-year incumbent of the DeKalb County School District Board of Education. Why are you seeking re-election? I am running for re-election because I want to ensure DeKalb County School District’s progress continues. We need to continue improving outcomes for all students, continue to focus on fiscal responsibility, ensure equity throughout the county, and continue our commitment to enhancing educational opportunities through state of the art technology. We face looming threats to our stability from potential annexations by Atlanta and Decatur as well as the diversion of state education funding to private institutions. As a resident of DeKalb for over 30 years, my experience and proven commitment to serving DeKalb and its children are especially critical now. If re-elected, what are your goals? If re-elected, I will continue our work to: 1. Ensure equitable access to technology and a high quality education for all children. 2. Continue improvement in the graduation rate and state testing benchmarks. 3. Prepare all students for post-graduation, whether college, career or the military. 4. Improve safety and security for students and staff. 5. Continue support for a range of education alternatives offered by DeKalb County School District including: International Baccalaureate;magnet schools such as DSA and Arabia Mountain; DeKalb County authorized charters schools such as the International Community School, The Museum School, Globe Academy and Tapestry Public Charter School; and dual track programs preparing students for college and career specific opportunities after high school. 6. Expand opportunity for DeKalb schools to customize offerings to meet specific needs of their student populations as well as broaden autonomy in decision-making of schools. 7. Defend DeKalb County Schools’ tax base from being diverted to Atlanta Public Schools and City Schools of Decatur through annexations as well as protect against diversion of state funding to private institutions.
Advance Voting Dates
Marshall D. Orson
Candice McKinley
Candice McKinley What is your occupation? Litigation attorney at Stewart, Seay, and Felton Law Firm Why are you seeking this position? As a mother, educator advocate and civil rights attorney, I believe education is the greatest equalizer. I never thought I would run for office but my experience in finding my children the right educational fit drove me to seek a seat at the table to have a voice for all. In 2015, my son began sixth grade at a middle school on the East side of DeKalb with very low performance scores. My son would come home almost daily crying because there was a fight at school. He could not focus in the chaotic environment. In a matter of months, I had to make a change and moved to the north side of DeKalb. The change was like night and day. The academic rigor was unparalleled, the aura of high expectations danced through the halls of the schools from the teachers/staff, and the school was rich with diversity. It took us moving to a more affluent ZIP code for my son to have access to a high-quality education. I am running in District 2 because I care for all our children. I have honed my legal skills as a practitioner in the areas of education and civil rights law. Now, it’s time for me to step up, express the bold ideas I have for change, and push the status quo. If elected, what are your goals? When elected, I will prioritize school safety and secure learning environments to protect our students from gun violence; fund all schools in our district equitably and bring transparency and fairness to disciplinary processes so all students will have an equal chance at staying in school.
Central DeKalb: Voter Registration & Elections Office (Two areas–one exclusively for senior and disabled voters) 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur Monday through Friday, April 30-May 18, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 5, and May 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 6, noon to 4 p.m. North DeKalb: Dunwoody Library 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody Monday through Friday, April 30—May 18, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 5 and 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 6, Noon to 4 p.m. South DeKalb: The Gallery at South DeKalb Mall 2801 Candler Road, Decatur Monday through Friday, April 30—May 18, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturdays, May 5 and 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 6, noon to 4 p.m. The following locations will be added for one week, May 14-18, 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.: Atlanta: Coan Recreation Center 1530 Woodbine Avenue SE, Atlanta Brookhaven: Briarwood Recreation Center 2235 Briarwood Way NE, Brookhaven Chamblee: North DeKalb Senior Center 3301 Malone Drive, Chamblee Decatur: First Christian Church of Decatur 601 W. Ponce de Leon Avenue, Decatur East DeKalb: Berean Community Center 2440 Young Road, Stone Mountain
Advance Voting Dates Stonecrest: Stonecrest Library 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia Tucker-Reid H. Cofer Library 5234 LaVista Road, Tucker Voters who wish to vote in person on Tuesday, May 22, must go to their regular precinct from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to cast their ballots. All early and absentee voting will end on Friday, May 18. Polling places and sample ballots can be viewed on the “My Voter Page” at www.sos.state.ga.us.
To vote by mail, voters can obtain applications at www.dekalbvotes.com or by calling the Voter Registration & Elections office at 404-298-4020. Applications can be mailed or hand delivered to 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 300, Decatur, GA 30032; faxed to 404-298-4038; or emailed to voterreg@ dekalbcountyga.gov. Absentee applications will be accepted on Friday, May 18, until 4 p.m. Check the county website at www. dekalbvotes.com and look under “Current Election Information” for updates.
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Republican Sample Ballot
APRIL 28, 2018 • PAGE 11
Know Before You Go
What’s on the Democratic ballot? by Mackenzie N. Morgan In addition to electing local, state and federal officials, DeKalb voters who pull a Democratic Party ballot will have four straw poll questions to answer. The questions on the ballot are to gauge popular opinion about certain issues. Here are the questions and a short summary of their background or origin: Should the sale and distribution of bump stocks be prohibited in the state of Georgia? This bill deals with blocking the sale of bump stocks--firearm modifications used to convert semiautomatic weapons into high powered military-style rifles allowing users to fire at the rate of a machine gun. This was the same device used by the Las Vegas gunman in 2017 who carried out one of the largest mass shootings in U.S. history. Should Georgia pull down our federal tax dollars to save rural hospitals and create more than fifty thousand jobs by expanding Medicaid? This bill would allow for the usage of federal tax dollars to fund hospitals that make healthcare convenient for residents and travelers in small towns. It is believed that this would also create jobs in rural areas, as well as make healthcare convenient for those in life-threatening situations. Should Georgia allow voters to elect our own representatives by amending our Constitution to place the power of drawing district lines under the authority of an independent, non-partisan commission? Georgia Democrats are pushing to create legislation that would transfer the power from state lawmakers to draw district lines to a an independent commission to prevent giving political advantage for a particular party or group by manipulating district boundaries. Should Georgia alleviate traffic congestion, reduce carbon emissions, and better connect communities by investing a substantial amount of existing tax dollars in mass transit? This question gauges whether or not taxpayers would support the expansion of mass transit services to ease traffic delays as well as lessen air pollution and its impact on the air quality.
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Passionate About Justice. Qualified. Thoughtful. Fair. Tunde Akinyele is a respected attorney, advocate and jurist in DeKalb County. Tunde is running for Superior Court Judge because he is passionate about working in the court system to reduce recidivism, especially among our youth.
Vote Early, Starting April 30th Election Day is May 22nd
Tunde is also committed to supporting adequate alternative solutions that can better prepare those who have paid their debt to society to re-enter the community successfully. Tunde will be a judge that is respectful and fair.
Join the Movement! Visit the website tundeforjudge.com Paid for by The Committee to Elect Tunde Akinyele
Tunde For Superior Court Judge
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APRIL 28, 2018 • PAGE 13
Congressman Johnson awards $71,000 in art scholarships
Congressman Hank Johnson, District 4, awarded four students scholarships worth $70,000 in the 2018 Congressional Arts Competition. Johnson announced the awards at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia during a reception for the winners on April 21 Arantza Pena Popo, a junior at Arabia Mountain High School in the city of Stonecrest, was named the grand prize winner. Popo earned a four-year scholarship worth $12,000 a year to attend the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) for her “Cultural Portrait” piece. Arantza described her work as a “cultural portrait of facial adornment from different cultures.” The Stone Mountain student used charcoal to create the winning piece. She will travel to Washington, D.C., in June to see her work displayed in the U.S. Capitol building, where it will hang for a year with other Congressional Art Challenge winners from around the country. Sindi Patani, a senior at Brookwood High School, was named first runner-up. Patani won a $12,000 scholarship to the Art Institute of Atlanta for her “My Inner Yellow” photograph. Her work will be displayed in Congressman Johnson’s district office for a year. Second runner-up went to Elizabeth Claire Patton, a senior at St. Pius X Catholic High School. The Stone Mountain student was awarded a $7,500 scholarship to the Art Institute of Atlanta for her “Image of Me in Urban Savannah” photograph. Third runner up was Esther Gibbs, a sophomore at Arabia Mountain High School. Gibbs was awarded a $3,500 scholarship to The Art Institute of Atlanta for her “Picture of Myself in African Adornments” pencil on paper drawing. Patton’s and Gibbs’ photographs will also hang in the Congressman’s district office for a year.
Since 2007, Congressman Johnson has awarded more than $400,000 in arts scholarships to Fourth District students. “What makes this competition so gratifying is that these young artists are sharing their lives with us,” said Johnson. “This art represents the freedom our students have to express their feelings and emotions in whatever medium they choose.” This year’s art pieces will be placed alongside last year’s competing pieces in an art exhibit debuting May 19 at the High Museum in Atlanta. The students’ pieces will hang in the High Museum of Art as a result of a Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (S.T.E.A.M.) partnership Congressman Johnson has with the museum entitled: Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead. Art reception guest speaker and judge, Steve R. Allen, is hosting a class at the May 19 event for students and young artists. Allen encouraged the students to keep pursuing their talent and pushing through with their passion. Allen’s artwork hangs in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African-American History and Culture. He was commissioned to paint several pieces for the Olympic Games from 1996 to 2016. Nearly 30 high school students from throughout the district submitted artwork competing for the four scholarships. Along with Allen, other judges for the 2018 Art Competition were: Genet Hopewell, DeKalb Council for the Arts; Nancy Schulz, Newton County Commissioner; Charlene Fang, President of NACA (National Association of Chinese Americans); and David Johnson, Georgia State University art student. The Chapel Hill Middle School Symphonic Ensemble performed during the reception. Band Director Natalie Brown was recognized by Congressman Johnson for her hard work and dedication to developing the middle school artists.
Congressman Hank Johnson stands with grand prize winner, Arantza Pena Popo’s mother Maria Popo, and the winning piece “Cultural Portrait” during the reception. Arantza was attending a college preparatory class and could not attend the Saturday event.
Congressman Hank Johnson recognizes the first, second and third runners-up of his art competition, from left: Sindi Patani of Brookwood; Elizabeth Claire Patton of St. Pius X Catholic High School; Esther Gibbs of Arabia Mountain High School; and Maurice Gay of The Art Institute of Atlanta. Photos provided
BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
A
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Gravity Indoor Trampoline Park 2135 Main Street East, Suite B 100 Snellville, GA 30078 678-525-7395 www.jumpintogravity.com
Lawerence Williams, Kenitra Williams, Lauren Williams and Gwendolyn Shumate-Williams
PAGE 14 • APRIL 28, 2018
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Rockdale’s Constitutional Corner
Get your checklist ready as we shift gears into summer
By Sheriff Eric J. Levett
Summertime is approaching once again and it’s one of our busiest times of year. Summer brings with it many community activities, schools will be dismissing, and many of its citizens leaving for vacation. It is the goal of the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office to ensure that our citizens have a safe environment to enjoy summer activities, as well as to protect the property of those leaving for vacation. This year, there will be many activitiesoccurring throughout the county. These events include the Grand Opening at Costley Mill Park, Milstead Splash
Pad Opening, free and new! Sunset Cinema in Olde Town, and Daddy Day at the Park to name a few. You can follow this link to see a full listing of activities www. rockdalecountyga.gov. We also have summer camp programs at Rockdale County Parks and recreation which includes activities like swimming, arts and crafts, community service projects, team building activities, field trips, and much more. The fee is $120 per week/ per child. You can register in person at Johnson Park, 1781 Ebenezer Road, on May 6, 2017 beginning at 8:00 a.m. For more information, call (770) 2787529. Rockdale County Public Schools, Rockdale Emergency Relief, and Bread of Life Deliverance Ministries have partnered since 2014 in the “Be Bright, Eat Right Rockdale” Summer Feeding Program to ensure Rockdale County’s children receive healthy,
ESMV Creative Arts Agency held their ribbon cutting on Thursday, March 1st. They are located at 904 Center Street, Suite 1, Conyers, GA 30012. They can be reached by calling (678) 806-5647 or (678) 744-8693, or visit their website at www.esmvcreative.com.
balanced and delicious meals throughout the summer. If your child (up to age18) lives in one of the neighborhoods served, they can receive a free lunch Monday through Friday during the summer (see locations and times at summerlunch@ rockdalerelief.org or call 770-922-9210). I would like to ask everyone attending or traveling in the area of these events to assist us by being especially careful, stay alert, and be aware of what is going on around you. If you see something suspicious or just need assistance, notify a deputy working the event, or call 911 in case of an emergency. As I mentioned before, schools will be dismissing students for summer vacation. This also calls for extra awareness for law enforcement and citizens. As you know, when it is the end of a school year, students are excited, and as a result, may be less
aware of their safety and surroundings. This is when I call on everyone to use extra awareness while traveling through school zones and neighborhoods, where children may be playing and riding bikes. Finally, to the citizens who choose to leave Rockdale County for summer vacation, the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office always strives to protect your property, whether you are home or on vacation. I have included a few tips to assist our agency during the time that you are away: Call the non-emergency number 770-483-4200 to request a Business/Residential check and let your neighbors know you are going on vacation, so they can watch your property. Ask someone to collect all mail, newspapers, and packages that may arrive while you are gone. Lock all doors and windows when leaving for vacation. Never leave extra house keys
Bonhomie, LLC held their ribbon cutting on Tuesday, March 20th. They are located at 2375 Wall Street SE, Ste. 240, Office 34, Conyers, GA 30013. They can be reached by calling (404) 402-0650, or visit their website at www.bonhomiellc.com.
under doormats, flowerpots, mailboxes, or other hiding places. Burglars know where to look for hidden keys. However you keep your blinds and/or curtains when you are home, do the same when you are away. It is also a good idea to leave inside lights on all the time, but if they are on a timer, it will seem to an intruder that someone is home. Activate your burglar alarm and get some signs to put in your yard and/or some stickers to put on windows and doors informing the intruder that there is an alarm system. Put possessions like heirlooms and jewelry in a safe deposit box, or take these items with you. Have a safe and enjoyable summer! Throughout each month, the clerk of courts, tax commissioner, sheriff and probate judge—Rockdale’s elected constitutional officers— discuss topics relevant to their respective roles
Green Goddess Beauty & Wellness, Inc held their ribbon cutting on Wednesday, March 21st. They are located at 1226 Royal Drive, Suite N, Conyers, GA 30094. They can be reached by calling (678) 561-4073, or visit their website at www.greengoddessbw.com.
COMMERCE CLUB 2018 ARC Homes Realty Group, LLC Awake Coffee Community Consolidated Copier Services Conyers Animal Hospital Conyers Flower Shop Copy Central, Inc. Farmers & Merchants Bank Georgia United Credit Union
Infinity Network Solutions LaRitz Spa & Salon Lueder, Larkin & Hunter, LLC Massey Law Firm, LLC MAU Workforce Solutions National EMS Randy’s Carpet Plus Retirement Wealth
Management Strategies Right at Home Rueping Associates PC, CPA Sleep Number The Tabb Insurance Agency, Inc.
THANK YOU
CHAMBER PACESETTERS 2018
TapMore Photo Booth held their ribbon cutting on Thursday, March 22nd. They can be reached by calling (678) 654-1861, or visit their website at www.tapmorephotobooth.com.
Interested in joining the Conyers Rockdale Chamber of Commerce? Family360 Counseling Center held their ribbon cutting on Tuesday, March 6th. They are located at 2012 Eastview Parkway, Ste. 400, Conyers, GA 30013. They can be reached by calling (770) 679-0586, or visit their website at www. family360center.com.
Contact us at 770-483-7049 We are located at 936 Green St SW, Conyers, GA 30012
PLATINUM Evans Tool & Die Georgia Power Company High Priority Plumbing and Services, Inc. Kaiser Permanente Piedmont Rockdale Hospital Snapping Shoals EMC GOLD Corner Market LioChem, Inc. S&A Recycling Shurett Dental Group SYNOVUS THP Creative Group
SILVER 4D Printing, Inc. About Conyers Magazine Acuity Brands Lighting BB&T Colonial Heating & Air, Inc. Covington Family Chiropractic Georgia Piedmont Technical College Gas South Hedrick & Dodson Family Dentistry Monastery of the Holy Spirit Nana’s Chicken-NWaffles Omega Builders Peachtree Academy
Private School Pratt Industries Premier Medical Careers Premier Platforms Pro Cutters Lawnscapes, Inc. Raymond EngineeringGeorgia Inc. Rehorn Professional Group Risk Management Associates of Georgia Scot Ward Funeral Services Talley & Associates, PC United Community Bank
THANK YOU
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APRIL 28, 2018 • PAGE 15
From Slum Kid to Chess Champion Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson ready to inspire Alpha School students by Mackenzie N. Morgan Dr. Antoinette G. Alvarado has called on a chess champion to share success strategies with students at the Alpha School in Rockdale County on April 30. Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson, founder of Be Someone Inc., in Stone Mountain, will lay the foundation for the screening of the film, “Queen of Katwe.” Hudson, a chess champion and motivational speaker, served as a Disney consultant for the movie. Disney picked Hudson, who grew up poor and learned chess from a teacher, a move that forever changed his life.
“Queen of Katwe” tells the story of a poor, 10-year-old Ugandan girl who changes the trajectory of her life and her family’s lives by learning to play chess. Hudson said Alvarado invited him to speak with students after learning of the consulting work he did for the Disney movie. Hudson said he is looking forward to being Alvarado’s guest and sharing his message of making the right moves to success. Alvarado facilitates a girls’ mentoring program at the Alpha School, the alternative school for Rockdale students who have been expelled from their home school.
Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson traveled in 2016 with the Disney team and worked with actress Lupita Nyong’o to promote “Queen of Katwe” in four U.S. cities. Photo provided
On Common Ground News Marketplace LAWN CARE
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VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL
PAGE 16 • APRIL 28, 2018
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