Feb. 15 issue

Volume 17 Number 22  www.ocgNews.com  FebruArY 15, 2012  Free

Serving DeKalb, Fulton, gwinnett, Henry anD rocKDale countieS

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INsIDe

Burrell Ellis

“Jobs bus” rolling through DeKalb

DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis is inviting DeKalb job seekers to get on the “jobs bus.” The county has launched a Mobile Career Center as a way to take jobs and work readiness services to communities.

The mobile center, which supports the ONE DeKalb Works initiative, is rolling to various locations throughout DeKalb, assisting job seekers as well as employers.

Major features of the resource center include 13 computer stations; a private interview area; high-speed satellite Internet connection; printer, scanner and copy services; and a fully accessible ADA workstation with movable table and auxiliary. Job seekers may receive essential services including job search assistance, adult workshops and training, resume writing, and interviewing tips.

Businesses may use the mobile unit for recruiting, pre-employment screenings, interviewing, and training.

Below are the Mobile Career Center’s scheduled locations for the rest of February: Wednesday, Feb. 15, 10a.m. – 4 p.m. Wesley Chapel Library 2861 Wesley Chapel Road Decatur, GA 300034 Thursday, Feb. 16, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tucker-Reid H. Cofer Library 5234 LaVista Road Tucker, GA 30084 Tuesday, Feb. 21, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Redan-Trotti Library 1569 Wellborn Road Lithonia, GA 30058 Wednesday, Feb. 22, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Department of Family and Children Services 178 Sams Street Decatur, GA 30030 Thursday, Feb. 23, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Georgia Department of Labor 3879 Covington Highway Decatur, GA 30032 Monday, Feb. 27, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wesley Chapel Library 2861 Wesley Chapel Road Decatur, GA 30034 Tuesday, Feb. 28, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Department of Family and Children Services 178 Sams Street Decatur, GA 30030 Wednesday, Feb. 29, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Stonecrest Library 3123 Klondike Road Lithonia, GA 30038

For more information on the jobs bus,visit www.dekalbworkforce.org.

By Joshua Smith

Just as he did nearly 34 years ago, Frederick Myles offered his right arm to his bride

Lillian, joining hand in hand, and in front of friends and church family, they committed their lives to each other—again.

The Myles were just one of 40 couples to stand at the altar of Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church and renew their vows on Feb. 11 at the Southeast DeKalb County church.

“We were married in West Point, Mississippi in 1978 and it seems like it was just two or three years ago when we made that commitment to each other and to the Lord,” Frederick Myles said. “We’ve had our storms—all couples will-but as long as you have God in the middle of the equation, when you pull away or she pulls away, God brings you both back to the center to face things head on together.”

Antioch’s “One in Christ” vows renewal service was led by Pastor James C. Ward and Minister Larry Lee, who co-directs the church’s couples ministry with his wife of 43 years, Shirley. The celebration comes in the wake of rising divorce rates around the country and even as President Obama sang his rendition of recording artist Al Green’s song, “Let’s Stay Together” a few weeks ago.

According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, more couples divorced in the South than

40 couples say ‘I do’in mass wedding at Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Church

See Marriage, page 5

See Residents, page 7

anywhere else in the country. For every 1,000 men in the South, 10.2 were divorced, while the national average was just 9.2, the Bureau’s data shows. The numbers were higher among women: There were 11.1 divorced women compared to 9.7 nationally.

The Office for National Statistics shows divorces nationally rose 4.9% with 119,589 couples divorcing in 2010 compared to 113,949 in 2009.

Pastor Ward says the rising number of divorces makes the marriage renewal

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Study: Atlanta residents’ stress levels unhealthy....0

Compost plant: Good for the earth or environmental racism? DeKalb Commissioner May promises to stand with residents against compost plant

By Valerie J. Morgan

South DeKalb residents are up in arms over an organic compost plant proposed for a tract of land at the Lafarge

Quarry, located off of Highway 124 in unincorporated Lithonia. DeKalb County Commissioner lee May, who represents District 5 where the plant is proposed, says he will stand with residents against Greenco Environmental, the compost company out of Barnesville, GA in Lamar County.

“Typically, I let the process go

through until the day that we, as a board, make our decision, but I’m going to let you all know right now, I am not going to support this,” May said.

May’s about-face response follows a decision he made last year when he supported plans for

a gasification plant to use wood chips and yard waste to convert “green energy” into electricity. May said he supported the project because he believed the plant was

Deacon Sylvester and Deaconess Mary Spann renew their wedding vows to one another at Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church’s Feb. 11 “One In Christ” Renewing of Vows service.

Pastor James C. Ward and his wife, Idell, lead wedding ceremony.

Community activist Viola Davis tells Greenco Environmental owners and their attorney, Michelle Battle, why she disagrees with their plans to relocate their composting plant to South DeKalb.

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By Joshua Smith

Michael Smith is a track standout at his school. He’s a rare breed because his school, DeKalb Early College Academy (DECA) in Stone

Mountain, has no track team. In fact, DECA offers no athletic programs of any kind. DECA offers college-preparatory classes to put high school students on a fast-track to college.

This month, Smith accepted a full scholarship with Clemson University on National Signing Day, becoming the first student to receive an athletic scholarship since DECA opened in 2006.

“Receiving this scholarship shows this student body and the county that you can attend a school like this one, focus on academics and compete in athletic outlets successfully,” said Smith, who ran year round with the Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) and Track Phi Track Elite Track Club to fill the athletic void not provided at DECA.

“I’ve accepted this track scholarship and I will start at Clemson in the fall with 54 credits as an advanced sophomore,” said Smith.

The 17-year-old senior credits his younger brother, Eron, with his selection as a Clemson recruit.

“I definitely have to give credit to my brother. Without him, I’m not sure if I would be going to Clemson or if the recruiters would’ve even noticed me that day,” said Smith.

It was 13-year-old Eron who ran up to recruiters with no fear of letting them know about his big brother during the USATF Junior Olympic Regional Meet last July. The meet hosted competitors from all over the country, showcasing talent from places such as Maryland and Virginia as well.

“When I saw the orange jumpsuits (recruiters from Clemson), I just ran to them. I told them, you have to see my brother run,” said Eron Smith, who stood side by side with the recruiters until they watched Michael

DECA student makes school history as Clemson track recruit


See DECA, page 6

Michael Smith proudly holds up his signing papers to run track at Clemson University. Smith’s athletic scholarship includes full tuition and books.

compete. Eron knows what it takes to excel

on the field. Eron is in the seventh grade at DeKalb’s Chapel Hill Middle School, where he is enrolled in the school’s magnet program, and competes in the 400 and 800-meter himself.

DECA Principal/Director Sharon D. Ordu says she is proud of Smith. Ordu says Michael has set a precedent at the school.

“We both came to this school in 2009. This means a great deal to me, being able to follow Michael’s path from his family choosing our facility to further his education to witnessing him learn and

Lithonia to host Black History Month activities

The City of Lithonia will be the site of several activities to commemorate Black History Month. The community is invited to join in on the activities:

Monday, Feb. 20 – Youths will showcase their talents through dance, presentations, and music from 3-6 p.m. at the Lithonia First United Methodist Church, 3099 Stone Mountain Street, Lithonia. Saturday, Feb. 25– Friends of the Lithonia African American Cemetery Organization (FLAAC) will host a community cookout at the old Bruce Street School (across from the East DeKalb Precinct), 2-4 pm. The community is invited to learn about the cemetery and volunteer opportunity. Contact Corey Turner at 770-895-4305 to get involved. Tuesday, Feb. 28— Bruce Street East DeKalb Senior Center, 2484 Bruce Street, Lithonia will host a Black History program with a skit and fashion show from 10:30-12:00 noon. Wednesday, Feb. 29—Lithonia Middle School students will put on a play with a special guest performance, 2451 Randall Avenue, Lithonia. 678-875-0702.

FEBRUARY 15, 2012

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DEKALB Stephenson High to host black tie fundraiser

Stephenson High School is selling tickets for a black tie concert, which will be held on March 3, 6 p.m., as a fundraiser for the school’s wind ensemble and Repertory Dance Ensemble. The wind ensemble needs $48,000 to help 62 students travel to Indianapolis for the March 16 Music For All National Concert Band Festival.

Stephenson is the fourth African American wind ensemble to be invited to perform in the festival’s 21-year history.

The school’s PTSA along with the Student Government Association, Men of Distinction and Ladies of Stephenson are hosting the black tie fundraiser, which will feature the school’s nationally-acclaimed repertory dance ensemble and the Stephenson High School band.

“The hope is that funds will be able to not only assist with the trip, but also help to raise funds for a desperately-needed dance floor and replacement instruments,” said PTSA President Denise E. McGill.

The concert will be held in the school’s auditorium. Tickets are $15 per person or $25 a couple. Sponsorships are also available: silver member, $75; gold member, $150; and platinum, $250. A silent auction also will be held.

Stephenson High is located at 701 Stephenson Road, Stone Mountain. For more information, call 678-472-9235.

Community Town Hall: Pathways to re-enter society

DeKalb County families are invited to attend a Town Hall, “The Reentry Discussion,” on Feb. 25, 2 – 4 p.m., at the Wesley Chapel Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur. William Brown Ministries, a Decatur non-profit organization, will host the Town Hall.

The impact of incarceration on families will be discussed. Do we really know what is needed to make the family whole again? Presenters include pastors, providers, social workers and formerly incarcerated persons with a focus on the support needs, accountability and rebuilding relationships for individuals, family and communities during the re-entry process.

For more information, call 404-286-6980.

Rape Crisis Center seeks hotline volunteers The DeKalb Rape Crisis Center is looking for volunteers to staff its 24-hour crisis

hotline and serve as hospital companions to survivors of sexual assault. Volunteers are required to complete 38 hours of training to prepare them for

responding to sexual assault survivors on the crisis hotline. Once trained, volunteers sign up for at least two 12-hour shifts monthly. While on call, volunteers may go about their regular routines as long as they are free to take calls or go to the hospital, if requested.

Two upcoming training sessions are planned. The first session will be Feb. 21-April 3, with sessions on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The second training session will be held Sept. 18—Nov. 1.

For more information or to sign up for training, contact Jamaila Winn at 404-377-1429,ext. 4 or e-mail [email protected]. Applications are available at www.dekalbrapecrisiscenter.org.

Decatur Library to host ‘Living Green’ series DeKalb County Public Library, the City of Decatur and Oakhurst Community Garden

Project are working together on a year-long, living green initiative to help residents develop environmentally-friendly lifestyles.

The “Living the Green Life” series will begin with two programs on how to grow an organic vegetable garden. The programs are scheduled Feb. 22 and Feb. 25, 11:30 a.m., at the Decatur Library branch, 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur.

Additional program topics will include how to garden in an unpredictable environment, how to make your home more energy efficient and how to compost. All programs will take place at the Decatur Library, except for the composting workshop, which will be held at the Oakhurst Community Garden Project.

For more information about the series, visit dekalblibrary.org, call 404-370-3070 or e-mail [email protected].

Would you like to be a page at the Capitol?State Rep. Stephanie Stuckey Benfield, District 85, is inviting

interested 12-year-olds in her DeKalb County district to serve as House pages.

Benfield has represented DeKalb citizens in the Georgia General Assembly since 1998. She is currently serving her fifth term representing District 85, which includes neighborhoods in Avondale Estates, Candler Road, Columbia Drive, Fernbank, Forrest Hills, Knollwood, Midway Woods, Oakhurst, South Decatur, Wadsworth and Winona Park.

In the page program, students assist Benfield by taking notes onto the House Floor from constituents, lobbyists and other officials. For more information, call Paula Golden at 404-656-7859.

GWINNETTSeniors reminded to file homestead exemptions

Gwinnett County officials are reminding seniors to take advantage of three special homestead exemptions available to save money on their property tax bill.

The exemptions are the: §Senior State Tax Exemption (SC), which provides a 100 percent exemption from

taxes levied by the state of Georgia on the home and up to 10 acres of property. §Senior School Exemption (L5A), which provides a 100 percent exemption from

taxes levied by Gwinnett Board of Education of property and up to one acre of property.

§Regular School Exemption (S3), which provides a partial exemption from school taxes.

To learn more about these exemptions and their requirements, visit www.GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com, e-mail [email protected] or call 770-822-8800.

Seniors may request an application in person, by e-mail, or by phone. All homestead exemption applications are due April 1.

Peachtree Corners: New voter cards mailed Registered voters who live in Peachtree Corners should have received their new

precinct ID cards. The new cards are in compliance with Georgia law, which requires that registered voters receive new cards when their political districts change. For more information, visit www.gwinnettelections.com.

ATLANTA Oakland Cemetery tour highlights city’s prominent blacks

The community is invited to celebrate Black History Month at the Historic Oakland Cemetery, 248 Oakland Ave., S.E., Atlanta, on Feb. 21, 1:30 p.m.

There will be a guided walking tour examining the history of prominent African Americans buried there including Maynard Jackson, Atlanta’s first African American mayor, and William Finch, Atlanta’s first African American City Council member.

The tour is free and open to the public. For more information, call Sam Reed at 404-658-6019.

Community invited to informational on Atlanta Beltline The City of Atlanta and the Atlanta

Beltline Partnership will present “Beltline 101” on Feb. 22, 11 a.m. – 12 p.m., at the Helene Mills Senior Center, 515 John Wesley Dobbs Ave., Atlanta.

The session will provide information on how the redevelopment project will shape Atlanta through a network of public parks, multi-use trails and transit along an historic 22-mile railroad corridor circling downtown and connecting 45 neighborhoods directly to each other.

For more information, call 404-614-8300 or visit www.beltline.org.

Ronald McDonald to join kids for reading adventure Atlanta-Fulton Public Library’s West End branch, 525 Peeples

St., S.W., Atlanta, will host Reading Across America Day with Ronald McDonald on Feb. 28, 10 – 10:45 a.m.

The costumed character will discuss how books can be children’s friends; how reading is more fun when you picture what you read and explain that good readers make better spellers.

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, e-mail [email protected] or call 404-752-8740.

ROCKDALE Conyers fashion show to benefit vets

The American Legion Post 77, 674 Legion Road, N.E., Conyers, will host a fundraiser fashion show to benefit veterans in the community on Feb. 17, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m.

“Fundraiser for Our Veterans” will feature the Patriotic Vintage Fashion Show and Artfest. Entertainment includes: Dance, song, comedy, trivia, and fashion through the ages, Bob Hope USO Style.

Advance tickets are $5 and are available at the American Legion Hall, The Magnolias Assisted Living Center and the Lingering Memories Antique Mall. Tickets are $7 at the door. 770-483-8216.

VISIT www.ocgnewS.com Check Out Great Photos, News Updates and Our Monthly Calendar of Events


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Teen debate set at Boys and Girls Club

The Good News Notebook outreach group will host The Great Teen Debate on Feb. 22, 5- 6:30 p.m., at the A.R. Gus Barksdale Boys and Girls Club, 1015 O’Kelly Street, Conyers.

The debate is being held to promote positive debating, enhance speaking and critical thinking skills, as well as to raise community awareness among teens.

For more information, call Connie Alsobrook, debate organizer, at 678-596-7936 or visit www.gnnotebook.com.

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METRO ATLANTA’S ELECTED OFFICIALS HONOR THE ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF AFRICAN

AMERICANS IN CELEBRATION OF

Black History Month

Larry Johnson DeKalb County Commissioner

District 3

Emanuel D. JonesState Senator

District 10

Pam Stephenson Georgia House of

Representatives District 92

The Honorable Robert D. Walker, Jr.

Gwinnett County Magistrate Court

The Honorable Tangela M. Barrie

DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Division 10

Stephanie Stuckey Benfield Georgia House of


Karla l. Drenner, PhDGeorgia House of


Kathie Gannon DeKalb County

Commissioner Super District 6

service all the more special to him and the members of his church.

“This is a very important celebration because God honors marriage. He considers the Church as the bride of Christ,” said Pastor Ward.

“With marriages and the idea of even needing to be married being attacked on so many fronts, it holds a special place in my heart to see all these couples renewing their commitment.”

Ward said far too many couples approach marriage as a contract, instead of a covenant.

“Marriage is literally a covenanted commitment, but too many of us approach it as a breech of contract when a spouse isn’t doing everything right,” Pastor Ward said. “When a person makes a mistake or commits a reneging of services, if you will, you don’t bail out. You work it out and you will become a stronger couple from those situations.”

Pastor Ward said he married his “beauty queen,” Idell, on April 15, 1975—Tax Filing Day.

“I’ll never forget when we got married because it was in front of the Justice of Peace in Mississippi and we said from that day on, we would never have to file separate taxes again,” said Ward.

Robert and Colette Maddox, married for three years and the youngest couple at the ceremony, said they were excited to be a part of the service.

“We were married in Helen, Georgia in the mountains because we wanted

Marriage not a contract but a covenantcontinued from page 1

to have a more intimate wedding,” said Colette Maddox. “As we got dressed up for this one, I began to get those same exciting butterflies. It’s important for people to get back in front of each other and say how much they love each other. Love is in the air.”

Pastor Ward prayed for each of the couples’ homes and families and a rekindling of their love, commitment and strength for one another.

Minister Lee also offered some words of wisdom for the couples:

“Everyday together is a learning experience. It’s not the wedding ceremony that counts. Whether you spend $50,000 or $50 on your wedding ceremony, it’s the days that come after that when the work begins and you really build towards living a happy marriage together.” said Lee.


FEBRUARY 15, 2012

DECA offers fast track to collegecontinued from page 3

SETTING THE STANDARD OF EXCELLENCE IN PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT

Educating, Engaging, and Empowering Parents

Title I Annual Meeting: Parental Involvement Conference Saturday, March 17, 2012 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Stone Mountain Middle School 4301 Sarr Parkway, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

For additional information, contact Jackie Marshall, Chairperson at 678-676-0376 or by e-mail:

[email protected]

Conference Highlights:• Keynote Speaker: Dr. Joe Martin – Parental Involvement and How

it Affects Your Children’s Educational Success• Test-Taking Strategy Workshops: Math, Reading and Language Arts on

all Grade Levels• Special Education Workshops• Early Childhood Workshops for Pre-K and K• Language Translators/Interpreters• Title I Parental Involvement Policy and Budget• Child Care for School-Aged Children• Special Workshops for Middle and High School Students• Exhibitors from: DeKalb County Schools, Community Agencies and

Educational Companies• Light refreshments will be served• Door Prizes (Donated by Exhibitors)

grow into an accomplished young man,” said Ordu. “This is just affirmation that if you combine excellence in both the academic and athletic arenas like Michael has done, anything is possible.”

Through DECA’s joint enrollment program, high school students take college-preparatory classes in the 9th and 10th grades. In 11th and 12th grades, students who have demonstrated a readiness for college level courses take classes at Georgia Perimeter College (GPC). Some students, like Smith, are able to complete enough college credits to earn an associate degree by the time they graduate from high school.

Smith began running track in the fifth grade. He currently competes in the 400-meter hurdles, 400- meter dash and will be running the 110-meter hurdles at Clemson University. The Lithonia resident has won the AAU Junior Olympics, is a three-time USATF Youth National Champion, placed in the top five at the AAU Junior Olympics five times and placed top five in USATF Youth Nationals. Smith also has won the AAU State Meet five times and has qualified for the AAU Junior Olympics for four consecutive years, all while maintaining a 3.0 GPA and earning a perfect 100 percent in his World Literature course at GPC.

“We are blessed to have two boys that can run track and comprehend well in the classroom. We really feel that Clemson is the right fit for Michael,” said mom, Sylvia Smith. “The boy’s father, Stanford, and I have worked hard together as a family to get to this point. It feels good to see Michael succeed and we look forward to Eron following his brother’s path of success.”

By Joshua Smith

What’s in a signature? For many high school athletes and their families, the answer is a life-changing opportunity. For

coaches like Mike Carson, players signing their John Hancock for a free education is one of the moments that makes his job worthwhile. The MLK High School’s head football coach is beaming with pride over the fact that MLK, with 22 signees, put through its largest class of signees since the school opened in 2001.

“It’s not easy to play football at MLK. From January to August, we put these guys through a lot in the six months we take to prepare for the season. It feels great to see them get to this point,” said Carson, who has been named the 2011 2-5A Regional Coach of the Year and the 2011 Atlanta Falcons’ Georgia 5-A High School Coach of the Year. “With a great academic coach in Monica Nelson, we try to do everything in our power to keep all the right things on their mind and in front of them like the NCAA-2 requirements or SAT/ACT. We work them hard and watch them succeed.”

DeKalb recruits will be heading to colleges and universities around the U.S.,

stretching as far as Delaware, Ohio and California.

“As a coach, you always want the players to do well and to have so many guys go to the next level,” said Carson. “It’s truly a blessing for me, the kids’ families and the community.”

Tucker High School Coach Franklin Stephens praised his team for the AAAA school’s first undefeated season (15-0) since the school opened in 1918. Tucker had nine signees, including highly-recruited linebacker Jacob Sealand.

With a Vanderbilt University signing under his belt, Sealand says he is now ready to tackle his other passion—marine biology.

“I love wildlife and studying the animals. I picked Vandy because our family puts education first. I wanted to go to the school that would give me the best education, as well as highlight my talents,” said Sealand, who at 6’2,” 216 pounds, maintained a 3.9 GPA and is slated to make a direct impact on Vandy’s defense. “I can’t wait to start playing there. I’m looking forward to competing in the SEC (South Eastern Conference) and I thank Coach Stephens for pushing our team and making sure we were at the places we needed to be on and off the field.”

Tucker, MLK recruits make schools, parents proud on Signing Day

Sealand joined 137 football players throughout the DeKalb school district to sign athletic scholarships this month. The group marked the largest number ever to sign in a single day in the county, besting DeKalb’s 2010 record of 133 students to sign.

Orlen Sealand said he was proud of his son, Jacob.

“This is a great moment in all of our lives and for the entire Sealand family.

Coach Stephens has really worked with Jacob to make him not only a better player, but a young man as well,” said Orlen Sealand, who has been through this process before.

Jacob’s two older brothers played college football as well.

“It’s been an honor to watch my boys rise up through high school and make that next level of commitment. It really makes you proud,” he said.

At left: Tucker High School linebacker Jacob Sealand is joined by family and friends as he signs to Vanderbilt University.

At bottom: A record-breaking MLK football signing class and two female track recruits have put the Lithonia School in the spotlight.


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Marbut’s dads and daughters dance the night away

Jonathan Allen made sure to wear his daughters’ favorite tie when getting ready to join more than 350 dads and their little princesses at Marbut Theme School’s

annual Father/Daughter dance on Feb. 11 at Lithonia High School.

“This is our third time coming to the dance and it makes me happier every year to spend this night with my girls. It’s well-organized and we dads get jazzed up for the night,” said Allen, who was on a double date with daughters Jaden, 8, and Jorden, 6. “I’ve been in it for a while and I love being a father. It really is a special moment to take your daughter on her first date.”

PTA member and event coordinator Markena Jones says the dance, held annually in February, is the Parent Teacher Association’s largest event, drawing at least 300 couples every year since the school opened during the 1996-1997 academic school year.

“The dance is great because for a lot of girls, it is their first date and they learn how to be treated with respect so they already have that expectation when they begin dating when they get older,” said Jones. “Especially with so many single mothers, I love the dance because we see grandfathers, uncles and even neighbors getting dressed up to share this night with our girls.”

PTA President Dionne McGee shared the event with her husband, Kevin, and their two daughters Amaya, 5 and Kayla, 9. The McGees said the dance means a lot to their family because it shows their two daughters how a man should treat a woman on a date.

“This event is very important to me because you get the chance to establish what kind of men our little ladies need in their life,” Kevin McGee said. “This is our fifth father/daughter dance and it always a fun night.”

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Join us for a Prayer & Miracle Service“It’s time to operate in the Anointing and

Power of GodIt’s time for signs, wonders, miracles!”

Chimain Douglas Ministries will host a Free Prayer & Miracle Service on Saturday, Feb. 25, 2012 at 9 a.m., at the Colonnade Banquet Room, 8010 Rockbridge Rd., Lithonia, GA. Are you ready to go to another level in God? “Are you ready to operate in the Supernatural Power of God”. “It is time to hear the Voice of God”, “It is time for you to do greater works for God. Come experience the presence of God and His supernatural miracles, signs and wonders. Your life will never be the same after you have attended this service. I am so excited!! I want everyone to operate in this Anointing and Power. Invite a friend, relative, co-worker, guests, pastor, everyone is invited! For more info. call (678) 580-3310 or visit our website at www.chimaindouglasministries.org

Residents vow to fight compost plantcontinued from page 1

in line with President Obama’s green initiatives, utilizing cleaner sources to make energy and provide jobs in a growing sector. The DeKalb Board of Commissioners approved the project, despite angry protests from South DeKalb residents who said the plant would pose a health hazard. The plant is to be constructed on Rogers Lake, located a few miles from the proposed compost plant.

Viola Davis, a community activist who helped to fight the gasification plant last year, says Greenco Environmental is in for a battle as well.

“We’re tired of these types of businesses coming into our community. We’re going to fight them every step of the way,” said Davis, who heads the Unhappy Taxpayers watchdog group, which has been at the forefront of a campaign against cellular telephone towers on school campuses in DeKalb.

DeKalb residents used the internet to get the word out about Greenco, e-mailing news stories that were published in Barnesville about the company. Greenco was court-ordered to shut down in Barnesville last year because residents there complained of the stench.

Greenco says the 22-acre site it wants to initially lease for two years at the 115-acre Lafarge Quarry is ideal for composting. The tract has a quarried pit that is 110 feet deep and a pond that would help reduce odors.

But Davis said she fears that if Greenco’s special land use permit is granted, Lafarge would expand

recycling operations. “To a large extent, there’s a lot

of federal money out there now for companies to grab up to do these green energy projects. They go to areas where people are not aware of the health risks and they just think they can open up shop,” Davis said.

Attorney Michelle Battle, who is representing Greenco, said Tim and Melia Lesko are on the cutting edge of helping to save the environment. She said the couple used their life’s savings and took out a loan from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to launch the first-of-its kind operation in Georgia four years ago. As a new company, Greenco had to learn what worked and what didn’t, including figuring out the right formula to make the compost, Battle said. The mixture includes grass clippings, food waste, and water to make an organic, high quality soil mix. The company, she said, has diverted tons of food from landfills.

“When people say this is environmental racism, I have to say they simply do not understand composting. We can turn a deaf ear and say ‘We don’t want it,’ but eventually, we’re going to have to address the amount of waste that is gong to our landfills,” Battle said. “At some point, you’re going to be run over by your own trash.”

A community meeting about Greenco’s project will be held Feb. 28, 7p.m., at Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church, 2152 Rock Chapel Road (Highway 124), Lithonia.

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Business News

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By Valerie J. Morgan

LITHONIA—The Stonecrest community in Southeast DeKalb County is now ready to take its first step toward planning for long-term economic viability. The community was awarded a $100,000 grant from the Atlanta Regional Commission’s (ARC) Livable Centers Initiative, officials announced Feb. 10.

Stonecrest, whose application was submitted by DeKalb County government, applied for the program in December after months of collaboration with county officials, businesses, residents and other stakeholders.

“We all worked hard to get it done and make sure that we had a good application,” said DeKalb County Commissioner Lee May. “It’s going to provide the additional planning that we need for that area to have quality economic development and growth.”

May worked with the Stonecrest Task Force and the emerging Stonecrest Business Alliance to facilitate the LCI application. The ARC awards the federally-funded grants on a competitive basis to local governments and nonprofit organizations, which must provide some matching funding.

In addition to Stonecrest, the

ARC announced two other new grant recipients this month: the City of Atlanta, which received $120,000 and the city of Marietta, which received $80,000. The city of Atlanta will use its grant to create strategies for growth and development around the Lakewood Fairgrounds. The plan will focus on leveraging Aaron’s Lakewood Amphitheater and increasing new movie and television production jobs. In Marietta, the study will focus on the usage of land along Cobb Parkway, specifically the areas surrounding Southern Polytechnic State University and Life University. The plan will include improving the visibility of the universities through transportation projects that will link the universities to the community to create a campus atmosphere.

With this round of grants announced, five other communities received funding for supplemental studies to help advance their current LCI planning. In addition, grants for two PLAN 2040 Innovation studies will be awarded to the

City of Atlanta and the Stone Mountain CID at $80,000 each. These grants support jurisdiction-wide policies, plans or programs that focus on livable communities, consistent with the goals of PLAN 2040 and LCI. The LCI program, in its 13th year, has awarded 127 communities with more than $153 million in planning and implementation grants. The program was created to allocate federal transportation dollars for planning in local communities. Once the plans have been created, local governments can apply for federal funding to assist in bringing their plans into reality. Since the first LCI grants

were awarded in 2000, more than 84,000 residential units, 20 million square feet of commercial space and 35 million square feet of office space are either planned, under construction or complete in the grantee areas. Regionally, 67 percent of all office space built since 2000 has been built within LCI areas. LCI areas have attracted 8.5 percent of all new residential units and 21 percent of all new commercial development built in the region. “LCI has helped communities across metro Atlanta re-tool and redesign over the years, creating more places that attract residents and businesses alike,” said Tad Leithead, ARC Chairman.

Stonecrest is successful in bid for $100,000 LCI grant

Lee May

DeKalb Chamber: Enhance your business with social media The DeKalb Chamber of Commerce will host “3 Workshops in One” for businesses

to better understand social media and Constant Contact on Feb. 21, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., at the Doubletree by Hilton Atlanta Northlake, 4156 La Vista Road, Tucker.

Lanelle Henderson, Georgia Regional Development Director for Constant Contact will host “3 Workshops in One—Social Media Marketing, 3 Keys to Email Marketing and Getting Started, Constant Contact.”

The information-packed seminar will review the essential strategies and best practices a business or organization should understand to successfully get started with social media marketing. Participants will have plenty of time to ask questions, share experiences, and network with peers. They’ll leave with real-world insights and knowledge that they can put to work immediately to help their business or organization succeed.

The workshop is free to attend, however, registration is requested. Register at www.dekalbchamber.org or call 404-378-8000.

Atlanta Shakers and Stirrers set networking mixer Members of the business community are invited to join Atlanta’s Shakers and Stirrers

networking mixer on Feb. 21, 6 – 8p.m. at Tantra Restaurant and Lounge, 2285 Peachtree Road, Suite 100, Atlanta.

Participants will have the opportunity to make quality business connections and mingle with top professionals in several fields of business. The day after the event, organizers will e-mail a list of confirmed attendees to help attendees follow up with new contacts made at the event. Only those who sign up in advance online will receive the list of attendees.

The cost to attend is $15 to attend and $20 at the door. Prices include hors d’oeuvres or drink specials at a cash bar. Register at www.networkingforprofessionals.com.

Gwinnett Chamber to host Day at the CapitolThe Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is accepting registration for its annual Gwinnett

Day at the Capitol on Feb. 22, 5 p.m., at the Georgia Railroad Freight Depot, 65 Martin Luther King Jr., Drive, S.E., Atlanta.

The annual event is the Chamber’s premier public policy event targeting Georgia’s top policy makers and Gwinnett local leadership.

The event includes an invitation-only luncheon and photo opportunity in the Governor’s office, proclamations in both the Senate and House declaring Gwinnett Day and concludes with a reception at the Freight Room at the Georgia Depot across the street from the Capitol.

The cost to attend is $60. For more information or to register, call 770-232-3000 or visit www.gwinnettchamber.org.

ABWA sets monthly meeting The American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) will host its monthly

networking session on Feb. 22, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., at the Rockdale Leadership Center, 2826 GA Highway 20, S.E., Conyers.

Businesswomen of diverse occupations meet to learn more about growing personally and professionally through leadership, education, networking and national recognition.

The cost to attend is $20. For more information, call Patti Bryson at 770-918-1039.

Buckhead Business Alliance welcomes MARTA CEO The Buckhead Business Alliance will welcome Beverly Scott, general manager and

CEO of MARTA, for its business breakfast on Feb. 23, 7:30 – 9 a.m., at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, Suite 1850, Atlanta.

Scott was appointed to head MARTA in 2007 by the MARTA Board of Directors–the first female executive to hold this position.

MARTA is the ninth largest public transportation system in the United States. The MARTA system includes heavy rail, bus, and para-transit service. With 4,500 employees, MARTA is one of the largest employers in the Atlanta region.

The cost to attend the meeting is $20 and includes breakfast and two-hour validated parking. For more information or to register, visit www.buckheadbusiness.org or call 404-467-7607.

Johnson, South DeKalb businesses strategize to fight crimeDeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson will present a forum, “No Crime

Zone,” for businesses in the Flat Shoals-Candler Road area. The forum will be held Feb. 23, 10 – 11 a.m., at the Flat Shoals Library, 4022 Flat

Shoals Parkway, Decatur. Johnson is inviting the business community to discuss ways to fight crime in the area. 404-371-2425.

Stonecrest Business Alliance welcomes new members

The Stonecrest Business Alliance will officially launch on Feb. 29, 8:30 a.m., at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Hotel at Stonecrest. Businesses and residents in the Stonecrest area are encouraged to attend the meeting and join the group.

Organizers have been working on forming the alliance for several months, engaging stakeholders in the area through several activities including two community cleanup drives—one at Turner Hill Road, the other along Evans Mill Road—as well as a survey.

Those involved have established an interim board of directors and will elect a permanent board after the official launch.

The interim board of directors are: President Van Jakes, owner McDonald’s Vice President Dr. Al Scott, owner of DeKalb Women’s Specialist Secretary Sheila Cobb Williams, co-owner of Zaxby’s at Stonecrest Treasurer Sam Armstrong, Spa @ Stonecrest

There will be an update at the launch meeting on the Livable Centers Initiative, a collaborative effort of the Stonecrest Task Force, Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce, community, and civic leaders.


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Gwinnett Medical hosts ‘Aging and Your Eyes’ Gwinnett Medical Center will present “Aging and Your Eyes” on Feb. 21, 12 p.m. at

the GMC Women’s Pavilion Room, 550 Medical Center Blvd., Lawrenceville. Attendees are invited to join GMC professionals and physicians for an informative

discussion to learn more about eye disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma, and macular degeneration. Davis Scott Carlin, MD, will lead the presentation.

For more information or to register, visit www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org or call 678-312-1000.

DeKalb Medical hosts seated dance exercising DeKalb Medical will host a seated dance exercising class on Feb. 25, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. Attendees are given the opportunity to learn to exercise their body, while remaining

seated. Parts of the body may be weakened, injured or challenged, but organizers say you will enjoy this fun class as you exercise your body and limbs that can move. Belly Dance moves are incorporated into this class.

The cost to attend is $15. For more information or to register, visit www.dekalbmedical.org or call 404-501-WELL.

Piedmont offers couple support

group for cancer patients

Piedmont Healthcare’s Cancer Wellness Center, 1800 Howell Mill Road, Suite 700, Atlanta, will offer the Couples Enrichment and Support Group on Feb. 28, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Having cancer can be isolating. Participants are invited to come share with your partner and meet other couples on the cancer journey. Patients will have the opportunity to deepen your bond and connection within your relationship and the Cancer Wellness community.

Participants are invited to come out, have fun and feel the support of a caring group. Cindy Stark Reid, LPC, LMT and Dennis Buttimer, M.Ed., RYT will facilitate the support group. A light dinner will be provided in the Wellness Café at 6:30 p.m. 404-425-7925.

Study: Atlanta residents’ stress levels unhealthyBy Valerie J. Morgan

Living in metro Atlanta is stressful a new study shows. People are so stressed the levels are

considered unhealthy, according to the study. Key factors? Work and job stability.

The survey released by the American Psychological Association (APA) and conducted online by Harris Interactive shows Atlanta urvey participants reported an average stress level of 5.3 on a 10-point scale. The level considered healthy is 3.7 on a 10-point scale.

More than three out of four Atlanta residents (77 percent) report that work is a significant cause of stress—the highest level since APA began reporting in 2008. That rate compares with 70 percent in 2010; 61 percent in 2009; and 74 percent in 2008.

Almost six out of 10 (57 percent) Atlanta residents report that job stability is a source of stress.

Fifty-six percent of Atlantans feel that they do an excellent or very good job of knowing

when they are feeling stressed. However, fewer report that they are able to manage or reduce stress once they experience it (33 percent). To manage their stress, Atlantans report listening to music, exercising and walking, which is comparable to adults nationwide. Atlantans are more likely than those across the nation to report that they have tried to exercise more (84 percent vs. 75 percent) and get more sleep (68 percent vs. 58 percent) in the past five years.

Lack of willpower remains the No. 1 barrier to change for Atlanta residents, who decided to or were recommended to make a lifestyle or behavior change. Three out of 10 adults (30 percent) continue to cite this as a key barrier.

“While overall stress levels in Atlanta are lower than last year, the numbers of Atlanta residents who are stressed about work is alarming,” said Atlanta-area psychologist Dr. Angela Londono-McConnell, the public education coordinator for the Georgia Psychological Association. “Although stress levels are lower than in previous

years, they are still higher than what is considered healthy. It’s important people pay attention to this because stress can affect your physical and emotional health, especially if not managed properly.”

Dr. Cornelius Flowers, an Emory Medical Center cardiologist, agrees that stress can be detrimental, pointing out that Americans report more cases of heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

Said Flowers: “We have all of these health problems because we eat too much and we don’t exercise enough. You’re supposed to exercise every day for at least 30 minutes. Atlanta is a city that relies on driving. Everybody drives everywhere and then they sit in traffic and blow their horns. In New York City, people take the train and walk.

Flowers said he takes advantage of walking at Arabia Mountain Nature preserve in DeKalb County where he lives.

“We need more pedestrian-friendly places to walk throughout metro Atlanta. But in the meantime, we can park

our cars father away and walk the extra steps to the office. We can take the stairs instead of the elevator. We can go shopping at the mall—even if we don’t have any money. It’s called window shopping.”

Flowers also recommends

taking lunch breaks, rather than sitting at the desk eating.

“Get up and go outside and see some different scenery,” Flowers said.

To read the full report on Atlanta and the United States, visit www.stressinamerica.org.

Rockdale Medical welcomes all to blood drive Rockdale Medical Center will host a community-wide

blood drive on Feb. 21, 10 a.m. – 3p.m., at the hospital’s East Tower Classrooms, 1412 Milstead Ave., Conyers.

The American Red Cross supplies blood and blood products to the patients in the Rockdale community. Participants are asked to share the “gift of life” and be a volunteer blood donor at Rockdale Medical Center’s Blood Drive.

Blood donors can watch movies or vintage television shows while giving blood, much on cookies, crackers and other snacks, in addition to being entered into drawings for prizes from the American Red Cross.

For more information or to register, visit www.givelife.org and enter the sponsor code “rockmed.” To contact the American Red Cross, call 1-800-GIVE-LIFE (448-3543).

Emory: Diabetes and foot care Emory Healthcare, 1525 Clifton Road, Atlanta, will host a discussion, “How Should I

Take Care of My Feet?” on Feb. 24, 11:45 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. The class is a part of Emory’s HeartWise Risk Reduction program lecture series,

which aims to reduce people’s risk of heart disease and diabetes through education and interaction. In addition to serving patients who currently suffer from these conditions, Emory also provides help to individuals who could be at risk for heart complications and diabetes in the future including those who smoke, do not exercise or have high blood pressure.

Admission is free. For more information or to register, visit www.emoryhealthcare.org or call 404-778-7777 or 1-800-75-EMORY

FEBRUARY 15, 2012

To coNTAcT usBY PHONE: 678-526-1910BY FAx: 678-526-1909BY E-mAIl: [email protected] ONlINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COm We Worship Faith-Based news & Inspiration

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ITC to host annual family convocation, Faithfest set The Interdenominational Theology Center will host The 19th Annual Youth and Family

Convocation at two Atlanta churches. The event starts on Feb. 24, 7 – 9:30 p.m., with the Action Fest, a community-wide

anti-bullying rally held at First Iconium Baptist Church, 542 Moreland Ave., S.E., Atlanta. The theme is “Bold Voices, Courageous Steps Against Bullying.” The rally serves as a call to the Faith community to get into action by learning about, engaging in bold dialogue, receiving resources, and setting in motion concrete steps to end the mounting community-negating, and life-defeating scourge of bullying plus acts of harmful and life-threatening hazing.

The event concludes on Feb. 25 with the FaithFest at Friendship Community Church, 4141 Old Fairburn Road, College Park, 8:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. The theme is “Designed to Shine: Showing Christ’s Light in a Texting, Google, I-Pad, Facebook World.” The event includes workshops for all ages, a talent showcase, lunch and much more.

Admission to both events is free. A $10 registration fee is due on the Saturday event to pay for lunch. For more information on both sessions, contact the Youth Hope-Builders Academy office at 404-527-7739 or 404-614-6321.

Scottdale church asks women of all ages: “Can We Talk?” Worshippers Interceding for Excellence Church, 3096 North Decatur Road, Scottdale,

will host “Can We Talk?” an open panel discussion for women of all ages and teen girls on Feb. 18, 12 – 2 p.m.

The Church’s Daughters of Excellence Women’s Ministry will lead the discussion, which will focus on a range of subjects that women are challenged with daily. Participants are encouraged to learn with Pastor Kathern Thomas and Elder Alicia Cardwell-Brown the ways to handle life’s issues and concerns, based on the Word of God.

For more information, visit www.worshippersintercedingforexcellence.com or call 404-455-6678.

Conyers church sets College Career Day for youths Christian Growth Cathedral, 1655 Irwin Bridge Road, Conyers will host the College

Career Day on Feb. 25, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., for students and their families. The event is open to the public and all are welcomed to visit with representatives from

several colleges and universities such as Morehouse College, the University of Georgia, Le Cordon Bleu, Spelman, Brown Mackie and Clark Atlanta. Other colleges and universities in attendance include Georgia State, Georgia Tech, Clayron State, Georgia Southern, West Georgia and Georgia Perimeter College.

For more information, call 770-760-8255 or visit www.cgcintl.net.

VOF to host parents’ seminar, carnivalVoices of Faith Ministries’ Christian Daycare, 2500 Rockbridge Road, Building C,

Stone Mountain, will host “Maximizing Your Child’s Learning Potential” on March 3, 9 – 11:30 a.m. The workshop is free for parents to attend.

The daycare center is also preparing for its community Spring carnival on April 14, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Vendor booths are available. For more information, call 770-465-4172.

The Episcopal Church of the Incarnation welcomes Newark Boys Chorus

The Episcopal Church of the Incarnation, 2407 Cascade Road, S.W., Atlanta, will welcome the Newark Boys Chorus to sing gospel selections at its worship service on Feb. 19, 10:30 a.m.

Approximately 40 members of the choir will be participating in the service. They are currently attending the Newark Boys Chorus School, a 42-year-old arts and academic institution serving fourth through eighth grades.

The Newark Boys Chorus performs throughout the state and Mid-Atlantic region more than 50 times each year. Additionally, the Chorus travels abroad every three years, visiting countries from China to Australia, South Africa and Japan. The visit from Newark, N.J. to The Episcopal Church of the Incarnation is part of an eight-day tour of the Southern U.S.

For more information, call 404-755-6554.

St. James Episcopal Church marks Lenten St. James Episcopal Church, 161 Church Street, Marietta, will mark the Lenten period

with the Lenten Quiet Day service on Feb. 25, 9 a.m. – noon. The theme of the service is “A Reflection on Our Starting Lent the Way God Started

the World,” and will be led by Fr. Brian Sullivan of the Benedict’s Episcopal Church in Smyrna. During the Quiet Day, the ministry will be looking at the beginning of Lent to the end, and how participants can dedicate themselves and their families to learning more about this historical religious period.

Donations will be requested for lunch and study materials. Participants are asked to reserve attendance with Susan Rouse at [email protected] by Feb. 22. 770-428-5841.

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Everyone Deserves a Beautiful Smile

Feb. 15 issue

Documents

Transcript of Feb. 15 issue