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VOLUME 20 NUMBER 52 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM MARCH 28, 2015 FREESERVING DEKALB • FULTON • GWINNETT • HENRY • ROCKDALE
Stonecrest Cityhood proposal passes Senate Page 3
Community Piedmont Park to host Persian Festival
Page 4
GPTC salutes State EAGLE Scout Competition Winner Page 10
PeopleComing Up
Special Investigator, page 7
House passes Gov. Deal’s takeover of failing schoolsBy Valerie J. Morgan
Georgia voters will decide next year whether to pass a
constitutional amendment allowing Gov. Nathan Deal’s takeover of failing schools.
The Georgia House of Representatives passed Senate Resolution 287 by a vote of 121-47 on March 25. The measure, also known as the “Opportunity School District,” passed by just one vote more than the two-thirds majority required for a constitutional change. The resolution’s enabling legislation, Senate Bill 133, also passed the same day by a vote of 108-53.
Now, it’s up to voters. A constitutional amendment will appear on the November 2016 General Election ballot and would require support from a majority of Georgia voters to become law.
The sweeping reform calls
for the state to take charge of schools that have received 60 or below on the College and Career Performance Index (CCRPI) for three consecutive years.
Most of the schools defined as “persistently failing” under the governor’s plan are in urban areas. Atlanta Public Schools, with 27 schools on the list, has the highest number identified. The DeKalb County School System has the second highest with 26 schools on the list.
Verdaillia Turner, president of the Georgia Federation of Teachers, said the governor’s Opportunity School District is not about better educating students, but about profit.
“The Opportunity School District stands to make a lot of money through vouchers and Title 1 dollars,” said Turner. “The state will be able to take those schools and the dollars that go with them and use them any way they see
fit. This is not about education intervention.”
Turner, like other opponents, want more money for public school teachers and more resources that address parental participation and poverty—things they say are the main underlying problems for students who are not achieving.
“Everywhere these bills have been introduced—in places like New Orleans—mainly by
Republicans—they have focused on African American schools, where there is federal funding available,” said Turner.
Turner said she plans to work to educate the community on the legislation and will begin hosting meetings wherever she is invited.
State Rep. Dar’Shun Kendrick, who represents Lithonia and voted against this legislation, says the governor’s plan offers “no exit strategy.”
Said Kendrick: “The governor wants too much power and there is no exit strategy if they are successful in accomplishing what they want. Once they bring the schools up, who takes over then? Who will run the schools?”
The jurisdiction of the Opportunity School District would fall under the control of the Governor’s Office of Student Achievement, and the superintendent would be appointed by the governor and subject to Senate confirmation. The superintendent would be charged with developing operational procedures for the district and providing an annual report of progress and operations to the Georgia General Assembly. The district could add no more than 20 schools per year, for a total of 100 at any given time. The schools would remain in the district for no
Gov. Nathan Deal Verdaillia Turner
DeKalb ICEO, D.A. differ over scope of
special investigatorsBy Valerie J. Morgan
DeKalb County ICEO Lee May and District Attorney Robert James took to the radio airwaves recently to discuss their very different perspectives on the special investigators that May has hired using an executive order.
May announced March 18 that he had hired a team of special investigators, headed by former State Attorney General Mike Bowers, to “root out corruption” in DeKalb. But the District Attorney, who was out of town at the time of May’s announcement, said when he learned of the appointment, he met with May and told him the executive order could compromise potential criminal prosecutions based on a U.S. Supreme Court decision.
May said he stands by his decision to hire the investigators to do the job he asked them to do. And James said he stands by the court ruling. Both men discussed their conflicting viewpoints during separate interviews on WAOK-1380 AM’s “Real Talk” hosted by Rashad Richey on March 26.
“Intelligent people can differ on should we be doing this or that. Ultimately, I think it’s the best thing for DeKalb,” said May.
James, however, said May should restrict the scope of the investigators to conducting forensic audits of county
DeKalb County ICEO Lee May
Distric Attorney Robert James
Protests mount for Anthony Hill
By Joshua Smith
Activists from across Metro Atlanta gathered to demand answers in the March 9 police shooting death of Anthony Hill, a 27-year-old U.S. Air Force veteran.
Protestors held a prayer vigil for Hill on March 24 outside the DeKalb Board of Commissioners meeting. It was the second demonstration the group staged at the Maloof Auditorium since DeKalb Police Officer Robert
Olson shot and killed the unarmed naked man, who was bipolar.
“I’m not an officer, but if you see the man not harming anyone but walking around without a stitch of clothes on, it is obvious they need help. But since you didn’t feel like helping him, you just shoot him to death? This officer made a bad choice and he should have to pay for it. He needs to be relieved of duties where a gun is required. He needs to be in the office or he will kill again and
send another mother and family to a sad funeral,” said Abdullah Akbar of Atlanta. “In some cases, it seems to me that the shooters or officers across the nation are rewarded for these actions. This goes beyond religion, Christian, Jewish, Muslim. If Mr. Hill had been a dog, they wouldn’t shoot a dog. A dog has more civil rights than we do. You’ll never see the police slam a dog up against their cars or shoot a dog down
See Protest, page 6
See Deal, page 7
PAGE 2 MARCH 28, 2015
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Rockdale County CEO Richard Oden will get to drive a new 2015 Ford Expedition. After the Board of Commissioners spent about two months debating the issue, the chairman won support for his requisition from Commissioner Doreen Williams, who approved the vehicle—minus some of the bells and whistles.
Commissioner Oz Nesbitt voted against Oden’s requisition at the March 24 meeting, saying the price tag was a concern for many constituents.
“He (Oden) could get his job done in the same way in a less expensive vehicle. After hearing the concerns of the taxpayers, that was the right thing to do,” Nesbitt said.
Williams said she was satisfied with the compromise and ready to move on.
“The next step is for the car to be ordered through the state government purchasing
process. I am glad it is over. Now as a board, we can focus on bigger issues in the county,” said Williams. “It was a compromise. I wanted
a $35,000 vehicle. The chairman wanted a $45,000 vehicle. $40,000 is a compromise and now we can move on.”
Oden had requested the new SUV to replace the 10-year-old model he has been driving for five years. The vehicle he wanted was a $44,756 2015 Ford Expedition XLT.
At the Board of Commissioners’ March 17 meeting, Williams and Nesbitt cut the vehicle package price to $40,766, telling Oden to opt out of a tow package, platinum paint and a four-wheel drive, among other extra features.
Oden’s current county take-home vehicle, a 2005 Eddie Baur Expedition, is valued at about $7,000, according to the Kelly Blue Book. The 2005 Eddie Baur was purchased for $34,360 during former County Chairman Roy Middlebrooks’ tenure and has accumulated 111,864 miles.
EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan
GENERAL MANAGERGlenn L. Morgan
STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith
ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill
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.
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News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com
Rockdale BOC finally approves vehicle purchase for CEO
By Joshua Smith
Conyers cites three businesses in underage alcohol stingConyers Police Department’s Marshal
Unit, along with agents from the Georgia Department of Revenue, conducted an underage alcohol operation on recently and found that 93 percent of the 41 businesses visited in the citywere compliant.
Underage teens working with the Conyers Police attempted to purchase alcoholic beverages at the establishments on March 13. Of the restaurants, bars, convenience stores, and package stores visited, only three of those businesses sold to the minors and were cited:
•Citgo – 990 Sigman Road
•Six Ways to Sunday – 1815 Highway 138, Suite 500
•Cozumel – 425 Sigman Road, Suite 116Cozumel was additionally cited for serving
alcohol without a server permit, which is required for all restaurant servers within the City of Conyers.
“We are extremely pleased with our local businesses. 93% is the best compliance rate we have seen performing these checks,” said Police Chief Gene Wilson. “We attribute this accomplishment to our Responsible Alcohol Sales & Service (RASS) class requirement for
all of those who serve alcohol in the city. Not only do we continue to educate our businesses on state laws and local ordinances, we can prove the vast majority are abiding by them.”
Previous operations yielded: 76 percent compliant in January 201389 percent compliant in November 201381 percent compliant in August 2014 For more information on obtaining a
Server Permit or RASS class, contact the Conyers Police Records Department at 770 929-4207 or e-mail [email protected].
Stonecrest cityhood proposal passes Senate
The Georgia Senate approved the Stonecrest cityhood proposal 45-1 on Tuesday, March 24.
SB 208, which would pave the way for the incorporation of the Southeast DeKalb municipality of about 50,000 residents, now moves to the House Committee for a vote.
“We have just a few more days. I feel optimistic that we will experience success in the House of Representatives,” said Jason Lary, president of the Stonecrest City Alliance.
The Legislative Session is scheduled to end on April 2. If the House passes the Stonecrest cityhood proposal, the bill would then go to Gov. Nathan Deal
for consideration. Following Deal’s approval, the people who live in the proposed Stonecrest area would decide in a November referendum whether to govern themselves and become a municipality.
In February, a feasibility study by the Carl Vinson Institute at the University of Georgia concluded that a smaller proposed city of Stonecrest is “fiscally feasible.”
Researchers conducting the study said that an area comprised of 50,000 residents within a 29 square-mile area could work, as opposed to one with 82,000 residents in a 60-square-mile area. Researchers rejected the larger area last year, saying it would cost $45.4 million to operate annually while
only generating $31.1 million in revenues. A municipality with 50,000 residents
would generate an estimated $9.8 million in revenues and require about $7.5 million in annual operating expenses. The smaller city would have a projected surplus of $1.9 million in the first year.
The new city’s three primary services would be limited to planning and zoning, code enforcement and maintenance and operation of parks facilities. The county would continue providing public safety services such as police and fire. The smaller city, the study said, would mirror Gwinnett County’s Peachtree Corners, which was incorporated in 2012.
DeKalb School Board to discuss
allegations against Orson
The DeKalb County Board of Education will consider at its April 1 meeting whether board member Marshall Orson violated board policy by allegedly supporting annexing a portion of DeKalb County into Atlanta.
“Recent news reports and communications from stakeholders of the DeKalb County School District have raised important and serious allegations that Marshall Orson, a member of the Board, has violated the principles and protocols in the Board Member Handbook as well as Board policy. In accordance with established Board protocol, the DeKalb County Board of Education will consider these allegations at the next Board meeting on Wed., April 1” according to a statement by Board Chair Dr. Melvin Johnson
State Rep. Karla Drenner has called for an investigation of Orson after reading his emails that a constituent obtained through an open records request, according to news reports. The emails reveal Orson supports annexing a portion of DeKalb County into Atlanta, which would take schools and resources out of the DeKalb School District.
The meeting will be held at the school system’s headquarters in the Robert Freeman Administrative Center, 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd., Stone Mountain.
By Valerie J. Morgan
PAGE 4 MARCH 28, 2015
Coming Up
ATLANTA
DEKALB
ROCKDALE
Piedmont Park to host Persian Festival Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive, N.E., Atlanta, will host the 2015 Persian Community
Festival for everyone to come and celebrate the Persian culture. The festival is held to expose the general public to what organizers call the wonders of
Persian culture and the Middle East. The Persian Community Center of Atlanta established the Atlanta Persian Festival in
2013. The annual festival includes music, food, crafts, dance and other cultural activities. More than 8,000 attended the festival in 2014. Admission is free.
Ready to plan your family reunion? The Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library System’s Georgia Hill Branch, 250 Georgia
Ave., S.E., Suite 101, will host a workshop on how to plan a family reunion on Monday, March 30, noon.
This program will address all of the elements that are critical for having a successful reunion from start to finish. Attendees will receive tips on how to get the word out, find the right location, keep costs low and create a reunion committee that will give you an even better chance to have a successful event.
For information, call branch manager Joia Ellis-Dinkins: 404-730-5427.
GwinnettWater Resources offers tips on disposing household
hazardous waste The Gwinnet County Department of Water Resources will host “Spring
Cleaning and Household Hazardous Waste Management” on Thursday, April 9, 7 – 8:30 p.m., at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration building’s Center Auditorium, 75 Langley Dr., Lawrenceville.
Attendees will learn about hazardous substances in the home, and how to store and dispose of them properly at this free workshop. Attendees from unincorporated Gwinnett County, city of Lilburn, or city of Peachtree Corners can qualify for a maximum five percent credit toward their Stormwater Utility Fee for the following year.
To register, call 678-376-7193 and press 5 or email [email protected] (include name, address, and phone number).
Horse Park to host Southeast Championship cycling event
The Georgia International Horse Park, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers, will host the 16th Annual Southeastern Regional Championship all-terrain cycling event on Sunday, March 29, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
The Conyers’ park steeplechase field and trails at the park will be used for the daylong competition. All ages and genders are expected to participate in the all-terrain cycling action. The riders will be racing for thousands of dollars in prizes, trophies and cash rewards.
Organizers say the park has been transformed into a challenging set of courses and will host vendors that celebrate good food and the importance of spending time with your family. Admission is free to spectators. For more information, visit www.goneriding.com.
Interim CEO May to present county priorities to Lithonia
Mayor Deborah Jackson and the city of Lithonia will host DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May on Tuesday, April 7, 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Lithonia City Hall, 6920 Main Street.
“A Look Ahead: Interim CEO Lee May’s Priorities for 2015” will be open to the community.
‘Candidates College’ forum setThe Voter Empowerment Collaborative will host a series of forums entitled
“Candidates College” to provide insight to those who are interested in running for public office.
The non-partisan forum will address: Why are you running?; Qualifying and requirements; campaigning (organization, politics and pitfalls); fundraising (reporting, laws, ethics); and governance (constituent services, meetings and committees.
“We are ultimately responsible and accountable for the quality of those whom we elect/hire to handle our business. Unfortunately, too often, both groups are clueless. We believe that this forum will bridge the gap,” said the Rev. Albert E. Loe, President and CEO of the Voter Empowerment Collaborative.
The forums are scheduled: Saturday, April 18, 9 a.m. To 1 p.m., Fairfield Baptist Church, 6133 Redan Road, Lithonia
Saturday, May 23, 9 a.m. To 1 p.m., Stephen Missionary Baptist Church, 2760 Hogan Road, East Point
For more information or to RSVP: 404-788-4542 WEBSITE: www.vecvoter.org FACEBOOK: The Voter Empowerment Collaborative-VEC
DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will host a “Friends of the Park” interest meeting on Thursday, April 2, 7 – 8:30 p.m., at Wade Walker Park Family YMCA, 5605 Rockbridge Road, S.W., Stone Mountain.
The meeting will educate citizens on the importance of community parks and how to partner with the county to keep them clean, safe and well used. Citizens will also have the chance to meet Park Pride staff and learn about various programs, funding and leadership opportunities to engage local communities to improve their neighborhood park.
For more information, please call Dave Butler at 404-371-2540.
Friends of the Park meeting set for volunteers
State Court Judge Hydrick accepting girls for S.M.I.L.E. DeKalb County State Court Judge Stacey K. Hydrick is accepting applications
for her fourth annual Summer Mentoring Initiative in Legal Education (S.M.I.L.E.) summer program.
The free program is designed for high school girls interested in learning more about the criminal and civil justice system.
Participants will meet every Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., beginning May 29 and ending July 31 (there will be no meeting on Friday, July 3). The sessions will be held in Judge Hydrick’s courtroom (2A), located in the Judicial Tower of the DeKalb County Courthouse, 556 N. McDonough Street, Decatur.
“This exciting program will provide unprecedented opportunities each week and will include speakers from DeKalb County Solicitor General’s Office, DeKalb County Public Defender’s Office, Atlanta Legal Aid, DeKalb County Probation Department, the Women’s Resource Center, DeKalb County Superior Court, DeKalb County Magistrate Court, DeKalb County Juvenile Court, DeKalb County Police Department DUI Task Force, as well as attorneys working in private practice,” said Judge Hydrick. “The program also includes a tour of the DeKalb County Jail, which was a favorite of last year’s participants.”
The application deadline is April 15. For more information, visit www.smiledekalb.com or call 404-371-2350.
Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful seeks volunteersGwinnett Clean and Beautiful is seeking volunteers for “The Great American
Cleanup Gwinnett Challenge.” Registration for volunteers, held March 27 until May 31, is open to businesses,
local governments, schools, churches, civic groups, athletic teams and individuals. For three months during the spring, the county hopes volunteers and concerned
citizens in communities all across the county will work together to beautify neighborhoods, reduce waste, and initiate recycling programs, as well as plant trees and gardens. Volunteers need to only make a pledge online, pick at least one activity from the county’s challenge list or design one and submit for approval, and then take photos and submit them via social media or emailing them to Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful.
The biggest and best projects will receive awards and cash prizes and will be announced by June 6. For more information or to volunteer, visit or call 770-822-5187.
Free workshops offered to help job seekers
Interested job seekers are invited to register for “Twenty-first Century Job Skills Training” workshops, which will be offered at Salem Missionary Baptist Church’s Heritage Hall, 351 Killan Hill Road, Lilburn.
On Thursdays, April 2 and April 9, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., the church, in partnership with The Wisdom to Believe Foundation, will host “Tools for the Job Hunt” and “What’s Next on the Horizon?”
The workshops also include tips on industry market trends and an overview of some of the jobs that are in high demand in Georgia.
If you would like to attend the workshops, call 770-923-3936.
MARCH 28,2015 PAGE 5
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DeKalb Deputy Chief Alexander attends FBI’s National Executive Institute
Cedric Alexander, DeKalb County Deputy Chief Operating Officer of Public Safety, has been selected by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to participate in the FBI’s National Executive Institute (NEI) in Quantico, VA.
Dr. Alexander was chosen among top law enforcement officials around the world to participate in the 38th session of the leadership training program.
“The selection of Dr. Cedric Alexander for this intensive FBI program is another example of his scope of his credibility and experience. He continues to bring DeKalb County the prominence it deserves,” said DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May.
NEI is an intensive training program for chief executive officers of the
nation’s largest municipal, county and state law enforcement organizations.
Over 35 senior law enforcement leaders from across the U.S. and around the world will attend the class. This is the most senior executive trainingoffered by the FBI’s Training Division and emphasizes leadership, professionalism and partnerships. Experts across the public and
private sectors will instruct on a wide range of topics such as leadership in law enforcement, crisis management, team building, employee development and community engagement.
The NEI allows this diverse group of law enforcement executives the opportunity to share best practices and facilitate the building of lasting interagency partnerships with other federal, state, local and international law enforcement agencies that will pay great dividends.
More than 1,200 executives have graduated from the program since it began in 1976.
Christmas Eve murder suspect Jake Jackson indictedJake Jackson, 32, was indicted Tuesday, March 17, by a
DeKalb County grand jury for murdering his ex-wife, Tiffanie Phillips, on Christmas Eve of 2014.
“What started as a domestic dispute quickly escalated into the murder of a young woman outside of her home,” said DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James. “Three young children lost their mother on the eve of what should have been a holiday filled with joy, love and cherished memories.”
Phillips was shot in front of her son, just outside of a Decatur apartment, according to the indictment.
DeKalb D.A. seeks death penalty in MARTA bus stop murderDeKalb County District Attorney
Robert James will seek the death penalty for 18-year-old Christopher Merritt, who was recently indicted for the murder of a Lithonia woman waiting at a bus stop.
According to the indictment, Merritt approached Marcaysia Dawkins at a Fairington Road MARTA stop on Nov. 23, 2014. While waiting at the bus stop, Merrit approached Dawkins and attempted to grab her purse. During the struggle, Merritt fatally shot Dawkins twice with a 9mm handgun and fled the scene with the victim’s belongings. Merrit faces various felony counts including malice murder, felony murder, armed robbery and aggravated
assault. “It’s truly a disturbing thought that Ms. Dawkins could have been anyone on any given day. The life of a vibrant, young and hardworking 19-year-old woman was taken away in broad daylight,” said James.
Christopher Merritt
Jake Jackson
Brookhaven ready for Cherry Blossom Festival“The Drifters” and “The Coasters”
will headline several other musical artists at the Cherry Blossom Festival, set for March 27 – 29, noon – 6 p.m. at Blackburn Park, 3493 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Brookhaven.
The event also includes a 5K Run/1K Walk, a Children’s Village, Pet World featuring “The Original Stunt Dog Show,” food vendors and of course, the park’s cherry blossom trees.
“Once we adopted the Cherry
Blossom as our official city tree, it just seemed natural to have an event to show them off,” said Festival Chair and Mayor Pro Tem Rebecca Chase Williams. “We welcome everyone to come visit for the weekend to see all that’s ‘Blooming in Brookhaven.’”
Admission is free. Times and performances vary and are subject to change. For more information, visit http://brookcherryfest.org or call 404-637-0500.
Atlanta Women entrepreneurs encouraged to enter SBA contest
Women entrepreneurs in Atlanta are encouraged to apply for the Small Business Administration’s Innovative Her: 2015 Innovating for Women Business Challenge competition.
The SBA competition entrepreneurs who are creating products or services that have a measurable impact on women and their families, fills a need in the marketplace and has potential for commercialization.
“The Women’s Entrepreneurship Initiative is honored to serve as a co-host to this unique competition with the SBA,” said Theia Washington Smith, WEI’s Executive Director. “We’re committed to connecting women entrepreneurs in our communities with opportunities to elevate their business goals, and showcase their innovative solutions to everyday challenges women and their families face.”
Applications will be accepted until April 7. Host organizations such as universities, accelerators, clusters, scale-
up communities, and SBA Resource Partners will also enter competitors. Following the completion of the competitions, each host organization will identify one winner to go to regionals.
Entrepreneurs, who are selected by local judges from the host organizations, will move forward to the semi-final round. Ten finalists will then be chosen by an executive committee comprised of SBA officials and will compete in Washington D.C. on May 8, during SBA’s National Small Business Week for cash prizes of up to $30,000.
WEI will work directly with a dedicated team of outreach partners, including Invest Atlanta, The Center for Civic Innovation, StartUp Chicks and Women Flying High to promote the competition. The competition will be held entirely online, with applicants able to submit their application and supplemental materials at www.weiatlanta.com.
Free bird walk at Piedmont Park
The Piedmont Park Community Center will join the Piedmont Park Conservancy and the Atlanta Audubon Society (AAS) for monthly bird walks.
This month’s bird walk will be on Saturday, April 4, 8 – 9 a.m. All levels of birders are welcome to participate in
monthly observation walks that explore the varied habitats of Piedmont Park.
For more information, contact Mary Yetter at [email protected] or call 404-875-7275, ext. 323.
PAGE 6 MARCH 28, 2015
Protestcontinued from page 1
dead and leave him in the streets for hours.” Singing songs such as “Ain’t Gonna
Let Nobody Turn Me Around” and chanting “No Justice, No Peace,” some of the demonstrators joined DeKalb County NAACP President John Evans in the commission meeting, while others marched on Commerce Street. .
Evans said the group plans to protest at least once a week until the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, which is now handling the investigation, releases its findings.
Olsen shot Hill twice. He said Hill began running toward him and didn’t stop when ordered, according to the police report. Hill had jumped off his second-floor apartment balcony just before police arrived, police said.
Hill’s girlfriend said Hill had been undergoing treatment for bipolar disorder and had stopped taking his medication. Witnesses said Hill had his hands up when he was shot.
“I’ve seen too much of this, too many
funerals. I’m tired. God knows we need a better justice system than what we have,” said SCLC South DeKalb Chapter President Nathan Knight. “I ask, I plead that the Lord help us and the DeKalb Police Department hear our cries. We need an intervention.
Since the shooting, Hill’s mother, grandmother and other family members
joined neighbors and friends in erecting a memorial at the entrance of the Chamblee apartments, where Hill was killed.
“This isn’t about race, although most of the men in these cases are African American men being gunned down by white officers. This is about humanity,” said Yvonne
English of the Newton County NAACP. “…Forget about what color we are. This is an injustice against humanity. This isn’t American. This isn’t respect for your fellow human being. We will keep marching peacefully and gaining support.”
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MARCH 28,2015 PAGE 7
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Rep. Johnson opens 2015 student art contest
Scholarships worth $20,000 at stake Congressman Hank Johnson, who
represents Georgia’s District 4, says he looks forward to hosting this year’s 2015 Congressional Arts Competition. The annual event displays the community’s finest young artists.
Since 2007, Johnson has awarded $252,000 in arts scholarships to more than 30 students in his district.
Eligible high school students throughout the district, which include parts of DeKalb, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Newton counties, are encouraged to apply and display their talent in this year’s contest. Entries must be designed according to the specifications in the competition guidelines, which can be found at the Congressman’s website: hankjohnson.house.gov/serving-you/art-competition.
Each district honors its winning artwork by hanging it in the tunnel leading
to the United States Capitol building in Washington, D.C., for a year. The 2015 Congressional Art Competition winner from the Fourth District will also receive transportation for two to Washington, D.C., for the ribbon-cutting event to unveil all the 2015 winners.
In addition to having his/her artwork at the Capitol, winners of the competition will be eligible for college scholarships from the Art Institute of Atlanta ($10,000, $5,000, and $2,500) or the Savannah College of Art and Design ($1,500 per year).
All art entries must be received April 20-21 in the Congressman’s district office, located at 5700 Hillandale Drive, Suite 120, Lithonia, GA 30058 120.
For more information, e-mail Eric Hubbard at [email protected] or Xeron Pledger at [email protected] or call them at 770-987-2291.
Failing Schoolscontinued from page 1
Special Investigatorcontinued from page 1
spending and invoicing practices. James said a 1967 U.S. Supreme Court decision, Garrity v. New Jersey, 385 U.S. 493, essentially would prohibit the D.A.’s office from utilizing any statements or derived evidence in prosecution because May’s executive order sets up a clear immunity deal for those who cooperate with the special investigators.
“The executive order allows employees to confess crimes and not face disciplinary actions from the county or legal actions from my office or any prosecution office or agency,” James said.
May said he hired the special investigators to assess the county’s operational risk exposure and restore the public’s trust in county government—adding that he wants to be proactive.
DeKalb has come under heavy scrutiny for corruption. DeKalb has faced a barrage of ethics complaints and several officials have been in the glare of the media spotlight for corruption scandals, including that of former Commissioner Elaine Boyer, who admitted stealing more than $90,000 in taxpayer money. Boyer, who represented Commission District 1 in North DeKalb for 22 years and was the longest-serving commissioner on the board, resigned on Aug. 23, 2014. U.S. District Judge Orinda Evans sentenced her on March 20, 2015 to serve 14 months in federal prison. Boyer’s husband, John, who
helped her devise the theft scheme, is expected to be sentenced on May 6.
“My primary concern is for the integrity of our day to day operations. We are ready to root out unethical and illegal conduct occurring in our county. If and when we find it, we will root it out immediately,” May said in a statement released a day before the radio show. “The District Attorney has made me aware of his concerns and we will work amicably and cooperatively with all prosecutorial agencies. My primary concern, however, is for the integrity of our government. We will consult with our county attorney and special investigator to protect the integrity of any criminal probes and investigations to the best of our ability. We can no longer sit on the sidelines waiting on outside entities to conduct independent and private investigations. We must be proactive to deal with the issues and needs of our county now.
James also issued a statement on March 25:“I have spoken with ICEO May regarding my concerns involving the recently signed executive order. The executive order allows employees to confess crimes and not face disciplinary actions from the county or legal actions from my office or any prosecution office or agency. The major legal challenge stems from a 1967 U.S. Supreme Court decision, Garrity v. New Jersey, 385 U.S. 493. Essentially, Garrity would
prohibit us from utilizing any statements or derived evidence in prosecution because the employees are obligated to participate in this investigative probe. It also sets up a clear immunity deal that leaves potential criminals gainfully employed by the county. I don’t see how that solves public corruption or unethical behavior.
“I have recommended that Balch & Bingham’s role be redefined to only include a forensic audit of county spending and invoicing practices. Taxpayers already fund my office to review corruption and other criminal cases. To date, ICEO May has not brought any concerns of specific instances of corruption to my office for review.”
Others also are concerned about the executive order, including Attorney Mawuli Davis, who heads the DeKalb Lawyers Association.
“I have concerns any time someone is paid to find something and you have those kinds of hefty fees involved,” Davis told On Common Ground News. “The more appropriate way to handle these types of investigations would be the FBI, District Attorney, GBI and so forth…”
Under May’s executive order, the county will pay a flat rate of $400 an hour to Bowers and his attorneys; $300 an hour for other special investigators; $150 an hour for paralegals. The team will spend a minimum of 120 days conducting investigations and submit monthly progress reports.
less than five years and no more than 10 years.
State Rep. Christian Coomer (R-Catersville), who sponsored the legislation, said the model has been successful in other states.
“Every student in Georgia deserves a world-class education, and unfortunately, some schools in Georgia are failing to meet those needs. The Opportunity School District model addresses failing schools with innovative education reform that has been proven successful in other states,” Coomer said in a news release
Gov. Deal also applauded the passage of the legislation.
“I commend members of the General Assembly for putting aside partisan politics to prioritize the needs of our children,” Deal said in a statement. “We have both a moral duty and a self-serving interest in rescuing these children. Every child should have a fair shot at doing better than their parents before them, and we as a society benefit if more Georgians have the education and job skills needed to attract high-paying jobs.
“I believe the voters of Georgia will wholeheartedly endorse this proposal because they want these children to have a chance in life, they want them to get an education, they
want them to have good jobs, support their families and be productive, law-abiding citizens. Our most vulnerable children deserve no less.”
Speaker David Ralston agreed.
“Access to quality education is paramount for children to succeed,” said Speaker David Ralston. “Though it is rare, when schools fail to serve their students year after year, the state has a responsibility to step in to protect the interests of the children. Gov. Deal’s Opportunity School District plan is an important safety net and upholds our responsibility to every young Georgian.”
PAGE 8 MARCH 28, 2015
St. Paul AME presents Parade of Hats
St. Paul AME Church, 1704 Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road, Lithonia, ushered in spring with its annual Parade of Hats fashion show on March 21. Women of all ages, both in
the audience and on the runway, adorned their outfits with beautiful crowns—from tiny ones to big ones.
The fashion show and luncheon drew a packed house including DeKalb County Sheriff Jeff Mann, Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson and On Common Ground News Editor Valerie J. Morgan, who all brought greetings to St. Paul AME’s pastor, Dr. Cheviene Jones and his wife, Pastor Berta Jones, the Rev. Earle H. Ifill, Presiding Elder - Atlanta East District and organizer Joyce Reid and the Stewardess Board.
MARCH 28,2015 PAGE 9
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Business News
AWDA picks GSU graduate Katina Dorsey as winner of logo contest
The Atlanta Workforce Development Agency today (March 4) announced Katina Dorsey, a recent Georgia State University graduate, as the winner of the agency’s citywide logo redesign competition. This competition was an opportunity to engage emerging and developing Atlanta student artists, allowing them to gain exposure, build their portfolio and ultimately help those in need.
“Katina Dorsey has developed a thoughtful and deliberate emblem that represents the work we are doing to rebuild, rebrand and strengthen Atlanta’s workforce system for the benefit of job seekers and businesses in the City of Atlanta,” said Michael T. Sterling, executive director of AWDA. “Katina’s brand will become the agency’s mark for many years and we are proud of the logo she has designed for the AWDA. We hope to make her proud as well.”
“I also want to thank all of the college students and recent college graduates that submitted designs,” added Sterling. “Your thoughtfulness and belief in the mission of the AWDA is deeply appreciated. We look forward to
more projects in the future that will allow us to utilize the incredible talents of Atlanta¹s college community.”
Selecting a new logo was one important step forward as AWDA works to effectively communicate with residents, employers and stakeholders.
“I am honored to have the privilege of being a part of the development of AWDA’s new brand direction,” said Katina Dorsey, a junior graphics designer at Jones Worley Design Inc. “My objective for this design was to incorporate
a look that would embody the AWDA’s main goal in improving quality of job training and marketability of Atlanta¹s workforce for the economic growth of the city.”
The logo redesign competition was open to full-time college juniors and seniors and recent (2009-2014) college graduates from an accredited college or university in metropolitan Atlanta.
Dorsey will receive a $1,000 award and recognition from the City of Atlanta.
Coalition launches virtual fundraiser for HBCUsCollegiate Life, Radio One and North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company have
joined together to raise funds for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. They have launched a virtual fundraiser at www.hbcudonate.com.
The fundraiser culminates with the National Baptist Student Union Retreat held in Atlanta March 26-28 at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia. During the retreat, students from across the country will present dance, music and step arrangements as well as participate in workshops. The retreat will also include a concert featuring Tye Tribbett on March 26.
Collegiate Life is led by Dr. Percy Chase. He has worked with the on-campus ministries of Historically Black Colleges and Universities for almost thirty years.
“We are looking forward to a long-term relationship with these and other sponsors so we can continue to provide funds for students at HBCUs,” Chase said. “Attending an HBCU represents a chance for students, often from families with limited resources, receive an education at some of the most prestigious universities in the country.”
Radio One Sales Director, T.J. Dula also expressed her excitement about this opportunity to encourage alumni and supporters of HBCUs to get involved with a grassroots campaign.
“We, here, at Radio One have a long standing commitment to students who attend HBCUs,” said Dula. “For more than 20 years we have supported higher education and specifically HBCUs with our on-air talent and special events.
This virtual fundraiser is a unique way for those who join us in supporting these students to give back.”
North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company President and CEO James Speed echoes the sentiments of Dr. Chase and Ms. Dula.
“There is no greater investment we can make than in our future. Students who attend HBCUs are charting a course for success in their educational pursuits and we are shining a spotlight on the historic significance and importance of the music presented by these choirs. Our partnership with Collegiate Life and Radio One allows us to extend our support to even more schools.”
To donate, visit www.hbcudonate.com. For information about the concert on March 26 or to register for the entire retreat, contact Dr. Percy Chase at 919-667-5554.
Atlanta leaders honored as bridge builders
The Atlanta Technical College Foundation (ATCF) will honor three local leaders who have helped to bridge the gap between underserved individuals and the economic mainstream.
Rodney Bullard, president of the Chick-fil-A Foundation; Quinnie Jenkins-Rice, regional leader, Community Affairs for Southwest Airlines; and Detlev von Platen, president and CEO of Porsche Cars North America will be
honored during the 14th Annual Bridge Builder Awards. The event will be held on April 16, 6 p.m., at the Foundry at Puritan Mill, 916 Joseph E Lowery Blvd. N.W., Atlanta. The festivities will begin with a cocktail reception
and silent auction.
“The Bridge Builder Awards allows us to recognize members of the business community, who through their visionary and creative contributions, greatly enrich the quality of life, opportunities for education, and access to resources. We are pleased to recognize the hard work and dedication of these honorees,” said Atlanta Technical College President Alvetta Peterman Thomas.
Tickets for the event can be purchased by visiting www.atlantatech.edu/about/bridge-builder-awards.php.
Proceeds from the Bridge Builder Awards support student scholarships, emergency assistance loans, student support grants, and The Halle International Exchange Program.
Funds are also used to purchase state-of-the-art equipment for technical program areas.
South DeKalb Business Association sets new date for scholarship breakfast
The South DeKalk Business Association (SDBA) will host its scholarship breakfast on April 10, at Saint Phillip A.M.E. Church, 240 Candler Road, S.E., Atlanta
The SDBA will present Cassius Butts, regional administrator of the Small Business Association as the keynote speaker for the breakfast. Other guest speakers include Congressman Hank Johnson; Kenneth Sanders, assistant director of DeKalb County Capital Improvement Program; and Willie A. Watkins, proprietor of Willie A. Watkins Funeral home, Inc.
The organization will honor students from Georgia Piedmont Technical College and seniors from Redan High School.
Tickets are $45. For more information on tickets and sponsorship levels, email [email protected]
East Metro DeKalb CID sets community meetingsMeet the Board of Directors and the new administrator of the East Metro CID. Learn
about CIDs, how they operate, and some of the upcoming plans.The final “Listening Session” for the month will be held on March 31, 6 to 7 p.m., at the
Covington Library, 3500 Covington Highway, Decatur.The board wants to hear your needs and concerns as well as projects your organizations
are working on. Light refreshments will be served.For more information about the East Metro DeKalb
CID, visit www.eastmetrocid.com
Pictured above:L-R: Rodney Bullard, Quinie Jenkins-Ric and Detiev von Platen
DeKalb Medical completes renovations to breast center
DeKalb Medical recently completed an 8,5000-square-foot renovation to the
Comprehensive Breast Center at the hospital’s North Decatur campus.
Hospital officials say through the generosity of Foundation donors, the facility features state-of-the-art upgrades and equipment.
Some renovation highlights include six individual patient registration areas for more privacy; a new reception desk with wheelchair accessibility; acoustic ceiling tiles and LED, energy-saving lighting in the Maureen and Roy Vandiver, M.D. Reception
Area; all new flooring, furniture and artwork; wall finishes and light fixtures throughout the dressing rooms; as well as new restrooms and procedure rooms upgrades.
“As one of the busiest breast centers in the Atlanta area, our staff is excited to provide this new healing environment to all of our patients,” said Manager of the Comprehensive Breast Center, Cathy Landerman. “We have a large population who return to us year after year and we look forward to hearing their feedback regarding the improvements we have made.”
PAGE 10 MARCH 28, 2015
Georgia Piedmont Technical College congratulates Justin Walters for being selected as the statewide 2015 EAGLE (Exceptional Adult Georgian in Literacy Education) Award winner.
Now in its 22nd year, the Technical College System of Georgia’s EAGLE Award acknowledges the outstanding accomplishments of Georgians who enroll in TCSG’s adult education programs to earn their high school equivalency diploma. Each March, the local EAGLE winners participate in a conference that culminates with a lunch banquet in their honor.
“I congratulate Justin Walters on achieving this incredible honor,” said Dr. Jabari Simama, president of Georgia Piedmont Technical College. “His story epitomizes how technical colleges can play a major role in transforming lives. I appreciate April Greene for serving as Justin’s nominating instructor. He is an example of the American Dream and he will be an excellent ambassador for the Adult Basic Education program.”
Walters said he is honored to be an EAGLE award recipient.
“I am so honored and humbled to receive this award,” said Walters. “Once I started participating in Adult Education, my eyes opened to a new world of excitement and things to discover. I gained new skills, knowledge and values, and I made some amazing
friends. After receiving my GED credential, I enrolled in Georgia Piedmont Technical College, where I’m now studying Early Childhood Care & Education.
“I am determined to be
the first male in my family to graduate from college, and I want to become a teacher,” Walters continued. “I consider myself to be an ambassador for Adult Ed, and I will continue to encourage others
to take advantage of opportunities that are available through Adult Education,” he remarked.
The award was presented by TCSG Commissioner Gretchen Corbin and TCSG Assistant
Commissioner for Adult Education Beverly Smith. In addition to a trophy, Walters received an iPad and a new car.
Pictured above: TCSG Commissioner Gretchen Corbin, 2015 Eagle Award Winner Justin Walters and GPTC President Jabari Simama.
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People Movers & Shakers in the Community
GPTC salutes State EAGLE competition winner Justin Walters
Long-time DeKalb resident Elzora Baker passes
Mrs. Elzora S. Baker, believed to be one of DeKalb County’s oldest residents, died on Sunday, March 22. She was 104. Mrs. Baker was a staunch supporter of her church. She was baptized in 1925 at Fairfield Baptist Church and later joined Union Missionary Baptist Church in Lithonia, where she remained a lifelong member. “Mother Baker” became the church’s Communion Director in 1979 and retired from the position in 2010. Well-known for her volunteer contributions, Mrs. Baker made monthly visits to
Traditions Health and Rehabilitation Center in Lithonia with mission members, praying for residents until her health no longer permitted.
Mrs. Baker, preceded in death by her husband, Jack Baker, is survived by three daughters: Mrs. Mary Felton; Ms. Allean McMullen and Mrs. Janice Monroe (Gilbert); one son, J.B. Baker (Mary); 9grandchildren; 27 great-grandchildren; 17 great-great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews and cousins.
Elzora S. BakerSept. 4, 1910—March 22, 2015
MARCH 28,2015 PAGE 11
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