dec 1,2013

Volume 19 Number 17  www.ocgNews.com  December 1, 2013  Free

See Medicaid, page 7

See Ruling, page 7 See Kidz, page 7

Community News ................................P 3Business ...........................P 10Class Notes .......................P 11We Worship ......................P 12Health & Wellness .............P 14Classifieds.........................P 15

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Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News


By Joshua Smith

Former DeKalb School Board Chair Eugene Walker says he will not appeal the Georgia Supreme Court’s Nov. 25

decision to uphold the law the governor used to suspend six board members. Walker says he doesn’t have the money to keep fighting a legal battle.

“They’re big and strong, but they’re wrong,” said Walker, who filed a lawsuit in federal court saying the suspensions violated both, the U.S. and Georgia constitutions.

“The Georgia Supreme Court has gone against the constitutional mandate that local voters are to decide who serves on school boards,” Walker said. “They have thrown the constitution out of the window and replaced it with political considerations.

“The state constitution says that all school board members shall be elected. I want to appeal this decision, but I simply don’t have the money to do so.”

The Supreme Court’s decision means none of the suspended school board members will get their jobs back. Gov. Deal suspended six of nine board members on Feb. 25 after the district’s accrediting agency, the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, put the district on probation over governance issues and the Georgia Board of Education recommended that they be removed.

The six suspended board members included Board Chair Eugene Walker; Sarah Copelin-Wood, District 3; Jesse Cunningham, District 5; the late Donna Edler, District 7, and Pamela Speaks, District 8.

Edler died on Oct. 29 of breast cancer a few weeks before her hearing was scheduled. She fought her removal from the board until her death. Friends and family went to Fulton County Superior Court on Nov. 19 for the appeal hearing that had been scheduled before her death. Edler’s family and lawyer E. Brian Watkins decided to go ahead with the hearing in an effort to clear her name. The Georgia Attorney General’s Office said at the hearing that due to Edler’s death, the “plaintiffs no longer have a party involved.”

John Coleman, Joyce Morley, Karen Carter, David Campbell, Thad Mayfield and Michael Erwin replaced the suspended school board members.

DeKalb’s suspended school board

members lose legal battle for seats

Festival of Trees at Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center ....page 8

Eugene Walker

By Valerie J. Morgan

Kenneth Samuel, pastor of Victory for the World Church in Stone Mountain, is urging his congregation to send 1,000 letters to petition Gov. Nathan Deal to reverse his decision and expand Medicaid coverage to the working poor in the state. And he’s calling on other churches to flood the governor’s office as well.

“In Georgia and throughout the Bible Belt, the biggest names in televangelism and mega-churches have not raised a voice to speak on behalf of the 5 million poor people who have been systemically deprived of health care by their state legislatures,” said Samuel. “The deafening silence of preachers on this issue also makes this a religious disgrace.”

Samuel said many Georgians—some 400,000—as well as other uninsured people nationwide are falling through the cracks because they make too much money to qualify for Medicaid, but not enough money for subsidies under President Obama’s new Affordable Healthcare Act.

“It means that thousands of our brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, sons and daughters have been relegated to

a permanent caste of the uninsured,” Samuel said. “It means that the only time many people will see a doctor in the state of Georgia is in the emergency room, and that is not cost effective.

“The governor has said ‘I don’t

want it,’ but it’s our tax dollars that he is turning down. The governor has healthcare and will continue to have healthcare. This is about providing care for the least of these.”

Victory for the World to Gov. Deal: ‘Expand Medicaid for the poor’

DeKalb’s Kidz@Play offers tons of fun, economic boon to South DeKalb


Kidz@Play, touted as Georgia’s largest indoor playground, is opening in DeKalb County in

the former Save Right grocery store on Rockbridge Road near Highway 124. The center is located in the same plaza as the Georgia Department of Driver Services.

JEC Entertainment (DBA Kids@Play) spent $1.3 million transforming the 35,000-square-foot space where kids will check in their shoes at admission and play in their socks.

A soft opening is planned for Saturday, Nov. 30 at 10 a.m. Several

dignitaries will be on hand for a grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, Dec. 7.

James Lee, the company’s vice president, said visitors will enjoy the latest technology, including a 9D movie box, a room with a lighted dance floor and Wi-Fi. In addition to a variety of inflatables, the center also offers bumper cars, water boats, a kiddie train, trampoline, ball shooting jungle gym, a tots play village, seven party suites and a refreshment center offering snacks and pizza.

“I tell people that I want you to visit the rest and then come see the best,” said Lee.

Lee said the former grocery store had sat vacant for about 10 years before his father, Eui S. Lee, purchased the Stonebridge Village Plaza in July 2011 and began making plans to revitalize the empty anchor.

“Initially, we were looking at putting in a bowling alley to reinvigorate the shopping plaza, but we thought the indoor playground for children would be a better fit and make a more positive impact on the community,” James Lee said.

The center, expected to draw

Owner Eui S. Lee and daughter, Catherine Kim, executive manager, along with son, James Lee, who is vice president, are ready to welcome the community to the new Kidz@Play Center.

Dr. Kenneth Samuel of Victory of the World Church made an appeal from the pulpit for parishioners to petition Gov. Nathan Deal.

DECEmBEr 1, 2013

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DECEmBEr 1, 2013 PAGE 3

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December 1, 2013 Volume 19, No. 17

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grand opening!come on in and have some fun!

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Throughout DeKalb County, signs are popping up on residential lawns that read: “I ♥ DeKalb.” The signs were distributed at the Fifth Annual DeKalb Neighborhood Summit and Interim DeKalb County CEO Lee May says he hopes the message is one that will continue to spread as he launches “Operation Fresh Start.”

May rolled out “Operation Fresh Start” a few days ago, pledging to give the county a fresh look, especially in areas where South DeKalb residents

had complained for months about litter and overgrown grass on corridors, curbs and county “gateways.”

May said the county plans to include in next year’s operating budget nearly $1 million to significantly improve DeKalb by increasing mowing activity, street sweeping and “curve bumping” along key roadways and state routes to at least once a month. Some 35 roads are on an initial list. Many of the roads, he said, had only been mowed two or three times a year. The

DeKalb Neighborhood Summit awards great community ideasBy Joshua Smith

The Fifth Annual DeKalb County Neighborhood Summit surpassed last year’s event with even more residents from North, Central and South DeKalb coming together for learning, networking and empowerment.

Last year, about 300 attended the free, conference-style event at the Courtyard by Marriott in downtown Decatur. This year, about 400 attended. The Office of Neighborhood Empowerment (ONE DeKalb), headed by Director Bettye Davis, again chose the Marriott for the free, half-day event.

“The whole event was just fabulous. We’ve had some great summits over the years, but the level of excitement from residents and DeKalb officials alike, I haven’t seen it like this since the first one,” said Davis. “There was just so much energy in the building.”

The summit featured an array of workshops, educational exhibits, and giveaways, and included a continental breakfast and popcorn break. People had a chance to not only learn and meet and greet, but sign up for free recycling, community cleanups and green initiatives. There were also plenty of goodie bags for the taking, many containing educational handouts and some with free water-efficient showerheads.

DeKalb CEO Lee May launches robust campaign to beautify streets, gateways

Summit workshops included: Public Safety, Planning and Zoning 101, Understanding Community Improvement Districts (CIDs), Where Does My Trash Go? Creating an Abundant Community and Stabilizing Your Neighborhood Through Code Compliance.

Interim CEO Lee May praised Davis and her team for organizing the summit.

“The Neighborhood Summit engages residents and helps connect them to local government to keep DeKalb moving forward,” said May.

Shirley Hill talks about one of DeKalb’s community outreach programs.Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

DECEmBEr 1, 2013

comINg uP

Coming Up

DeKalbLithonia sets community

emergency exercise The City of Lithonia Police

Department is presenting an Emergency Management Table Top Exercise on Thursday, Dec. 5, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., at Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, 2152 Rock Chapel Road, Lithonia.

CSX Transportation will join the Lithonia Police Department in presenting the event. Tabletop exercises are designed to help an organization, city or town test a hypothetical situation, such as a natural or man-made disaster, and evaluate the group’s ability to cooperate and work together, as well as test their readiness to respond. Disasters in simulation include massive fires, tornadoes and hurricanes.

The event is open to the community. For more information, email Gale Tolan at [email protected]. 770-482-8136.

DeKalb CSB to host charity holiday bazaar

The DeKalb Community Service Board will host a charity holiday bazaar to benefit mental health programs on Friday, Dec. 6, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m., at the Richardson Health Center’s Bohan Auditorium, 445 Winn Way, Decatur.

DeKalb Service Board clients will be selling paintings, jewelry and other crafts. Proceeds from the sale will benefit CSB’s Peer Support program, a mental health program that provides structured, scheduled activities and promotes socialization, recovery, self-advocacy and maintenance of community living skills. 404-370-7460.

McNair group sets tree-planting beautification day

The McNair Cluster Sustainable Neighbors Initiative will team up with Kelley Lake Elementary School and Trees Atlanta to host a tree planting beautification project on Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.

Lauren Sandoval, youth education coordinator for Trees Atlanta, will assist with the project. Sandoval will educate students on the environmental benefits of trees.

The community is invited to join in. Participants will meet at Kelley Lake Elementary, 2590 Kelley Lake Road,

Decatur. For more information or to sign up your family, call 404-286-3352 or email [email protected].

ART Station presents “A Broadway Christmas Carol” The ART Station, 5384 Manor

Drive, Stone Mountain, will present “A Broadway Christmas Carol,” Dec. 5 – 22, Thursday – Saturday, 8 p.m., and Sundays at 3 p.m.

Slated as “America’s funniest holiday show: featuring a little song, a little dance, a little eggnog down your pants,” the presentation gives a new spin on Charles Dickens’ Ebenezer Scrooge story. Song parodies will be mixed with famous Broadway tunes.

Tickets are $21 for senior citizens and students, $25 for other adults. 770-469-1105.

DeKalb NCNW to host “A Festive Evening of Giving”

The DeKalb Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc. is hosting “A Festive Evening of Giving—Signature Christmas Gala” on Sunday, Dec. 8, 5 p.m., at the Holiday Inn Atlanta Conference Center Hotel, 450 Capital Ave., Atlanta.

Special honors will be given to Elizabeth Omilami of Hosea Feed The Hungry. All guests are asked to bring a brand new toy as a donation to Hosea Feed the Hungry.

Vendors will be available for attendees to shop furs, jewelry, holiday ornaments, hats and other items.

Tickets are $40 per person and available by calling 404-798-6948.

Atlanta

Discover winter animals with Mechanicsville branch

The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System’s Mechanicsville branch, 400 Formwalt, St., S.W., Atlanta, will host a “Winter Animals” series on Tuesdays, Dec. 3 – 17, 10 a.m.

Organizers say children will be taken away into a world of imagination using educational stories read by the library’s storytellers and librarians. Invited guest storytellers will be a part of the seriel. Youth will experience songs, arts and crafts, and puppetry, centered on winter animals such as polar bears, deer, owls and foxes.

Reservations are suggested. For more information or to reserve your seat, call 404-730-4779 or e-mail [email protected].

Downtown Kirkwood to host “Home for the Holidays”

The downtown Kirkwood area, 1989 Hosea L. Williams, Drive, Atlanta, will host its “Home for the Holidays” event on Saturday, Dec. 7, 4 – 7 p.m.

This event celebrates the holiday season, supports local businesses, and highlights the Kirkwood community. The holiday celebration in downtown Kirkwood includes a holiday market, tree lighting, live music and pet costume contest.

Mr. and Mrs. Claus will welcome you and local high school bands will perform. Music will take place from 5 – 6 p.m., with the tree lighting starting at 6 p.m. 404-353-4331 or 404-386-9806.

Gwinnett

Seniors celebrate holidays with Christmas movie

Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Department will host a holiday viewing of “Christmas with the Kranks,” on Monday, Dec. 16, 2 p.m., at the Bethesda Park Senior Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville.

Based on John Grisham’s novel Skipping Christmas, “Christmas With the Kranks” stars “Nora” (Jamie Lee Curtis) and “Luther Krank” (Tim Allen). In the movie, the couple decides to put their normally fanatical enthusiasm for the holidays aside for a tropical cruise. The movie also stars Dan Aykroyd as their neighbor “Vic.” Just as it looks like Christmas will be successfully skipped, “Blair” (Julie Gonzalo) throws a major kink into the plans when she suddenly has a change of heart and announces she’ll be coming home for Christmas after all.

Admission is $2 for Gwinnett residents. Price includes popcorn and a drink. You must pre-register to attend. 678-2770179.

Southern chef Christy Jordan shares holiday recipes

The Gwinnett County Public Library System will welcome Southern chef and author Christy Jordan on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6 p.m. at the system’s Suwanee branch, 361 Main Street, Suwanee.

Atlantic Station is rolling out the holiday carpet with plenty of ways to celebrate Christmas. The shopping town center lights up the night daily with larger than life ornaments, rides on the “Snowball Express” train, ice-skating, visits from Santa and a towering Christmas tree, adorned with thousands of lights. Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News.

Jordan is the publisher of “SouthernPlate,” contributing editor of “Taste of the South” magazine, the former editor-at-large for “Southern Living,” and a judge on the Game Show Network’s “Beat the Chefs.” Jordan has also appeared on the TODAY show and QVC.

Jordan, a cookbook author and blogger, will share menus to help readers gather their family around the table this holiday season.

The event is free and open to the public. Some of Jordan’s books will be on hand for purchase and signing as well. 678-985-6040.

Rockdale

Conyers Kids put a spin on Christmas tradition

The acting group, “Conyers Kids,” will present “A Conyers Kids Christmas Carol” on Dec. 6, 6 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at Unity Church of Roackdale, 933 Commercial St., Conyers.

The performance serves as an abbreviated, comic adaptation of the Dickens Christmas classic. Every winter, “Conyers Kids” rewrites this fresh, humorous retelling of the seasonal favorite.

The performances are free and open to the public.

Olde Town welcomes ChristmasConyers will host its annual Olde

Town Christmas Party on Friday, Dec. 6, 5 – 8 p.m., in Olde Town Conyers. The party will offer several Christmas vendors and Christmas-themed refreshments. Visit Santa, enjoy special sales in Olde Town shops and complimentary carriage and train rides. The party is free to attend.

Conyers will light its Christmas tree and host a holiday parade on Saturday, Dec. 7, 4:30 – 7 p.m., down Main Street in Olde Town. More than 70 floats and other entries will travel down Main Street heralding the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Claus for the Conyers Hometown Holiday Parade, beginning at 4:30 p.m. The “Lights, Camera, Action, Christmas!” community tree lighting takes place immediately following the parade at 6 p.m. at the Rockdale County Courthouse, 922 Court St., N.E., Conyers.

Extension volunteers open gift shop

The Rockdale County Master

Gardener Extension Volunteers will open their garden gift shop on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m., in Lobby A at 1400 Parker Road, Conyers.

Featured will be a variety of sizes of ceramic mushrooms, wind chimes, fairy garden ideas, plus some great stocking stuffers. Also featured will be their cookbook with 411 recipes from Master Gardner volunteers, their families and friends as well as helpful monthly gardening tips. Proceeds will go toward the Education Garden planned for the area between the

Extension office building and the Path. 770-278-7373.

Rockdale commissioners to host holiday open house

The Rockdale County Board of Commissioners invites citizens to its “Holiday Open House” on Tuesday, Dec. 17, 5 – 7 p.m., at the B.O.C. Office, 962 Milstead Ave., Conyers.

The informal, “drop-in” event will provide the public with an opportunity to meet elected officials, County leaders and staff. At the open house, the public can enjoy festive holiday music, refreshments and beverages.

The Rockdale County Master Gardeners’ Extension Volunteers is decorating the BOC Office with holiday décor for the event. 770-278-7056.


DeKalb County Interim CEO Lee May and the DeKalb Department of Watershed

Management remind you to properly dispose of F.O.G. (Fats, Oils, and Grease)

What are Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG)?

FOG is composed of the animal and vegetable fats and oils that are used to cook and prepare food.

What happens when FOG is not properly disposed of ?

FOG should be properly disposed of or recycled. It enters the plumbing system through home garbage disposals, kitchen sinks and toilets, coats the interior of pipes, and empties into the County’s sewer system. Excessive accumulation of FOG in the sewer system will result in sanitary sewer overflows and sewage backup in homes and businesses. Sewage overflow repairs are costly for the County and its citizens, and can result in increased costs for water and sewer services.

Remember these simple practices to help keep FOG out of our pipes and sewers:

1. POUR cooled fats, oils or grease into a sealable container and throw it in the trash. Do not pour down the sink or toilet.

2. SCRAPE plates and cookware before washing. Do not throw scraps of any kind down the sink. Instead, place them in waste containers or garbage bags.

3. WIPE excess grease from all plates, pots, pans, utensils and surfaces with a paper towel before washing. Throw the greasy paper towels away.

Where does FOG come from?Meat fat Lard Cooking oil

Baking goods Food scraps Shortening

Dairy products Butter and margarine Sauces

Remember, you can make a difference! Visit the DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management’s FOG Program Online!

www.dekalbwatershed.com/FOG 1580 Roadhaven Drive • Stone Mountain, GA 30083 (770) 621-7200

cleanup and signs are part of a larger effort, May said, to beautify and make DeKalb attractive and economically sound.

“There are pockets of areas in our county that are just unsightly. If we want to be a competitive county, we have to be very proactive in addressing the way the county looks,” said May. “We’re not going to attract people and businesses here, if the county is not aesthetically pleasing.”

DeKalb NAACP John Evans said his organization plans to closely monitor the county’s cleanup initiative.

“We need to ride herd to make sure they keep the county clean. Period,” said Evans. I don’t think we can depend on volunteers to maintain our streets. We have to have scheduled maintenance.”

The county also has a robust plan for improving “gateways,” to denote and welcome visitors to DeKalb’s neighborhoods and commercial districts. The first of that landscaping will begin in March at the interchange

at I-20 and Turner Hill Road near the Mall at Stonecrest in unincorporated Lithonia. As part of the effort, flowers will be planted initially and then unique signage will be added. A grant is helping to pay for some of the work on the state roads, May said.

Operation Fresh Start also will address sign litter by creating litter patrols to remove signs weekly. The campaign also will address private property eyesores with improved code enforcement. The county, May said, plans to increase the number of code enforcement officers from 7 to 25 and streamline its citation process. May said the county will clean up and mow and fine the owners rather than spend months waiting for them to take care of the problem.

Bettye Davis, director of DeKalb County’s Office of Neighborhood Empowerment (ONE DeKalb), says residents who would like an “I ♥ DeKalb” T-shirt or yard sign may contact her office at 404-371-2881 or e-mail [email protected].

“This year’s summit brought residents together to meet, exchange ideas and learn how to partner with county departments to sustain and improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods.”

This year, the summit added a new component with more than 75 neighborhoods competing for the DeKalb Great Neighborhood Award. Four neighborhoods were selected for a $1,000 community beautification/improvement award, which included Creekwood Hills Community Association, Greater Towers Community Association, Emerald Community Association and Marbut/Panola Road Coalition.

Two neighborhoods were awarded $500, including East Glen Neighborhood Watch Committee and Rainbow Creek Homeowners Association. Winners submitted an essay of 500 words or less describing the neighborhood project that would be completed with the awarded funds.

Summit honors community groupscontinued from page 3

County launches robust landscaping plancontinued from page 3

(L-R) ONE DeKalb Director Bettye Davis, Marbut/Panola Road Coalition representative Sandi Morris and Interim CEO Lee May.



DECEmBEr 1, 2013

DEKALB COUNTY GOVERNMENT Advertisement for Thursday, November 28, 2013

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

3003111 ITB SCADA System Software Upgrade January 6, 2014

3003129 ITB Decals for DeKalb County Vehicles

December 19, 2013

3003140 ITB Gun Holsters and Accessories

December 18, 2013

3003147 ITB Solid Waste Collection Pilot Program Roll Carts December 18, 2013

13-100383 ITB Exchange Park Spray Pad and Pump House Restroom Facility

December 30, 2013

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

Rockdale deputies seek four males in home invasionThe Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office

is seeking the public’s help in finding four black men involved in a recent home invasion robbery in Conyers.

Two women and three children were at the residence when the robbery took place on Friday, Nov. 22, just before 1 a.m., in the Lionsgate subdivision, located at the intersection of Flat Shoals Road and Smyrna Road.

When deputies arrived, they found an open garage door and the two adult females inside. The victims described the suspects as four black males, who had their faces covered and were dressed in black.

The victims told deputies the men held them at gunpoint and ransacked the home, taking multiple electronics before speeding away in a vehicle.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office at 770-278-8000 or Investigator Troy Anderson at 770-278-8157.

DeKalb police search for hit-and-run suspect in pedestrian fatalityThe DeKalb County Police

Department has recovered debris from a hit-and-run fatality, and now needs the public’s help in finding the Mercedes involved in the incident. Saquena Williams, 29, was struck and killed on Nov. 18 while walking along the roadway about 1100 feet away from the Northcrest Road exit ramp near I-85. Williams’ body was discovered by workers in the area. Detectives have identified the vehicle involved to be a 2000-2003 Mercedes C-Class sports package. The vehicle should have damage to the right front bumper, hood and windshield. Police ask that body repair shops be on the lookout and witnesses who may have seen what happened. Anyone with information is asked to contact the DeKalb County Traffic Specialist Unit at 770-724-7610. Attached is a general picture of the Mercedes C-Class. Vehicle color is currently unknown.

CDC donates high tech lab equipment to Georgia Piedmont Technical College

Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) recently received a donation of state-of-the-art lab equipment valued at $250,000 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). College officials say they plan to use to the equipment to develop and expand its Natural Sciences Department; enhance STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) programs; and position the college to educate in STEM areas on a level-playing field. “We are excited about the opportunities this donation has enabled us to pursue,” said GPTC President Jabari Simama. “This gift will greatly enrich our STEM Initiatives and allow us to develop more grants, offer more courses, and certify high school teachers to teach in the STEM areas as we encourage more and more students to study and seek careers in the STEM fields.” The transferred items include high-tech equipment such as an incubator, sub-zero freezer and high-performance liquid chromatography machine. The equipment will be used by students and faculty for laboratory experiments in biology, chemistry and physics courses offered by the General Studies Division. “Our budgets are tight. We are glad that a program like this exists,” stated Aisha Cobbs, biology instructor, General Sciences Division. “Our Natural Science courses will be greatly enhanced by these large ticket items that would otherwise be out of our reach.” The college was able to acquire the equipment under the Stevenson-Wydler Technology and Innovation Act of 1980, an Act that promotes “technological innovation for the achievement of national economic, environmental, and social goals, and for other purposes.” The law allows federal laboratories to transfer surplus technology to other non-federal entities for the purpose of promoting technology and innovation in the U.S.

This is a general picture of the Mercedes C-Class believed to be involved in the hit-and-run.

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Watson asks community to bring canned goods to monthly breakfast meeting

DECATUR – DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson is partnering with DeKalb high schools’ ROTC/JROTC cadets in District 7 on a canned food drive to help needy families this holiday season.

Cans collected will be given to local service organizations.

“I am so proud that our ROTC/JROTC Cadets are partnering with me in this challenge because they believe that no matter what, every can counts,” said Watson.

Watson is encouraging the community to bring canned goods to the DeKalb Community Cabinet breakfast on Saturday, Dec. 7, 9 to 11 a.m., at Chapel Hill Middle School, d at 3535 Dogwood Farms Road, Decatur. There is no charge for the community breakfast and RSVP is not required.

Guest speakers at the December breakfast include the DeKalb County Public Works Department on Fats, Oils and Grease, and the Georgia Department of Transportation. A special recognition and reward presentation will be given by the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity to selected DeKalb County High School seniors who have achieved and maintained exceptional grade point averages amidst overcoming adversity. For more information about the meeting or canned food drive, call 404-371-3681.

YMCA Academies of South DeKalb earns quality rating

The YMCA Academies of South DeKalb and Lithonia/Snapfinger were recently recognized during the Georgia Association for Young Children’s annual banquet for being one of the first preschools in the state to achieve the new Quality Rating System. Gov. Nathan Deal also recognized the Y and other programs at the state Capitol.

Under the system, educational learning programs are evaluated in five broad-based categories that go above and beyond licensing requirements.

In addition to the Quality Rating System, both Y locations have been NAEYC accredited since 2005. The rating signifies high-level quality early learning for students.

The Academies are led by Executive Director Tamra Sheppard, Senior Director Donna Brown, Program Director Celeste Phoenix, PCA Head Start Director-Victrecia Hines, support staff and more than 85 qualified teachers.

For information on the Snapfinger location, call 770-987-4666. For information on the Lithonia location, call 770-484-1625.

Stan Watson


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families from throughout metro Atlanta, has already received a positive response, said Preston Slaten, who is handling marketing for the company. People have been steadily booking reservations for children’s birthday parties and calling to inquire about the center’s attractions.

“We’re excited about the new center,” said Slaten. “We think it’s going to draw a lot nicer businesses to the shopping plaza, and it will provide jobs and help us in terms of the tax base.”

Slaten said residents in the nearby Water’s Edge community and other subdivisions have long-awaited a quality anchor for the plaza.

“It’s been a dead center for 10 years. All of the businesses that initially drew my family here have dried up,” Slaten said. “We believe that Kidz@play is going to be a boon to the area.”

Lee said the indoor play center will have security during operating hours and about a dozen employees have been hired.

Kidz@Play is open Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Adults must be accompanied by a child in order to be admitted. 770-837-2823.

“The Nov. 25 ruling provides an added layer of security for students, parents, homeowners and business leaders all across Georgia,” Gov. Deal said in a released statement. “We’ve seen dramatic improvements in school governance after the state stepped in.”

In the 47-page ruling, the justices on the state’s highest court used the phrase “We are un-persuaded” several times throughout their opinion.

The justices also stated in its ruling: “Few things are more important than the education of our children. As the people of Georgia seek to improve Georgia’s educational system, this court must be mindful of the broad discretion granted by the constitution to local school boards to manage and control local school systems.”

Jesse Cunningham says he will continue to fight for the people of DeKalb and the issues facing the county’s schools.

“I wasn’t surprised about the Supreme Court’s decision. I feel throughout this whole process, politics has been overriding law,” said Cunningham. “We teach our kids to follow the constitution, but we as adults won’t follow it? ”

Present DeKalb School Board Chairman Melvin Johnson said the ruling means closure for DeKalb students and families.

“This decision means that there will be closure now. Everyone can look ahead now,” said Johnson. “Everyone can move forward now. This board can move forward and the citizens can move forward.”

Georgia is one of 25 states that opted out of the federally-funded expanded Medicaid coverage after the U.S. Supreme Court in June 2012 gave individual states the power to expand Medicaid.

Deal’s rejection also means that some public hospitals such as Atlanta’s Grady Memorial Hospital will forfeit millions of dollars in federal reimbursements for treating uninsured patients. Grady, Georgia’s largest hospital, serves about 600,000 patients a year and provides medical care to more uninsured patients than any hospital in the state.

Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said during a recent conference call with White House officials that Grady could lose up to $100 million each year in subsidies to help operate the hospital if Georgia doesn’t expand the program.

Reed said he plans to present a financial plan to the governor to try and get him to reconsider the idea of expanding Medicaid. Deal, however, has been adamant about rejecting the expansion, saying expanding Medicaid does not fit in with the state’s overall budget.

Meanwhile, the Affordable Care Act’s web site, which people have been trying to access, continues to experience glitches. Problems with the web site have delayed people from enrolling in the program. The White House announced recently that the deadline was being extended from Dec. 15 to Dec. 23 for people to sign up for the healthcare plans and begin receiving coverage on Jan. 1.

Victory’s Dr. Kenneth Samuel makes appeal to the community. Watch video online: www.churchesnow.com

Ruling offers ‘closure’ continued from page 1

Medicaid expansion would help poor continued from page 1

Kidz@Play gives former grocery store new lease on life continued from page 3


DECEmBEr 1, 2013

David T. Manuel Executive Director

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

As in past years, Santa will get a lot of help this holiday season, thanks to DeKalb

County Commissioner Larry Johnson. The commissioner’s annual “Tree of Love” raises toys and gifts for disadvantaged children. Johnson hopes to put smiles on the faces of 500 kids this year.

“This is what the holiday season is all about. Some of these children whose names are on the tree are in the care of DeKalb County Department of Family and Children Services through no fault of their own,” said Johnson, who has hosted the event 14 years at the Gallery of South DeKalb. “These children are from families with parents who may be incarcerated and there’s no family to take them in or children who may have been removed from the home due to abuse.”

On Nov. 16, Johnson hosted a kickoff for the Tree of Love campaign to encourage Good Samaritans to drop by the mall to select children’s names and purchase toys, clothes and other gifts for them.

Joining in helping the commissioner kick off the event were the varsity cheerleaders from Columbia High School and DJ Bobby French. Pastor Earl Caruthers of Christ the Lord Church and Pastor Daryl Roberts of Mount Welcome Baptist Church also pitched in. Interim DeKalb CEO Lee May and former Clayton County Chair Eldrin Bell came out to show support as well.

“The Watch My Feet Line Dancers, and Bobby French DJ Extraordinaire, entertained the crowd with their awesome footwork. We had a blast at the kick ff. If you were not there, you really missed it,” said Johnson. “But we still need your help. This is a great opportunity to give back to the community and help someone in need.”

Wrapped gifts are due back on Dec. 14, when the annual Tree of Love Christmas program takes place at the mall from 12 – 2 p.m. Since its launch, the Tree of Love has benefited more than 7,000 children. The DeKalb Department of Family and Children Services identify needy children for the program.

This year, children are asking for winter coats, shoes, socks and toys. You can get a child’s name and their wish list by sending your request to [email protected] or call 404-371-2425. The Gallery of South DeKallb is located at 2801 Candler Road, Decatur.

Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center to host first Festival of Trees

Red cedar at Conyers horse park plucked for Governor’s Christmas tree

By Joshua Smith

David T. Manuel has a newfound love: his surroundings at the Porter

Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center because now everyday feels like Christmas. The center’s lobby is decorated with lovely Christmas trees. The Christmas pines are a part of The Festival of Trees, a first for the South DeKalb center.

The festival runs Nov. 30 through Dec. 22 and is free of charge. Manuel, the center’s executive director, says he is happy to bring an Atlanta tradition to DeKalb.

“I’m really excited because I’ve been to so many festival of trees in Atlanta, it feels good to have one here in our community for DeKalb,” Manuel said. “This is a great way to bring awareness to our programs and serve as a way to bring the community together to have a place they can come to celebrate and fellowship during the holidays. We will always have great singers and dancers here, but now we have

the opportunity to show off some great trees, too.”The community center’s Festival of Trees is the

brainchild of Anja Williams, managing director of the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center. Home Depot donated the trees and local businesses each paid $50 to decorate a tree for a good cause.

“The money raised from the trees will go to underprivileged children who want to attend the center’s programs,” said Williams. “After the trees leave the center, they will be donated to foster home families who are in need of a Christmas tree.”

Yvonne Gunter, a Decatur floral design artist, loved the idea and signed up to sponsor one of the trees. Her daughter, Ebony Reed, and 12-year-old granddaughter, Leah Goodman, helped her decorate their tree.

“I felt this was a great event to get involved in. We just love Christmas trees and this is a way to show my daughter and granddaughter the importance of giving back to the community,” said Gunter, who decorated their tree with silver and white ornaments. “This festival is a great way for my family to show

our creativity.”At the festival’s Nov. 30 kickoff, attendees can enjoy

holiday refreshments, hear inspirational poems from Hank Stewart and other local poets, visit a kid’s zone with family activities and even meet Santa. Attendees also can pick up some workout tips from choreographer “Stepp Stewart” of the televised Dr. Oz Show.

The kickoff also will include performances by the Lou Walker Senior Center’s chorus; the Martin Luther King High School jazz band; Sera Hill of NBC’s “The Voice;” and a short performance from the cast of “A Soulful Christmas,” an African American musical about two children on Christmas Eve that will be staged at the Porter Sanford Center.

DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson, District 3, also is getting in on the center’s holiday fun, hosting his sixth annual community tree lighting during the festival.

The Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center is located at 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. The Nov. 30 Festival of Trees kickoff will begin at 7 p.m.

A 40-foot red cedar from the city of Conyers-owned Georgia International Horse Park will grace the lawn of the Governor’s Mansion this holiday season. Representatives of the Georgia Building Authority selected the cedar to serve as the Christmas tree on the lawn of the Georgia Governor’s Mansion. Representatives approached the park about cutting the tree down in early November. The tree was cut down the morning of Nov. 25 and transported to the mansion where it will be decorated for the “Christmas at the Mansion” lighting ceremony on Dec. 8. Between 40,000 and 50,000 lights will adorn the tree and following its use during the holiday

season, the tree will be taken down the week after Christmas and recycled by Home Depot. In a gesture of goodwill for use of the tree, the Georgia Building Authority will grind the stump of the cedar and plant three trees in its place. “We are thrilled that a tree from the Georgia International Horse Park was chosen for the governor’s Christmas tree,” said Director of the Georgia International Horse Park Jennifer Bexley. “Of all the trees in Northeast Georgia that could have been selected, it’s an honor that this tree came from Conyers and our world-class facility.”

Showing the Holiday Spirit

Tree of Love hopes to bring holiday joy to 500 children

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News


DeKalb County staff members and volunteers joined forces on Nov. 23 to set up more than a dozen trees for the Porter Sanford II Performing Arts & Community Center’s first Festival of Trees.

Yvonne Gunter says her family are true Christmas tree enthusiasts. The floral expert, who has two Christmas trees at home, jumped at the chance to be a part of the center’s Festival of Trees.



Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

While RCCA Board of Directors Siddiya Swift and Susan Cannon direct cars and volunteers, hundreds of thankful families filled three parking lots at the Government Annex Building in Conyers waiting to receive pounds of food for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Hundreds flock to Rockdale for holiday help

By Joshua Smith

More than 300 people received bags of free food and other items from the Resource Center for Community Action’s (RCCA) Mobile Food Pantry on Nov. 22 in Conyers.

“This was a life saver for us. I really appreciate that nobody judges you here. Everybody is nice and treats you with respect,” said Jarvis McCollyn, who was at the pantry picking up food for himself and his uncle, who is disabled. “This group is really doing their best to fill a growing need in the community. They don’t do it for fame or money, they really care.”

Families in need received several items such as turkeys, chicken, dressing, sodas, juices, cereal, canned goods, fruit and even cleaning supplies. Raffles were also held for patio sets and attendees had their pick of coats and other clothing items from the RCCA clothing pantry. The Home Depot and local grocery stores donated most of the items. U-Haul donated a truck to haul all the goods.

“Helping people is my passion. With the present economy, under employment and food stamps being lowered; it’s really a dream come true for me to help people like this. Especially during the holiday season,” said RCCA founder Siddiya Swift. “Thousands of people have been helped so far. People come from Rockdale, Newton, DeKalb, Monroe, McDonough and Oxford and pretty much whoever else needs help. The need is great and we want to help anyone we can.”

Along with the food pantry and clothes closet, the center also provides emergency financial assistance, employment services through “Linked-in,” community entrepreneur building, life coaching and life skills training, as well as referrals for employment, education and housing.

For more information on how to help or if you are in need, call 770-760-1346.


DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson started an assembly line that included himself at a free turkey giveaway he held at Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church, 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur.

Watson was joined by the basketball coaches and captains of Miller Grove and Tucker high schools, along with deacons and other church members who pitched in at the Nov. 24 event.

Even though it was chilly outside, the weather had little effect on Watson and the volunteers as they unloaded the frozen birds. In fact, some worked up a sweat as they organized the birds to give away.

Watson said he had issued vouchers to several local churches and community groups with seniors and families who needed help, but promised to get turkeys for those who came out but did not have a voucher.

“Please don’t blame the church, if you don’t get a turkey today,” Watson said. “The church is just allowing me to use the facility as a distribution point. But I promise I will do everything that I can to help those of you who do not have a voucher.”

Watson teamed up with Atlanta Hawks Jeff Teague and Paul Millsap, Grand Hustle Management, Inc., and the August Agency to donate the 200 turkeys to DeKalb seniors and families in need.

Stan Watson serves 200 at turkey giveaway

The spirit of spreading holiday cheer was evident on Nov. 23 in South DeKalb when the county’s

Women In NAACP and DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson joined forces to host a free turkey giveaway in Decatur to help needy families enjoy Thanksgiving.

“The need is so great and this is just a small scale effort put together by the Women In NAACP. I was happy to help out with donations and be a part of this event,” said Johnson.

The group provided help to 427 families in the parking lot of The Gallery at South DeKalb mall. Although the turkey giveaway did not officially kick off until noon, people began lining up at 6 a.m.

“With so many people finding it

hard to make ends meet and feed their families, we wanted to be a blessing,” said Angela Patrick, who organized the event.

Food Depot, Big Bear, DeKalb Market, Wayfield Foods and the DeKalb County Superior Court donated the turkeys. Radio Station 94.5 FM was on site with a live remote broadcast at the event as well.

Joining in the act of spreading holiday cheer at the event included DeKalb County NAACP President John Evans, members of Commissioner Johnson’s staff, community groups HUGLIFE and Street Execs, hip hop group Travis Porter and DeKalb County Clerk of Superior Court, Debra DeBerry.

Larry Johnson, NAACP team up for turkey give away

Showing the Holiday Spirit

DECEmBEr 1, 2013

To coNTAcT usBy PHONE: 678-526-1910By FAx: 678-526-1909By E-mAIl: [email protected] ONlINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COm

Business News

NFP sets “Shakers and Stirrers” for relaxed networking Networking For Professionals will host “Shakers and Stirrers” on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6 – 8 p.m., at Twisted Taco,

4505 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta. Attendees can make quality business connections and mingle with other business professionals. The next day,

NFP will email you the list of confirmed attendees to help you follow up with your new contacts. Only those who sign up in advance online will receive the list of attendees.

Simmy Ahluwalia, a social media expert who has his own social-networking company called Atlanta Social Events, will host the networking event. He has planned, organized and hosted hundreds of social events around Metro Atlanta. Ahluwalia will share tips on social and mobile media, and how to stay on top of the latest marketing technologies.

Participants can enjoy complimentary appetizers and drink specials at a cash bar. The cost to attend is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. If you register in advance, you can bring a friend for free. For more information or to register, visit www.networkingforprofessionals.com or call 1-800-732-1637.

Conyers Chamber gives crash course on Health Care ReformThe Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce will host “Health Care Reform University,” on Tuesday, Dec. 10,

7:45 a.m. – 12 p.m., at Rockdale Medical Center, 1412 Milstead Ave., N.E. Conyers. Organizers say if you are looking for clarity in the midst of all the confusion surrounding the complex world

of Health Care Reform, the “Health Care Reform University” may be for you. Co-sponsored by Rockdale Medical Center and the Chamber, HCRU is a four-hour, in-depth training program designed to help businesses understand the details of the law, the impact of the law’s provisions on employers and employees. HCRU will also address a number of compliance issues as you close 2013 and move into 2014.

Tony L. Wilson, of the NUVISION Financial Corporation, will facilitate the session. Wilson has nearly 20 years of experience with the insurance industry, working with groups of all sizes in employee benefits design, implementation and administration. Wilson is a certified Federally Facilitated Marketplace broker and can assist individuals and businesses with the Exchange.

The cost to attend is $25. Participants meet in the hospital’s East Tower Classroom Number Two. 770-483-7049.

Gwinnett Chamber welcomes Sen. David ShaferThe Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce will host a legislative preview with guest speaker State Sen. David Shafer

on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., at Sonesta at Gwinnett Place, 1175 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth. This annual event provides attendees with the opportunity to gain insight into the legislative calendar and

to network with Gwinnett’s legislators. Georgia State Senator and President Pro Tempore David Shafer will be discussing the upcoming session and what he sees on the horizon for 2014 at the event.

Shafer was first elected to the Georgia State Senate in 2002. He represents Senate District 48, which includes portions of Fulton and Gwinnett counties. Previously, Shafer served as chairman of the Regulated Industries and Utilities Committee and as an Administrative Floor Leader for Gov. Sonny Perdue.

Participants will meet in the downstairs ballroom. The cost to attend is $55. For more information or to register, call 678-957-4958

BBA welcomes Gas South CEOThe Buckhead Business Association will host a business networking breakfast on Thursday, Dec. 12, 7:30 a.m., at

the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, N.E., Suite 1850, Atlanta.This month the BBA welcomes Kevin Greiner, President and CEO of Gas South, an Atlanta-based natural

gas provider serving more than 250,000 residential, business, and governmental customers throughout the state of Georgia.

The cost to attend is $20. Price includes breakfast and validated parking. For more information or to register, call Jenn Thomas at 404-467-7607.

CAU receives $206,500 grant from Chevron ATLANTA–The Chevron Corp. has awarded

Clark Atlanta University (CAU) a $206,500 grant to provide scholarships and support for CAU business and engineering students. The grant marks the second Chevron has awarded the university over the last year.

“Our relationship with Chevron is significant on many fronts, and we are grateful for the opportunity to invite Chevron executives to campus to have a personal exchange with the students who are the benefactors of such good corporate citizenship,” said Henry W. Taylor, CAU’s vice president for Institutional Advancement and University Relations.

Taylor announced the grant during a luncheon and reminded students that there are people who are making sacrifices for them to ensure a future filled with possibilities, and the importance of giving back when they are in a position to do so.

Joe Laymon, Chevron’s vice president of Human Resources, Medical and Security, said Chevron hopes to mine CAU for future employees. “If there is a degree offered here at Clark Atlanta University, more than likely Chevron will hire in that discipline. From engineering, supply chain management, marketing, security and much more, the skills that students are learning at CAU can successfully translate to the corporate arena,” said Laymon, who sits on CAU’’s board of director. Selected CAU students participated in the luncheon and gave their reflections about their matriculation. KeAndra Goodman, a dual degree engineering student in the class of 2017, said that she initially had no plans to attend a Historically Black College or University, but after visiting CAU, she realized “this is where I could inherit my culture and make a difference.” MBA student Keith Edmonds, class of 2014, said he chose Clark Atlanta for its geographic location,

proximity to some of the largest corporations, and from the advice of his family. Edmonds serves as graduate president of the Student Government Association and was a championship team member in the recent National Black MBA/Chrysler Case Competition.

Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies, with subsidiaries that conduct business worldwide. The company’s success is driven by the ingenuity and commitment of its employees and their application of the most innovative technologies in the world. Chevron is involved in virtually every facet of the energy industry. The company explores for, produces and transports crude oil and natural gas; refines, markets and distributes transportation fuels and other energy products; manufactures and sells petrochemical products; generates power and produces geothermal energy; provides energy efficiency solutions; and develops the energy resources of the future, including biofuels. Chevron is based in San Ramon, CA. More information about Chevron is available at www.chevron.com.

MARTA welcomes new board member

Freda Hardage, a registered nurse and longtime medical executive, has been appointed to serve on the MARTA Board of Directors representing Fulton County. Following the recent resignation of Board member Adam Orkin, the Fulton County Commission selected ardage to complete the remainder of his four-year term, which expires December 31, 2014.

Hardage currently serves as the director of Northside Hospital’s Alpharetta Medical Campus and Foundation Services for all of its campuses. She is director of the Alpharetta Medical Campus and Foundation Services

The North Fulton resident is also the 2014 incoming Chairman for the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, is a member The Windward Rotary Club, serves on the Local School Advisory Council for State Bridge Crossing Elementary and is President Emeritus for The Drake House, an emergency housing facility for homeless mothers.

Hardage will be one of the three Fulton County representatives on the MARTA Board of Directors, a 12-member body that sets policy for the transit agency.

Moody’s improves DeKalb’s credit rating

DECATUR –Moody’s Investor Services has improved DeKalb County’s general obligation (GO) debt. Moody’s reaffirmed the Aa3 rating to DeKalb’s GO bonds, and improved the outlook for DeKalb County from “negative” to “stable.” The new rating means DeKalb taxpayers will save in interest charges. “DeKalb County has maintained a prudent reserve, reduced staff and cut expenses,” said Interim CEO Lee May. “DeKalb is serious about fiscal responsibility and we will continue to budget responsibly while meeting the needs of our residents.”

Lee, Interim Presiding Officer Sharon Barnes Sutton, and Commissioner Larry Johnson, who oversees the Board of Commissioners’ Finance, Audit and Budget Committee recently traveled to New York to meet with Moody’s representatives regarding DeKalb’s credit rating. “The important thing is the taxpayers of DeKalb will save a lot of money in interest charges due to the change in Moody’s rating,” said Barnes Sutton. Said Johnson: “The upgrade from Moody’s is the payoff of responsible budgeting during some very harsh global economic realities. DeKalb has proven that it is worth the opportunity over the long term,” said Johnson. Moody’s summarizes its decision in its report:

“The stable outlook acknowledges the county’s improved financial position, which is projected to remain below formal targeted levels through fiscal 2016, and reflects Moody’s expectation that the county’s financial position will continue to improve … The outlook also reflects the recent stabilization in the tax base following several years of declines,” according to the report. Moody’s also said “… the outlook acknowledges the revenue enhancements, expenditure reductions and improved transparency practices implemented by the county in efforts to regain structural balance and meet stated reserve targets.” Simultaneously, Moody’s reaffirmed its previous credit rating for DeKalb’s water and sewer revenue refunding bonds as Aa3, outlook stable.

Freda Hardage

Lee May

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These 22 Rockdale teachers were named as their school’s Teacher of the Year:

Steven Havick, Salem High School; Meghan Bozaich, C.J. Hicks Elementary; Berit Pitchford, Open Campus; Barbara Mitchell, Davis Middle School; Tiffany McLymore, Rockdale Magnet School; Pam Akin, Honey Creek Elementary; Kenneth Tucker, Rockdale County High. Shown standing are: Steve Johnson, Alpha Academy; April Roberts, Edwards Middle School; Cherelle Jones, Pine Street Elementary; Samantha Swaney, Heritage High School; Laura Bashaw, Shoal Creek Elementary; Christy Dye, Barksdale Elementary; Chris Mays, Rockdale Career Academy; Kim Manget, Hightower Trail Elementary; Carol Hardy, Lorraine Elementary; Pauline Joseph, Peek’s Chapel Elementary; Natalia Dinsmoor, Flat Shoals Elementary; Tommie Morgan, J.H. House Elementary; Nicka Grimes, Conyers Middle School; Kim Mathis, Memorial Middle School; and Hillary Simpson, Sims Elementary School.

By Joshua Smith

When Kim Manget went to school, girls were required to wear dresses to class, schools were segregated, you could be disciplined with

rulers, and carbon paper was used to make copies. “Now, we are in a much different time. I bet there are

a limited few at my school that even know what carbon paper is. Now everything is done with iPad technology, and my 4-year-old grand-daughter does a great job of teaching me how to use it,” said Kim Manget, a math teacher at Hightower Trail Elementary School in Rockdale County. “However, the importance that a particular curriculum or technology has on learning pales in comparison to the importance of having a teacher who promotes confidence in learning and develops supportive student relationships.”

At a Nov. 18 ceremony, Manget was named Rockdale County School’s Teacher of the Year, beating out two other finalists: Samantha Swaney of Heritage High School, and April Roberts, who teaches at Edwards Middle School. Magnet has been teaching in Rockdale for 26 years. This was her first time winning the award.

Now with the title of Rockdale’s best teacher under her belt, Manget goes on to compete for the title of Georgia’s Teacher of the Year. She will complete applications for the title and once again go before judges through interviews and video evaluations to explain her passion for the job. The 2015 Georgia Teacher of the Year will be announced at the state banquet in Atlanta in May.

If she goes on to win, Manget will be recognized by the Georgia House and Senate during the General Assembly. She also will be able to take a year off from the Conyers school to work directly with the Georgia Department of Education serving as an educational ambassador for the state system to speak to groups across the state. The winner also will conduct staff development activities for other teachers in his or her area of expertise; serve on statewide committees, as well as attend and participate in numerous state conferences.

“I am overwhelmed and I’m honored by all this. I humbly accept Rockdale’s award on behalf of all the

great educators that have so richly influenced my life both as a student and as a teacher,” said Manget, who thanked her three children; her mother; and her husband, John, of more than 33 years for helping her throughout her career. “It is not easy being married to an elementary school teacher. I can remember sending my husband out

one night with a flashlight to walk down the street to get pieces of wood from a scrap pile for a geometry project the next day and we’ll never forget the surprise he got when he grabbed an open container of potato salad out of the refrigerator, only to discover it was filled with red wiggly worms for a science project. ”

Rockdale Superintendent Richard Autry says he knows Manget will represent the county well.

“As Rockdale Teacher of the Year, Mrs. Manget represents a select group of people who represent excellence in teaching. Being a teacher allows you to make a difference. As a teacher, Mrs. Manget has the distinct privilege of empowering students to shape their own futures,” said Autry. “During this season of giving thanks, it’s only fitting to say thank you to teachers like Mrs. Manget, as well as all of the county’s teachers who work tirelessly to shape the minds and characters of our young people.”

Rockdale’s Teacher of the Year, Kim Manget, first joined 22 teachers in September when one teacher at each Rockdale school was selected as Teacher of the Year for his or her school by their school’s staff. After that phase, teachers went on to complete a comprehensive application process in which they answered questions related to their teaching philosophy and their reasons for deciding to become educators. The applications were reviewed and scored by a panel of three judges who then selected the three finalists from the group of 22. The finalists were named in early October.

At the Nov. 18 ceremony, Manget received her official award certificate as Rockdale’s Teacher of the Year. Manget also received a gift package from the Board of Education with body care products and other goodies such as a stress ball and picture frame, a $500 Kroger gift card, a Quiktrip gas card and a dessert gift bag. Manget was also presented with a paid three-day and two-night stay at the King and Prince Resort on St. Simon’s Island. At the conclusion of the ceremony Rockdale County CEO Richard Oden, presented Magnet with a Teacher of the Year proclamation, making Nov. 18, 2103, “Kim Magnet Day.”

Rockdale’s Teacher of the Year ready for state competition

Photo by Joshua SMith/OCG News

Rockdale County’s Teacher of the Year Kim Manget beat out 21 other talented teachers to gain the title. Manget has been teaching in the county’s public school system for 26 years.

DECEmBEr 1, 2013


We Worship Faith-Based news & InspirationFor more church news, visit

ChurchesNow.com

Lifting Up Praises at Bald Rock BaptistCONYERS—Bald Rock Baptist Church, Senior Pastor Christopher Shipp and First

Lady Valerie Shipp recently welcomed the community to a spirit-filled gospel concert to celebrate the holiday season.

Ten choirs from churches in Rockdale and Newton counties lifted up their voices during the Feb. 23 evening of praise and worship. The concert was free for all to attend. The special offering that was raised during the concert provided holiday food baskets for those in need.

“Every year we give out baskts for the holidays to help those in need. We receive referrals from DFACS, church members and others. We try to help as many as we possibly can,” said Pastor Shipp.

Bald Rock is located at 2284 Old Covington Road.

By Joshua Smith

Hundreds of volunteers fed nearly 1,000 homeless people at New

Life Church’s tenth annual Thanksgiving Fellowship Dinner in Decatur.

“You know when I first became homeless, I had this idea of men with bad teeth and long scruffy beards but as I found out, we are all one job loss away from homelessness,” said Patricia Adams, who has been homeless for about two years now. “I stand here today as the new face of homelessness and thank a church like this for being a real blessing for us. We can come here knowing that we will be loved with food, clothing, beauty and other critically needed services.”

At the dinner, those in need enjoyed a home-cooked meal with all the trimmings including turkey and gravy, rice, dressing, cranberry sauce, candied yams,

collard greens, pound cake and lemonade.

Church members not only rolled up their sleeves and prepared the food, they raised money and donations for the dinner as they have done every year since 2003.

“We truly believe that if Jesus Christ was still here on the earth, at this moment, he would be doing this. How can we be a Christian church, if we are not doing work that is Christ like?” said New Life Pastor Marlin D. Harris. “Our church hosts this event annually, knowing that we are all just one bad decision away from being in their shoes.”

At the annual fellowship dinner, attendees just didn’t get their bellies full. Spiritual food was provided too, through praise and worship, scripture readings, testimonies, a short sermon by the Rev. Davetta Thomas, inspirational poems and prayer.

Pastor Harris said the church

doesn’t just help the homeless at Thanksgiving, but every week with necessities including free haircuts for men and hair services for women, counseling, food, clothing and spiritual guidance.

“We provide services like this to the homeless community every Friday night and Saturday. But today is very special to our ministry. For many, especially the homeless community, the holidays can be the worst time of the year. They see everyone celebrating, while they are alienated for whatever reason,” said Pastor Harris. “A lot of our homeless brothers and sisters consider this their home and although we can’t provide shelter, what better place to have Thanksgiving dinner than at home?”

New Life Church is located at 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur and holds service on Sunday mornings at 8 and 11 a.m.

‘New Faces of Homelessness’

New Life blesses the masses with food and hope

Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News


Nearly 1,000 people were fed, both physically and spiritually, at New Life Church’s 10th annual Thanksgiving Fellowship dinner on Nov. 23 in Decatur. Not only did participants enjoy a holiday dinner with all the trimmings, they were also given the chance to get on the right path spiritually through praise and worship, a sermon and heart-filled testimonies.


cAleNDAr

St. Paul AME to present Christmas cantata

St Paul AME Worship Center, 1704 Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road, Lithonia will present the Lou Walker Performing Arts Group in “The Night the Angels Sang” on Friday, Dec. 6, 7 p.m.

The Christmas cantata will feature an evening of drama, dance, poetry and musical arrangements and narratives by Gwendolyn F. Thomas.

Donations are $15 per person. Tickets are available by calling 770-482-4361 or 404-409-9159. The cantata will benefit programs at St. Paul AME and DeKalb For Seniors, Inc.

Columbia Presbyterian Church celebrates Advent Columbia Presbyterian Church, 711 Columbia Drive, Decatur, is celebrating

its Annual Advent Festival on Sunday, Dec. 8, 4 p.m. Gingerbread houses and holiday decorations will take center stage in the

church’s Hazelwood Hall for the festival. In addition to the 10 craft tables, the two-hour festival ushers in the Advent Season with fellowship, song, food and worship.

The festival wraps up with a soup and sandwich buffet followed by worship in the sanctuary. After the worship service, members will go outside with candles to sing a wide selection of Advent and Christmas carols.

The festival is open to the public. The church will also host an Advent worship and music service on Sunday, Dec. 22, 11 a.m. and Christmas Eve worship on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 6 p.m.

Love Life Christian fellowship presents Christmas praise recitalThe Essence of Grace Ministry at Love Life Christian Fellowship Church will

present “Don’t Forget Jesus,” an enchanting Christmas story, dance and praise recital on Saturday, De. 7, 5 p.m. The recital will be held at New Life Baptist Church, 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur.

The community is invited to the spirit-filled, festive recital to celebrate this holiday season. 404-241-1499 or 770-256-4337.

Elizabeth Baptist Church prepares for Angel Tree project Elizabeth Baptist Church, 4245 Cascade Road, S.W., Atlanta, is gearing up for

its Angel Tree Project presentation for needy families this holiday season. The church has been collecting toys for needy families through “Angel Cards”

since Nov. 30. If you would like to donate gifts, the deadline is Wednesday, Dec. 11. If

you and your family are in need of assistance this Christmas, call the church’s Compassion In Action Ministry at 404-696-2076 and leave a message. The application deadline for needy families is Wednesday, Dec. 4.

Beulah’s M.A.D.D. presents “Heaven’s Gift”Beulah Missionary Baptist Church’s Music Arts Dance and Drama ministry

(M.A.D.D.) will present “Heaven’s Gift” on Friday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m., in the church’s family life center, 2340 Clifton Springs Road, Decatur.

Heaven’s spiritual hosts will be featured in rare form through the voice of God, the presence of Michael, Gabriel and angels and the birth of Jesus Christ.” 404-241-3307.

Antioch-Lithonia plans trip to “Magical Nights of Lights” The Antioch-Lithonia Women’s Ministry is planning a trip to the “Magical

Nights of Lights” at Lake Lanier Islands on Saturday, Dec. 14. This holiday event includes a drive-through twinkling lights tour, live nativity

scene, the “12 days of Christmas light display” and more.The cost per couple is $23. The event is on a first-come, first-served basis. The

bus has limited seating and seats may go quickly. The bus will depart from the church for Lake Lanier at 3 p.m.

The women’s ministry will stop for dinner at Golden Corral before the trip (this cost is not included in trip payment).

Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church is located at 2152 Rock Chapel Road, Lithonia.

For more information or to sign up, call Almarene Hardeman at 770-929-1935 or Rebecca McCullum 678-651-5603.

First Baptist of Decatur to remember Newtown tragedy First Baptist Church of Decatur, 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur, will host

a candlelight vigil for the grieving families of the Newtown, CT tragedy on Saturday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m.

Held on the church’s front lawn, the program is hosted by the church for the community to gather and remember and pray in support of the families in Newtown during this holiday season.

On Dec. 14, 2012, 20-year-old Adam Lanza fatally shot 20 school children and six adult staff members in a mass murder at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Connecticut. As first responders arrived, he committed suicide by shooting himself in the head.

The shooting was the second deadliest mass shooting by a single person in American history, after the 2007 Virginia Tech massacre, and the second deadliest mass murder at a U.S. elementary school, after the 1927 Bath School bombings in Michigan. 404-373-1653.

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Health & Wellness

Check out the Fall 2013 Edition

Gwinnett Medical offers smoking cessation class Gwinnett Medical Center, 1000 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville, will

offer the “Freshstart” smoking cessation class on Mondays, Dec. 2 – 23, 6:30 p.m. “Freshstart” is a four-week smoking cessation class written by the American

Cancer Society. Participants learn about the benefits of quitting, strategies for quitting and formulate a personal quit plan.

A set quit date is encouraged while the class is meeting to get the benefit of the group’s support. A certificate of completion, for insurance purposes, is given after all four classes are completed.

Registration is required. For more information or to register, call 678-312-1000.

DeKalb Medical talks heart health DeKalb Medical Center’s Hillandale campus, 2801

DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia, will host a doctor’s talk on Tuesday, Dec. 3, 6 – 7 p.m.

Members of the community are invited to join Kristi Kinsey-Gotier, M.D., an internal medicine specialist, as she discusses the relationship between vascular disease and heart health.

Each person attending will receive a coupon for a free vascular screening that is valued at $149. Admission is free. Participants meet in the hospital’s community room.

For more information or to register, call 404-501-WELL (9355).

Emory Healthcare hosts support group for women Emory Healthcare, 1525 Clifton Road, Atlanta, will host a support group for

women dealing with present and previous heart conditions on Monday, Dec. 9, 12 – 1:15 p.m.

“WomenHeart of Atlanta,” offers vital social support through friends helping with recovery and giving tips about living with a heart condition, such as heart disease.

Trained, patient volunteers who have suffered similar conditions, lead the support group. The group discusses coping skills and other topics such as stress management, exercise, nutrition, family and work concerns.

Participants meet in the hospital’s fifth floor conference room. For more information or to register, call 404-778-7777 or 1-800-75-EMORY

Gwinnett library talks healthcare marketplace Gwinnett County Public Library’s Five Forks branch, 2780 Five Forks

Trickum Road, Lawrenceville, will host a public discussion on the healthcare marketplace on Wednesday, Dec. 11, 12 – 4 p.m.

Attendees can speak with a trained Affordable Healthcare Act navigator from Mental Health America of Georgia.

For more information about the Healthcare Marketplace or the navigators, call Lauren Callahan at 678-904-1967.

Snellville sets community blood drive The city of Snellville will host a Red Cross community blood drive on Friday,

Dec. 13, 1:30 – 6:30 p.m., at City Hall, 2342 Oak Road, SnellvillleThe types of donations being taken are blood, platelets, double red cells

and blood plasma. Donors get free refreshments. To learn more or to register, visit www.redcross.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Survivors invited to celebrate holidays with gingerbreadThe Piedmont Healthcare Cancer Center, 1800 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta, is

welcoming cancer survivors who are mothers to bring their children to the center for a gingerbread house decorating event on Sunday, Dec. 15, 2 – 4 p.m.

With the assistance of Stacy Maples, chef and food stylist, each mother and their child/children will share their vision of what a perfect gingerbread house should look like. No experience required. All materials provided. Registration is required. To register, call 404-425-7944.

World AIDS DayThe DeKalb County Board of Health will observe

World AIDS Day 2013 with a series of educational and testing events.

The series’ theme is “Getting to zero: zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths.” World AIDS Day is Sunday, Dec. 1.

HIV/AIDS continues to be a major public health concern in DeKalb County. In fact, the county is second only to Fulton County in the rate of persons living with HIV/AIDS among Georgia’s health districts. DeKalb residents are still becoming HIV-infected and developing AIDS.

The Board of Health’s World AIDS Day events are:§Monday, Dec. 2, 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.: Free 20-minute HIV testing and safe sex kit

giveaway at Scores Sports Bar and Video, 2425 Wesley Chapel Rd., Decatur.§Thursday, Dec. 5, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.: Free 20-minute HIV testing at Vinson Health

Center, 440 Winn Way, Decatur.§Saturday, Dec. 7, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.: Free 20-minute HIV testing and safe sex kit

give-away at The Gallery at South DeKalb Mall, 2801 Candler Rd., Decatur. For more information on these events, contact Michelle Carter, public health educator, DeKalb County Board of Health, at [email protected] or 404-270-2429.

cAleNDAr

Kristi Kinsey-Gotier, M.D.

Sunday, Dec. 1

Free HIV Testing, 9:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.; Candlelight Vigil, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.Saint Mark United Methodist Church,781 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta

Candlelight Service, 6 to 8 p.m.New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, Chapel,6400 Woodrow Road, Lithonia

Monday, Dec. 2

Free HIV Testing, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.AID Atlanta Offices, 1605 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta.Special incentives provided for the first 25 people who bring 2 people with them.

Free HIV Testing, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.Atlanta City Hall, 55 Trinity Avenue, SW, Atlanta*Special incentives provided

for the first 25 people who bring 2 people with them.

Lunch and Learn, Noon– 1 p.m. “HIV Update: A Reality Check”AID Atlanta Offices, 1605 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta*RSVP to Jenetter Lee, 404-870-7784 or via email :[email protected] by Nov. 26.

HIV and syphilis testing, 11 to 2 p.m.Fulton County will offer health education and free testing at the Aldredge Health Center, 99 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive, SE, Atlanta.

Community engagement session, 6 to 8 p.m.Discussion on how we can get to zero HIV/AIDS cases. Assembly Hall at Ebenezer Baptist Church, 101 Jackson Street, Atlanta.

Tuesday, Dec. 3

Uand2 Free HIV Testing, Noon – 7 p.m.AID Atlanta, 1605 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta *Special incentives provided for the first 25 people who bring 2 people with them

Wednesday, Dec. 4

Uand2 Free HIV Testing, 2 – 6 p.m.

Morehouse College/Clark Atlanta University,Archer Hall*Special incentives provided for the first 25 people who bring 2 people with them.

For more information about World AIDS Day, visit www.cdc.gov.


The premiere issue of Churches Now Magazine and Web Site.

A place where you can find a church by county, inspirational words, Faith news, Events, Conferences, and Music videos.

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Don’t miss our next issue of Churches Now, coming Dec. 15, 2013.

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