The March 1, 2013 Issue

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See Parks stamp, page 6

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City of Stone Mountain honors civil rights icon

Rosa Parks

By Joshua Smith

The historic city of Stone Mountain was one of several cities around the country recently to honor the late

civil rights icon Rosa Parks, who would have turned 100 in February. Parks died in 2005 at the age of 92 from natural causes.

Officials unveiled a commemorative postage stamp at City Hall bearing Parks’ image, remembering her as a brave woman who helped to integrate the public buses in Montgomery, AL after she refused in 1955 to give up her seat to a white man.

“It was a moving and historic unveiling for me. Rosa Parks was an extraordinary woman of courage,” said DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson, who spoke at the unveiling, where On Common Ground News was the only media in attendance.

The unveiling in Stone Mountain marked a significant chapter in the city’s dark past. For years, Stone Mountain served as the summit for the notorious Ku Klux Klan, the white, hooded supremacy organization that used Stone Mountain as a rallying point for cross burnings and other activities.

“Growing up in this area, I used to hear the old folks talk about how Stone Mountain was a place a black man wouldn’t want to be caught in after dark. Look how far Stone Mountain has come,” Stone Mountain Postmaster Craig W. Eberhart said. “From a city that hosted some of the largest KKK rallies to a city that is now a diverse community honoring a civil rights legend is a full circle experience to me.”

The Rosa Parks stamp, based on a 1950’s portrait of Parks, is part of the Postal Service’s “Forever” series. Forever stamps never lose their value

L-R: DeKalb County Commissioner Stan Watson joins Stone Mountain Post Master Craig W. Eberhart in proudly unveiling the Rosa Parks “Forever” Stamp at City Hall.

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

See Riptides, page 6

By Joshua Smith

When other students are watching Saturday morning cartoons, the Rockdale Riptides are swimming at 7 in the morning. When their peers

are playing video games or worrying about after-school snacks, they’re in the pool, swimming about three miles a night. The Riptides basically live in the water.

“This sport takes a lot of dedication. From August to March, we are swimming. We practice officially two to three times a week, but many of our swimmers come to the pool everyday,” said Co-Head Coach Sean Willette. “This is how Michael Phelps started, lap for lap, working and grinding to get better every time you get in the water.”

Rockdale Riptides prepare for Athens swim meetPhoto by Joshua Smith/OCG News

See DeKalb School Board, page 8

NAACP blasts Gov. Deal for DeKalb school board suspensions

By Valerie J. Morgan

ATLANTA—The state’s NAACP joined the DeKalb NAACP in rebuking Gov. Nathan Deal for using a new state law to suspend six DeKalb School Board members. The civil rights group said the law is unconstitutional and violates the rights of voters who elected the board members into office.

“We’re here to challenge this abusive power… Enough is enough. We fought too hard and bled too long to have our elected officials removed by a dictator-type relationship,” said Georgia State Conference NAACP President Edward DuBose. “There is a process for removal: The people put them in, and the people take them out.”

The NAACP said it plans to ask the U.S. Justice Department to investigate the constitutionality of the law, including whether or not the 2011 statute was cleared through the Department.

“We’re not going to stand around and let them take away our rights to vote,” said DeKalb NAACP President John Evans. “This is the new Reconstruction. They are putting everything in place to set the stage for a takeover with all of these new laws. ”

Under the new law, Deal can suspend school board members whose district is placed on accreditation probation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). DeKalb was placed on probation in December by the organization. Critics have said SACS is targeting predominately black school districts for probation.

DeKalb’s school district was cited for financial mismanagement and board governance issues. The district has

‘Enough is enough’

answered 8 of the 11 problems SACS cited and must complete the other three by December.

Evans said that he and the group of civil rights activists tried to see Deal on Feb. 28, following a press conference they held on the steps of the Capitol.

“He would not come out at all—not even to wave or say I’ll get back to you or anything,” Evans said. State Rep. Dee Haigler, District 93, which covers parts of DeKalb and Rockdale counties, said SB79 is unconstitutional. “We will not say that there are not

issues in DeKalb County, but what we will say is that the people in DeKalb County know how to go to the ballot box for the person they choose,” said Haigler, who is House Whip for the Legislative Black Caucus. “It is not up to the governor at any time to remove elected officials. People need to be removed by recall or in 2014 when it’s time to vote again.” Several residents who attended a Feb. 23 meeting that was held by the Restore DeKalb organization said

L-R: James “Jim” Bostick Jr., Sadie Dennard, Kenneth Mason, who will serve as chair, Garry McGiboney and Alicia Phillip; comprise the panel who will nominate replacements for the DeKalb School Board.

NAACP officials hold a press conference at the Georgia Capitol. Photo by Mackenzie N. Morgan/OCG News

MARCH 1, 2013

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See EMS, page 5

By Mackenzie N. Morgan CONYERS—East Mountain Studios,

which opened last month as Georgia’s newest film production facility, is poised to launch three major projects beginning this summer.

Thomas Blake, East Mountain’s vice president of operations, said the facility at 2030 East Park Drive in Conyers, is working on inking deals for two feature films slated for production this summer. The studios also will break ground on its 10-acre backlot development, which it is touting as the largest on the East Coast.

“We can’t tell you the companies or names of the films right now because we’re still working on the contracts, but one of the films is about a comic book series,” Blake said.

Blake said East Mountain plans to start building a “New York backlot,” which will include replicas of various sites in the Big Apple.

“New York is very popular, when it comes to movie scenes. We expect our New York backlot to be very popular,” Blake said. “We will have bricks and mortar replicas of New York City’s Times Square, Lower Manhattan, Central Park and lower Eastside featuring shopping and brownstones.”

Blake said East Mountain also plans to build customized backlots for movies and other projects, which in turn are expected to boost Rockdale County’s economy even more.

“You’re talking about craft services, local lumber and hardware supply stores, catering companies, all of those things are needed when you talk about building backlots to make a movie,” Blake said.

Blake said he plans to give local

vendors and others the first shot at opportunities.

“We work closely with local vendors and local talent. We always put the local community first,” Blake said.

People throughout the metro Atlanta area are excited about the economic possibilities. Hundreds of people, including film industry executives, entertainment vendors, and residents and elected officials from Rockdale, DeKalb and neighboring counties turned out to celebrate the Feb. 20 soft opening of the 130,000-square-foot studios. The facility has four sound stages, conference rooms, office facilities and sits on 18 acres.

Diane Adoma, who chairs the team of ambassadors for the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce, said the celebration was a huge success.

“We had over 500 people attend. It was one of the largest ribbon-cutting ceremonies we have ever performed,” Adoma said.

Board of Commissioners Chairman Richard Oden said Rockdale County is

perfectly positioned for the film industry with its proximity to I-20, Atlanta, and the airport.

“Rockdale County has been successful in attracting a number of film productions. However, we realize with the creation of a major facility of this magnitude, it places us in a unique position to attract even more,” Oden said.

In recent years, tax breaks and other incentives have made Georgia a magnet for film makers, said Bill Leavell, who is serving as community outreach coordinator for East Mountain’s board of directors. Last year, some 300 film-related productions grossed more than $3 billion in Georgia, according to the Georgia Department of Economic Development.

“The turnout for East Mountain’s ribbon-cutting ceremony was fantastic. You get a sense for how big this industry really is when there are events like this,” said Leavell.

New East Mountain Studios beckons filmmakers to Conyers

Photo by Mackenzie N. Morgan/OCG NewsEast Mountain Studios Vice President Thomas Blake(center), was joined by more than 500 people at a ribbon cutting ceremony on Feb. 20 in Conyers. Productions are set to begin this summer.

MARCH 1, 2013

cAleNDAr

DEKALBBe Healthy Georgia Day set at Capitol

Healthy Kids Georgia and Lt. Governor Casey Cagle will host Be Healthy Georgia Day on March 9, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m., around the Georgia State Capitol, 206 Washington St., S.W., Atlanta.

Kicking off with Atlanta Track Club’s Kilometer Kids Fun Run at 9 a.m., the day of healthy fun includes warm-ups with Olympic Gold Medalist Aries Merritt, play with Atlanta mascots, cheering with Atlanta Falcon cheerleaders, a chance to win a new bicycle and a dance contest.

The event is free to attend. Onsite registration begins at 8 a.m. For more information or to register in advance, call Lisa Tanner at 404-231-9064, ext.12 or email Roy Neil at [email protected].

Library offers resume writing workshop for teens The Atlanta-Fulton Public Library System’s Adamsville branch, 3424 Martin

Luther King Jr. Drive, will host a free resume-writing workshop for teens on March 9, 10:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Participants will learn how to prepare a resume to use for job hunting. At the end of the workshop, they will have a completed resume. Teens are invited to learn how to create an effective resume. 404-699-4206.

Kids Tennis Play Day set Gwinnett County families are invited to bring their kids to a free day of tennis

offered by county Parks and Recreation Department on March 2, 9 a.m. – noon, at the Mountain Park Tennis Center, 5050 Five Forks-Trickum Road, Lilburn.

“Kids Tennis Play Day” is open to children ages 4 – 10. Participants learn the basics of tennis by using smaller rackets and balls that bounce slower.

Drinks and snacks provided. Each participant will receive a certificate for participating. No pre-registration is required. 770-417-2210.

Seniors invited to learn the art of belly dancing The Norcross Human Services Center, 5030 Georgia Belle Court, Norcross,

will host a free belly dancing class for seniors on March 4, 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. The class will show seniors low-impact moves, providing a cardiovascular

workout, as well as exercises in improving strength and flexibility. Class can be adapted for participants with physical limitations.

Participants should wear loose-fitting clothing and either dance shoes or bare feet. To pre-register, call 770-638-5680 or email [email protected].

Coalition of homeowners to meet The Rockdale Coalition of Homeowners & Civic Associations (RCHCA) will meet on Wednesday, March 6, at 6:30 p.m. in the J.P. Carr Services Center, 981 Taylor St., Conyers, 30012. The meeting, which is open to the public, will inform citizens about changes and updates that are important to the community.

The agenda will include presentations from Rockdale Water Resources, Fire-Rescue, the Tax Commissioner’s Office, Clerk of Courts and the Conyers Rockdale Economic Development Council.

Conyers sets ‘World’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s Day Parade’

The City of Conyers will host the “World’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s Day Parade,” on March 15, 4:30 – 5:30 p.m., in Olde Town Conyers,

Everyone’s Irish for the day when the city of Conyers celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with the “World’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s Day Parade.” Join in the short, two-block parade that ends at the Olde Town Pavilion with complimentary refreshments and entertainment. Select local eateries and stores will also offer “St. Pat’s Specials.” For more information, call 770-602-2606.

Rockdale NAACP ready for Freedom Fund banquet The Rockdale Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of

Colored People (NAACP) will host its 25th annual Freedom Fund Banquet on March 16, 6 p.m., in the Georgia International Horse Park Carriage Room, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers.

This year’s theme is “With education and hard work, your goals are attainable.” Proceeds from the event are used to provide a scholarship to one senior from each Rockdale high school. Students who are interested in applying for a scholarship can get more information from their high school counselor’s office or from the Rockdale NAACP. The deadline to apply for the scholarship is set for mid April.

The scholarship is currently set at $500 for each student, but members say the Rockdale Chapter is hoping to raise enough funding to provide a $1,000 scholarship to three students.

The Jean Williams Community Service award will also be presented to a person at the event. The award recognizes a local who has gone above and beyond in their service to the community.

State Sen. Ronald Ramsey will serve as the keynote speaker. Tickets are $40 in advance and $50 at the door. For more information and tickets, call Allene Eatman at 678-413-9520.

City of Decatur sets ‘Touch-a-Truck’ event The City of Decatur will host its “Touch-a-Truck” event for families to enjoy

on March 9, 10 a.m., in the city’s Callaway Building Parking Lot, 120 W. Trinity Place, Decatur.

Organizers say this fun community event gives children of all ages an opportunity to touch, explore and see their favorites trucks or equipment on wheels. The City of Decatur and DeKalb County dump trucks, fire trucks, tractors, police cars and motorcycles and many other types of vehicles will be on display.

You can also ride your bicycle to the event. Decatur police will be on hand to register your bicycle.

In case of inclement weather, the event may be rescheduled for the later part of April. 404-370-4100 or 678-553-6541.

‘Half the Sky’ documentary: global look at women The Refugee Women’s Network, 1431-A McLendon Drive, Decatur, will host

a film screening, “Half the Sky,” on March 8, 5 – 7 p.m.The movie documentary is based on the book, “Half the Sky: Turning

Oppression into Opportunity for Women Worldwide.” The book, written by the husband-wife team Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, argues that the oppression of women world-wide is “the paramount moral challenge” of the present era.

Learn how women around the globe are making a difference in the world.Admission is a donation of $5. Advance registration is requested. All donations

will be used to support educational programs for refugee women throughout Georgia. 404-437-7767.

ATLANTA

GWINNETT

ROCKDALE


Scenes from fire tragedy

EMScontinued from page 3

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Leavell, who formerly served as executive director for the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in DeKalb County, said he plans to work closely with East Mountain to attract filmmakers, commercials and other projects.

Rockdale has attracted box office giants such as Time Warner, Paramount and Universal Pictures to film scenes for movies such as “American Reunion” from the “American Pie” series, “Fast Five,” and most recently, “Joyful Noise.”

William Emofonmwan, chair of the Main Street Program Board in Conyers, said East Mountain’s opening is a win-win for the county.

“I was really glad to see East Mountain Studios come to Conyers. Our board will support Mr. Blake and the studio because it can have a huge economic impact on Conyers,” said Emofonmwan. “When Hollywood movie makers come here, they shop in Olde Town, eat in Olde Town and sometimes even cater out our restaurants to serve them while they film. It’s a win-win for everybody.


CLARKSTON—Dr. Jabari Simama was sworn in as the third president of Georgia Piedmont Technical College during an inauguration service on Feb. 27 at the college’s DeKalb Campus Conference Center in Clarkston.

Simama is the first African American to take the helm of the college, an institution offering training in 120 occupations to more than 14,000 students enrolled in nine centers of learning in DeKalb, Newton, Rockdale, and Morgan counties. Simama was named president of the college in August 2012, and assumed office on Sept. 4, 2012, following the retirement of GPTC’s former president, Dr. Robin Hoffman.

The Rev. A.G. Miller, who delivered the invocation, said Simama, whom he has known since kindergarten, was an extraordinary leader beginning a new era for the college. He recalled Simama as an athlete who ran track, played football as a wide receiver in his younger days and craved technology and writing poetry as an adult.

“This is a new era. It is truly significant in the history of DeKalb County and Georgia Piedmont Technical College,” said the Rev. A.G. Miller, professor of Religion Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio. “Dr. Simama will certainly be remembered as one of the best and brightest leaders.”

Elected officials from four counties attended the inauguration, including DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis; Ellen Warren, chairman of the Morgan County Board of Commissioners; Richard Oden,

chairman/CEO of the Rockdale County Board of Commissioners; and Keith Ellis, chairman of the Newton County Board of Commissioners.

“I can think of no person better to lead this institution than Dr. Jabari Simama,” said Ellis, who worked closely with Simama, who left his position as chief of staff in DeKalb County government to lead the college. “The future of this school is in good hands. He brings passion, vision, desire and excitement.”

Simama, who took on an African name when he met his wife, Nisha, said in his inaugural address that it was important to remember the college’s past as it moves into the future. “As we venture into the new chapter of the wonderful story of Georgia

Piedmont Technical College, I am reminded of the Sankofa bird,” Simama said. “The bird looks behind it, with the egg of the future in her beak, constantly checking as she moves into the future. The word Sankofa is of the Akan language of Ghana; when translated in English, it means to ‘go back and get it.’ More, specifically, it means to go back and reclaim our past so we can move forward, so we can understand why and how we came to be who we are today.” Simama’s address also outlined his strategic operating plan with key tenets that include expanding student enrollment; supporting student success; attracting visionary leaders; developing new, innovative industry-needed programs; and becoming a Best-In-Class higher education institution. Ron Jackson, commissioner of the Technical College System of Georgia, introduced Simama. Greetings from college presidents were delivered by Dr. David Swinton, president of Benedict College in Columbia, S.C., where Simama once served as vice president for community development and external relations. The ceremony also included videotaped greetings from Congressman John Lewis and Hank Johnson.

Delivering words of welcome in person were: State Rep. Michele Henson; Dr. Lynn Cornett, chair of the state board of directors of the Technical College System of Georgia; Simama’s wife, Nisha, along with other family members, attended the inauguration. The Simamas’ daughter, Ndelea Simama, delivered a poetic tribute to her father.

A New Era Jabari Simama installed as Georgia Piedmont Technical College’s third president

Dr. Jabari Simama

L-R: Rockdale County CEO Richard Oden joins Thomas Blake on the red carpet at the EMS ribbon cutting.

Photo by Mackenzie N. Morgan/OCG News

Photo by Glenn L. Moragn/OCG News

MARCH 1, 2013

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Stone Mountain’s unveiling included an a cappella solo performance of Sam Cooke’s “A Change is Gonna’ Come” by the Rev. McKenzie C. Wynn; a rendition of Martin Luther King’s “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” by the Drama Club of the Champion School Stone Mountain; and remarks from DeKalb County Commissioners Stan Watson and Sharon Barnes-Sutton.

In Washington, D.C., President Barack Obama joined Congressional leaders and members of Parks’ family in dedicating a 9-foot-tall bronze statue of Rosa Parks. The statue is on display in the Capitol’s Statuary Hall and is a part of 180-piece collection at the Capitol.

Some other historic figures enshrined in the collection include:

Helen Keller, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Samuel Adams and George Washington.

“This morning, we celebrate a seamstress, slight in stature, but mighty in courage. She defied the odds, and she defied injustice,” said President Obama at the Feb. 27 statue dedication. “In a single moment with the simplest of gestures, she helped change America and change the world. Today, Rosa Parks takes her rightful place among those who’ve shaped this Nation’s course.”

Parks is the first African American to be honored with a full-bodied statue at the U.S. Capitol. She received the Presidential Medal of Freedom and the Congressional Gold Medal. When she died in 2005, she became the first woman and the second African-American to lie in state in the U.S. Capitol rotunda in Washington, D.C.

Rosa Stampcontinued from page 1

Riptidescontinued from page 1

The team recently sent nine swimmers to the 2013 Georgia 14-and-under Short Course Championships. USA Swimming and Georgia Swimming, the official governing bodies for swimmers and swim meets, hosted the state competition at Georgia Tech in Atlanta.

The nine swimmers gave it their all while competing against hundreds of swimmers at the Feb. 22 – 24 meet, most of the Riptide placed in the top 20, some placing as high as fourth. It’s a huge accomplishment just to make it to state, according to Wilette, but what may have been equally impressive is that first-year team member Shantell Hadley made the State team at all. Hadley, who is the daughter of Rockdale Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley, had been swimming for not even a year when she joined the team and began to flourish.

“Coach says it’s pretty impressive for Shantell to be invited to state because some swimmers will never have state times and she’s done it in her first year on the team. She’s a much better swimmer now and she’s found something she really enjoys,” said Shantell’s mother, Tarah Hadley. “To get this far in just one year shows how excellent the coaches are. They work with each child, strengthening their weaknesses and maximizing on their strengths. I started learning the different strokes with my daughter and now I know how to swim.”

Coach Willette, who competed as a professional skier in the 1980s, has been coaching the swim team since 1999. He says the teams’ swimmers success is driven by parent support.

“With sports and parents, you always think of soccer moms. But

soccer moms don’t have anything on our parents, they’re the best,” said Willete. “We’re really like a family here. Tight knit would be the best way to describe it. Everybody is encouraging and supportive.”

Willette’s daughter, 12-year-old Delaney Willette, is “a beast” in her own right. She’s competed at State four times—once coming in second. She is currently training for the 2013 Eastern Section of the Southern Zone (ESSZ) 14 & Under Age Group Sectional Championship meet, March 7 – 10 in Greensboro, NC. The meet includes the best swimmers in eight states in the Southeast U.S.

“I’ll be swimming in 11 events, competing for four days,” said Delany Willette. It would be pretty cool if some of my teammates could come. I’m with them more than my own friends from school. It’s kind of like being brothers and sisters.”

One of her “brothers,” Corey Kidd, was also on the state team. The 9-year-old started swimming two years ago, and already competes against kids who are 10 and older at meets.

“I really like swimming. I look forward to the pool every time I get in,” said Kidd, who has improved his overall swimming times by 10.69 seconds. “The Saturday morning practices I don’t like, but I do like getting better so I do it.”

Swim meets are hosted in Georgia about two times a month, from October through March. Coaching staff says through the Riptides, they’ve noticed the sport gaining popularity in Rockdale among African Americans. It wasn’t always that way, but Willette says because of swimmers like Cullen Jones, that is changing.

“Five years ago you didn’t have this kind of diversity. Great swimmers like Cullen are bringing a new wave. To me, there’s nothing better than that,” said Willette. “I think it just trickled down before, older members in the family were scared of the water or didn’t know how to swim. Hopefully this generation can start a new tradition with African Americans and the water. If not for sport, for knowing how to swim for survival if need be.”

The Riptides next major meet will be on March 22 – 24 at the University of Georgia in Athens. Members will compete in what is known as the Northeast Divisionals. Riptiders range in age from 6 – 18 and come from Rockdale, Newton, DeKalb and Henry county. Swimmers on the nearly 90-member team are broken down into two categories, Level One for the more experienced and Level Two for beginners. The cost to join the team is $60/month for Level One and $50/month for Level Two swimmers; some of the lowest prices in the state for a swim team. Prices include fairly

large lanes to swim in, a t-shirt, and “dedicated coaching,” according to Willette.

Coach Willette is joined in leading the young swimmers by fellow head coach Gregg Ellwanger and assistant coaches Lindsey Darr, Kenny Tucker and Lauren Schlumper. For more information, dive into the Riptides website at www.swimriptides.com or check them out on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RockdaleCountyRiptides.

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News


The Rockdale Riptides will practice a lot more dives, strokes and exercises on their way to the Northeast Divisionals on March 22 in Athens.

Corey Kidd finishes up some final laps at a Feb. 21 practice in Conyers.


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CONYERS—She has done it again. After 68 grueling rounds of spelling and eliminations, Jazz Duncan, 13, has been named the best speller in her region.

“It was pretty good. I knew all the words for the most part. Some were a little tricky, but I got through it,” said Duncan, who with her Feb. 23 victory marked three years in a row winning both the County and the Regional competition. “My family was really excited and really relieved when I was named the winner.”

The winning words: muishond, a small carnivorous mammal with short legs and elongated body and neck, otherwise known as a weasel; and schottische, a partnered country dance that is believed to have origins in the Central Europe region, Bohemia.

“The words usually start off easy, but then as the rounds move on, you run into some words you’ve never seen or heard before,” Jazz Duncan said. “That’s when origins and just sounding the words out comes in handy.”

Jazz Duncan’s regional title makes six years straight that a member of the

Duncan family has received top honors in the regional spelling competition.

“It’s not always about memorizing words. That helps, but you can’t just shove words in your brain,” said Duncan, an eighth grader at Memorial Middle School in Conyers. “You really need to know the phonetics of words to be successful in competition.”

The Duncan family goes over the

spelling, origins and the meaning of words on a daily basis, wherever they can. On the way to school, on the way to practices, on the way home, they’re spelling. Jazz says her older brother, Jaire, now in 10th grade at Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology, was the reason she got into spelling for competition. Jaire was the first spelling champ in his family. He won the county spelling bee three years in a row when he attended Memorial Middle School.

“The amount of success the Duncans show really proves the support and energy coming from the Duncan household. The Duncans are an example for our other students here,” said Bernice Taylor, who has taught reading at Memorial Middle for 11 years and co-coordinates the school’s spelling bee. “We are so proud of Jazz. She makes the school and the district shine. It can be nerve racking to watch her compete, but it’s always exciting.”

Jazz’s mother, Heather Duncan, often coaches her children. She says Jaire, Jazz and her youngest brilliant speller, 10-year-old Zora, who has come second to Jazz in previous competition, are so successful because

they don’t put pressure on cramming words in for memorization. Instead, they make the words a part of everyday life.

“It’s about application. A lot of the words the girls will already know because they are familiar with them from playing piano or other activities. The word crescendo was a great example of that,” said Heather Duncan. “With school work being first and then other activities like dance, we spell whenever and wherever we get the chance to.”

The family’s focus is now directed on Jazz’s next competition: She competes on March 15 at Georgia State University to spell against 50 of the best spellers in Georgia at the State Spelling Bee in Atlanta. Jazz has placed in the top five before. She has never won the state title.

“I do want to win state. Although having competed last year calms my nerves some, I know it will be really challenging,” said Duncan. “Winning state would be pretty cool, especially since this is my last year competing as a middle school student. But if I don’t win, my mom’s already training Zora for state competition.”

Conyers’ spelling champ takes home more shiny hardware

Jazz Duncan Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

Ellis visits communities for ‘Conversations with the CEO’

DECATUR – Public safety, smart government, and education were some of the topics DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis discussed with residents during his “Conversations with the CEO” evening series, which kicked off on Feb. 26.

Ellis plans to have five more community conversations in March. The talks are being held at the homes of DeKalb stakeholders to give Ellis an opportunity to reach people in communities where they live.

The meetings are free and the public is encouraged to attend. Additional meetings will be held as follows:

Tuesday, March 5, 7 p.m.Tim and Susan Ryles

3646 Churchwell Court, Tucker

Thursday, March 7, 7 – 8:30 p.m. Tom and Beverly Coleman

1848 Shoal Creek Blvd.Lithonia, GA

Tuesday, March 12, 7—8;30 p.m.Booker and Jessica Daniels

1848 Shoal Creek Blvd.Decatur, GA

Tuesday, March 19, 7 – 8:30 p.m.Mainstreet Board of Directors

Mainstreet (Clubhouse)5001 Mainstreet Park Drive

Stone Mountain, GA

Thursday, March 21, 7 – 8:30 p.m.Bill and Jan Selman144 Pinecrest Ave.

Decatur, GA

Stephenson Middle teachers Eneta Todd and Linda Johnson are pictured with Barbara Cross.

Living history figures captivate Stephenson Middle students

STONE MOUNTAIN—Barbara Cross survived the infamous 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, AL in 1963. Last month, she visited Stephenson Middle School in Stone Mountain as a guest speaker and recounted what happened.

Cross, who was 13 at the time, lost four of her friends in the September 1963 at the church where her father served as pastor. At 10:22 a.m., an explosion shattered the morning calm, crumbling a brick wall and destroying the face of Jesus in a stained-glass window. At first, Barbara’s father, the late John Cross Jr., thought the church’s water heater had exploded, but he could smell the powder of explosives and hear anguished cries amid clouds of dust and smoke. As he and church members dug through rubble in the collapsed basement, he found the bodies of 11-year-old Denise McNair and Addie Mae Collins, Carole Robertson, and Cynthia Wesley, all 14. They were Barbara Cross’ friends.

The resulting national uproar galvanized the Civil Rights Movement, as people from all races united in outrage against the unprovoked attack. Cross officiated at a funeral for three of the girls killed at his church.

As Cross reflected on this pivotal time in history, seventh and eighth grade students sat with quiet concentration, said Library Media Specialist Gwen Russell Green.

Photo provided

MARCH 1, 2013


DECATUR—VFW Post 4706 paid tribute to two local students and honored a first responder from the city of Lithonia at the veterans’ 52nd Anniversary celebration.

The veterans and Ladies Auxiliary held the anniversary awards program and banquet at the Post headquarters, 5362 Covington Highway in Decatur.

The celebration marked the Ladies Auxiliary’s 51st anniversary celebration.

This year, the veterans gave its “Patriot’s Pen” award to Jordan M. Kilgallen, an 8th grade student at Arbor Montessori School in Decatur. Kilgallen was praised for the stirring essay that she wrote.

The “Voice of Democracy” winner was Chance O’Neihl Wren, a senior at W.D. Muhammad High in Atlanta. He also captivated the audience by reading his winning essay.

“These are prime examples

of good kids who are doing the right things to succeed,” said Post Commander Earl Lewis.

Lewis said the Post put out over 2,000 fliers at schools to encourage students to compete for the scholarship awards. He said the Post did not receive as many responses as it would have liked to receive but the winners proved to be outstanding.

“We pay so much attention to the negative that goes on and too little attention to the students who are doing well. That’s why we want to honor them,” said Lewis. Cpl. Angela Hatchett of the city of Lithonia Police Department received the “Police of the Year” award.

VFW Post 4706 marks anniversary with tributes to students, Lithonia’s top cop

She was recognized for being compassionate and getting to know the people in the Lithonia community.

DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson, who served as the keynote speaker, encouraged congratulated the veterans on

their years of service in the community and urged them to “move forward in troubled times.”

Stan Watson

they were fed up with the chaos and demanded to know why taxpayer money was being spent on a federal lawsuit. Several said, however, they want the opportunity to pick a new board.

Deal, meanwhile, has announced that nominations are being accepted to replace the six DeKalb board members he suspended. Deal’s announcement came as the troubled district was headed for a federal court battle challenging the law.

The ousted board members include: Jesse “Jay” Cunningham, Donna Edler, Nancy Jester, Pamela Speaks, Eugene Walker and Sarah Copelin-Wood. They are the longest-serving members on the nine-member board. They will be paid while they are on suspension. DeKalb School Board members earn $18,000 a year.

The three remaining school board

members—Melvin Johnson, Jim McMahan, and Marshall Orson—were spared from the Governor’s decision because they have only served since January. With only three of them, they have no quorum to conduct board business.

Deal signed an executive order Feb. 25 to dismantle the board following a unanimous recommendation by the state Board of Education. The state board recommended removing the board members with pay after a 14-hour hearing on Thursday, Feb. 21.

“The stakes are indeed high. The future of almost 100,000 students who are in the DeKalb County School System is indeed something we cannot take lightly,” Deal said in announcing his decision to remove DeKalb’s six board members.

State Rep. Rahn Mayo said he

doesn’t know if there was any “good outcome” from the Governor’s decision to dismantle the board. Mayo said he didn’t support an elected official suspending other elected officials.

“I think that if voters are dissatisfied, they should have a recall and elect someone else,” Mayo said.

But Mayo said voters are likely facing a very lengthy court battle.

“I think what we have in front of us is a Supreme Court case,” said Mayo. “This is not going to be the last school district where we have this kind of fight. It’s going to be an ongoing legal battle that the Governor probably is going to challenge as a Constitutional amendment.”

Deal has set a deadline of March 6, 5 p.m., for the nominations. He has appointed a five-member panel to oversee the nominations. The panel includes Georgia Board of Education

member Kenneth “Keith” Mason, who will serve as chair; James “Jim” Bostick, Jr., a former member of the Georgia Board of Education; Sadie Dennard, vice chair of the education committee for the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce; Alicia Phillip of the nonprofit, Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta; and Garry McGiboney, a representative of the Georgia Department of Education.

The nominating panel is receiving applications for the six seats online at [email protected]. Applicants who would like to be considered for a seat on the school board should sent their legal name, contact information and home address, district seat for which he or she is applying, resume and statement of interest.

Mackenzie N. Morgan contributed to this report.

DeKalb School Boardcontinued from page 1

Parents and other stakeholders speak out at one of several meetings held following the Georgia Board of Education’s recommendation to suspend DeKalb’s longest-serving board members.

Jesse “Jay” Cunningham

Ramona Tyson

DeKalb Interim Superintendent Michael Thurmond addresses parents and other stakeholders at Martin Luther King High School in Lithonia.


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CONYERS—Work crews cleared debris left from the huge tree that toppled and killed a 60-year-old man who was driving westbound on I-20 near the DeKalb-Rockdale County line.

Rockdale Sheriff’s investigators said Roy Arndt, 60, of Oxford, was crushed to death by the tree that fell on top of his 1998 Toyota Tacoma as he was driving on the interstate. The accident, which happened Feb. 26 around 6:30 a.m., shut down the interstate between Sigman Road and Turner Hill for about two hours during the morning rush hour.

“We believe that it was a combination of the wind blowing and the rain that uprooted the tree and crashed on top of the vehicle,” said Sheriff Eric Levett.

The National Weather Service reported wind gusts up to 20 miles per hour at the time of the accident, Sheriff’s spokesman Michael Camp said. The tree, which shouldered the road, was so large that it fell across two lanes of traffic, he said.

“I have never heard of anything like this happening along a highway,” said Camp. “The ground was saturated. It was a freak accident, nothing you’d ever expect.”

Sheriff Levett said family members told investigators that Arndt was on his way to work.

The accident created a chain reaction of crashes as other motorists tried to avoid hitting the truck and the tree.

The Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Unit and the Georgia State Patrol worked together on the accident.

Arndt is survived by his fiancé, Lynne; a daughter, Hannah; and a son, Gabriel, who is a guitar player for a local group.

Tree crushes 60-year-old in accident on I-20

The 100 Black Men of DeKalb’s Shining Stars

The 100 Black Men of DeKalb honored three youths at its Eighth Annual Youth Summit. The students were lauded for their work in and outside of the classroom.

Kayla Turner, an 11th grader at Arabia Mountain High School in Lithoina, received the Community Service Award; Brandon Fountain, a 10th grader at Marist School in Atlanta, received the Academic Excellence Award; and Kyle Cobb, an 11th grader at Grady High School, received the Economic Empowerment Award.

“The awards honor Dr. William C. Brown, the founding chapter president. They highlight youths who have achieved Academic Excellence, demonstrated outstanding Community Service and exhibited the Spirit of Entrepreneurship in the community,” said Cornelius Stafford, who chaired the Youth Summit. “In addition, it will also recognize an adult leader/organization that has contributed significantly to youth causes and programs.”

All of the students honored have a GPA of 3.8 or higher.

—Joshua Smith


LITHONIA—Like bees drawn to honey, students swarmed Dikembe Mutombo, eager to meet him, hear what he had to say and get his autograph and pictures.

The former NBA center, who played most of his basketball career with the Atlanta Hawks, was one of the role models who attended the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County’s Eighth Annual Youth Summit in February.

Mutombo wasn’t the summit’s only big name. Students and parents got to hear from former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher, who served as the keynote speaker. Satcher discussed the health crisis that is disproportionately taking its toll on the African American community in the form of obesity, diabetes, hypertension and kidney failure. In addition to celebrity chef Marvin Woods, who put on a healthy cooking demonstration, they heard from author Dr. Alduan Tartt, who is a psychologist for teens.

The daylong summit, held at Miller Grove High School in Lithonia, drew about 500 participants, males and females who came for a day of learning and mentoring under a theme focusing on living a healthy lifestyle.

“We are excited about taking on the health crisis because our youths do not realize how the choices they make today may impact their future,” said Matthew Ware, president of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb County. “It is time we have a serious conversation with them about what lies ahead if they do not make different choices.”

Students watched a theatrical production called “Black to Life” put on by youth dancers from DanceMakers of Atlanta and enjoyed a performance by “Da Famous Boyzz.”

LiKe uS oN FACeBooK: www.FACeBooK.Com/oCgNewS

Top brass, celebrities inspire kids at 100 Black Men’s Youth Summit

There were also speakers to address parents who attended the summit. Businessman Gregory B. Levett, Sr., Pastor Robert Bookman, Dr. Naim Shaheed, Dr. Christopher Holliday, and Bobby Howard, all members of the DeKalb 100 Black, led a panel discussion on various health disparities and health issues including mental health and organ donation.

“We wanted to pack the summit with lots of information that would be impactful to the community

as a whole. Both, the parents and students walked away informed and enlightened,” said Mae D. Jones, executive director of the 100 Black Men of DeKalb.

The 100 Black Men of DeKalb has positively impacted the lives of more than 5,000 students over the past 20 years through an after-school leadership and developmental program called The Leadership Academy. The program consists of students enrolled in the sixth through 12th grades in DeKalb County Schools.

Dikembe Mutombo encourages youth to make good choices for healthy lifestyles.

Celebrity chef Marvin Woods.

Former U.S. Surgeon General Dr. David Satcher served as the keynote speaker.

MARCH 1, 2013

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

By Mackenzie N. Morgan

ATLANTA—Catholics from throughout the metro area filled the downtown Atlanta Cathedral of Christ the King for a mass of thanksgiving honoring Pope Benedict XVI, who officially stepped down as Pope on Feb. 28.

“This is the first time in 600 years that a pope has resigned in the church’s 2,000-year history. Popes serve until they die and then we have a funeral,” said Pat Chivers, communications director for the Archdiocese of Atlanta. “We knew his health was declining. When he announced he was retiring, many people went through a period of sadness because they loved him and they look to him for leadership.” The bells tolled in St. Petersburg, Rome as the frail, 85-year-old Pope said his final farewell as Pope, several

international news sources reported. “I will no longer be pope but a simple pilgrim who is starting out on the last part of his pilgrimage on this Earth,” the Pope told a throng of cheering Catholics gathered outside the Castel Gandolfo palace.

In Atlanta, parishioners held an hour-long evening mass on the Pope’s final day in service, one of many held around the globe for the leader of over 1 billion Catholics worldwide, 1 million of them in the Atlanta area. Archbishop

William Gregory led the service. People of all races and all walks of life filled the 500-seat Cathedral, kneeling at their pews. Gregory said the Pope’s resignation was personal to him. “It was a resignation of someone I knew, loved and respected,” said Gregory. The service, Chivers said, was a way to unite Catholics and say goodbye.

“This was an opportunity for Catholics around the world to unify

in prayer for the wellbeing of Pope Benedict XVI and in thanksgiving for the years he has served,” said Chivers.

As parishioners prayed around the world, the Pope prayed for the election of the church’s new leader while voting takes place.

Chivers said the climate among Catholics is positive.

“We knew his health was declining. Many people went through a period of sadness because they loved him and they look to him for leadership,” Chivers said. “At this point, people are accepting his decision and are recognizing the resignation as very humble gesture. Now, people are moving to excitement to see who will be the new pope.”

Atlanta Catholics unite in prayer to say farewell to Pope Benedict XVI

Archbishop William Gregory

Photos by Mackenzie N. Morgan/OCG News


Lithonia First United Methodist sets Holy Week servicesLithonia First United Methodist Church, 3099 Stone Mountain St., Lithonia, has set services for

Holy Week. The church will honor this “time honored tradition” from March 25 – March 29. The annual

community Holy Week services will include words of wisdom from the church’s pastor, the Rev. Leon Matthews, as well as other local pastors he invites to share God’s word.

Services begin at noon in the historic sanctuary and will be followed by a light lunch. All are welcome to come and prepare your hearts to receive the Risen Lord. 770-482-6394.

St. Paul Missionary Baptist celebrates 52 years of ministry St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 2870 Headland Dr., East Point, will

celebrate 52 years of ministry in the community on March 3, 3:30 p.m., and March 10, 10 a.m.

In February 1961, a group of Baptist ministers and dedicated Christian workers met to establish the church. The church since then has moved to a different location and has held a mortgage burning ceremony.

The services will highlight Pastor Clayton E. Taylor’s accomplishments since his tenure began in March of 1966. The ministry’s choir and dance teams will be featured. Youth Minister Christopher Taylor will join Pastor Clayton Taylor in sharing words of encouragement. 404-349-0660.

Elizabeth Baptist offers free tax help Elizabeth Baptist Church’s Atlanta location, 4245 Cascade Road, S.W., will

offer free tax help every Saturday until March 16, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. If your 2012 household income was $50,000 or less, you can get free tax help.

IRS-certified tax preparers prepare the income tax returns. Participants are asked to bring: Social Security Card or ITIN for taxpayer(s) and dependents, W2s, 1099s and other income forms. A voided check for direct deposit, if applicable, and your last year’s tax return (if you have it) should also be brought with you. Other critical forms to bring include: childcare provider’s name, address, tax ID number and if you are a student or the parent of a student, you can bring form 1098-T (college tuition and scholarships).

For more information, call Remonia Brown at 404-713-9765 or e-mail [email protected].

Decatur Presbyterian youths to host paint recycling fundraiser Decatur Presbyterian Church’s Youth Ministry will host a paint recycling

fundraiser on March 9, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. Have any old latex paint? The ministry will charge you the following for

disposal of your old latex paint, regardless of the amount of paint remaining in the can: 1 gallon can, $3; 1 quart can, $1.50; 1 pint can, $1; and for a 5 gallon can, $15. Proceeds will benefit the ministry’s summer activities, retreats, trips and conferences.

The church is located at 205 Sycamore St., Decatur. 404-378-1777.

L-R: Glenn and Valerie J. Morgan

Community servants honored for dedication, hard work

On Common Ground News owners Glenn and Valerie J. Morgan joined two Rockdale Government officials and two business partners who were honored by Nehemiah Empowerment Group Ministries, Inc. on Feb. 24 in Conyers.

Along with the Morgans, the ministry also recognized Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten; Sheriff Eric Levett; and Elaine Davis-Nickens and Cheryl Miles Board, partnes of Connections Consulting, with “GraceAwards” for their work in the community. Sheriff Levett and Judge Aten also served as guest speakers at the program.

The award presentation was part of the church’s Black History program, “A Celebration of Black History.” The service included praise and worship from Nehemiah choir members and the Virtuous Praise Ensemble, as well as performances from local sibling-recording artists, “Amayze,” and the Nehemiah Dance Ministry.

After members and guests shared black history reflections and tributes to historical black figures, the program closed with a singing of “We Shall Overcome.”

Nehemiah Empowerment Group Ministries, Inc. is located at 1005 Hardin Street, Conyers, and holds service morning worship service every Sunday at 11:30 a.m.

—Joshua Smith

MARCH 1, 2013


Business News

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Visionary People presents ‘Accelerate Your Business BootCamp’ Visionary People will continue to host their Business

BootCamp to members of the business community every Thursday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. at The BizLynks Center, 3665 Club Drive, Duluth.

Camps started on Jan.10, but will continually be hosted weekly throughout 2013, featuring proven and trusted techniques on leveraging the New Economy for Sustainability. Every Thursday, certified facilitators and business industry leaders provide boot campers with valuable “Know How” on moving their company forward.

The Business Development Bootcamp provides small business owners and independent entrepreneurs hands on and interactive fundamental knowledge through four Comprehensive Modules. The company says the boot camps are being offered in Tennessee and Washington, D.C. as well.

The business workshops include lunch, professional photo shoot and a workbook for class. Registration is required. For more information, or to view dates and secure a seat, visit www.BusinessDevelopmentBootcamp.org or call 678-390-2681.

BBA talks charter schools The Buckhead Business Association will welcome David Jernigan, director of

the KIPP Charter School, to a business breakfast on March 7. The breakfast will be held from 7:30 – 9 a.m. at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, N.E., Suite 1850, Atlanta. Networking takes place beginning at 7:30 a.m. with a call to order promptly at 7:55 a.m.

Jernigan, who works with all charter schools in the Atlanta Public Schools district, will discuss charter schools in Metro Atlanta.

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

Shakers and Stirrers offers relaxed networkingNetworking for Professionals will host “Shakers and Stirrers” on March 12, 6

– 8 p.m., at Tantra Restaurant and Bar, 2285 Peachtree Road, Suite 100, Atlanta. Business professionals are invited to network in a relaxed environment while

enjoying complimentary appetizers and cash bar specials. The cost to attend is $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Only participants

who register in advance will receive a list of attendees the next day so they can follow up with contacts after the meeting. 404-228-7963 or 1-732-800-1637. www.networkingforprofessionals.com.

Gwinnett Chamber sets technology forum The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce will host a technology forum, “The

Mobile App Community,” on March 19, 7:30 – 9 a.m., at Gwinnett Technical College, 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville.

Since the release of the original iPhone in 2007, the “app economy” has grown from a non-existent industry to one valued at more than $10 billon in sales. It also employs an estimated 500,000 people across the United States. Georgia is ranked as having the seventh largest app economy in the U.S. and the state with the fifth highest app intensity, according to the Cellular Telephone Industry Association (CITA).

Participants meet in the school’s Busbee Center, Building 700. The cost to attend is $10. Register by calling 770-232-3000 or visit www.gwinnettchamber.org.

Atlanta Business League hosts Business Power Forum The Atlanta Business League will host the Business Power Forum on March 5,

5 p.m., at Atlanta Technical College, 1560 Metropolitan Parkway S.W., Atlanta. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from and network with local and

national entrepreneurs and CEOs of major corporations and companies from across Metro Atlanta. The mission of the Business Power Forum is to foster economic empowerment by hosting business experts from various fields to speak on topics to enrich and cultivate the minds of those in attendance.

The cost to attend is $25. For more information or to register, visit www.atlantabusinessleague.org or call 404-584-6206.

GSU sets Financial Planning 101 The Georgia State Alumni Association will host a financial seminar on March

5, 7 p.m., at the GSU Brookhaven Center, 4362 Peachtree Road, Atlanta. Some of the topics that will be discussed include life insurance, mutual funds,

savings plans and “Financial Planning 101.” For more information or to register, contact Dave Cohen at 404-413-2190 or

[email protected].

By Joshua Smith

Everyday, William Emofonmwan wakes up thinking of ways to make Conyers a better place. From bringing in new businesses to Olde Town to volunteering

with kids to paint a new city mural, Emofonmwan says he just wants to make the “unique little city” a destination spot for all walks of life.

“I believe Olde Town has the potential to become the next City of Decatur,” says Emofonmwan, who was appointed in February as the new chair of the Conyers Main Street Program Board. “We’re planning to meet with Decatur officials to pick their brains and get some tips on how we can build up Conyers like they have done in Decatur.”

Emofonmwan, 55, has served on the board in other capacities and has been a volunteer for the Main Street Program since it was founded in 2007. He replaces former Board Chairman Neal Lange, whose term ended. Board members serve two-year staggered terms.

Half of the six-member Main Street Board is new. Matt Robuck, Joseph Roberts and Ronnie Godwin all joined the board this year and they say they are looking forward to making Conyers a destination similar to the city of Decatur.

“When Friday night rolls around, I want people to say: ‘Let’s go out in Olde Town.’ We want the young, old, families, all types of people to come to Olde Town and enjoy themselves,” said Robuck.

Robuck and his wife, Casey, believe in Olde Town so much that they are planning to open a business there, hopefully, by May—Be the Change Fitness gym. Roberts and his wife, Alison, share their enthusiasm. They are looking for space to open Alli Roberts Salon in Olde Town.

Emofonmwan says he hopes that the board’s focus on community outreach, economic redevelopment, design and promotion will bring more businesses—and people—to Olde Town.

“I moved here 14 years ago. The people here are friendly and when they get to know you, they really welcome you into the fold,” Emofonmwan, who moved in 1980 from Nigeria to New Orleans, LA, where he attended Southern University. He met and married his wife, Phyllis, and they eventually moved from Atlanta to Conyers.

Emofonmwan said the Main Street Program

hosts several annual events that make the city special such as the Taste of Conyers, held in April along with a car show; Pave the Path fun run in May; and Kids Summer Fun program, held May through August.

Emofonmwan said he and the board are now preparing for the annual “World’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s Day Parade,” which will be held on

March 15. The board added a leprechaun costume contest to this St. Patrick Day’s fun as a way to draw more people.

“The parade will be a ball. Everybody gets dressed up in their green, eats green candy and throws green beads,” Emofonmwan said. “This year, we’ll be crowning a king and queen of the parade, too. ”

Conyers Main Street Board sets goals with new leadership

Conyers Main Street Program Board is comprised of six members: Top image: Chair William Emofonmwan; L-R: Vice Chair Brandi Wells; Treasurer Ronnie Godwin; Secretary Joseph Roberts; Economic Development Chair Matt Robuck; and Co-Chair of the Design Susan Vaughn. The Main Street Program is located at 901 Railroad St., N.W., Conyers. 770-602-2606.



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Have you ever dreamed of seeing the Great Wall of China? Would you like to experience an authentic Chinese restaurant? Now you can.

The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is headed to the Far East for the fourth consecutive year and is rolling out the welcome mat to anyone who wants to go this fall and experience the culture, food and top tourists’ destinations in Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou, and Hangzhou.

“China is the trip of a lifetime,” said Fred Boscarino, president of the Chamber. “Most people are excited and want to go, but can’t afford it. We’ll be staying at 4-and 5-star hotels and all of the attractions are included.”

The nine-day journey, Oct. 14 – 22, includes round-trip airfare from New York’s JFK Airport, hotels, three meals per day and tours with English-speaking guides for $2,299 per person, double occupancy.

Boscarino said the Chamber again selected China, an emerging economic power, because the trip received high scores from previous participants.

Carolyn Williams, a retiree from Lithonia, was among 64 people who went to China with the Chamber last year.

“China was fantastic and the Chamber offered great service throughout the entire process,” said Williams. “I would encourage others to take

advantage of what I feel was a great price that you won’t find with groups traveling to these kinds of destinations.”

The Chamber also is going to the Amalfi Coast, Italy Nov. 11-19. Travelers will enjoy the first class Hotel Bristol, which is nestled in a cliff overlooking the sea and the Bay of Naples. The hotel offers stunning panoramic views of the picturesque village of Marina Grande, restaurants, and a relaxing sauna.

The nine-day trip is $2,595 per person, double occupancy, and includes stops throughout Rome in Sorrento, Capri, Pompeii and Naples.

“We want to expose people to commerce and culture. We have a lot of exciting events planned for both of the excursions we’re taking this year,” said Boscarino.

The trips, Boscarino said, are open to anyone who wants to enjoy another country—not just Chamber members. The Chamber has secured affordable rates through tour companies that specialize in packages for Chambers of Commerce.

The China trip deposit of $200 is due on July 2. Payment in full is due on July 16. The Italy trip’s initial deposit of $500 is due on July. Full payment is due on Aug. 5.

For more information on the trips, call the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce at 770-483-7049.

Conyers-Rockdale Chamber ready to take public on vacation in China, Italy

MARCH 1, 2013

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A-TOWN Day hosts health awareness concert, festivalThe 7th annual A-Town Day community health outreach will be held March 16, noon

to 8 p.m., at Washington High School, 45 White House Dr. S.W., Atlanta. The outdoor event will include a health care festival and concert centered around health awareness.

This year’s A-Town Day will benefit the Washington High School of Health, Science and Nutrition and the B-AWARE Foundation.

Pre-sale tickets are $3 or $5 at the door. For more information or to register, visit www.atownday.com or call 404-919-0670.

DeKalb Medical discusses link between cholesterol level, heart attacksDeKalb Medical will host its Doctor Talk program March 14, 6 p.m., at its

Hillandale campus, 2801 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia. The program will be held in the hospital’s the Community Room.

Learn how cholesterol and coronary calcium levels affect your risk of heart attack. Internal medicine physician Kristi Kinsey, M.D. will discuss these factors and appropriate tests to determine your risk.

The lecture is free and open to the public. For more information, call 404-501-9355.

Publix sets Marathon Health & Fitness Expo The Publix Georgia Marathon Health & Fitness Expo will host retailers, personal

trainers, nutritionists and other health professionals for two days of free fitness expertise. The expo runs March 15, noon to 7 p.m., and March 16, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., at the

Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Jackson International Blvd NW, Atlanta, Building A, Hall A1.

Attendees will be able to save on running and fitness gear and receive free samples and information on equipment, nutrition and resources in Georgia.

The Publix Georgia Marathon and Half Marathon will host over 16,000 runners on March 17 at 7 a.m. beginning and ending at Centennial Olympic Park.

Online registration ends March 12. Visit www.georgiamarathon.com.

Rockdale County Parks and Recreation will host the “Above and Beyond Heroes 5K Run/Walk” to show appreciation for local public safety workers on March 30.

Check-in time for the race is from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., and the race will begin at 9:15 a.m. at the Rockdale County Government Annex Building, 1400 Parker Road, Conyers.

All ages are welcome. Participants are encouraged to pre-register by March 18 in order to recieve a race T-shirt.

Jamille Sandy, who is helping to coordinate the event, said this is the first year Rockdale Parks and Recreation has held the program. In addition to honoring first responders who put their lives on the line every day, it’s also a way to support the various charities that county workers are involved in each year.

“I really want people to understand that this is not just another race, but we’re honoring people who go above and beyond to help others,” Sandy said. “ I just want their dedication in keeping the community safe to be recognized.”

Sandy said the donations and registration fees for the event will benefit local charities including the Rockdale Firefighters Charity Fund, Vicki Greenwell Memorial Scholarship, “Shop with a Cop,” and the Rockdale County Task Force Against Family Violence.

Registration is $20 for ages 13 and older and $15 for participants ages 12 and younger. Those who register on the day of the event will incur an additional $5 fee.

Registration, T-shirt forms and donations can be turned in at Johnson Park, 1781 Ebenezer Road, Conyers, or by mailing: P.O. Box 224, Conyers, GA, 30012. Make checks payable to Rockdale County Parks and Recreation.

For more information, contact Jamille Sandy at [email protected] or call 770-278-7241. To register online, visit www.rockdalecounty.org to register.

Rockdale Parks and Recreation sets 5K run/walk to honor first responders


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