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VOLUME 25 NUMBER 14
JULY 5, 2019 Stay connected
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DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond’s proposed mid-year budget offers property tax relief
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eKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond’s proposed fiscal year 2019 mid-year budget includes a balanced budget, millage rate rollback and property tax relief. County officials say the proposed millage rate rollback, combined with the Equalized Homestead Option Sales Tax Credit (EHOST), means an average tax savings of $930 for a resident owning a home valued at $250,000. “DeKalb’s $1.2 billion fiscal year 2019 midyear budget prioritizes fiscal integrity and accountability,” said Thurmond. “The county is committed to delivering high-quality services while providing substantial
CEO Michael Thurmond
property tax reductions for the second consecutive year,” said Thurmond.
Thurmond is proposing to roll back the Combined Countywide Operational rate, which was 10.364 mills in fiscal year 2018 to 9.952 mills in fiscal year 2019, reducing the rate by 0.412 mills. The projected value of the millage rate rollback is $12 million, which will provide a property tax reduction of $41.20 on properties valued at $250,000. The benchmark millage rate for unincorporated DeKalb will remain at 20.81 mills. In addition to the millage rates rollback, DeKalb homeowners will also benefit from $119 million in property tax relief generated by the EHOST. The tax reduction is the result of the passage of two measures in November 2017:
GEORGIA’S NEW LAWS TAKE EFFECT Help for medical THC oil, HOPE scholarships, protection from slumlords By Sarita Mason For On Common Ground News
differences between Hemp, THC and CBD products, which all link to this movement of the legalization of marijuana in the state,” said Dawkins-Haigler. Other key laws that legislators approved during the 2019 Legislative Session that took effect on July 1:
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eorgia has taken another step toward making medical marijuana available to registered patients who need it, but the new law regulating distribution may still force those suffering from severe seizures, deadly cancers and other chronic debilitating conditions to wait months to get the drug. Under HB 324, which took effect July 1, six private companies have been approved to grow and produce THC oil in Georgia, but the state oversight board has not yet been set up to license and regulate the dispensaries for in-state distribution. Former State Rep. Dee Dawkins-Haigler, who has championed the use of THC oil for patients for more than six years, said the new law still doesn’t go far enough. “We have only moved an inch with this new law because without an oversight board officially in place and lack of education on the process of growing, distributing, and accessibility of THC oil, we will not be able to move forward,” said DawkinsHaigler, who is founder of the Minority Cannabis Coalition (MCC), which helps African Americans become more educated on the marijuana industry.
Dee Dawkins-Haigler
In 2015, Georgia legalized medical marijuana, allowing patients to obtain up to 20 fluid ounces of cannabis oil but didn’t allow the growing, selling or possession of the oil, minimizing options for patients to access it. Many who were approved for the drug obtained it by driving out of state, by mail order and other resources. Although Georgia’s new law allows pharmacies to fill THC prescriptions, tight federal restrictions still remain concerning the drug, according to the Georgia Pharmacy Association. Dawkins-Haigler said because opponents are concerned that marijuana will become legal, the roadblocks for THC persists. “When you look at the totality of it all, it is really chaotic and we need to educate people on the importance of truly understanding what this process means for them—the
HB 218 Education; eligibility requirements to receive HOPE scholarship The law extends the amount of time a student can be eligible for the scholarship from seven to 10 years after graduating high school. HB 282 Criminal procedure; Sexual assault evidence The new legislation will require law enforcement to save evidence from sexual assault cases for up to 50 years. Stains, fluids and hair samples will be kept for 50 years, even if no arrest was made in the case. HB 346 Property; Tenant protection from slumlords Landlords who wrongfully try to evict tenants who complain of unhealthy conditions will face charges of $500, one month’s rent and legal costs. For more Georgia laws that took effect July 1, visit http://www.legis.ga.gov/en-US/ default.aspx Valerie J. Morgan contributed to this report.
EHOST and the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). DeKalb is the only county in Georgia with an EHOST, which is 100 percent dedicated to homeowner tax relief. In fiscal year 2019, the EHOST property tax relief measure will deliver an average tax cut of $889 to residents owning a home valued at $250,000. Combined, these two efforts will generate $131 million in property tax relief for DeKalb County property owners. A final vote on the budget proposal by the Board of Commissioners is scheduled for Tuesday, July 9.
DeKalb Sheriff’s Office arrests jailer for sexual assault on inmates
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n employee of the DeKalb County Jail has been charged with sexually assaulting inmates. The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office issued arrest warrants on July 3 for 59-year-old Martin Moten of Loganville. A detention officer since 2004, Moten is charged Martin Moten with two counts of sexual assault against a person in custody and two counts of violation of oath of office. Two female inmates have accused Moten of having engaged in sexual contact with them between March and June of this year. “Officer Moten was placed on administrative leave when we were advised of the allegations by our Office of Professional Standards,” said Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann. “Based on review of those allegations, he has been terminated and arrested. We are handling this as a criminal incident.” “We have zero tolerance for any employee who engages in criminal behavior. Sexual assault against anyone is egregious, and it is especially disturbing when committed against individuals who trust us with their safety and security while in custody. The incidents for which he is accused are not representative of the character or culture of the dedicated officers who work in the DeKalb County Jail.” The sheriff’s Fugitive Unit located and arrested Moten without incident at his residence. He is being held without bond in the DeKalb County Jail.
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DeKalb Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Reginald Scandrett retires
Hundreds of metro area law enforcement agency representatives, elected officials, business leaders, and fellow employees of the DeKalb County Sheriff's Office recently celebrated Chief Deputy Reginald B. Scandrett's retirement after 30 years with the agency. DeKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann said Scandrett’s service modeled the "exemplary leadership skills and compassion for public service" required for success in a law enforcement career.
DeKalb Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann presents retiring Chief Deputy Reginald Scandrett (right) with a memento of his three decades in law enforcement with the sheriff’s office at a special program on June 24. Photo courtesy of DeKalb Sheriff’s Office Public Information.
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PUBLISHER Glenn L. Morgan
Commissioner Larry Johnson ‘rounds up’ DeKalb leaders for 2020 Census Count
EDITOR Valerie J. Morgan
By Sarita Mason For On Common Ground News
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ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill
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STAFF WRITER Mackenzie Morgan
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On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers. No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher. We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.
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Rockdale County kicks off summer concert series Violinist Brooke Alford kicked off Rockdale County’s Rockin’ Rockdale Summer Concert Series at Costley Mill Park on Sunday, June 30. People packed picnics and snacks to relax and unwind as Alford performed songs from her album, “The Viosocialist.” The free event also featured a kids’ zone and onsite food and beverage vendors. The concert series is open to the public and will be held on the last Sunday of the month through Sept. 29 from 6 to 8 p.m. and will feature local artists performing jazz, R&B, rock and classic hits. The next scheduled concert is on Sunday, July 28, and will feature Stay Here performing “Hard Rockin’ Millennial.” On Aug. 25, Jaylen Gilstrap & Key Harmony will present Sounds of Smooth Jazz and R&B. Reckless Abandon will perform Rock ’N Roll classics on Sept. 29. For more photos of the event, visit OCGNews.com.
DeKalb County District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson is preparing for a roundup meeting, July 8, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., at the Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, to get DeKalb residents ready for the 2020 census. Johnson, who was appointed chair of DeKalb’s 2020 Larry Johnson Complete Count Committee, is inviting community leaders and prominent groups such as the DeKalb NAACP and the Pan Asian Community to build a collective team to begin the education process on the 2020 census. “We want people who have already impacted their communities in a significant way to join a team that will push the DeKalb 2020 census movement to where it needs to be,” said Johnson. This year, DeKalb could receive $985 million per year for 10 years, if it reaches a 100 percent response rate on the 2020 Census. DeKalb lost about $275 million from a 72 percent response rate in the 2010 census, county officials said. The goal of the Complete Count Committee is to ensure that accurate census data is collected to provide information critical for federal funding, education, government programs, and policies. For the first time, residents will be able to complete the census digitally, which can help gain a full response rate. Johnson said this is only the first step to make the DeKalb census successful. “We plan to keep this process going and have an outstanding response rate when the census comes, said Johnson.
8-year-old humanitarian to host cleanup day in Stonecrest
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Eight-year-old kidpreneur and humanitarian, Madisyn Timmons, is inviting the community to join her for a community cleanup day on July 20, 9 a.m. to noon, in the Fairington Park area where she lives in the city of Stonecrest. Volunteers will meet at Fairington Park, 3227 Fairington Drive Arlean Timmons said her daughter got the idea to do a community cleanup after noticing the litter she saw strewn along the roadways during her daily commute home from school. “She asked what we could do to freshen it up,” said Arlean Timmons, who immediately helped Madisyn to put the wheels in motion. Madisyn, who attends the DeKalb Elementary School of the Arts, had expressed the same can-do enthusiasm when she set out Madisyn Timmons to create her own lip gloss line, Timmons said. Together, they developed “With Love From Madisyn,” offering the $3 glosses and balms in fun flavors: green apple, cherry, blue raspberry, bubble gum and natural lip balm. Timmons said her daughter plans to donate a portion of the sales to charitable causes to help children. Timmons said volunteers who would like to help with the community cleanup should dress comfortably. Keep DeKalb Beautiful will provide supplies for the cleanup. Donations of water and food are welcome for the volunteers. Arlene Timmons can be reached at arlenetimmons@gmail.com.
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CITY OF STONECREST BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, JULY 16TH 2019 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 The following Variance Petition located within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above. LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
V-19-002 Colin Jones 3585 River Rock Road RSM (Small Lot Residential Mix) District To encroach into the rear yard setback for the construction of a deck. *Applicant was administratively held from June BZA hearing.
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100 Black Men of DeKalb announces co-hosts of Casino Royale Scholarship Gala 2019
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racye Hutchins, co-anchor of CBS Morning News, and radio personality Jarard J, of 107.5/97.5(WAMS), will co-host the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County’s Casino Royale Scholarship Gala on Aug. 10, 6 p.m., at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, 265 Peachtree St., Atlanta. “We’re very excited to have Tracye Hutchins return and we welcome Jarard J aboard as a newcomer to host this year’s scholarship gala,” said Dr. Naim G. Shaheed, DPM, who is chairing the event for the fourth year. “We are looking forward to their assistance in raising scholarships for very deserving students. This will be the best Casino Royale scholarship gala yet.” Shaheed said Hutchins helped the organization present awards to six students at last year’s gala.
This year, the organization will award scholarships to 10 high school graduates who have participated in its Leadership Academy program. The academy, open to students in grades 6-12, offers mentoring and a host of activities outside of the regular school day to help students de-
DeKalb sets public meeting for master plan of Avondale Dunaire Park, George Luther Drive property The DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will hold a series of public meetings to review the draft plans for Avondale Dunaire Park and the George Luther Drive Property. The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 17, 6:30 p.m., at DeKalb Watershed Management Building, 4572 Memorial Drive, Decatur. The meeting will take place in training room A. Information will be provided on current park improvements and recreation projects. For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs public relations specialist, at 404-371-3643 or lsdavis@ dekalbcountyga.gov.
DeKalb to hold meeting for master plan of Little Creek Horse Farm The DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will hold a series of public meetings to review the draft plans for Little Creek Horse Farm including park amenities, improvements and to determine the public’s priorities. The first meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 10, at 6 p.m., at DeKalb County Fire Rescue Headquarters(Suite 400), 1950 West Exchange Place, Tucker. Public Meetings Dates • Saturday, July 20, 1 p.m. • Sunday, July 28, 1 p.m.
DeKalb Park Advisory Committee to meet July 17 The DeKalb Park Advisory Committee meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, July 17, 6 p.m. at the N.H. Scott Recreation Center, 2230 Tilson Road, Decatur. Information will be provided on current park improvements and recreation projects.
CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JULY 8, 2019 AT 7:00 PM CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BOULEVARD STONECREST, GA 30038 The Department of Community Affairs and the Atlanta Regional Commission has completed the regional review of the Revised 2019 Comprehensive Plan for the City of Stonecrest. DCA/ARC determined that the Revised Comprehensive Plan 2038 conforms to the Minimum Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning. The Mayor and City Council will hold a public hearing to adopt the approved Plan at its regularly scheduled meeting. Congratulations to Stonecrest’s leadership, staff and The Collaborative Firm for the development of its very first Comprehensive Plan! For more information, contact Plez Joyner, Assistant City Manager with the City of Stonecrest at pjoyner@stonecrestga.gov, or Mary Darby, Director of Planning with The Collaborative Firm at mdarby@tcfatl.com.
velop the skills they need to become successful leaders in the community. Guests attending the black-tie event will be entertained by the smooth sensations of Atlanta-based SILK. Violinist Brianna Robinson will perform as guests arrive to enjoy Las Vegas-style casino games, raffles with fabulous prizes, and a live and silent auction as the organization raises scholarships. The 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Inc. is part of a network that includes over 100 chapters that comprise the 100 Black Men of America. The organization focuses on mentoring students through education, health and wellness, economic empowerment and leadership training. For more information, tickets and sponsorships, visit the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Inc. at 100bmod.org.
DeKalb Cooperative Extension sets Irrigation Workshop DeKalb County Cooperative Extension will host an Irrigation Workshop on July 11, 6:45 to 8:30 p.m. in the greenhouse complex at Brook Run Park, 4770 N. Peachtree Road, Dunwoody. Attendees will learn how to install irrigation systems, maintenance and troubleshooting. Registration is $20 per person. To register, call the DeKalb County Cooperative Extension Office at 404-298-4080 or email Yanni Chen at yc42298@uga.edu.
DHC Lunch & Learn: Explore the history of East Lake Golf Club The DeKalb History Center’s July 16 Lunch & Learn will be presented by Linton C. Hopkins from noon to 1 p.m., at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse, 101 E. Court Square, Decatur. Linton will share the history of East Lake Golf Club along with the story of Bobby Jones, Alexa Stirling, and other amateur golfers with a discussion about “East Lake – Where Bobby Learned to Play.” Told from a dynamic perspective, the book recounts stories from the time Bobby Jones was learning how to play golf and the journey that turned him into one of the greatest amateur golfers of all time. Hopkins is a retired neurologist from Emory University, a long-time member of East Lake Golf Club, and a native of Atlanta. Taking inspiration from his patients, Hopkins became enthralled with the history of Bobby Jones, East Lake, and the countless stories that were widely untold until now. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch. The event is free.
CITY OF STONECREST PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, JULY 2ND 2019 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JULY 22ND 2019 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 The following petition(s)/amendment(s) within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above. LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
RZ-19-005 Jose Ayala 2193 Panola Road R-100 (Residential Med Lot) District Applicant is requesting to rezone 2.6 acres to C-1 (Local Commercial) for the development of a commercial building.
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July Faith & Spirit Community Calendar Compiled by Mackenzie N. Morgan
Alice Walker set to appear at 75th birthday celebration
Wheat Street Baptist to mark Shambhala Meditation Center of Atlanta hosts book club meet-up 150-year anniversary
he Georgia Writers Museum will host a oneday celebration of Alice Walker's 75th birthday on Saturday, July 13. Walker, who wrote The Color Purple, was born in Eatonton, Ga. in 1944, and will travel to her hometown for a day of festivities. Alice Walker Activities include a viewing of the American Masters documentary, music, readings, tributes, historic tours, and a cocktail reception followed by Alice Walker in conversation with Valerie Boyd, editor of Walker's forthcoming journals and author of the award-winning biography, Wrapped in Rainbows: The Life of Zora Neale Hurston. The event is sponsored by the Sixth Episcopal District of the AME Church of Georgia. Agnes Scott College, the English Department; Larry and Jenny Moore; and Spelman College Women’s Research & Resource Center. To view the full schedule of events and purchase tickets, visit alicewalker75.com.
ongratulations to Wheat Street Baptist Church on the celebration of its 150-year anniversary. The church, which is located in the historic Old Fourth Ward Community in Atlanta, will be hosting a celebratory weekend July 20- 22. The anniversary picnic will be on Saturday, July 20, 11 a.m., at Anthony Flanagan Recreational Center, 2340 W. Manor Circle SW, Atlanta. The anniversary worship service will be at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, July 21.
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Free mental health first aid training set
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lliant Quality will be hosting a Free Mental Health First Aid training on Tuesday, July 23, at 1455 Lincoln Parkway Atlanta, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mental Health First Aid is a public education program that introduces participants to risk factors and warning signs of mental health issues, builds understanding of their impact, and provides an overview of appropriate supports. Registration is required. Lunch will not be served. To RSVP, email mentalhealthfirstaid@allianthealth.org. Training is limited to 30 people.
What’s Your Church Flow? Let Us Know! Send us your photo of an outfit that you enjoy wearing, your name and where you worship and we will share it with out readers in churchesnow.org. The digital magazine is a publication of On Common Ground News. Please e-mail editor@ocgnews.com.
Join the Shambhala Meditation Center of Atlanta for a book club discussion featuring Fleet Maull’s new book, “Radical Responsibility,” on Wednesday, July 10, 7 to 9 p.m. at 1447 Church St, Decatur. Attendees will participate in informal, meaningful discussions about how to radically take ownership of one’s choices to authentically “show up” for oneself and others. The book club event will lead up to Fleet’s appearance in August.
Learn about South Africa’s advanced ancient civilization and how to create currency free communities Join Michael Tellinger from Portal to Ascension on Sunday, July 7, for the Hidden Origins & Ubuntu workshop, 2 to 5 p.m., at the Unity Atlanta Church, 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners. The three-part workshop will uncover the advanced civilization of ancient South Africa and unravel over 200,000 years of knowledge on how this ancient society used sound and resonance as a source of energy. Attendees will unearth the largest collection of ancient stone ruins found on Earth and discover artifacts and fossils demonstrating an advanced people and technology. Stay for a lecture on the current socio-economic structure and how to create a new society based on cooperation and collaboration.
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JULY 5, 2019 • PAGE 7
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CERM Engineering to host summer job shadow program
First year students in the RCPS Student Athletic Aide Program Training Camp held June 2019. (Pictured left to right) Back row: Brianna Pinnock (Salem High School); Crosby McFall (Heritage High School); Isabella Cooper (Rockdale County High School); Anthony Neil (Edwards Middle School); Samaddi Burse (RCHS). Middle row: Jasmine Davis (SHS); Trinayah Harris (SHS); Alexia Boyd (HHS); Christiana Damron (RCHS); Mya Solomon (HHS); Ebony Evans (RCHS); RCPS Athletic Director Dr. Kechia Rowles; Athletic Trainer Chelsea Ector. Front row - Oakland McFall (EMS); Abigail Sweeney (HHS); Imani Birden (HHS); SkyLah Parker (RCHS); Aliyah McKnight (RCHS); and Destiny Landy (HHS).
RCPS Athletic Director Dr. Kechia Rowles demonstrates proper taping techniques as Alexia Boyd (HHS), Mya Solomon (HHS), and Christiana Damron (RCHS) observe and practice.
Dr. Michael Douglas, a teaching fellow at Morehouse College and former Director of Sports Medicine and Head Athletic Trainer for the Atlanta Dream WNBA team, speaks with students about the role of athletic trainers and clinicians.
RCPS students dive into sports medicine at Student Athletic Aide camp Rockdale County Public School (RCPS) students take their first step into careers in sports medicine with the 13th annual RCPS Student Athletic Aide Program Training Camp, held June 2019 at Salem High School. The multi-year program trains middle and high school students to serve as Student Athletic Aides for school sports teams at games and provides additional training for team managers. During the week of June 17-20, first-year Student Athletic Aide trainees learned about human anatomy, CPR, concussions, treating and wrapping sprained limbs, and more. In addition, students heard from guest speakers about a variety of careers, such as athletic trainer at the collegiate and professional level, physical therapist, orthopedic physician or physician assistant, and more.
Corporate Environmental Risk Management (CERM) will host its summer job shadow program on Aug. 1 and Aug. 2. Three times each year, high school and college students are invited to visit the company’s headquarters in Tucker for hands-on activities and a close-up look into the industry and operations of one the largest minority-owned engineering firms in Georgia. Participants embark on a site visit before closing out the day with a small group discussion with CERM’s managing director. Founded in 1995, CERM provides professional engineering, environmental, and program management services to transportation, environmental, water resources, facilities, energy, and federal throughout the southeastern U.S. CERM has been hosting various iterations of the program since its inception, however, for the first time in the company’s 25-year history, this year’s program will be held over a two-day period. The program on Aug. 1 will be tailored to undergrad and graduate students, while the content on Aug. 2 will cater to high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. The highly competitive program only accepts about 50 percent of applicants into each cohort. Students who attend will not only expand their network and build their resume, but they will also receive advice for continued education and professional development, as well as gain access to internships and scholarships. “The shared values of our community partners and stakeholders are critical to these education and workforce development initiatives,” said Albert G. Edwards, CERM’s managing director. “Together, we are changing the trajectory for the next generation of leaders.” For more information or to submit an application for the summer shadow program, interested candidates may visit www.cerm.com/jobshadow. Applications must be submitted before July 19 to be considered.
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Susan G. Komen program continues financial assistance for breast cancer treatment
Parents urged to register for school online Student Registration relocates to RCA July 22-Aug. 2 Rockdale County Public Schools(RCPS) are urging parents to beat the rush and register their children for school online at www.rockdaleschools. org/registration. Online registration is required as the first step for registering and enrolling students for school in Rockdale County. Computers are available at the RCPS Student Registration office for families without access to a computer or internet. This is the third year RCPS has offered online registration for families coming to Rockdale County. The first day of school is July 29, 2019. After registering online, parents need to bring the required documents to the RCPS Student Registration office for verification. For the list of required documents, visit www.rockdaleschools.org/registration or call 770-761-1457. Student Registration office hours at 1143 West Avenue, Conyers are 7:30 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Thursday during June 3-July 11, and MondayFriday after July 12. Student Registration will temporarily relocate to Rockdale Career Academy (RCA), 1064 Culpepper Drive, Conyers during July 22-Aug. 2 to accommodate the increased number of families registering during the back-to-school season. On Friday, July 19, Student Registration will close at noon at its regular location, 1143 West Avenue, and reopen Monday, July 22, 8 a.m. at RCA, 1064 Culpepper Drive. Student Registration office hours at RCA are 8 a.m.-3 p.m., Monday-Friday. Computers are available at RCA until 2 p.m.
Susan G. Komen® Greater Atlanta plans to continue to help area residents dealing with breast cancer diagnosis. The Komen Atlanta Treatment Assistance Program (ATAP) will provide financial assistance for local patients dealing with the crippling costs associated with breast cancer treatment, program officials announced. “The ATAP program is a vitally important resource for our neighbors undergoing breast cancer treatments and supports our Bold Goal to reduce breast cancer deaths by 50 percent by 2026,” said Cati Diamond Stone, CEO, Komen Atlanta. “Thanks to the generosity of our partners, Georgia CORE and the Billi Marcus Foundation, the program will provide support to overcome financial barriers that often prevent breast cancer patients from accessing the care they need.” ATAP covers limited costs associated with breast cancer treatment such as oral pain medication, anti-nausea medication, oral chemotherapy/ hormone therapy, child care/elder care, home care, transportation, lymphedema care and supplies and durable medical equipment. To be eligible, patients must have incomes at or below 250% of the federal poverty line ($31,225 for an individual) and have an active breast cancer diagnosis. For more information, call the Susan G. Komen Breast Care Helpline Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-10 p.m. ET at 1-877 GO KOMEN.
Conyers streets come alive at weekly LIVE on Commercial Street Enjoy live entertainment every Saturday this summer in Olde Town. You’re your calendar for the July 7 performance of local band, “Unaka Prong.” In addition to live entertainment, guests will enjoy outdoor dining, games and old fashion family fun in the street. Commercial Street will close to vehicle traffic and open for an evening of fun beginning at 5 p.m. Tin Plate, The Celtic Tavern and Sweet Treat Depot are sponsoring the event. For more information, call 770-602-2606.
On Friday, Aug. 2, Student Registration will close at noon at RCA and reopen Monday, Aug. 5, 7:30 a.m. at its regular location, 1143 West Ave. Back-to-school information (including school supply lists, summer reading assignments, and more) is available at www.rockdaleschools.org/ backtoschool The Open House schedule is as follows: Friday, July 19 Early Learning Center at RCA - 9-11 a.m. Monday, July 22 9th Grade - 5-7 p.m.
DeKalb County Board of Health Provides Back-to-School Services
Tuesday, July 23 Rockdale Career Academy - 4-7 p.m. 10th-12th Grade and Open Campus and Alpha Academy - 5-7 p.m. Wednesday, July 24 Middle Schools - 4:30-7 p.m. check your school website for grade-specific times. Thursday, July 25 Elementary Schools - 5-7 p.m. Parents/guardians are encouraged to attend their child's Open House to meet teachers and receive important information to successfully start the new school year.
The Bridge to host Book Bag Bash The Bridge at Austin Drive will host its annual Book Bag Bash on Saturday, July 13, 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., at 1989 Austin Drive, Decatur. The giveaway will include 400 book bags and school supplies, free haircuts, free food and other resources to assist parents, students and teachers in the community get ready for back to school.
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Childhood Immunizations (Form 3231) Hearing, Vision, Nutrition, and Dental Screenings (Form 3300) Birth Certificates for Children Born in Georgia Sports Physicals Extended Hours for ALL Services at ALL Centers Saturday, July 13 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Mon., July 29, Tues., July 30, & Thurs., August 1 Mon., August 5, through Wed., August 7 8:15 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Normal Business Hours Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Clifton Springs Health Center East DeKalb Health Center North DeKalb Health Center T. O. Vinson Health Center
(404) 244-2200 (770) 484-2600 (770) 454-1144 (404) 294-3762
For More Information: (404) 294-3700 www.dekalbhealth.net
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JULY 5, 2019 • PAGE 11
Afternoon tea with Commissioner Cochran-Johnson to feature author Patrina King DeKalb County District 7 Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson will host the second installment in her Books & More Women’s Empowerment Club Series on Saturday, July 20, noon to 2 p.m., at the Smoke Rise Country Club, 4900 Chedworth Drive, Stone Mountain. The Women’s Empowerment Book Club will feature seasoned golfer and founder of Golf Women Mean Business, Patrina King, who will share her advice on what it takes to be successful in business from the teachings in her book, “9 Holes 9 Goals, A Beginner’s Guide to Doing Business on the Course.” “I know that getting to the ‘deal’ requires more than just knowing how to play golf,” King said. “There are specific steps that need to be taken in order to make your business golf round worth your time and investment.” Cochran-Johnson said the Books & More Women’s Empowerment Club is a three-
Patrina King
Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson
part event that gives attendees an opportunity to network, engage in educated discussion, and
glean life and career advice from expert authors. “It is important that I continue to build upon the seven priorities that I believe will bring about positive change to the citizens of the seventh District,” said Cochran-Johnson. “The Women’s Empowerment Book Club touches upon three: economic development, job creation, and entrepreneurship. It is my hope that attending one of the events and reading the books of these experts will spark action that will propel the attendees towards success.” Attendees will get an introduction to helpful steps to succeeding, a signed copy of King’s book, tea, hors d’oeuvres and advice on how to improve their golf swing. Registration is $35 per person. To register, visit http:// bit.ly/2RpZdZD. For more information, call 404-371-3681 or email Allison M. Slocum at amslocum@dekalbcountyga.gov.
Stonecrest Councilmember Diane Adoma receives GMA achievement certificate Stonecrest Councilmember Diane Adoma received the Certificate of Achievement from the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute during the Georgia Municipal Association’s (GMA) Annual Convention in Savannah on June 21. Adoma is the first member of the Stonecrest City Council to receive the prestigious certificate of achievement, GMA stated in a news release. The Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute, a cooperative effort of GMA and the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government, provides a nationally recognized series of training opportunities for city officials. To receive a Certificate of Achievement, a city official must complete a minimum of 72 units of credit, including at least 36 hours from a list of required classes. The training program consists of a series of more than 60 courses. “This is an outstanding achievement,” said GMA Executive Director Larry Hanson. “We commend Councilmember Adoma for this accomplishment and for the dedication she’s shown in using this valuable resource to become a more effective city official.” Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, research, training, employee benefit and technical consulting services to its 538 member cities.
Pictured left to right: GMA President and Auburn Mayor Linda Blechinger, City of Stonecrest Councilwoman Diane Adoma, and Mara O. Shaw, leadership development program manager.
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Atlanta City Council approves proposed smoking ban at Hartsfield Airport, other public places By OCG Staff Smoking and vaping would be banned inside Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and other enclosed public places in the city under a proposed ordinance approved by the Atlanta City Council. The City Council passed the proposal 13-2 on July 1, with members Howard Shook and J. P. Matzigkeit voting against the measure. The approval follows years of advocates pushing for more stringent laws to reduce health risks for secondhand smoke and to deter young people from starting to smoke. The new law would take effect beginning Jan. 2, 2020, if Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms signs the legislation. City officials said Bottoms is reviewing the measure and they did not have a timetable of when that might happen. Under the ordinance, however, smoking rooms on the airport’s concourses would close and "Smoking is Prohibited" signage would be posted at the airport and other public buildings before the ban becomes effective. Although outdoor smoking areas would continue to be permitted outside of the domestic terminal and international terminal, passengers awaiting connector flights would have to exit security in order to smoke. The legislation amends other city and Georgia laws passed since 1977 by prohibiting smoking and vaping in enclosed areas and closing any loopholes concerning smoke-free environments in the city. Outdoor seating and serving areas in the city of Atlanta would be exempt, along with cigar bars, private clubs and hookah lounges that ban minors and generate 20 percent of their annual gross revenues or $250,000 of their sales from tobacco products. The proposed ordinance calls for fines up to $100 to be issued for a first violation and $200 for each additional violation within one year.
ABANDONED VEHICLE Vehicle deemed abandoned under o.c.g.a 40-11-2 volvo s70 vin: yv1ls56dxy2653539 will be removed located at...1783 lithonia industrial blvd lithonia ga 6787690184 blue Angel express;
PUBLIC HEARING NEWSPAPER ADVERTISEMENT: In accordance with Section 12-8-24(d) of the Georgia Comprehensive Solid Waste Management Act, as amended, the City of Stonecrest, Georgia will hold a “public hearing” regarding the issuance of a permit for the proposed recycling Materials Recovery & Processing Facility at the Metro Green Recycling Three, LLC facility located at 5152 Snapfinger Woods Road, Stonecrest, Georgia 30035. The “public hearing” will be held on Wednesday, August 14, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. to receive citizen input on the proposed recycling Materials Recovery & Processing Facility. The public hearing will be held in the Council Chambers at Stonecrest City Hall, 3120 Stonecrest Boulevard, Stonecrest, Georgia 30038.
PAGE 12 •JULY 5, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
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