The News, Jan.17th, 2015 V6 I42 by The Covington News

the News

Jan. 17, 2015

Volume 6, Issue 42

Page 11 Service and events to honor MLK

Page 2 Porn star arrested for assault Page 14 Like us at facebook.com/ rockdalenews Follow us @rockdalenews

Page 12

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Bulldogs surging

Medical marijuana hopes dashed at Capitol

The Georgia General Assembly reconvened last week for the annual Legislative Session, as required by law, to take up the task of passing an annual budget. But in addition to the budget, they’ll be tackling several large issues on the hot plate this year, from transportation to child welfare reform to education. Here’s an overview.

A last minute deal between the governor and the bill’s sponsor drops key components By Meris Lutz

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Mike Hopkins had hoped a new, limited medical marijuana bill in Georgia would allow him to bring his family back from Colorado, where his 17-yearold daughter, Michala, is being successfully treated for seizures and pain with cannabis oil. But a last minute deal between Governor Nathan Deal and the bill’s sponsor, Macon. Rep. Allen Peake, has gutted the proposed law of key components just as the new legislative session opened this week. “’Stunned’ would be a good word,” said Hopkins, describing his reaction when he and other affected families were informed of the changes late Friday. Hopkins was among about a hundred supporters of the bill who gathered at the Capitol Tuesday. “Nobody is offering anything,” in the way of explanation, Hopkins said. “Today at the capitol I found no different answers but I did find a lot of people who were not happy with this.” Peake had pushed for a twopart bill that would protect individuals from prosecution for illegally importing cannabis oil into Georgia in the short term, and eventually create a domestic regulatory infrastructure for the cultivation and processing of cannabis oil in state. However, Deal apparently threatened to veto the bill over its growing component. “It’s not as far as I would like to go,” Peake said of the pared down bill. “At the end of the day, he’s the governor and he has the ability to sign or not sign, and he felt it needed more study.”

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See MARIJUANA on PAGE 9

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Sanders on Development Authority in split vote The News

By Martin Rand III

mrand@rockdalenews.com

The first disagreement of 2015 among the Rockdale Board of Commissioners was about who should be the next person to sit on the Rockdale County Development Authority. In a 2-1 vote during the board’s Tuesday meeting, the board appointed Rockdale County Chief of Staff Gerald Sanders to the Development Authority, which is a funding source for the Conyers-Rockdale Economic Development Council. He will replace Gerald Rakestraw, who resigned because he moved for job related reasons. Post 1 County Commissioner Oz Nesbitt, the lone dissenter, felt as though the board should have appointed someone from the general population to sit on the volunteer board versus someone who already works for the local government. The only other applicant for the position, according to Sanders, was former Rockdale County Commissioner JaNice Van Ness. “Not discounting anything coming from our chief of staff,

who does have an extensive background in economic development,” said Nesbitt. “I just feel like from an internal standpoint... it would do us better to have him serving internally through the board of commissioners in his capacity as chief of staff while commissioner Van Ness, as a member of our community and former commissioner, could serve the greater good in terms of what we’re trying to do to move the county forward.” Nesbitt added that with Van Ness’ experience in local government and expertise in business would’ve been a good asset to the authority board. He also views the appointment of Sanders as a way for the County Chairman to have a say about decisions made by the Development Authority. “I think it was clearly by design,” said Nesbitt after the meeting. “I’m not sure from a grassroots perspective here in Rockdale County that he was the best selection. I got a feeling that he is going to be the point man for the chairman versus having someone who is going to serve in the capacity and (fulfills) the need of the total

community.” Nesbitt also couldn’t understand why Sanders would volunteer for the Development Authority when a year ago he had requested an assistant to help with his duties. “Now we’re giving him another layer of responsibility? So, it really contradicts his judgment, his leadership as well as the chairman,” he said. “If anything I would caution commissioner Williams as she proceeds forward with making these decisions based on the things that she recognized during her campaign season.” Newly elected Post 2 County Commissioner Doreen Williams made the motion to appoint Sanders, with County Chairman and CEO Richard Oden seconding her motion. Oden says that Sanders has at least 15 to 20 years of experience working in the economic development and financial sectors and has built relationships with people at the local and state level which could prove useful for the Development Authority. “He has an extensive reach, not only here locally as a resident but also as also as contacts in the entire state of Georgia which is

going to tremendously impact us as we move Rockdale county into the future,” said Oden during the meeting. “I think this appointment here will serve the county to the best interest of every citizen of Rockdale County and the expertise this gentleman brings, I saw him in action as we dealt with a situation a couple of months ago and they respect him highly and I support him.” The Development Authority had balked last year at the terms for a tax abatement incentive package for the expansion of Acuity Brands, saying that the members had not been fully informed about the terms of the package. The negotiations had been carried out with the Conyers-Rockdale Economic Development Council Director, County Chairman, city Mayor, through the state’s economic development arm. Sanders will serve on the board until April of this year. He is filling in for Gerald Rakestraw, who resigned because he moved for job related reasons. Oden said that the four other positions on the Development Authority could become available later this year.

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Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 • 3 Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015• 3

Sororities view ‘Selma’ Service, events, in honor of MLK

Michelle Kim /The News

Members of the ChiTauOmega chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and the Stone Mountain-Lithonia chapterof the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, along with members of the Newton NAACP, Newton Action Committee, Bethlehem Baptist Church, Rockdale-Newton chapter of the National Council of Negro Women, and more organizaitons came together for a sold-out viewing of “Selma” at the Conyers Crossroads Carmike Cinema Sunday afternoon. for more feedback, see the Wednesday Digital Edition of The News at www.rockdalenews.com.

Newton Medical Center partners with Piedmont Healthcare

he Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce and the Rockdale Branch of the NAACP co-host a breakfast honoring the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. on Monday, Jan. 19, 7:45 a.m. Proceeds from the 11th annual event will be donated to United Way in Rockdale to benefit programs in Rockdale County. The event, Billie Cox celebrating the life and achievements of the influential American Civil Rights leader, will be held at the Longhorn Steakhouse located on Iris Drive near Interstate 20 and West Avenue. The keynote speaker for the event will be the Billy Cox, Pastor Macedonia Church. "We are excited about this year's celebration and expecting a large turnout," said Fred Boscarino, president of the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce. "This is our eleventh year hosting the event with the Rockdale NAACP,

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Know Your Rights The NewRock legal society is spearheading an educational “Know Your Rights Forum” for citizens. This forum will educate attendees on several rights and process of the legal system. It will take place on Monday, Jan. 19th from 4-6:30 p.m. at the Church of Covington located at 11975 Georgia High Way 142 Oxford, GA 30054.

Ecumenical Service The 2015 County Annual Ecumenical Service will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2015 at Newton High School Auditorium located at1 Ram Way, Covington, GA 30014. The keynote speaker will be Ronny Brannen, pastor, prospect church, Covington, Georgia, and the 2014 recipient of the Newton County, “I have a dream award.”

The Rockdale County Board of Commissioners is considering applying to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for a Community Development Block Grant of up to $800,000. These funds must be used to primarily benefit low and moderate-income persons in the Milstead, Yellow Street, Grimes Street, and Golf Street areas. The activities for which these funds may be used are in the areas of public facilities, and housing. More specific details regarding eligible activities, plans to assist displaced persons (if any), the estimated amount of funds proposed to be used for activities to benefit low and moderate-income persons, and the rating system will be provided at a public hearing on:

By Bryan Fazio

Interact Club serves On Saturday, Jan.17, 11 a.m. noon, the Interact Club of Conyers Middle School will host a celebration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Day at Conyers Middle, 400 Sigman Road. In addition, they will present donated food and items to the families of local homeless students.

Public Hearing Notice

news@rockdalenews.com

Newton Medical Center announced today its Board of Directors had authorized hospital management to enter into “exclusive discussions” with Piedmont Healthcare aimed at formalizing a relationship between the two organizations. “Piedmont Healthcare and Newton Medical Center share a history of supporting our respective communities with high-quality, patient-centered care and we are excited about the great potential of working together,” Newton Medical CEO James F. Weadick said. Newton Medical announced in September that it was seeking an equity relationship with a larger healthcare system in the metropolitan Atlanta area. In the time since then, the hospital received and evaluated proposals from several potential partners before selecting Piedmont. Weadick said both Newton Medical and Piedmont are “bound by a confidentiality agreement, so we cannot discuss details at this time, but more information will be released as it is appropriate to do so.”

and it has become a community tradition for many of our residents and business owners who want to appropriately observe MLK Day and honor this great American." The cost to attend the breakfast and program is $10 for adults and $5 for children ages 13 and under. Tickets are sold at the door and seating is limited, so first come, first served. United Way in Rockdale Area Director Claire Cline expressed appreciation to the local NAACP and the Chamber for partnering to organize the event and for supporting local efforts to help the homeless. "On January 19, we will be honoring a visionary leader who worked to improve the lives of others and to bridge social barriers," said Cline. "Helping the homeless is certainly an appropriate tribute to his legacy.”

Thursday, January 22nd at 1pm Rockdale Medical Center East Tower, Classroom #2 1412 Milstead Ave. Conyers, GA 30012 The purpose of this hearing will be to obtain citizen input into the development of the application. Persons with special needs relating to handicapped accessibility or foreign language shall contact Ms. Alice Cintron at 770-2787551, Monday through Friday, except holidays and/or email their request to alice.cintron@rockdalecounty.org EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

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4 • Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office recently named the 2014 employees of the year - Meredith Allen as the Civilian Employee of the Year (center left), Darius Warren as Deputy Sheriff of the Year (center), Maria Villanueva as Detention Deputy of the Year (center right), pictured with Sheriff Eric Levett, left, and Chief Deputy Scott Freeman, right. Meredith Allen has been with RCSO since Aug. 2012 and was given several instrumental task in 2014 to help the RCSO run more efficiently. Maria Villanueva began with RCSO May 2013 and is described as a hard worker with a positive attitude and is eager to learn. Darius Warren began with RCSO June 2013 in the Jail Bureau and was transferred to the Field Services Bureau October 2013. Warren is always volunteering to help in the Sheriff’s Office in any way needed. Warren works extra shifts when Uniform Bureau is short handed and brings a positive Submitted photo/The News attitude.

Sheriff’s Office Employees of the Year

Conyers Employee of the Year Gary Hegwood of the Conyers Security Alert program was named the employee of the year, and received the Dee Buggay Award of Excellence, at a city staff event on Jan. 7, before the State of the City. Pictured are, left to right, Gary Hegwood, HR Director Dee Buggay, for whom the award is named, and Mayor Randy Mills.

Law enforcement rally Jan. 17 A rally in support of law enforcement personnel will be held Saturday, Jan. 17, 5 p.m., at Conyers First Baptist Church, 2100 Hwy 138. The rally is to honor and show public support for the men and women who serve as first responders, including in the Conyers Police Department, Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office and Georgia State Patrol. Gues speakers and participants include Congressman Hank Johnson, Rockdale Sheriff Eric Levett, Walk of Heroes Director Quontavious Miles, Walk of Heroes Vice Chairman Norman Wheeler, Ga. State Patrol Sgt. Tracy English, RCSO Deputy Tiffany Castillo, Rockdale Coroner and Pastor George Levett, Conyers First Baptist Pastor Mark Marshall. The rally is organized by the Walk of Heroes Veterans War Memorial. For more information, call Tommy Clack at 404-401-7142.

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Opinion NEWS

Publisher T. Pat Cavanaugh

pcavanaugh@rockdalenews.com

Design Editor Sabastian Wee

LETTER TO THE EDITOR Editor Michelle Kim

mkim@rockdalenews.com

Sales Director Annette Godwin

swee@rockdalenews.com

agodwin@rockdalenews.com

Circulation Dir. Amanda Ellington

Comptroller Debbie Thompson

aellington@covnews.com

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Our Thoughts Following dictates It didn’t take long for County Commission Chairman Richard Oden to insure that he would have control of the economic and development arms of the county. Oden appointed Gerald Sanders, his chief of staff, to the Development Authority. This spot should have been given to a private businessperson in the county; it didn’t need Oden’s personal guidance. He also basically appointed himself to Conyers-Rockdale Economic Development Council board. This is interesting since Oden has shown disdain for this board in the past as he publicly trashed CREDC Executive Director Marty Jones for no reason except his own desire to control things. We are also sorely disappointed in the vote of Mrs. Williams who assured us and the voters of the county that she was going to be an independent thinker and not follow the dictates of the Chairman; her first actions cause us to seriously doubt the validity of those promises. Mr. Oden seems to feel that he has been ordained by some higher power that he and only he is the supreme leader of Rockdale County. We would like to remind him that there is an election coming up in 2016 and the ballot box has toppled many a political bully.

Resident alleges misconduct by Judge Dear Editor: I am disturbed at the recent attack from Judge Mays and DJ Asante. When I read their statement, I was disturbed with the abnormal manner in which the letter was written. Let me explain a few things: Judge Mays and his wife were involved in forging my name on an invoice that was submitted to the water company. They were also involved in defrauding the water company out of its services. Judge Mays himself signed the request for the adjustment from the water company. I have heard that his wife Victoria signed my name on the invoice (although I did not see her sign it). With the above being true why would Judge Mays try to do anything harmful to me and my family; the only thing he and his wife should be doing is apologizing to me, for forging my name. Why on earth would Judge Mays and DJ Asante publish a letter to defame my character, calling me a paper terrorist, or anything derogatory, when I have never done anything to him or his family. Judge Mays wants to be portrayed as a victim. He published a letter calling me a paper terrorist, and to attempt to relate his situation to unprovoked attacks against other politicians. Well, when you, Probate Judge Charles K. Mays: a. forge taxpayer’s name, b. Submit fraudulent paperwork to the water company, c. Cause an employee to work hours without paying them (basically, stealing their time, after being told by the Chief Judge ahead of time, that the program the employee is working on, could not move forward or be implemented), d. Use taxpayer money for lavish trips, e. Charge personal items to the county credit card for your home and your con-

struction company (You can learn a lot through an open records request), f. Give a regular citizen access to the combination of

“

falsely attacking you; you are guilty. Judge Mays and DJ Asante, I am not a paper terrorist, and I resent

Judge Mays and DJ Asante, I am

not a paper terrorist, and I resent being called one. I am a hard working man who has been treated unjustly by you. I simply want to be paid for the work that I have done to your condo. I don’t want anyone forging my name on anything.

“

the

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 RockdaleNews.com/opinion Page 5

I picketed the courthouse, because I think that you are not an honorable

man, and should not be judging other people.

the Probate office safe, g. Rule on cases for your friends, when you should have recused yourself, h. Try to illegally evict someone, i. Crash a homeowners meeting at Viewpoint Condominiums and have DJ Asante portraying himself as an attorney, when he is not, and you, Judge Mays, trying to overthrow the board at Viewpoint for your own personal gain, to try to extort money for a repair that Viewpoint was not responsible for, j. Before you say that DJ Asante has not and does not portray himself as an attorney, I want to remind you, that you yourself referred to DJ Asante as your attorney on camera, so be careful; as the older folk say “You shall reap what you sow “ When you do everything that is above, you sir, have to expect, that at some point, you will have to answer for your behavior. No one is

being called one. I am a hard-working man who has been treated unjustly by you. I simply want to be paid for the work that I have done to your condo. I don’t want anyone forging my name on anything. I picketed the courthouse, because I think that you are not an honorable man, and should not be judging other people. I have told the truth about you on my signs: 1. I did wire you money when you were stuck on vacation and did not have money to get home, (You have not repaid me), 2. You did forge my name (and have never apologized; you did offer me money to lie for you though), 3. You did submit fake paperwork to the water company, 4. You did try to put me, my wife and grandbaby out on the street, 5. You have been less than honorable, All you do is smear the

names of the people that you have wronged, instead of trying to work things out. Take some responsibility for the things that you have done. The sad thing is, I expect you to continue your attacks and smear campaigns. But Judge, I also suspect that you will be held fully accountable for your actions. Everyone can see the writing on the wall of your future, except you and the people around you. One more thing, I hope you realize, that no matter how much you smear everyone’s name, it does not change your future; you will still be held accountable in court. It only shows a flawed character in you, not them. You and your people say, God put you in that position. I agree with that. He blessed you with a chance to better your life and to do right. What I also know about God is that if you are not doing right by people, just as he put you somewhere, he will surely remove you. Good luck, Judge Mays. I am really saddened by your behavior. I really thought you were a man of honor and my friend.

Rodney Scott, Rockdale County

HAVE YOUR SAY We welcome letters to the editor. Letters must be 350 words or less. They should be limited to issues of public interest and may be edited for content, grammar, spelling and length. • Mail: Editor, The News, 1009 Milstead Ave., Suite 200, Conyers, GA 30012 • Email: news@ rockdalenews.com

4 • Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 6 • Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015

The News The News

Thoughts of a Baby Boomer

Dreaming of a 39-21-46

ur 18-year-old granddaughter is living with us again as she goes to school and I love having her. It reminds of the time she was a baby and lived with us. She was the second love of my life – of course, Molly being number one – and I took her everywhere. I packed her on my back as I covered meetings, we visited T. Pat DisneyCavanaugh land every Publisher week and I decked her out in Disney clothes, we rode every mall merry-go-round in southern California. We watched together some of the most god-awful movies, The Adventures of Lava Boy being the worst. We enjoyed our evening walks where we studied the man in the moon and picked flowers to take home to her grandmother. That all came to end when her mother packed things up and moved her away. I was heartbroken. Having her with us now brings back those special thoughts for sure, and seeing her date a young man who by all actions appears to be a very nice boy, contrary to the ones her mother and aunt would often bring home, who so far is

very polite and respectful and seems to be genuinely afraid of the stare that a good father or grandfather gives his daughter’s date as he explains the rules of being involved with the second love of his life. I asked this particular young man the other day what his intentions were; he still hasn’t answered me. I guess some things don’t ever change It is encouraging to me seeing how my granddaughter handles things that maybe that we are coming back to a simpler time that most of us that are baby boomers enjoyed ourselves When we were this age, and you were a guy, if first you could build your nerve to ask a girl out, and then to have her agree to hold your hand on the first date, that was a major undertaking. To get a genuine kiss by your third date was a miracle. Girls definitely held all the cards in the game of life in those days. If your date‘s dad said have his daughter home at 11 p.m., you said “Yes sir,” and had her home by 10:55. When we were in college reaching second base or further on dates was a little easier, but still a challenge for many of us. We then jumped from this idealistic life to the struggle of being married and having children, and then having

a job that required you to be involved in community activities in order to advance. That used up a great deal of your family time and really caused life in general to become a real struggle. I think many of us were so caught up in the pursuit of success that we didn’t spend the same time or even enjoyed as much the time that we spent with our own children that we now lavish on our grandchildren. That’s a regret that many of us I’m sure carry to this day. Yes, sometimes we weren’t great parents, sometimes we weren’t great husbands or wives, but when we got the chance, we did have fun, and boy did we let our hair down. There would always be dances. Most of the time if you lived in the South, the music was classic beach music. You danced your heart out either listening to the Tams or the Embers or Bill Deal and the Roundels. The night always ended with a Showman song called “39-21-46.” I don’t think I ever met a woman who was 39-21-46 but it was a grand vision to have. Yes, we had a few drinks but in most cases by the end of the night you sweated the booze out and always you went with your friends to eat breakfast at the only place open in town which was usually the local greasy spoon; no wonder many

of us have stomach problems today. Yes, once in a while someone was given a drunk driving ticket. They didn’t go to jail and they didn’t lose their jobs or have their whole life ruined, but they were penalized and they became the brunt of jokes. For most it never happened again People were more trusting in those good old days. One night after a big party at the beach, I was to stay with friends. As I wandered across the street from the night club I realized that every beach house looked the same. One actually looked more familiar than the others, so I went in laid down on the couch and slept until I was awakened by someone I didn’t know who wanted to know why in the hell I was in their house. Instead of shooting me or having me arrested I was

invited to breakfast and made new friends. Yes, those were simpler days. My granddaughter is a good, moral and kind young lady with a big heart. It gives me great joy to have her around and I am thankful that she gives me hope that although our generation for sure was the best, I feel positive that this new generation will someday have their own fine memories of a simpler life, just like I do and I hope you do too. Now if anybody has ever seen someone with measurements of 39-21-46 please drop me a picture and I will share with all. T. Pat Cavanaugh is the publisher of The News. You can reach him at 770-787-6397 or pcavanaugh@covnews.com.

Conyers Garden Club The Conyers Garden Club met on Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at the home of Marjorie Bittinger with the assistance of Susan Hicks as her hostess. The club members were treated to a program on Mass Rose Design demonstrated by Joyce Andrews, member and former president of the Conyers Garden Club. Submitted photo /The News

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Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ 7

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8 • Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015

LEGISLATIVE SESSION 2015

BACK TO WORK With the Georgia General Assembly going back into session for 2015, legislators will be facing a slew of issues, including budgets, education, transportation and foster care

Budget For every buzzword tossed about in recent years when talking about the economy, there is an equal and opposite epithet. And, sometimes, which is which depends on whom you’re asking. Job creator versus job killer. Income inequality versus socialism. Economic development versus corporate welfare. Revenues versus taxes. But the recession is now receding from view as the jobless rate falls at the local, state and national level. Corporate profits are at record highs, productivity has soared and even wages are showing signs of trickling up. Low inflation and a strong dollar against the euro, coupled with falling gas prices and rising home prices, means American families have more purchasing power than has been seen in years. As a result, net tax collections for state government totaled $9.61 billion in December, an increase of nearly $517 million, or 5.7 percent, compared to the same time period during the previous fiscal year. And that likely spells more funding for education and transportation projects in the next state budget, according to local state lawmakers, which could be a boon for Hall County. The current fiscal year’s $20.8 billion budget includes about $800 million in construction projects and an increase of $300 million in education funding. But as revenues increase, calls for lower taxes will grow louder. The Republican-controlled legislature has talked about zeroing out the state income tax one day. We’ll see if there is any move to lower it this year after voters capped the rate at 6 percent in November. But lowering the income tax would likely result in hikes in sales taxes, which can disproportionately impact low-income families. By Joshua Silavent — jsilavent@gainesvilletimes.com

Education Efforts last year to defeat Common Core in Georgia were unsuccessful, but legislators are likely to discuss concerns that still exist regarding the education standards. Rep. Carl Rogers, R-Gainesville, said he worries that continuing with Common core “could be a continued spin down for public education,” and could result in increased enrollment for private schools or homeschooling. In November, suggested revisions to Common Core were posted by the state Board of Education. The revisions were primarily changes in wording for the sake of clarification and to reduce redundancy. The revisions were made following an executive order from Gov. Nathan Deal for a formal evaluation. Quality Basic Education Act funding will also likely be tackled. This formula, designed to fund a basic education for all students, has come under scrutiny. It calculates funding for public education in kindergarten through 12th grade, and is based on factors including, primarily, student enrollment. By Kristen Oliver — koliver@gainesvilletimes.com

Local Legislators Tom Kirby, Georgia House of Representative for District 114, says while there are several major bills on hand this year, the one that’ll probably take up a lot of discussion time will be issues related to Georgia’s transportation infrastructure such as roads, restoring bridges and building more rail. Kirby says Georgia’s transportation issues have been “kicked down the road” in year’s past, but now it’s time for state legislatures to act and begin to correct the problems. “We’ve got to start looking at the next 30 years. There comes a time when you got to sit down and say we’ve got to do something,” he said. “If we want to continue to grow and move people around the state, we have to look at (improving our transportation).” The total cost to fund the transportation initiative would a little more than $1 billion annually. Georgia’s annually budget for fiscal year 2015 is about $20.8 billion. Of that, $856 million will be spent on transportation. Ronald Ramsey, Ga. Senate for District 43, which covers Rockdale and Newton counties, told the Conyers Rotary last December that transit is an important component to having a flourishing community. He would love to see a rail system that travels down I-20. “For those of you that need to use I-20 in the morning to try to traverse through Rockdale and DeKalb (Counties) to get to Atlanta, you what the gridlock is like,” Ramsey said. “Of course, with an industry like Baxter coming on out into Newton County and our ability to attract other industry, you have to be able to move people. You have to be able to get workforces to and from work and to our airport and back.” The plan the state is looking at is taking over the MARTA system, which only travels to areas in Fulton and DeKalb counties because they’re the only counties that fund it. The City of Atlanta also contributes money to the MARTA system. Ramsey says he’s hopes that next year more progress will be made in this area and the state works to put together a statewide transportation plan. “We lose millions of dollars annually, simply because the state does not have a transportation plan,” he said Reforming Georgia’s tax system will be another hot topic this year. Kirby says he will continue to push his Fair Taxation Act of 2014, H.B. 688. The bill seeks to abolish the state income tax, and replace it with a consumption based tax. This type of tax will increase the rate of tax on retail purchases, retail sales and consumption of certain tangible property and certain services. Kirby says that it’s time Georgia stops taxing income like other states in the country have done. Only seven states, Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington and Wyoming, have no state income tax on citizens. Two others, Tennessee and New Hampshire, have a limited income tax system because they only tax dividend and interest income. Pam Dickerson, Ga. House of Representatives for District 113, which covers parts of Rockdale and Newton, sits on the House Education Committee. She said before the start of the session that from the meetings held over the past year, it seemed the committee would like to see the state keep the Common Core standards but make some changes. “With the new (state) superintendent coming in I don’t know what his direction is going to be,” says Dickerson. “Once everybody’s in place we’ll see what’s going to happen.” Dickerson said she’ll continue introducing her anti-bullying bill. “It continues to be an issue in schools and workplaces everywhere.” State Senator Rick Jeffares of District 17, which includes parts of south Rockdale and Newton, described the push on transportation this year. He cited the transportation committee that went around the state last year to hear from local entities about their transportation needs. “They say we needed at least $800 million more,” says Jeffares. But, he added, “We can’t just keep sitting on this problem and wake up 10 years from now.” Martin Rand, Michelle Kim contributed to this article.

See SESSION page 9

The News

SESSION From PAGE 8

Foster care The idea of privatizing foster care was batted about during the last session, but ultimately lawmakers passed on that endeavor. Gov. Nathan Deal instead formed a Child Welfare Reform Council to create recommendations — both legislative and policy decisions — on better practices for foster care. As detailed in The Times’ “Broken Bonds” series, the foster care system in Georgia faces myriad challenges and is in a period of change. Possible items that could be addressed this year include a more direct relationship between the governor’s office and the Division of Family and Children Services or a possible advisory board within DFCS, according to state Rep. Wendell Willard, R-Sandy Springs, who is a member of the governor’s council. Willard added that members of the council were open to the idea of more public-private partnerships between DFCS and other child welfare agencies. Deal announced some of these potential policy changes Friday at the Capitol. By Nick Watson — nwatson@gainesvilletimes.com

Transportation Paying for roads could be the biggest issue in 2015. With no future guarantees about federal aid, Georgia — like other states across the country — is looking at ways to raise new revenues to fund transportation. The issue isn’t so much the condition of Georgia’s roads and bridges as the growing number of vehicles pounding the pavement. With the population surging past 10 million and Georgia now the eighth most populous state, congestion is a major concern. Lawmakers and Gov. Nathan Deal likely will scour suggestions poured out in a 23-page report issued last month by the Joint Study Committee on Critical Transportation Infrastructure Funding. Among the suggestions are a 1-cent statewide sales tax that would generate some $1.4 billion per year; increasing Georgia’s motor fuel tax, which has not been increased since 1971; and establishing an annual road usage fee for alternative fuel vehicles. In its report, the committee says the state will have to cover a $1 billion to $1.5 billion annual transportation funding gap to stay economically competitive. The committee also suggests investing in mass transit, moving about $180 million annually from the state’s general fund into transportation, indexing gas taxes to inflation or the cost of fuel and adding new toll lanes. Democrats, who are the minority party in both legislative chambers, have pushed to include transit in the transportation discussion. The committee’s report urged lawmakers to acknowledge mass transit is “critical” in urban areas and suggested a “separate, permanent” funding source for transit systems around the state. By Jeff Gill — jgil@gainesvilletimes.com

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 • 9

MARIJUANA From FRONT PAGE

Peake was confident the growing portion of the bill was only “delayed” until an agreeable model had been worked out. The amended bill would offer immunity from prosecution in Georgia, but transporting any marijuana products over state lines is illegal, a risk Hopkins said he isn’t willing to take. Hopkins said his daughter used to experience six to 10 “hard seizures” a day, some lasting up to 45 minutes at which point she was given risky emergency medicines. Since she began cannabis oil treatment, her seizures average less than three a day and last for only three or four minutes. Her pain also appears to have eased, and her cognitive and interactive capabilities improved. “I’d walk to Colorado to get this done,” said Hopkins, who travels between Colorado and Georgia, where he continues to serve as the executive director of the Newton County Water and Sewerage Authority. Aaron Brooks of the Newton Conservative Liberty Alliance was also at the Capitol to witness the wave of disappointment when news of the changes went public. “It was very, very heartbreaking to see what some of these families are having to go through,” he said, adding that the weakened bill is “basically putting a band aid on a gushing wound.” Brooks said most of the supporters he spoke with blamed the governor rather than Peake, and many were still hopeful the

“

bill would be sent to committee in its original form. “There was a lot of attention brought to this and everybody seemed on board, but now there is a feeling of ‘politics as usual,’ and this is not an issue we can afford to have politics involved in,” Brooks said. A recent poll by the Atlanta Journal Constitution found that 84 percent of Georgians support limited legalization of medical marijuana, while 49 percent of all respondents support legalizing recreational use among adults versus 48 percent who op— Kelli Hopkins pose it. “They have pulled the wool over our eyes and pulled the rug out from under the citizens of Georgia that support medical marijuana,” sad James Bell, director

I’d walk to Colorado to get this done”

of the Georgia Campaign for Access, Reform and Education, which supports a broader medical marijuana bill proposed by Senator Curt Thompson. Bell characterized the agreement struck between Peake and the governor as a “back room deal” in a press release. “The least we expected was a fair hearing on HB-1 during the session,” he said. “Instead, Allen Peake gave into the demands of Gov. Deal and left the sick children to deal with their medical conditions on their own.” Peake said he doesn’t feel he has misled anyone, and will continue to fight for the affected Georgia families even if it means driving the cannabis oil in from Colorado himself. He also said he was working on several temporary workarounds to legally import cannabis oil as a hemp product. The state may also ask the Justice Department and Drug Enforcement Administration for an exemption from the federal law banning the transport of marijuana products over state lines.

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Education 4 • Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015

The News

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 RockdaleNews.com Page 10

Empowering Parents

Lexicon, RCA broadcast new apprenticeship

Workshop gives information on navigating school, legal systems, keeping kids from trouble By Martin Rand, III

news@rockdalenews.com

Levett in relation to the RCSO. “There really isn’t any reason for you to not get your child involved.” Also, parents should take more initiative in the home when disciplining their children because if they don’t respect the adults in their lives, they more than likely aren’t going to respect an authority figure, like law enforcement. “It’s going to take parents

talking to their children,” said Levett. After the discussion, Rhonda Taylor, president of the Rockdale-Newton NCNW, said this meeting e was information and much needed for the Rockdale community. She says that the NCNW will plan to host another panel discussion centered around the same topics with hopes of a larger turnout.

A panel of community officials and specialists gathered together Saturday morning to answer questions from the community about the youths of Rockdale. The workshop, titled "Uniting the Community and Saving Our Children", was hosted by the Rockdale-Newton National Council of Negro Women, Inc. at the Antioch AME Church, 1790 Ebenezer Road. The panel included Rockdale County School Assistant Superintendent Garret Brundage, Rockdale County Sheriff Eric Levett, City of Conyers Police Department Sgt. Peggy Franklin, Rockdale County Magistrate Court Chief Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten, Rockdale County Juvenile Court Judge William Schneider, Porterdale Elementary School Principal Lizzella Dodson and Anastasia Alvarado, a child psychologist. An audience of about 20 people asked the panel questions about gangs in Rockdale, programs available to children while not in school, what the community leaders are doing to facilitate better relationships with the youths and a slew of other questions. Levett addressed the gang issue, saying that while Rockdale has gangs aren’t like big cities’ gangs. He says that most of Rockdale’s gang members commit non-violent crimes, like thefts or burglaries. Aten offered some advice for Discount. parents on how to tell if their child Discount. has joined or is affiliated with a Discount. Discount. gang. She says that a child may be Discount. affiliate with a gang if they start Discount. to wear a certain color a lot more often or if they style their clothes in a particular way every day. Discount. There are also several programs WallyWally Taylor, Agent Taylor, Agent Get them all with Discount. Get them all with 885 Honey Creek Road 885 Honey Creek Road that allow children to interact with Discount Double Check. Discount Double Check. Conyers, GA 30094 Conyers, GA 30094 Bus: 770-483-4134 Bus: 770-483-4134 Discount. law enforcement and other auIt’s a quick and easy It’ s away quick and easy way wally@wallytaylor.com wally@wallytaylor.com to make sureto you’re saving sure you’re saving make thority figures in the community, all you can. And free. can. And it’s free. allit’syou but it’s up to the parents to get the Like a good Like neighbor, a good neighbor, State Farm is there. State Farm is there. children involved, says Aten. CALL ME TODAY . CALL ME TODAY. Aten added that more informaWally Taylor, Agent Get them all with 885 Honey Creek Road Discount Double Check. Wally Taylor, Agent Conyers, GA 30094 tion on programs could be found Get them all with Bus: 770-483-4134 885 Honey Creek Road It’s a quick and easy way wally@wallytaylor.com on the Rockdale County website Discount Double Check. Conyers, GA 30094 to make sure you’re saving Bus: 770-483-4134 all you can. And it’s free. and Channel 23, the county’s TV It’s a quick and easy way Like a good neighbor, wally@wallytaylor.com channel, and the local newspaState is there. to make sure you’re saving CALL Farm ME TODAY. pers. Wally Taylor, Agent Get them all with all you can. And it’s free. 885 Honey “Our programs are free,” saidCreek Road Discount Double Check. Conyers, GA 30094

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Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015• 3 RockdaleNews.com Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015• 3 Page 11

The News The News

Rockdale man appointed GRTA head

Submitted photo/The News

Rockdale resident Chris Tomlinson was sworn in by Gov. Nathan Deal as the new Executive Director of the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority. Tomlinson, who was unanimously approved by the GRTA Board of Directors, was previously the Executive Director for the State Road and Tollway Authority, the State of Georgia’s toll operator and transportation financing authority. He will continue to serve in that role while taking on the additional responsibilities of GRTA executive director. Kirk Fjelstul, GRTA’s deputy director, has been serving as acting Executive Director since February 2014 and will continue to serve as Deputy Executive Director and Chief Counsel. “Both GRTA and SRTA share similar missions that focus on addressing congestion and mobility primarily in metro Atlanta, so more closely aligning their efforts under Chris’ leadership is a natural fit that will strengthen an already existing partnership,” said GRTA Board Chairman Sonny Deri-

so. GRTA is currently undergoing Direct Xpress – a full-scale evaluation of its existing Xpress commuter coach service and a strategic exploration of future opportunities for growth. “A key component of Georgia’s long-term transportation strategy is a comprehensive system of managed lanes throughout metro Atlanta augmented by commuter transit service like Xpress, which have been shown to be a cost-effective option for commuters that can improve reliability and throughput of the managed lanes,” said Chris Tomlinson. “Right now commuter buses make up less than 2 percent of the vehicles going through the existing managed lane on I-85 during the peak morning commute time but carry nearly 26 percent of the people moving through the lane. There is a great opportunity for GRTA and SRTA to build upon that success story, and I am excited

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about the opportunity to be a part of both teams.” Prior to being appointed Executive Director of SRTA, Chris Tomlinson served as Deputy Executive Director and General Counsel for SRTA. He has previously served as General Counsel for several agencies including the Georgia Department of Transportation, the Georgia Technology Authority and the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission, where he also served as Deputy Director for the Construction Division. Tomlinson is a cum laude political science graduate from Morehouse College and holds a Juris Doctor degree from the Georgia State University College of Law. He and his wife Lillian have two children who attend Memorial Middle School, Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology, and previously attended Conyers Middle School. - Staff Reports

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Anthony Banks/The Rockdale Newa

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 Page 12 rockdalenews.com

Anthony Banks/The Rockdale Newa

Nothing less than state By Shakeem Holloway

sholloway@rockdalenews.com

Last Saturday, two non-region rivals faced off in Rockdale County, the Bulldogs and the Patriots. The first half was close as Rockdale led 27-23, but Connor Ferrell and Jalen Jordan changed that. In the second half Jordan and Ferrell erupted from behind the arc, they combined for 53 points going 10-18 from three in the game to give the Bulldogs am 87-66 victory. Rockdale County High’s boys basketball team, currently second in region standings, has won seven straight games and 10 of its last 11 games for a 13-5 record (4-1 Region 2-AAAAAA) including wins over non-region rivals Newton and Heritage. But how did this team go from 6-5 to, possibly, the best team in their region? Rockdale head coach, Tyrone King says it’s all about the team beginning to gel. “The biggest key is that they’re gelling and everybody is understanding their role and their part on the team. That’s the big thing,” King said. “We’ve got kids like Elijah Williams, he doesn’t score much, but he gives us a big defensive presence. Jalen is just a flat-out shooter, so his role is to shoot the ball,” King said. “I think once the team bought into owning their role on the team, the team started coming together especially since Christmas.” Since the break, it seems each player has stepped up his game. In the past seven games, Rockdale has scored at least 60

points in six of its seven wins and at least 70 points five times. “We want to control the game defensively and not let an offense dictate what we do. I think we’re doing a good job forcing the ball to the sidelines and keeping the ball out of the middle. The main focus is keeping the ball out of the lane and making sure that we close out on people like we should,” King said. “We’re getting better at that, that’s one aspect that I would like to continue to press upon the kids. Closing out and getting a hand in their face, let’s not make it easy for kids to be able to just shoot the ball on us.” Defensively, the Bulldogs are no slouch as they’ve held opponents to 51 points or less four times in the past seven games. “I think winning is helping our fan base come out and support us. I think the two victories versus Heritage and Newton this past weekend has really boosted the school spirit and the morale of the fans,” King said. “We get more fans to come out and watch the games. I think being at home more this semester, our fans are helping us out a lot too.” “One thing that’s helped us is Dwayne Brown has really bought in to rebounding to help this team,” King said. “After school ended he started averaging double digit rebounds. I think that’s one main thing that’s helping us.” Rebounding is a huge plus for this team, because when they rebound the ball well on defense it usually turns into points for the offense. Rockdale has a host of athletes

on its team including Brown at 6-foot-6, Williams at 6-foot-6, Ferrell at 6-foot3 and Jordan hovering above the 6-foot mark. They have size and the speed to match it, lending their play to leaking out in transition and getting easy buckets. “We get a lot of transition points and I think everybody knows that we can get the ball up to Connor or any of the guards on the team. I think they know what to expect as far as attacking the basket and that opens things up for our shooters,” King said. Outside of that, in our halfcourt offense is getting them to buy in that when we run it, we don’t have to be a one to two pass offense. We can get a couple passes in and just getting the defense moving helps us with getting into the paint. If we get into the paint, if it’s open we take it and if we get into the paint and they collapse we always have a shooter or two on the wing waiting to launch a three.” “The good thing is my offensive philosophy caters to defeating man-to-man defenses but the way Jalen, Connor and everybody else is shooting the ball right now it’s hard for teams to play zone against us as of late,” King added. “That really helps out because then it helps us get into a man-to-man offense which I think they thrive in.” As Heritage has learned, the Bulldogs can get hot from deep at any given time. Ferrell and Jordan, according to maxpreps.com, are averaging 16.4 points per game and 16.8 points per game respectively. Brown isn’t far behind averaging 12.2 points per game and 9.1 rebounds

per maxpreps.com. Rockdale can play in the halfcourt, but they thrive in transition and, as King noted, in one-on-one matchups. Both Ferrell and Jordan have inside-outside games and they can take anybody off the dribble, possibly embarrassing a defender or two on the way. Brown makes his money down low. He can post up and has a solid array of moves for a player his age, but he can hit the occasional jumper too. Rockdale has an array of shooters spotting up around the perimeter, for one of its drivers, likely Ferrell or Jordan to kick it too if they can. This can cause problems for the opposition when they are loading up the middle against the Bulldogs, especially teams that run a zone defense. It becomes, pick your poison, die by the three or the easy two. Rockdale looks like a team that can make a playoff run, but there’s also a small sense of, “Can they keep this up?” The Bulldogs won’t always knock down threes like they’ve been doing lately and when their shot isn’t falling, you have to wonder if they’ll falter. If they can keep it together and maintain this sense of balance, their future is bright. “If we keep putting team in front of ego, I definitely think this team can make it to at least the final four if not the state championship,” King said. “I think we’re deep enough and talented enough to make it to the state championship and that’s our goal, region championship and state championship, nothing less.”

The News

Salem inducts 7 into HOF

Salem High School inducted seven new members into its Hall of Fame in its second class of inductees. These honorees are former athletes and coaches who have contributed greatly to Salem's athletic programs and who have gone on to shine in their fields. For more information check the rockdalenews.com

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ 13

SHS athlete of the week: Austin Samuel

Anthony Banks/The News

Austin Samuel went off on Tuesday night. Samuel put up 27 points in a 69-65 win over region foe Clarke Central. Samuel is averaging 17.6 points, 6.8 rebounds and 1.9 steals per game this season.

The News

414• • Saturday, Saturday, Jan. Jan. 17, 17, 2015 2015 crime | full stories at rockdalenews.com

Gay porn star arrested for assaulting girlfriend Staff Reports

news@rockdalenews.com

An Oxford man and male porn star whose company recently offered Justin Bieber $2 million to star in a porn movie with him was arrested in December for allegedly choking and assaulting his girlfriend in Rockdale. Hylan Taylor, 22, who goes by the stage name Johnny Rapid, released an internet video earlier this week where he and Men.com, an adult porn site, offered to pay Bieber the millions if Bieber would agree to do a sex scene with Taylor. Taylor won Best Gay Porn Star Award at the CyberSocket Web Awards in 2014 As he waits on Biebers response to his proposal, Taylor is also waiting to resolve a legal situation involving his girlfriend. Taylor is being charged with battery for allegedly choking, pushing and hitting his girlfriend after she allegedly refused to arrange a sexual encounter between the couple and a 14-year-old female on Oct. 9. Taylor’s girlfriend, the alleged victim, told the Rockdale County Sheriff Office deputy that the couple are swingers. She and Taylor encountered the young female in question at a bowling alley and the young female reportedly told Taylor’s girlfriend that she was 18 years old. After the conversation continued, the girl told the couple that she was actually 14. According to the deputy’s report, Taylor’s girlfriend said she refused to engage in a sexual act with the youngster but Taylor insisted she finish “hooking things up.” Taylor’s girlfriend refused and walked out of the bowling alley to the car. Taylor followed her and then he allegedly choked her and pushed her to the ground. They both got into the car where Taylor allegedly continued to hit her until they got to a residence in the

3000 block of Irwin Bridge Road. The deputy noted seeing red marks on the victim’s neck and red marks on her lips. The deputy also noted that it appeared the victim had redness above both eyes, a broken fingernail, blood on her right ear lobe, looking like a ring had been torn out. She also had a lump behind her right ear. As their verbal argument continued, at one point, Taylor allegedly asked his mother for a gun. He left the scene after “possibly making his way back” to the couple’s residence in Oxford. Taylor was arrested Dec. 15 by another agency and then transferred to the Rockdale County Jail. He was released the following day on $2,500 bond. The case is still being processed by the Rockdale County District Attorney’s Office. As of Friday, Jan. 16, no court date had been set. Taylor is 2010 graduate of Rockdale County High School and was on the school’s wrestling team.

Rockdale County Jail Log Moin Deangelo Caldwell, 28, Conyers, Jan 5, Operating a Motor Vehicle While License Suspended Michelle Lynne Simmering, 28, Conyers, Jan 5, Disorderly Conduct, Public Drunkenness John Barry Little, 26, Covington, Jan 5, Possession and Use of Drug Related Objects Tyrone Newsom, 53, Conyers, Jan 5, Contempt Of Court Darius Scott Thomas, 20, Conyers, Jan 5, Probation Violation Lakeisha Sunta Ponder, 24, Conyers, Jan 5, Contempt of Superior Court George Henry, Jr. Ponzo, 23, Conyers, Jan 5, Poss. Of Cocaine Rashidah Hanifah Shabazz, 24, Covington, Jan 5, Malice Murder, Aggravated Assault Bobby Thomas Lawson, 57, Snellville, Jan 5, Poss. Of Meth Andres Jose Castro, 28, Snell-

ville, Jan 5, Driving With Suspended License Gregory Scott Tessneer, 52, Conyers, Jan 5, Drunkenness in Public Places Demaurio Montice Flanigan, 36, Athens, Jan 5, Probation Violation Michael Brad Stephens, 28, Snellville, Jan 5, Reckless Driving Kadarius Voncem Hillman-Tucker, 20, Conyers, Jan 6, Criminal Trespass Amy Elizabeth Maike, 26, Danielsville, Jan 6, Burglary Blanton Tyrone Allen, 66. Atlanta, Jan 6, Operating a Motor Vehicle While License Suspended Christopher Joseph Hagan, 18, Conyers, Jan 6, Theft by Taking Christopher Michael White, 24, Kingsland, Jan 6, Driving Without a Valid License

Chadwick Lee Rhoads, 31, Conyers, Jan 6, Driving Without a Valid License Shauntrell Jancea Markland, 35, Conyers, Jan 7, Probation Violation Carlos Guitierrez, 36, Bethleham, Jan 7, Contempt of Superior Court Joey Donathan Schick, 46, Conyers, Jan 7, Probation Violation Brad Kevin Burton, 38, Decatur, Jan 7, Probation Violation Joshua Monroe Bass, 34, Conyers, Jan 7, Probation Violation Kyle Anthony Griffin, 18, Conyers, Jan 7, Poss. Of Marijuana Dominique Bonner, 22, Conyers, Jan 7, Probation Violation Antonio Delantay West, 36, Covington, Jan 7, Probation Violation Christopher J Wahle, 45, Lithonia, Jan 7, Poss. of Meth, Poss. of Cocaine For full jail log go to www.rockdalenews.com.

The News

Saturday, Jan. 17, 2015 • 15

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