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The Feb. 8, 2014 edition of On Common Ground News.
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See King, page 6
See Signing, page 7
DeKalb offers free workshops for family reunions ....page 3 Five women in media join local legends as DeKalb History Center honorees ....page 8
Lunch and Learn: Update on Atlanta Streetcar project ....page 10
Volume 19 Number 45 www.ocgNews.com february 8, 2014 free
Serving DeKalb, Fulton, gwinnett, Henry anD rocKDale countieS n www.FacebooK.com/ocgnewS
Community Black History Business
King siblings feud deepens over father’s most prized assetsBy Valerie J. Morgan
ATLANTA—In a 20-minute public address, Bernice A. King, 51, set the record straight on why she’s battling her two brothers, Martin Luther King III, 56, and Dexter King, 53, in court for trying to sell their father’s Nobel Peace Prize and his Bible.
Bernice King vowed to do everything in her power to keep her father’s possessions safe, saying the medal and bible would not be sold: “Not on my watch.” She said she is disassociating herself with her brothers, despite her love for them. “From this point on, I would appreciate if you would refrain from grouping me with my brothers. They are my brothers. I do love them, but we are different people, different perspectives and different positions,” King said.
The friction, which has gone on for years between the three children of slain civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., re-ignited this week after Bernice King made it publicly known that her brothers had filed a lawsuit against her to get the Nobel Peace Prize and the Bible. She said her brothers notified her on Jan. 20, the King Holiday and the observance of her father’s 85th birthday, that they wanted
her to relinquish the medals and Bible that President Barack Obama used when he was sworn into office for his second term. Bernice King won’t say exactly where the items are, only that they are safe.
“I take this strong position for my father because Daddy is not here to say himself ‘My bible and my medals are never to be sold—not to an institution
or even a person,’ ” Bernice King said during her address on Feb. 6 at Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in downtown Atlanta.
King said she held her address at Ebenezer because of its historic significance. It was the place where her father preached many sermons.
“I want it understood in no uncertain terms that this is a sacred and a serious
matter as I share my position with you,” she said.
King said the fight is not about money, but about principle.
Earlier in the week, Bernice King rebuked her brothers’ decision to sell the sacred items, saying that her father
My brothers want to sell my father’s Nobel
Peace Prize, his bible: ‘Not on my watch.’
–Bernice A. King
By Joshua Smith
Tears of joy rolled down the faces of parents and staff who attended Rockdale County High School’s
signing day on Feb. 5. The day was bittersweet. School
officials thought they had a record number of signees–12. But learned after signing in the morning that four of their players had their offers from West Georgia Technical College rescinded. The college announced it will not offer a football program.
“After careful consideration, West Georgia Technical College has chosen to withdraw a request that was made to the Technical College System of Georgia to approve football as an additional athletic program for the Golden Knights,” interim President Pat Hannon said in a release.
Rockdale High’s Coach Venson Elder is working with Why Not Sports to find other offers for the students. Rockdale’s Salem High and other schools also must find replacements. Why Not Sports is a non-profit that educates student athletes on academic requirements needed for college.
Rockdale High Principal Georgi Nour said she is still proud of the hard work by her students, coaches and teachers.
“This is the largest group we’ve ever had on National Signing Day,at least during the five years I have been here,” said Nour, who had three students to sign letters of intent in 2013. “It is because we have strong leadership from our coaches that the students have
performed on and off the field. They are not only good athletes, but they have excelled academically. I am proud of each and every one of them.”
Coach Elder said it was critical for his players to excel off the field in the classroom, as it was to perform well on it on Friday nights.
“We spent countless hours working with the kids. We wanted to make sure that they did what they were supposed to do in the classroom and on the field. They all met the new NCAA academic requirements for core classes. None of them made below a ‘B’ in their core subjects,” said Elder. “Today is a special day—a very special day. We are all proud of them.”
In October 2013, On Common Ground News reported on an interactive seminar, which focused on the NCAA’s
new academic eligibility requirements including increasing the GPA from 2.0 to 2.3 in core courses and raising the number of required courses from 14 to 16 for Division II schools.
The Rockdale team members joined dozens of athletes at the Decatur Taco Mac restaurant, which also hosted the DeKalb County signees as part of the “National Signing Day Frenzy.” Sponsored by SCORE Atlanta, 92.9 FM The Game, and the National Guard, the event was a celebration for families and their athletes to fellowship and reflect.
“It was pretty hard, but through prayer, hard work and the grace of God we are here today, standing proud,” said Kimberly Alexander, mother of Ken Hike, Jr., who played Cornerback at Columbia High School. “This is my baby. I’m overjoyed for him. I haven’t
even slept in two days. I have been so excited about this day.”
Hike says he’s just happy to make his mom proud.
“She raised three of us on her own. She’s what I call my A1 since Day One,” said Hike, who has received a full ride to Tuskegee University in Tuskegee, Alabama, to study healthcare for athletes. “She means the world to me. To sign this scholarship and know she doesn’t have to worry about anything coming out of her pocket means absolutely everything to me.”
The 12 Rockdale County High School football players who signed on Feb. 5, 2014, National Signing Day are:
Linebackers Robert McCray (Indiana University)Kentavius Preston (Southern University)Brandon Harris (Alabama State)Corner Backs Shakym Peters (Alabama State)Anthony Davis (Saint Augustine University)Defensive Lineman Julian McKnight (NC A&T)Offensive Linemen Tyler Seabolt (Centre College)
Still waiting:Terrell McLaughlin Malachi SmithAkwesi Mintah Joe WrightZach Hess
Cheers, tears mark National Signing Day for local high school seniors
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG NewsRockdale County High School Principal Georgi Nour (center) beams with pride as she stands with the school’s signees.
PAGE 2 fEbruAry 8, 2014
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Community News
DeKalb offers free workshops for family reunions
Car crashes into Rockdale Tax Commissioner’s Office
By Joshua Smith
So your family has designated you the family reunion coordinator? Hundreds of family members will
be coming to town and counting on you to tell them where to go and what to do when they arrive.
No problem. The DeKalb County Convention & Visitor’s Bureau (DCVB) has you covered. The DCVB is offering a free workshop Feb. 22 that is part of an 11-month series where hosts can learn all they need to know about planning a family reunion.
“We really try to make the workshop and showcase a one-stop shop for your family reunion needs. From budgets and potential charges to writing invitation letters for family members and gift bags, we do all we can to ensure a successful family reunion for you and yours,” said Carol Murray, who has led the workshops for 16 years. “Most family reunion coordinators are given the position because other family members volunteer them or they live in the location where the family wants to meet. We understand that stress and we are always here to help.”
Murray says DeKalb hosts anywhere from 300 – 400 family reunions annually.
“In preparation of all the families coming to DeKalb, we will host 12 workshops this year. Some will be at hotels and some will be at local libraries as Lunch and Learns,” said Murray. “We haven’t hosted that many workshops in the past, but the numbers are growing in attendance and in family reunions. That means more money will be spent in DeKalb and more people will receive valuable education going into their reunions. Everybody wins.”
Jessie Bridges is one of the winners. Her family originates from the small town of Louisville, Mississippi, and wanted to
move its reunion outside the state for the first time in family history.
Bridges says the Clark-Docher family reunion is held once every other year.
“I had months to plan for our reunion and I was stressed out about the whole thing. With about 150 people waiting on my plans, Carol and her staff are who kept me sane,” said Bridges, who attended a March 2013 workshop with her sister, Abigail Thompson.
The workshop included a showcase where vendors and DJs display their best to hopefully, gain new customers looking for family reunion services. Attendees meet photographers, T-shirt printers, representatives from Georgia parks, area attractions, caterers and transportation services, which can service reunions ranging from 50 to 500 or more people.
“We received packages from Stone Mountain Park so we could have catering, volleyball and access to everything in the park, even the laser show. The reunion was a three-day process, but we saved hundreds of dollars because the workshop staff provided us with free name tags, welcoming bags and free souvenirs,” said Bridges. “It was so great because the workshop gave me a heads up on the worst things that could happen. With all the plans set, everybody in the family, the young, old and in between, everybody had something to do and enjoy.”
Bridges said family members left Stone Mountain Park saying, “This is the best one yet. How will we ever top this family reunion?”
For more information on the free workshops or how to get help in planning your family reunion, call 770-492-5050, ext. 1070 or visit visitatlantasdekalbcounty.com. You can also get family reunion tips on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DeKalbCountyFamilyReunions.
Here is a schedule of free workshops the DeKalb Convention and Visitor’s Bureau is sponsoring:
Saturday, Feb. 22: Marriott Evergreen Conference Resort, 4021 Lakeview Drive Stone Mountain. 770-879-9900. www.evergreenresort.com.
Saturday, March 15: Courtyard by Marriott Decatur, 130 Clairemont Ave., Decatur.
404-371-0204. www.courtyarddecatur.com.
Saturday, March 22: Beulah Baptist Church, 2340 Clifton Springs Road Decatur.
404-241-3307. www.beulahbaptist.org.
Saturday, April 12: Fairfield Inn & Suites Stonecrest, 7850 Stonecrest Square Lithonia.
770-484-9993. www.marriott.com/atlln.
Saturday, May 17: Hampton Inn Stone Mountain, 1737 Mountain Industrial Boulevard,
Stone Mountain. 770-934-0004. www.hampton-inn.com/hi/atl-stonemount.
Saturday, June 21: Comfort Inn Suites, Northlake 2060 Crescent Centre Boulevard, Tucker.
770-496-1070. www.comfortsuites.com.
Saturday, July 19: Hyatt Place, 7900 Mall Ring Road Lithonia.
770-484-4384. www.hyattplace.com.
Saturday, Aug. 16:Stars and Strikes Entertainment Center, 1741 Mountain Industrial
Boulevard, Stone Mountain. 678-209-0732. www.starsandstrikes.com.
Saturday, Sept. 20: Doubletree Hotel Atlanta, NE/Northlake 4156 Lavista Road,
Tucker. 770-938-1026. www.godoubletree.com.
Saturday, Nov. 15: Hilton Garden Inn Stonecrest, 7890 Mall Ring Road, Lithonia. 678-526-1000. www.atlantaeaststonecrest.gardeninn.com.
By Joshua Smith
CONYERS—Although the windows are boarded up and yellow caution tape still has some areas blocked off, the Rockdale County Tax Commissioner’s Office is open and operating.
A few days ago, a car came crashing through the office as customers stood in line, many of them waiting to renew their vehicle tags. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured.
“We just heard this large boom and huge rumbling out of nowhere. I checked on my staff, then customers and then the driver. The driver tried to get out of the car after the wreck, but she was stuck between her car and an office desk,” said Rockdale Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley. “It was a crowded day at the office because of the snow storm that came just days before, so I’m just glad none of those customers or my staff were seriously hurt.”
The accident happened on Jan. 31, around 4 p.m., an hour before closing. A 73-year-old driver accidentally hit the accelerator on her Kia Sephia and drove into the Rockdale County Tag and Tax Commissioner’s Office at 969 Pine Street, N.E., in Conyers. The driver told police she thought she put the car in reverse.
A female pedestrian on the sidewalk was knocked down as a result of the accident, police said. The driver was uninjured and is not facing charges from Conyers Police. The pedestrian was treated at Rockdale Medical Center with no serious injuries.
“I really appreciate the way the Rockdale Sheriff’s Office, Conyers
Police Department and other county and emergency staff swiftly responded to the scene as they came to aid us quickly. My staff was quick on their feet with helping customers who were shaken up as well,” said Hadley. “Miraculously, no one suffered serious injuries.”
For Cheryl Armstrong, the wreck was a true way to go out with a bang. The car crashed into her office as she prepared wrapped up her last day on the job.
“We didn’t have a formal retirement party, but RJ told me that throughout the day they would have little surprises for me,” said Armstrong, a 10-year veteran
at the office. “When the crash happened and everyone was settled I asked him: Was this one of the surprises?” Armstrong said jokingly. “I worked in the office in property tax collections for a long time and of course, I’ve never had anything like this happen.”
Armstrong and two other employees working in the same office were uninjured. Hadley said another employee was treated for hyperventilation who was a little shaken up by the whole thing.
Hadley said he expects repairs to take a few weeks.
Rockdale County Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley is happy no one was seriously injured when a car crashed into his building in Conyers.
Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News
PAGE 4 fEbruAry 8, 2014
DeKalbMembers of DeKalb Delegation to host Town Hall meeting
State Representatives Mary Margaret Oliver (D-Decatur), Michele Henson (D-Stone Mountain), and Scott Holcomb (D-Atlanta) will host a town hall meeting Wednesday, Feb. 12, 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Hawthorne Elementary School in DeKalb County (2533 Caladium Drive, Atlanta. The representatives will give a legislative update on events that have occurred during the first weeks of session and hear questions from constituents.
Redan-Trotti branch library sets sewing classes The DeKalb County Public Library’s Redan-Trotti branch, 1569 Wellborn
Road, Lithonia, will host classes for anyone looking to learn basic sewing. On Saturday, Feb. 8, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m., instructor Michelle Griffith will go over
the out basics—from sewing tools, pattern markings, notions and cutting to how to operate a sewing machine.
Griffith will continue instruction on Saturday, Feb. 15. To register, call 770-482-3821.
Wade Walker YMCA hosts blood drive The Wade Walker Park Family YMCA, 5605 Rockbridge Road, Stone
Mountain, will host a community blood drive on Monday, Feb. 10, 3 – 7 p.m. To make a date to donate, go to www.redcrossblood.org and use sponsor code
“wadeymca.” Donors are asked to drink plenty of water, avoid caffeine, eat iron-enriched food and bring their identification. 678-781-9622.
Atlanta
Community groups seek volunteers for ‘Lobby Day’ 2014 Street Grace, Wellspring Living, and youthSpark are seeking volunteers and
faith-based organizations to join them for “Lobby Day 2014,” on Thursday, Feb. 13, 8 a.m. at the Freight Depot, 65 Martin Luther King, Jr. Blvd., Atlanta.
Participants will support proposed legislation protecting children forced into prostitution and will advocate on behalf of legislation introduced to effectively punish those who exploit Georgia children.
Lobby Day organizers will provide information regarding all participants’ local legislators based on the address you provide during registration.
Experts with Street Grace say that one in three women and girls on the planet will be raped or beaten in her lifetime. Faith-based organizations and churches are being sought to join this initiative as well. For more information or to register, email Whitney Bexley at [email protected] or visit https://streetgrace.synergyscape.com and look for this event.
Receiving, sending e-mail 101 offered The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System’s Bankhead branch, 2685 Donald
Lee Hollowell Parkway, Atlanta, will host an “Introduction to Email” on Tuesday, Feb. 11, 10 – 11 a.m.
Adult participants will learn how to set up, check, send, organize and receive emails. Protecting yourself from unwanted messages will be discussed as well. For more information or to register, email [email protected] or call 404-730-1700.
GwinnettCounty offers Cervical Cancer workshop
Gwinnett County’s Buford Human Services Center and the American Cancer Society will host a free cervical cancer workshop on Thursday, Feb. 13, 1 – 2 p.m. at the center, 2755 Sawnee Ave., Buford.
The American Cancer Society will provide an informational, interactive workshop in which attendees will learn about cervical cancer prevention. Local screening resources within the community will be shared as well.
Spanish-speaking representatives will be on hand at the workshop. For more information, contact Monica Martinez at 404-949-6464 or monica.
Extension office seeks participation in plant saleThe Gwinnett County Cooperative Extension office is hosting a plant sale to
benefit the facility and the office’s free programs. The sale runs through March 11. Organizers say a variety of spring plants are available including blueberries,
apples, figs and decorative perennials such as camellias, azaleas and gardenias. Each plant is locally grown.
Orders will be ready for pick up on Wednesday, March 19, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville.
All orders must be prepaid by cash or check. See the list of plants for sale and basic information about each plant by visiting www.gwinnettextension.com. Order forms can be found online. For more information, call 770-822-8000 or 678-377-4010.
Rockdale Democrats set “Blue Rockdale Academy” to attract volunteers Rockdale County Democrats and Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley will host the
free “Blue Rockdale Academy” on Thursdays, Feb. 13, 20 and 27, at 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. at the Party’s headquarters, 1264 Parker Road, Conyers.
“It’s important that our voters are protected at the polls. A voter turned away is often a lost vote for us.” said Hadley, who will instruct the classes. “We will take on all the important issues from voter registration to phone banking. We’ll also talk about what makes a great campaign volunteer and how to avoid burnout.”
Attendees will meet former poll watchers as well. Here is a list of the scheduled classes: Feb. 13: “Poll Watcher Guidelines.” Learn about the state’s guidelines for what
can and can’t be done as a poll watcher. Feb. 20: “Campaign Volunteers 101.” This class will cover a range of issues
from fundraising and number crunching, to door knocking and getting out the vote. Feb. 27: “Phone Banking.” Attendees will learn how to organize a phone bank,
set realistic goals, write effective phone scripts and learn how to do follow up. Registration for the classes is required. Times are subject to change. Call
to register before each scheduled class: 770-678-4859. Leave your name, email address and the class or classes you would like to attend.
Conyers Main Street sets board meeting The Conyers Main Street Program Board will have public meeting on
Thursday, Feb. 13, noon – 1 p.m., at the Conyers Welcome Center Depot, 901 Railroad St., Conyers.
Some discussion items include the upcoming March 17 St. Patty’s Day Celebration and the Taste of Conyers and Conyers Car Show on May 3.
The board members are William Emofonmwan, Brandi Nicole Wells, Joseph Roberts, Matt Robuck, Barbara Dockett, Gabby Reed and Ken Sherwood.
Everyone is encouraged to come out and meet the Main Street board members. For more information, call the Conyers Welcome Center at 770-602-2606.
Coming Up
DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson will present
the 4th Annual “Soul of DeKalb-Reflections of Our Progress” discussion to the community. The event will feature a series of panel guests who will share their respective insights and perspectives on this year’s theme: “Advancing Freedom Further.”
The free event will be held Thursday, Feb. 13, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts and Community Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur.
Commissioner Watson’s ongoing objective for having this annual discussion supports efforts to inspire community leaders and citizens to collectively work together to raise awareness, generate community support, and collaborate on ways to be proactive verses reactive in stabilizing and improving the lives of those who call DeKalb County home.
Commissioner Stan Watson to present ‘Soul of DeKalb’ discussion
Stan Watson
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fEbruAry 8, 2014 PAGE 5
Lee MayStan Watson
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) presented Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed with the Overall Excellence Award for Smart Growth Achievement for the Atlanta BeltLine’s Eastside Trail and Historic Fourth Ward Park. Reed accepted the award during a ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Feb. 5.
EPA’s National Award for Smart Growth Achievement is given for creative, sustainable initiatives that help protect the environment while also strengthening local economies. The Overall Excellence Award is the highest national honor given by the EPA.
Atlanta was selected from among 77 applicants in 31 states. A total of seven communities from across the nation were honored in Washington, D.C. as national models for environmentally and economically sustainable development.
“This prestigious national recognition for the Atlanta BeltLine is an affirmation of the investments we are making to create a more economically vibrant, prosperous and sustainable city,” said Mayor Reed.
EPA Regional Administrator Heather McTeer Toney praised the Atlanta Beltline project.
“The Atlanta BeltLine has become a national model for smart growth by turning what was once an abandoned rail corridor into a vibrant community space where healthy living is encouraged, culture is cultivated, the environment is better protected and economic development is taking place,” said Toney.
The 17-acre Historic Fourth Ward Park, which opened in 2011, transformed a barren, contaminated site north of Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthplace into a vision for sustainable redevelopment. It is the result of years of work between the community, area businesses and property owners, elected officials, city departments, and the Atlanta BeltLine. Significant support from the private, philanthropic and
nonprofit sectors were essential to the funding, planning and construction of the park. The design principles of Historic Fourth Ward Park provide a successful template of land use, greenspace and sustainable development for the entire Atlanta BeltLine. To date, Historic Fourth Ward Park has helped catalyze more than $400 million in new private real estate development within one block of its borders.
The Eastside Trail, a 2.25-mile section of the Atlanta BeltLine, connects five formerly divided neighborhoods and contains a 14-foot-wide concrete trail and 30 acres of landscaped greenway, including spaces for both public art and a naturalistically designed exercise station. This section of trail also connects three major parks – including the Historic Fourth Ward Park and Skatepark – and connects to a 19-mile trail running from downtown to the suburbs. This opens up new and safe alternative commute options and will eventually connect to a new streetcar network between a number of vital work and residential centers. Funded by public sources and private philanthropic contributions, the Eastside Trail has helped catalyze roughly $775 million in new private real estate development within a half mile comprised of new residential, commercial and retail projects.
EPA created the National Award for Smart Growth Achievement in 2002 to highlight exceptional approaches to development that protect the environment, encourage economic vitality, and enhance quality of life. In the past 12 years, 61 winners from 26 states have shown a variety of approaches that states, regions, cities, suburbs, and rural communities can use to create economically strong, environmentally responsible development. EPA’s Office of Sustainable Communities manages the awards program.
Atlanta receives national award for ‘Smart Growth’ BeltLine projects
Citizen challenges Lee May in ethics complaint concerning positions
By Valerie J. Morgan
A DeKalb County citizen is challenging Lee May for holding down positions as DeKalb County’s interim CEO and the Board of Commission’s District 5 seat.
DeBaun & Associates filed the complaint with the DeKalb County Board of Ethics on behalf of a DeKalb citizen, Rhea Johnson.
The Board of Ethics initially dismissed the complaint at its Feb. 5 meeting, saying it didn’t have the authority to make a decision on the matter, but the board ended up tabling the issue on advice from its attorney. Johnson said he and his attorney plan to resubmit the complaint and provide additional information to the board.
“It is not acrimonious. We just don’t believe that he (May) is acting in an ethical manner by trying to occupy two seats at the same time,” said Johnson.
May said he has not seen the complaint, but found it disappointing that someone would file an ethics complaint for serving in a role that he was asked to do.
Said May: “The situation that I’m in is unprecedented. Neither the state nor the county has ever dealt with this before. The governor appointed me to the position of interim CEO. I was thrust in the position. I didn’t set out to be interim CEO.”
Gov. Nathan Deal appointed May last year as interim CEO while suspending Burrell Ellis, who is embroiled in a court case facing corruption charges.
May said Georgia’s Attorney General has been asked to weigh in on the matter and he is waiting for that opinion.
There has been mounting pressure to fill May’s seat on the Board of Commissioners by some constituents who say they are not being represented since May was appointed interim CEO.
The seven-member board must have four votes to pass legislation and other measures.
May maintains that constituents in his district, are being represented and their concerns are being addressed.
“I can still vote to break a tie and as interim CEO, I can also veto anything I think is detrimental,” said May, who has not had to intervene so far.
May also said that constituents still have access to him and his staff. “As interim CEO, I am in an even better authority to address their concerns,”
said May. Johnson said he believes May is operating on his own. Johnson is challenging
the fact that May has appointed an employee to serve both, the Board of Commissioners, and the Administrative branch.
“It is unclear if the CEO has such authority but such action certainly raises ethics questions for such acts,” Johnson stated in the complaint.
By Valerie J. Morgan
The DeKalb Community Cabinet, started by DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson and a group of his colleagues, marked its 17th anniversary on Feb. 1.
The community meetings have been a longstanding tradition in South DeKalb, drawing residents, business owners and those who run county and state government together to network over a free, hot breakfast usually on the first Saturday of the month. Watson has hosted the meetings for several years with State Representative Pam Stephenson and Howard Mosby and DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson and Lee May, w ho is serving as DeKalb’s interim CEO.
Watson launched the breakfast meetings during his tenure as a state legislator to give residents the chance to get answers to their questions from community leaders, and hear firsthand about issues and concerns relevant to their communities. Watson continued the meetings even after he left office as a state representative.
Over the years, the meetings have been a pipeline for information with many of DeKalb’s and Georgia’s top brass attending the forums as guest speakers.
Susan Bailey, who has been attending the meetings for years, praised Watson for his dedication.
“I believe that he has been a good steward and done a good job in providing the Community Cabinet meetings. I get a lot of information when I come, especially about the school district and county government,” Bailey said.
Watson says he has made it his business to provide quality speakers.
“We’ve had three governors come
through: Roy Barnes, Zell Miller and Sonny Perdue. We’ve had State Schools Superintendent Kathy Cox and Secretary of State Cathy Cox. We’ve had superintendents, DeKalb’s CEOs, Attorney General, sheriffs, Director of the Airport, Doug Hooker of the Atlanta Regional Commission, a lot of people to come through this Community Cabinet,” said Watson. “For 17 years, we have been here making it work, keeping people informed. Homeowners groups have come, Rotary Clubs and others to take information back to their groups.”
At the February meeting, which was held at Chapel Hill Middle School in Decatur, Department of Labor Commissioner Mark Butler and Billy Malone assistant director of DeKalb County Sanitation were guest speakers. Congressman Hank Johnson also gave an update on the Affordable Care Act and an appropriations bill concerning the federal government’s budget.
In addition to hearing from the speakers, Watson permitted those who are planning to run for public office the chance to introduce themselves. They included: Gubernatorial candidate Jason Carter, grandson of President Jimmy Carter; Robin Shipp, who is running for State Commissioner of Labor; Keith G. Heard, who is running for State Insurance Commissioner; Thad Mayfield for School Board; Dale Collins for Sheriff; Kyle Williams for State Senator; Jesse “Jay” Cunningham for School Board; and Lee B. Dukes for School Board.
Watson marked the Community Cabinet’s anniversary by paying a special tribute to the late Thomas Swain “Pop” Holden, Jr., a Gunnery Mate (E-6) who was active at American Legion Post 291. Holden, a resident of the Spring Valley community, served in the Korean War, World War II and Viet Nam. His wife, Mae Holden, accepted a bouquet of flowers and proclamation on his behalf.
DeKalb Community Cabinet celebrates 17 years as information pipeline
PAGE 6 fEbruAry 8, 2014
King siblings embroiled in controvesycontinued from page 1
PAGE 12 JANUARY 25, 2014
Rev. Maurice Ficklin.
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must be “turning in his grave.”Martin Luther King, Jr. received the
Nobel Peace Prize on Dec. 10, 1064. At age 35, he was the youngest man to have received the honor.
“In my opinion, there is no justification for selling either of these sacred items. They are priceless and should never be exchanged for money in the marketplace,” King said.
“While I love my brothers dearly, this latest decision by them is extremely troubling. Not only am I appalled and utterly ashamed, I am frankly disappointed that they would even entertain the thought of selling these precious items. It reveals a desperation beyond comprehension.”
Martin King III is chairman of the estate’s board. He and Dexter King control the estate of their father. Bernice King is CEO of the King Center.
The two brothers filed the suit against Bernice King in Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Jan. 31. The complaint came one day after Dexter King’s birthday, which is also the same day that the siblings’ mother, Coretta Scott King, died in 2006. Coretta Scott King succumbed to complications from ovarian cancer after a stroke and a mild heart attack. A year after Coretta Scott King died, the oldest of the Kings’ four children, Yolanda “Yoki” King, died at age 51 of heart problems.
In addition to the recent complaint filed, the King estate is also embroiled in a legal battle with the Martin Luther King Center for Nonviolent Social Change, where Bernice King is CEO. On Aug. 28, 2013, the 50th anniversary of King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, the estate filed a complaint asking a judge to stop the King Center from using Martin Luther King Jr.’s
image, likeness and memorabilia. The complaint said materials licensed to the center weren’t being properly cared for. Bernice King is still battling that suit.
The King siblings have been in and out of court for the last five years over their father’s estate. In 2009, the siblings took 15 hours to reach a settlement regarding who would run King Inc., the corporation that controls the use of their father’s intellectual property. That deal temporarily placed a third party in charge. Bernice and Martin had sued Dexter, saying he was running the corporation and making financial decisions without any input from them. The trio has also fought over selling love letters that their father wrote their mother.
Gannon to discuss ‘Blueprint to Redefine DeKalb’
A diverse group of citizens from across DeKalb County will convene to discuss a “Blueprint to Redefine DeKalb County.” The meeting will be held at Feb. 11, 6:30 p.m., at the Decatur Public Library (ground floor meeting room), 215 Sycamore St., Decatur.
The blueprint was drafted by DeKalb County Commissioner Kathie Gannon with input from several sources. The blueprint contains recommendations regarding cityhood, Board of Ethics, Purchasing procedures and others.
“The Blueprint is a framework for a conversation we need to have about the myriad of problems facing DeKalb,” said Gannon, who serves as the Super District Commissioner for the western half of DeKalb. “We need a set of solutions that are as broad as the problems we face. There is no silver bullet that will fix DeKalb. It will take a consensus building effort.” It can be read from Commissioner Gannon’s website www.KathieGannon.com.
“The blueprint is a beginning. I don’t expect everyone will agree with everything, but I hope we can agree on the general direction in the Blueprint. There will be give and take as we reach a consensus,” said Gannon.
The blueprint has been circulated to the Board of Commissioners and citizens. “If the citizens and leadership of DeKalb do not find solutions and consensus, our future will be determined by the General Assembly and a series of isolated events,” said Gannon.
The blueprint is available at www.KathieGannon.com.
DeKalb dad sentenced in car crash that killed teen daughter
DECATUR—Anthony Eugene Johnson, 36, was sentenced to 12 years for a wreck on Highway 78 that claimed the life of his 15-year-old daughter, Corliss Johnson.
Anthony Johnson, who will serve 7 years in prison and the remainder of his sentence on probation, was driving drunk on June 3, 2012 when his Chrysler Pacifica SUV swerved off the roadway and struck a tree. Corliss Johnson died at the scene. His other daughter, Joi Johnson, suffered serious injuries. His two sons were not injured. “This is a very difficult situation for the entire Johnson family. While this sentence does not bring Corliss back, it does hold her father accountable for his reckless act of driving under the influence while transporting his young kids,” said DeKalb County District Attorney Robert James. Johnson was sentenced by Superior Court Judge Gail Flake.
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Cutlines:
Bernice King stands with supporters at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta.
fEbruAry 8, 2014 PAGE 7
Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News
Heritage High: 2: Offensive Lineman Chandler Peeples and Defensive End Jalen Jackson signed their National Letters of Intent with Cumberland University.
DeKalb CountyArabia Mountain High: 9: Cornerbacks
Nasiir Edwards (Air Force) and Christopher Daniel (West Carolina); Running Back Destinn Middleton (Limestone College), Linebackers Jonathan Shepard-Smith (Davidson), Demetro Stephens Jr. (Army); Safety Junior Sigalo (Appalachian State); Wide Receivers Gregory Phillips (Purdue); Jonathan Slaton (Charleston Southern) and Defensive Tackle Kayton Samuels (Syracuse).
Columbia High: 6: Linebacker Deshon Cooper (Mississippi State); Offensive Guard Terronne Prescod (N.C. State); ATH Antonio Holloway (Garden City Community); Cornerback Ken Hike, Jr. (Tuskegee); Defensive End Christopher Jones (Delta State) and Offensive Tackle Christopher Jones (Delta State).
Lithonia High: 5: Defensive Backs Khaylan Williams (Navy) and Devon Wallace (Albany State); Offensive Guards Montez Kilgore (Point) and Deonte’ Davis (Presbyterian College) and Tight End Avery Williams (Point).
Martin Luther King, Jr High: Defensive Linebackers Chaka Diarrassouba (Hampton); Larenz Griggs (Georgetown); Marquis Cain (Campbellsville); Wesley Green (South Carolina); and Alanmichael Harkness (Appalachian State); Wide Receivers DeAngelo Holt (Valdosta State) Romello Shumake (Valdosta State); Randy Blue (Missouri Baptist); Quarterback Roland Rivers Jr. (Valdosta State); Place Kicker Avery Parrish (Middle Georgia); Offensive Lineman Tryonn Walker (Middle Georgia) and Keshawn Parrish (Texas Southern) and Slot Back J. Credel (Highland Community College) and Deffensive Linemen Andrew Garrett (Western Carolina) and Linebacker Dwayne Taylor (Tusculum).
Redan High 3: Running Back Kevin Parker (College of Faith); Wide Receiver Brandon Brinson and Defensive Back Miciah Owens will be attending Arkansas Baptist.
Stephenson High: 23: Tight Ends Montez Sweat (Michigan State); Ari Werts (Gerogia State); and Khalil Vincent (Point); Offensive Guards Jordan
Harris (Mississippi State); Tyler Jones (N.C. State); and Gavin Brown (Antelope Valley); Defensive Linemen Jamal Hawkins; Theron Chatman; and Treikell Jones will be attending Mississippi Valley; Defensive Linemen Abdul Mahmoud (Paine); Cahnce Harper (Point); Braxton Butler (Johnson C. Smith); Daniel Durdren (Valdosta State); Tommy Smith (Antelope Valley); Tavonn Salters (Georgia Prep Sports Academy); Linebackers Malik Ricks (Georgia State) and Delinine Warren (UT-Chattanooga) ; Safety’s Cameron Glenn (Wakeforest); Ronald Peterkin (Georgia State) and Jared Tucker (Kentucky); Wide Receivers Saddiq Green (Georgia Prep Sports); ATH Dallas Rivers (Vanderbilt); and Kicker Wisdom Nzidee (Paine).
Tucker High: 15: Running Backs Stephen Reynolds (Savannah State); Joseph Farrar (Furman) and Devin Towns (Wingate); Defensive Tackles Elisha Shaw (Alabama); Deandre Bailey (Arizona Western); Ramel Crawford (Charleston Southern); Defensive Back Jalen Pearson (Miles); Safety’s Davanta Reynolds (North Carolina Central) and
Joseph Proby (Garden City Community); Linebackers Justin Hughes (Kansas State); Detric Dukes (Georgia); Malik Campbell (Campbellsville); Kirk Tucker (Oklahoma State); Cornerback Dominick Sanders and ATH Demetrius Smith (Campbellsville).
Signing Day students celebrate at Taco Maccontinued from page 1
Kimberly Alexander gives her son, Ken Hike, Jr., a big kiss after the Columbia High student signed to attend Tuskegee University in Alabama.
Students piled in from all over DeKalb and Rockdale County to sign in at the “National Signing Day Frenzy” on Feb. 5 at Taco Mac in Decatur.
PAGE 8 fEbruAry 8, 2014
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
Atlanta library system hosts special series in honor of black history The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System will host a special series this month to
celebrate black history in the system’s central library auditorium, One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta.
The series opens on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 4 p.m., with a screening of “The Abolitionists: Created Equal: America’s Civil Rights Struggle.” The “docudrama” includes dramatic scenes of incidents in the 150-year effort to achieve equal rights for all.
The conclusion of the film will be shown to viewers on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 4 p.m. On Wednesday, Feb. 26, 4 p.m., the library will welcome Georgia State University History Professor Dr. Jeffrey Young to host a discussion about the film and the Abolition Movement.
On Thursday, Feb. 27, 1 p.m., the library will host a movie presentation and discussion. After a screening of “Slavery by Another Name,” the library will host a community discussion on the film led by Susan Burnore and Tonya Groomes, who were featured in the film.
Burnore and Groomes will discuss how their family history as descendants of slaves and slave owners has affected them. Burnore’s great-great-grandfather, John S. Williams, was a slave owner who is believed to be the only white man convicted of murdering 11 slaves. Groomes is a descendant of a slave that Williams once owned.
For more information on the library’s series, call 404-730-1896.
By Joshua Smith
Five African American women in media joined a host of local legends at the DeKalb History Center’s Seventh Annual Black History Month celebration in Decatur.
The five journalists—On Common Ground News’ Editor Valerie J. Morgan, Crossroads News Jennifer Parker, radio personality Rashan Ali, Channel 11’s Karyn Greer and former State Sen. Steen Miles, who formerly worked as an anchor at Channel 11—were saluted at the center’s Feb. 6 luncheon program.
“We believe it is important to bring current history makers like these women to light so that we can honor their work while they are still with us and collect their valuable history,” said Melissa Forgey, DeKalb History Center Executive Director. “We hope the leaders we honor reflect contributions that future generations will value in DeKalb County.”
Morgan expressed her gratitude for being honored, and thanked the publishers of The Champion Newspaper, Carolyn and Earl Glenn, for being “front runners and mentors” as DeKalb’s legal organ. Carolyn Glenn
served as mistress of ceremonies for the event.
Morgan said the women honored at this year’s history program are all exceptional journalists who share their different perspectives on the news with a passion and a desire to serve.
The “Honoring Women in the Media” black history program not only celebrated the five women who have made a positive impact on DeKalb County through media and journalism, but also hosted soprano soloist Carlisa N. Johnson, a 2014 graduate of Agnes Scott College in Decatur.
The DeKalb History Center began hosting the black history program in 2008. Forgey, who is celebrating her seventh year at the history center, says it is important to honor great men and women who are making history for not only African Americans, but also the entire county.
“The DeKalb History Center collects, preserves and shares the history of the entire county, and we decided this program would be a great way to extend our efforts further,” said Forgey. “This is always an exciting event where we recognize just some of our current African American leaders who are impacting our local history.” On Feb. 15, about 50 teens will
stand in the pulpit where civil rights icon Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his final
speech, visit the site where he was assassinated and help out homeless teenagers, as a part of Greater Piney Grove Baptist’s Fourth Annual Black History Trip for youths.
“This year, we will visit Memphis, Tennessee. We will see the Lorraine Hotel, the Mason Temple and we will help out at the Vance Community Center,” said A.L. Hollie, who serves as the church’s youth pastor. “We want the kids to see these sites up close and personal, not just in a book as a part of a quick lesson plan. We don’t want the kids to just read about the struggle, but to experience the sites where their ancestors shed blood and tears for them to do what they do today.”
During the bus trip, the youths will watch movies such as “Akeelah and the Bee,” “The Great Debaters,” and other films featuring African Americans in positive roles.
Hollie has been the head of the Mature Adolescents Representing the Kingdom Everyday or M.A.R.K.E. ministry for four years. In his position, he has led church excursions to other historical sites including the King Memorial in Washington, D.C.; the civil rights museum in Birmingham, Alabama; and the Rosa Parks museum in Montgomery, Alabama. The Montgomery trip included a college tour of Alabama State University.
Last year, Claudette Collins sent
her three children on the church’s third annual trip, to Montgomery. Collins has sent one or all of her children on all of Pastor Hollie’s trips and says they are a great idea for today’s young minds.
“Today’s youth just don’t get the importance of the struggle. Parents may not have the time to teach them and teachers may not have the time to elaborate. That’s where these trips fill a void,” said Cullins, who lives in Decatur. “With all the kids being stuck inside playing video games, I also appreciate the fact that the trip gets the kids outside for community service to serve God and his people.”
Her daughter, Taquela Cullins, 15, says she returned from last year’s trip with a new sense of history.
“It wasn’t really much they told me that I didn’t already know, but to actually see the places up close that you read about: It really opened me up and gave me a new appreciation for what people went through,” said Taquela, a sophomore at Columbia High School. The same group of people never go, so you always get to meet new people.”
Children ages 12 – 18 are invited to join the youth ministry on the turn-around trip. The $50 fee includes a sack lunch. Children must bring spending money for dinner, which will be at a buffet-style restaurant.
The charter bus will leave for Atlanta at 4 a.m. and will return at 11:30 p.m. For more information or to sign up to see Memphis with the Greater Piney Grove Youth Ministry, call 404-377-0561.
Members of Greater Piney Grove’s Youth Ministry and some of their friends pose in front of national monuments in Washington, D.C.
Greater Piney Grove takes history from textbooks to give
youths close-up look
Five women in media join local legends as DeKalb History Center honorees
2008 – A Salute to African-American Entrepreneurs
Lecester (Bill) AllenRobert L. Brown, Jr.
Carolyn Jernigan Glenn and Earl GlennCornell McBride, Sr.
2009 – A Salute to Civil Rights LeadersThurbert E. Baker
Dr. Eugene P. WalkerHosea WilliamsElizabeth Wilson
2010 - A Salute to Law & Justice LeadersJudge Gregory A. AdamsSheriff Thomas E. BrownJudge Barbara J. Mobley
Judge Desiree Sutton Peagler
2011 - A Salute to DeKalb’s Military Heroes
Arthur AndersonThomas N. Bristow
James GrayRay Jones, Jr.
2012 – A Salute to Community Champions
Sherriff Elect Derwin BrownDr. William C. Brown
John EvansWilliam Godfrey
Gregory B. Levett, Sr.
2013 – Honoring Living LegendsClarence G. Carter
Jason LaryDon P. Roberts
Beverly “Guitar” Watkins
This year’s honorees have added their names to an esteemed list of community leaders and activists. Here is a list of past honorees and program
themes in which they were honored:
L-R: Karyn Greer, Jennifer Parker, Steen Miles, Valerie J. Morgan and Carolyn Glenn.
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fEbruAry 8, 2014 PAGE 9
James Horton, who was injured on the Edmund Pettis Bridge in Selma, Alabama, during the 1965 Civil Rights protests, is hosting “The Sights and Sounds Black Cultural Expo,” now, until Friday, Feb. 28, daily, from noon – 2 p.m.
Horton has more than 8,000 artifacts on display at a space next to Macy’s that chronologically shows the historical passage of black Americans from their roots to present-day America.
“This is very important to me. I started doing this exhibit more than 20 years ago. A lot of our youth have no idea in the world where we come from,” said Horton, who also takes the exhibit to schools, churches and other events in the community. “The best way to explain coming from Africa to the present day time is to give the youth the chance to see actual artifacts, see real people and see the works of our great black inventors.”
Different presenters, authors and storytellers such as General Larry Platt and dancer Milyssa Rose will be a part of the exhibit on selected days.
The exhibit is free to view. Free tours are available as well. For a full schedule of guests and to set up group tours, call 404-966-2137 or 404-454-1462.
North DeKalb Mall is at 2050 Lawrenceville Highway in Decatur. For more information, visit www.northdekalbmall.com or call 404-320-7960.
North DeKalb Mall welcomes Black History Expo
Gwinnett library welcomes fraternity and sorority for annual event The Gwinnett County Public Library’s Duluth branch, 3480 Duluth Park Lane, N.W.,
Duluth, will welcome members of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity for the Sixth Annual “Diamonds and Pearls” event on Saturday, Feb. 22, 1 – 2 p.m.
The annual black history program will honor the many contributions of African Americans, both past and present. At the community reading event, Kappas, AKAs and their selected guests, will share and read from their favorite books that reflect famous figures in black history.
All ages are invited to attend the free event. 770-978-5154.
Sankofa film to explore the trans-Atlantic slave trade of blacksSankofaSpirit Movies with a Mission will
present “The Healing Passage: Voices from the Water” on Sunday, Feb. 9, 3 to 5 p.m., at the Ponce de Leon Library, 980 Ponce de Leon Ave. NE, Atlanta.
Sankofa is a nonprofit cultural and educational organization that presents free film screenings about Africa and the African Diaspora that seek to inform and inspire dialogue. A discussion is held after the film.
The upcoming film will include a discussion on how we heal from the residuals of The Middle Passage. Cultural artists, along with historians and healers, look at present day behavior that is connected to the Trans-Atlantic slave trade. For more than 300 years, Africans were carried from their homeland, across the Atlantic Ocean (“The Middle Passage”), into chattel slavery in the Americas and the Caribbean. The residual impact of this African Holocaust still reverberates in the world today through psychological trauma, genetic memory, personal and community consciousness. The artists use music, dolls, dance, altars, spoken word, visual art and ritual to create paths to healing.
RSVP is required at www.sankofaspirit.com. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, call 770-234-5890.
DeKalb libraries host several events to celebrate black history
Headlined by a series of “author talks”
and community screenings of African American film, libraries in DeKalb County are welcoming the community to join them in celebrating Black History Month.
The celebration begins on Monday, Feb. 10, 7:15 p.m., when the library’s Central Branch, 215 Sycamore St., Decatur, will welcome author and accomplished concert cellist Edward Moore as he discusses his book, “The Supremes At Earl’s All-You-Can-Eat.”
Moore, who wrote the New York Times best-selling novel says the book, follows the lives of three women living in the tumultuous 1960s.
Other events at county libraries include plays; screenings of “Ray,” “Selma, Lord Selma” and “The Help;” a celebration of the life and works of Frederick Douglass; and other author talks.
The library will conclude black history events at their branches on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2 p.m., at the Flat Shoals branch, 4022 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur with a showing of “Cadillac Records.”
The Rated R musical drama features an all-star cast with members such as Beyoncé Knowles, Gabrielle Union, and Adrien Brody. The movie documents “Cadillac Records,” a Chicago record label that helped the world discover such legendary artists as Muddy Waters, Chester “Howlin Wolf” Burnett and Chuck Berry.
For a complete schedule or to register for any of these free events, visit the library online at www.dekalblibrary.org or call 404-370-8450.
Events Celebrating Black History Month
PAGE 10 fEbruAry 8, 2014
To coNTacT usby PHONE: 678-526-1910by fAx: 678-526-1909by E-mAIl: [email protected] ONlINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COm
Business News
DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Thursday, February 13, 2014
Sealed bids will be received in the Department of Purchasing and Contracting, The Maloof Center, 1300 Commerce Drive, 2nd Floor, Decatur, Georgia 30030, for the following until 3:00 P.M. on date(s) designated below:
REQUEST FOR QUOTATION NO.
ITEM
CLOSING DATE
13-500290 RFP
Workforce Innovation Grant Program Evaluator
EXTENDED TO February 18, 2014
Specifications and other details will be available in the Purchasing and Contracting Department, The Maloof Center, 2nd Floor, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30030. For additional information, please view the DeKalb County Website at: http://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/purchasing/index.html
DeKalb County reserves the right to accept or reject any or all bids or any part thereof, to waive any technicalities, and to re-advertise.
By: Kelvin L. Walton, Director/Chief Procurement Officer DeKalb County Department of Purchasing and Contracting
LEGAL NOTICE
DWD to host business breakfast forumDeKalb Workforce Development will host a business breakfast forum to
discuss workforce development initiatives available to local employers. The forum will be held on Tuesday, Feb. 11, at 9 a.m., at the DeKalb Workforce Development offices, 774 Jordan Lane, Building #4, Decatur.
Participants will have the opportunity to meet with workforce professionals and other employers to learn how to improve their bottom line, including reducing staffing and training costs, reducing turnover, identifying subsidies to fill open positions, improving employee selection and increasing employee morale. Information also will be available regarding DWD’s Learn and Earn On-The-Job Training, Incumbent Worker Training and Workforce Innovation Grant Work experience initiatives.
Seating is limited and registration is encouraged. For more information, call 404-68-3400.
Lunch and Learn: Update on Atlanta Streetcar projectThere will be a Lunch and Learn
update on the Atlanta Streetcar project on Wednesday, Feb. 19, noon to 1:30 p.m., at Big Bethel AME Church, 220 Auburn Ave., N.E., Atlanta. Phase One of the $92 million project is under way. The East-West route for the electric streetcar will run along 2.7 miles of track with 12 stops in downtown Atlanta connecting the Centennial Olympic Park area to the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site. Planners say the electric street car will increase transit ridership, foot traffic and customers for businesses near Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia State University, Edgewood and Auburn Avenue, and the Peachtree corridor.
The Streetcar service includes a 15-minute frequency with a 20-minute, one-way running time. The trolley will operate 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., weekdays; 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturdays; and 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Sundays. The fares will be consistent with MARTA and will use the Breeze smart-card technology.
Funding for the project is a being provided by federal grants, capital contributions from the Atlanta Regional Commission, the City of Atlanta, and the Atlanta Downtown Improvement District (ADID).
Bring your lunch and learn more about the progress of construction and the next steps. For more information, call 404-588-9800.
Lilburn CID breaks ground on Main Street project
Representatives of the Lilburn Community Improvement District (CID) held a ground-breaking ceremony on its Main Street realignment project. Lilburn’s Main Street entrance will be widened along a new alignment from Highway 29 to Church Street, converting the existing area into a more traditional signalized intersection. The project includes the installation of a multi-use trail, pedestrian-friendly lighting, medians and other improvements. The CID is a project partner with the City of Lilburn, Gwinnett County and Georgia Department of Transportation. The CID helped to secure $800,000 in grants from Georgia’s State Road and Tollway Authority (SRTA) to support the improvement. CID Chairman Ed O’Connor said area commercial property owners have voiced their support of Main Street’s realignment as a key enhancement to benefit the city for years to come. “Our CID stakeholders are excited to see this enhancement come to life,” O’Connor said. “Our new gateway will bring with it an even greater potential for success here in Lilburn. It means improved prospects for revitalizing growth and investment.” With the project’s completion, more than 20 acres of currently underutilized property will open to investment interests. The increased availability, along with a new City Hall, county library and other amenities, is anticipated to spark mixed-use developments to create a vibrant city center for Lilburn. “The CID is proud to be a partner in reaching this worthy goal, and we appreciate that our city is setting itself apart and helping to shape a brighter tomorrow” O’Connor said.
SBA webinar offers social media strategies for crisis communications
Communicating a key message to your staff, clients and business partners in a timely and accurate manner is essential when a disaster strikes. Increasingly, organizations are relying on social media to get ahead of and dispel misinformation that can lead to a tarnished reputation, and even failure of the company.
Get tips on creating a crisis communications plan using social media during the Feb. 11 webinar, “Social Media and Disaster Recovery,” co-hosted by Agility Recovery and the U.S. Small Business Administration. The webinar will be held 2 to 3 p.m. EST. The discussion will include:
· Effective uses of various social media channels· Simple first steps toward building a crisis communications plan· Best practices based on recent disastersA question-and-answer session will follow the presentation. Space is limited for the webinar. Register at https://www1.gotomeeting.com/
register/574641720.Since 2009, the SBA has partnered with Agility Recovery to offer business
continuity strategies through its “PrepareMyBusiness” website.The SBA provides disaster recovery assistance in the form of low-interest
loans to homeowners, renters, private nonprofits and businesses of all sizes. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov/disaster.
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Professional and Personalized ServicesOn-Site CrematoryContemporary & Traditional ServicesCremation and Memorial ServicesPre-Planning ArrangementsInternational Shipping ServiceOn-Site Floral Design & Print Shop
Dove Releasing CeremonyMilitary HonorsCadillac FleetPolice EscortsFree Notary PublicClergy, Harpist and Musicians
Serving all cultures and faiths • Licensed Funeral Directors & Staff available 24 hours
North Gwinnett Chapel • Est. 2009201 Morningside Dr. • Buford, GA 30518
770-945-9999
Gwinnett Chapel • Est. 2004914 Scenic Hwy • Lawrenceville, GA 30045
770-338-5558
South DeKalb Chapel • Est. 20004347 Flats Shoals Pkwy. • Decatur, GA 30034
404-241-5656
Avondale-Scottdale Chapel • Est. 1980 351 North Clarendon Ave. • Scottdale, GA 30079
404-294-5500
www.levettfuneralhome.com
Power Bleaching- Zoom
Invisible Braces (Invisalign)
Dental Implants
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Crown & Bridges
Porcelain Veneers
Low- Radiation X-Rays
www.beautifulsmiledds.com
Cosmetic & General Dentistry
New Patients Welcome! Se Habla Espanol!
8200 Mall Parkway , Suite #155Lithonia, GA 30038 • (770) 484-4051Shops at Turner Hill Plaza (Across from Panera Bread Company)
Mon- Thurs 8am-5pm Every other Friday 8am-5pm
Recline in Comfort & Watch TV During Your Treatment !!
!
Amber Jenkins Dabney ,DDS
