VOLUME 21 NUMBER 16 FREE JULY 18, 2015

Published Since April 1995Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews

See Cattle Call, page 5

Lithonia resident answers Chick-fil-A’s

cattle call

By Valerie J. Morgan

Cows are cool. Just ask 11-year-old Darold Honore, who got all decked out in a costume he made for Chick-fil-A’s “cattle call” on July 14, Cow Apprecia-tion Day.

Honore, the son of former Lithonia Mayor Darold Honore and Tammy Honore, made a cool cow costume so he could take advantage of Chick-fil-A’s nationwide offer of a free meal to any customer dressed as a cow on Cow Appreciation Day. Darold was among the many kids who put their creative energy to work to earn a free meal.

“He cut out poster board pieces, spray painted them black and placed them on a white T-shirt. He did the same thing for the white bandana,” said mom,Tammy Honore. “Of course, he had to throw in the sunglasses for the cool look.”

Darold “Mayor” Honore said he enjoyed watching his son make the costume.

“I supervised him to make sure he didn’t get the paint all over the place. He did a good job. He was very proud of it,” said his dad.

Darold is a first-year Boy Scout and a rising sixth grader at the DeKalb Academy of Tech-nology and Environment. He played the radio announcer in the school’s stage play, “Annie.”

The cool Darold posed in front of a display at the Stone-crest Chick-fil-A, where he enjoyed his complimentary meal.

Cow Appreciation Day cel-ebrates the restaurant company’s iconic “Eat Mor Chikin®” Cows, an award-winning marketing campaign that is marking its 20th anniversary this year. Chick-fil-A first introduced the Cow cam-paign in 1995 as a three-dimen-sional billboard concept depicting a black-and-white cow sitting

Fastest Girl On the PlanetRockdale’s track phenom Candace Hill’s accolades keep growing

By Joshua Smith

When she’s not tweeting sports superstars such as Dwayne Wade and Candice Parker

or posing with track greats such as Usain Bolt, 16-year-old Candace Hill is working on her craft: track.

Considered to be the fastest girl on the planet and the fastest girl of all time, Hill made national headlines in June when she ran a 10.98 second in a 100-meter sprint at the Brooks PR Invitational in the state of Washington. The time marked a new re-cord for women’s world youth competitors in her age group.

Hill was recently named the Gatorade Youth Athlete of the Year. On July 16, she was honored at the ESPY (Excellence in Sports Performance Yearly) awards in Los Angeles.

“It’s all been so overwhelming. I’m extremely proud and blessed to even be mentioned with phenomenal athletes like Usain Bolt,” said Hill, who spoke with On Common Ground News via phone on July 16. “I’m just happy the hard work is paying off and I really hope I can make my country proud and bring home the gold.”

Hill, who is a rising junior at Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technol-ogy, is now running in Colombia where she joins 38 other teens in representing the U.S. in the World Youth Champion-ship. The competition selects the best young athletes from across the country to compete in an Olympic-style tournament against teams from all over the globe.

On the statewide level, Hill is a two-time Class AAAAAA champion in both

the 100-meter and 200-meter races. Hill has twice been named Georgia’s Gatorade Girls Track and Field Athlete of the Year.

Hill’s mother, Lori, said she and her husband, Garry, noticed their daughter’s talent at a very young age.

“When she would run at Marbut Elementary School, she would always win Field Day by large margins. That’s when we knew. Coaches started ap-

proaching us then to have her pursue track seriously,” said Lori Hill. “She was offi-cially on a track team in seventh grade and it all started form there. We are honored and extremely proud.”

Family and coaches say the 5-foot-8 teen keeps in shape by staying away from fried and fatty foods. Fruits are her power

See Candace Hill 5 page 5

Photo via Facebook

See Victory, page 6

SWEET VICTORYMereda Johnson wins DeKalb’s District 5 seat

By Valerie J. Morgan Residents in DeKalb

County’s District 5 finally have a new commissioner to represent them on the Board of Commissioners: Attorney Mereda Davis Johnson will be sworn into office on July 20 by DeKalb Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams.

Johnson won the July 14 special election, de-feating George Turner, a former MARTA executive, 53 percent to 47 percent (they garnered 2,003 to 1,768 votes respectively). The two were in a runoff after emerging as the top vote-getters in the crowded June primary, which in-

cluded 10 challengers. “I look forward to

representing the citizens of the 5th District,” said a ju-bilant Johnson who kissed her husband, Congressman

Hank Johnson, at her cel-ebration party on election night.

“I am humbled and honored that the people of District 5 elected me as

their new DeKalb County Commissioner,” said John-son. “We stood for stronger

Mereda Davis Johnson kisses her husband, Congressman Hank Johnson, as they celebrate at the Jolie event venue in Lithonia.

Photo via FacebookDarold P. Honore, III

Candace Hill

Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

PAGE 2 •JULY 18, 2015 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

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EDITOR/PUBLISHER Valerie J. Morgan

editor@ocgnews.com

GENERAL MANAGERGlenn L. Morgan

gmorgan1@ocgnews.com

STAFF WRITER Joshua Smith

joshsmith@ocgnews.com

ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill

richardhill@ocgnews.com

On Common Ground News is published weekly by On Common Ground, Inc. The newspaper serves DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Rockdale and Henry counties.

The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher or the newspaper’s advertisers.

No portion of this newspaper may be reproduced in any form without the written permission of the publisher.

We reserve the right to reject material and advertisements we deem inappropriate.

On Common Ground News P.O. Box 904

Lithonia, GA 30058 (678) 526-1910

News 24/7 @ www.ocgnews.com

Supporters rallied for Oz Nesbitt, Sr. (center) as he made his official announcement to run for the Rockdale CEO seat in 2016.

Rockdale Sheriff Eric Levett

Fresh MARTA Market opens Fridays in Atlanta’s West End

MARTA is opening a weekly pop-up produce market on Fridays from now through October, at its West End rail station. The Fresh MARTA Market will provide a convenient location to purchase fresh, afford-

able and locally-grown produce in a community with many transit-reliant individ-uals.

More than 75 percent of West End residents and MARTA customers surveyed indicated they would likely purchase fresh produce at the station, if it was avail-able.

The pop-up market will operate outside the station each Friday, 2 to 6 p.m., and will be managed in partnership with Food Oasis, Community Farmers Market and the Southwest Atlanta Growers Cooperative. These organizations work closely with West End residents to promote healthy, affordable and sustainable eating hab-its. Food Oasis is a program of the Atlanta Community Food Bank.

Cash, credit and EBT payments will be accepted. In addition, the Fresh MAR-TA Market will provide the Supplement Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) two for one match, doubling the amount of fresh produce customers can purchase dollar for dollar.

Shoppers also have the opportunity to incorporate fitness into their market experience. Every third Friday of the month at 4 p.m., West End-based Wecycle Atlanta will lead a community bike tour from the Fresh MARTA Market to five local farms. The tour costs $10 and is open to cyclists of all skill levels.

Commissioner Nesbitt to seek Rockdale CEO seat in 2016

By Joshua Smith

On the front steps of the Rockdale County Assembly Hall, Post

I Commissioner Oz Nesbitt, Sr. announced at a news conference on July 14 that he plans to run for Rockdale County CEO in 2016.

About 30 supporters attended Nesbitt’s announcement, chanting and holding up “Team Oz” signs, with several wearing T shirts bear-ing the same message.

Nesbitt said if elected, his top priority would be to improve public safety in the county.

“I will make sure that Rock-dale County is the safest county in Georgia’s 159 counties. I’ll make sure that the Sheriff’s Department

has every tool and resource that it needs to keep Rockdale County safe,” said Nesbitt, who was joined at the announcement by his wife and daughter. “I will continue to stand behind small businesses and entrepreneurs, making sure they have fare and equal opportunity in a safe environment.”

Nesbitt said he also plans to focus on building relationships throughout the county.

“Change starts today. No lon-ger can we afford leadership that’s going to alienate and isolate any member of this community. Build-ing relationships with the school board, local city government and all the stakeholders in this community will be critical,” said Nesbitt. “My leadership will ensure that every

voice is heard. Every citizen is considered when making decisions in Rockdale County.”

For months, Nesbitt and CEO Richard Oden, a two-term incumbent, have clashed at county commission meetings, sometimes escalating into heated debates. Nesbitt said although they haven’t always gotten along, he promises to keep things professional.

“We will not engage in any level of negativity going forward. I am not running against Richard Oden. I’m running for the office of chairman of Rockdale County. It’s not personal. It’s business,” said Nesbitt as Oden drove past Nesbitt’s news conference and honked. “I will not throw darts, make comments or jabs at anyone

seeking the office.” Oden declared his intention

to run for re-election at an event in March. No other candidates have emerged as of yet for the seat.

Nesbitt has been an advocate of changing the leadership of Rock-dale for years. Earlier this year, he went on a Twitter rant where he voiced his displeasure with how Oden has been running the county since Oden took office in 2009 and how the community shouldn’t re-elect him,. Last month, Nesbitt also tweeted that it was time stop the bleeding in the county and select new leadership.

Nesbitt, who was first elected to the county commission in 2008, is serving his second term in office.

Rockdale Sheriff’s Office to host citizens’ gun safety class

Rockdale County residents are encouraged to sign up for an upcoming gun safety

class that will be offered at the Rock-dale County Sheriff’s Office(RCSO). The class is designed to give citizens training on handgun safety.

Applications are now being accepted for the safety course, which will include classroom instruction and time at the RCSO range. The class will be limited to 25 participants. Class will be held on Saturday, Aug. 8, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees must bring their own lunch.

Course topics will include basic firearms safety, current gun laws, and basic nomenclature of the revolver and semi-automatic handguns. At the end of the classroom portion of the course, participants will get the chance to use their firearm at the RCSO firing range under the supervi-sion of certified firearms instructors.

“The citizens firearm classes are

taught by certified firearms instruc-tor of the RCSO and teach citizens valuable lessons that pertain to handguns,” said Sheriff Eric J. Le-vett. “I’m always asked about these classes when I go to events and I am proud that the RCSO can continue to educate citizens of Rockdale County on safety issues when it comes to weapons. The purpose of this class is to not only educate citizens on the proper and safe use of a firearm, but to also explain what the gun laws are and how they affect a citizen. ”

Requirements for the course are as follows: must be a resident of Rockdale County; must be at least 21 years of age; must not have been convicted of a felony; must bring a legal, modern handgun that will pass instructor inspection for safety and re-liability; must bring your own ammu-nition; and must adhere to all rules of the RCSO firing range, which will be taught during the classroom portion of the course.

Those interested in taking the course can pick up an application in person at the Rockdale County Sher-iff’s Office from the Judicial Bureau or download a copy from the Rock-dale County Sheriff’s Office website.

Applications include basic partici-pant information, course requirements and a background check. Completed applications must be turned in at the RCSO to Lieutenant Darold Visser-ing, along with a copy of your driv-er’s license. The Citizen’s Firearms Safety Courses are free of charge.

Photos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

PAGE 4 • JULY 18, 2015 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Coming Up

Atlanta Ice Cream Festival at Piedmont Park

Piedmont Park, 400 Park Drive, N.E., Atlanta, will host the Atlanta Ice Cream Festival on Saturday, July 25, 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Event organizer Kevin James says the event is a family-friendly day open to all to enjoy one of America’s favorite desserts and have some good old-fashioned fun.

Along with ice cream for purchase, the fifth annual event offers food and arts and crafts vendors, booths from local non-profits and live entertainment from local artists. The event also features a health fair with health screenings from the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority, activities such as jump roping, information about wellness agencies, fitness routines and vendors.

Admission is free. For more information, call Kevin James at 678-964-5944.

ATLANTA

City Hall to host mental health awareness event

The City of Atlanta will host “Silence the Shame: Mental Health and the Minority Communities” mental health awareness event on Thursday, July 30, 6 – 8 p.m., in the City Hall Council Chambers, 55 Trinity Ave., Atlanta.

The event is being held to increase the public’s knowledge of access to mental health treatment and services for multicultural communities. The free panel discussion will be hosted by mental health supervisor, Dr. Tracey Elam, and features a panel of mental health experts from the Crisis Intervention Teams, National Alliance on Mental Illness, Emory University School of Medicine, Grady Memorial Hospital, and survivors and other advocates.

“It is a natural fit for the Department of Corrections to promote National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month because we serve a large minority inmate population, many of whom are suffering from a variety of mental illnesses,” said Atlanta Corrections Chief Patrick Labat. “In 2014, of the 7,400 inmates at the Atlanta City Detention Center (ACDC) who were evaluated for mental health issues, 80 percent were African American. We would rather have individuals with mental illnesses seek the professional help they need to recover instead of functioning without treatment and potentially engaging in risky or unlawful behaviors that could land them in jail.”

DEKALB

Parks and Recreation sets water safety workshops

DeKalb County’s Parks and Recreation Department will host Water Safety Awareness workshops on July 21, 23 and 28, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Under the theme, “Make a Splash! Dive Into Swimming and Water Safety,” the workshop is free and open to the public.

The July 21 workshop will be held at the county’s Kittredge Pool, 2535 N. Druid Hills Road, Atlanta. The July 23 workshop will be at the Exchange Spray Ground, 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur. The July 28 workshop will be hosted at the Kelly Cofer Pool, 4259 N. Park Drive, Tucker. Some topics include the importance of swimming and how to become an effective swimmer. Meet county lifeguards and get swimming guidance.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, every day, approximately 10 people die from unintentional drowning. Of these, two are children ages 14 and younger. The fatal unintentional drowning rate for African Americans and Hispanics is significantly higher than that of whites across all ages. The disparity is widest among children 5-14 years old.

Help change the statistics by attending a workshop. For more information, call 770-270-6259 or visit www.co.dekalb.ga.us/parks.

White Oak Hills Baptist sets benefit concert for school supplies

White Oak Hills Baptist Church, 5171 Redan Road, Stone Mountain, will host its second annual benefit concert for children to receive school supplies on Saturday, July 25, 6 p.m.

Some performers include The Hall Sisters, of Stone Mountain, God’s Favor of Atlanta and the DeKalb Youth Voices choir. There will be performances from the Fountain Temple AME Male Chorus and praise dancers will perform as well.

Church pastor Albert Homes says the event will be a celebration of praise to purchase book bags and school supplies for children. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. 770-469-4144.

GWINNETT

Smart Irrigation workshop set Water demand for lawns, gardens, and landscapes typically peaks in July,

which can lead to higher-than-expected water bills. Join Gwinnett Extension Director Robert Brannen and learn how to water smarter and keep your yard green without wasting water or money. All Gwinnett residents who participate will receive a free outdoor water efficiency kit.

The “Smart Irrigation” workshop will be held July 23, 7 to 8 p.m., at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center Conference Room C, 75 Langley Drive in Lawrenceville.

To register for the free workshop, send an email with your name and address to dwrconserve@gwinnettcounty.com or call 678-376-7126.

Court of Clerk registering for free notary classes

Gwinnett Clerk of Court Richard Alexander is registering interested residents for two free notary public training classes.

Working in conjunction with the Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority, the Gwinnett Clerk of Superior Court’s office will host two training classes on Aug. 21,10:30 a.m. to noon, and 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Training will be held at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center Auditorium, 75 Langley Drive, Lawrenceville. There is no charge to attend these workshops, but registration is requested.

For more information about the workshops or to register, visit Gwinnett’s Clerk of Courts website at www.gwinnettcourts.com.

Out-of-School Time Expo set

A resource expo for out-of-school time providers will be held Aug. 1, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Bogan Park Community Recreation Center, North Bogan Road, Buford. There will be educational sessions, certifications, networking opportunities,

and exhibits. Bring your kids ages 5 and up for a free kids’ zone while you take advantage of all that’s offered. Breakfast will be provided and food trucks will be

available for lunch. For more information, call 770-822-8869.

ROCKDALE

Parent Town Hall in Conyers

The Rockdale Coalition for Children and Families will host a community town hall for parents on Wednesday, July 22, 6:30 p.m. at Conyers City Hall, 1194 Scott Street, Conyers.

The Rockdale Drug-Free Community Coalition will help in hosting the town hall and passing out information to parents. There also will be guest speakers. The meeting will cover the myths related to teen alcohol and drug use, how to talk to your kids about drugs, warning signs and how to avoid drug use in your family, among other issues.

Community Church of Praise sets gospel concert

The Community Church of Praise, 3851 Union Church Road, Stockbridge, will host a concert featuring the gospel-recording group, “The Wisecarvers,” on Sunday, July 19, 6 p.m.

The five-member Tennessee-based family singing group will also sing at the church’s 10:30 a.m. worship service. This will the group’s third performance in the Rockdale community.

About 10 years ago, when the family was invited to sing at a local church, the gospel group The Wisecarvers began. In addition to sharing their music, members of The Wisecarvers often share their testimonies, including Tammy, who often talks about how God healed her of cancer in 2006. With influences ranging from Michael English to the Singing Cookes, the family sings a broad style of music, but remains true to their Southern gospel sound, group members say.

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Gwinnett breaks ground on joint City Hall, Lilburn library branch

The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners joined Lilburn City Hall and Lilburn library branch officials to break ground on their joint 49,940-square-foot, two-story building.

Hogan Construction Group LLC of Norcross will build the $11.3 mil-lion facility, which is expected to take about 14 months to complete.

Gwinnett County Government and the city of Lilburn previously agreed on cost-sharing details for the project in May of last year after sign-ing an initial understanding in 2011.

The two-level building will include 5,217 square feet of shared com-munity and support space in addition to the 18,864-square-foot library and 24,927-square-foot City Hall. It is designed to meet LEED Certification Version 3.0 through the U.S. Green Building Council.

Lilburn had outgrown its present City Hall at 76 Main Street and need-ed space for public safety and municipal courts. Lilburn’s existing library at 788 Hillcrest Road is one of the system’s oldest and smallest branches. The project will be the library system’s first joint building with a munici-pality.

Gwinnett will manage construction and the two entities will share in the cost. Funding comes from the County’s SPLOST program.

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foods.Hill has maintained a 4.63 GPA in the classroom. She is a member of the Na-

tional Society for High School Scholars, Junior Beta Club and serves as an ambas-sador of Rockdale Magnet School. She has also donated her time to a variety of charitable initiatives to help the needy, including Berean Christian Church’s cloth-ing drive and volunteer work at the Rockdale Emergency Relief Center. Hill trains and competes with the Rockdale County High School Bulldogs. School head track coach Venson Elder said he knew he had something special in Hill, liter-ally, right from the start. “I really saw it when she was going to the ninth grade. When she got her start right and came out of the blocks with that force, we all knew she had something special. She’s been dusting the competition ever since,” said Coach Elder. Elder said when Hill returns from Colombia, she will take a little time off and then begin preparing for the Rio Olympics in 2016. “I want her to just enjoy being a kid for awhile and enjoy this moment and after a few months, we will start training for the November Olympics tryouts,” Elder said.

Candace Hillcontinued from page 1

Cattle Callcontinued from page 1

atop the back of another cow painting the words “Eat Mor Chikin” on the billboard. To everyone’s surprise, the Cows’ clever self-preservation message would be the beginning of a campaign still running strong two decades later. In addition to roadside billboards, the Eat Mor Chikin Cows are the focal point of Chick-fil-A’s in-store point-of-purchase materials, promotions, radio, TV and internet advertising, and clothing and merchandise sales.

Candace Hill pauses from training to take a picture with Olympic Gold medalist Usain Bolt.

Photo via twitter

PAGE 6 •JULY 18, 2015 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

DeKalb County Watershed gets major improvements

DeKalb County’s Department of Watershed Management hosted a rib-bon-cutting ceremony on July 2 for two large sewer upgrades that are part of the county’s $1.35 billion Capital Improvement Projects Program.

The Mountain Industrial Lift Station, a $960,000 project, is one of sev-eral lift station projects DeKalb is upgrading, and the first to be completed ahead of schedule.

The projects are the result of DeKalb reaching a Clean Water Act set-tlement in the form of a consent decree with the U.S. Environmental Pro-tection Agency (EPA) and the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) that formalizes implementation of certain sanitary sewer system programs and improvements, many of which the county is already imple-menting.

County officials say these programs and improvements, which focus on the collection and transmission components of the county’s sewers, will ensure long-term protection of public health and the environment, particu-larly with respect to the rivers and streams in the county. The programs and improvements will also ensure compliance with the federal Clean Water Act and the Georgia Water Quality Control Act, and will improve the viability of the County’s sewers for generations to come. The consent decree pro-vides a road map for working cooperatively with the EPA and EPD.

DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May is joined by a host of DeKalb officials in cutting the ribbon signifying the completion of another crucial component of the county’s $1.35 billion sewer upgrades.

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education, safe communities, a clean environment, and ethical government that puts our families and tax-dollars first.”

Johnson will represent some 140,000 residents who have not had a commis-sioner in two years. Lee May vacated the seat in July 2013 when Gov. Nathan Deal appointed him interim CEO to replace suspended DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis, who was found guilty of attempted extortion and perjury this month. An election was scheduled after May resigned the commission seat in May. Johnson will now serve out the remainder of May’s unexpired term through December 2016.

Johnson thanked the voters for making it possible for her to serve. “I’d like to thank everybody in the community that voted in this election. I

will work to make you proud,” Johnson said, promising to listen to constituents’ concerns and do her part in helping to restore the public’s trust in government.

Johnson also thanked her campaign team who pressed to get out the vote right up to election night. The team organized volunteers who blanketed District 5 the weekend before the election. She gave kudos not only to the volunteers, but Campaign Manager/Spokesperson Meredith Lilly, Campaign Coordinator Ben Heppner, and Finance Coordinator Sharne Heywood.

Johnson has practiced law for more than 30 years, concentrating in the area of family law. She became the first black female judge in DeKalb County, when she was appointed in 1985

Mereda Johnson poses for a picture with her husband, Congressman Hank John-son, son, Calvin, and daughter Randi Johnson.

Victorycontinued from page 1

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS JULY 18, 2015 • PAGE 7

By Joshua Smith

Not even the sum-mer heat could stifle the joy

from the congregation of God’s Vision Ministries’ at its groundbreaking ceremo-ny on July 10 in Conyers.

“I looked and looked after God told me to build the church in Conyers. I told God I don’t know anyone in Conyers and God told me He knows everyone in Conyers. My wife found the land. I am thankful to her and everyone who made this day possible,” said church founder and Senior Pastor Eugene Nixon. “The vision is always bigger than the visionary, therefore it takes God to bring the vision to fruition. We want to serve as a lighthouse that leads men, women, boys and girls to Christ so Christ can transform them into what He wants them to be.”

The 2,000 square-foot building sits on seven acres at 1908 Rockbridge Road, Co-nyers. When complete, it will include a lobby, sanctuary, office and restrooms. The church currently has about 70 members.

“This hollowed land and this building will be the sight of great works brought through the power of God. On this land we will love people to life,” said First Lady Cynthia Nix-on. “We will yield ourselves to God that he will use us to speak a word to this commu-nity, to heal and strengthen families, to tell

everybody about an awesome God that we serve and to help all people see God’s vision for their own personal lives.”

Pastor and Cynthia Nixon have been married for 33 years. The couple is the proud parents of four boys, Eugene II, Xavier, and twins Ian and Justin. The twins joined the hands-on family at the ceremony were they all wiped away sweat, setting up chairs, shov-els and sound equipment for the ceremony.

Pastor Nixon has been ministering the word of God for 32 years. He says he hopes the church will continue to be blessed by God as it continues to help the community in any way that they can.

Sparks-Gizzard, which has a reputation

for building churches in the community, said the new church will take about 90 days to complete after receiving proper permits.

At the ceremony, church members brought scripture, prayer, songs and words of encourage-ment about their new com-ing location. Attendees were cooled off with cold water and box lunches.

Rockdale County Post II Commissioner Doreen Williams, County Inspec-tor Orlando Robinson and the church’s realtor, Mathea Elliott, were just a few of the guest speakers who attended the ground-breaking celebration.

“I really like the histo-ry of this church’s ground-

breaking and the roles that God played in all the pieces it took to get the church to this point,” said Commissioner Williams. “I’m glad the county is working with the church. I’m really looking forward to this. I think it’s going to be great in this community.”

God’s Vision Ministries Church, which was started in 1997, is currently housed in a business center at 1475 Klondike Road, Suite 110, Conyers. Worship services are held Sun-days at 11 a.m.

For more information on the church and the construction project, visit www.gvmchurch.org or look for updates on the church’s Facebook page.

GVM breaks ground on new Rockdale campus

Exp 07-25-15

L-R: Rockdale County Commissioner Doreen Williams joins GVM Pastor Eugene Nixon, First Lady Cynthia Nixon and church board members in the ceremonial groundbreaking n Conyers.

PAGE 8 •JULY 18, 2015 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

DeKalb health centers offer back-to-school services, evening hours

Is your child entering childcare, Head Start, pre-K, middle school, college or a Georgia school for the first time? If so, the DeKalb County Board of Health

provides back-to-school services to fit any budget.Back-to-school services include immunizations and vi-

sion, hearing, nutritional screenings (BMI) and dental screen-ings, as well as issuing certified birth certificates for children born in Georgia. The Board of Health also offers nutritional screenings and, sports physicals at East DeKalb Health Cen-ter, T.O. Vinson Health Center, North DeKalb Health Center, and Clifton Springs Health Center.

Georgia law requires that children enrolling in childcare or public or private school must have proof of an up-to-date immunization Georgia form 3231.

They must also have a completed Georgia form 3300 for vision, hearing, nutritional screenings (BMI) and dental screenings if they are entering a public school for the first time. Children transferring from another Georgia county or another state must show proof of immunizations and health screenings on these forms.

There is a new requirement for middle school students. It applies to children who were born on or after Jan. 1, 2002, who are entering 7th grade or who are new to Georgia schools and entering grades 8-12. They must now show proof that they have received one dose of Tdap (tetanus, diphthe-ria and pertussis) vaccine and one dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine.

The University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents

develops and implements immunization policies for the state’s public colleges and universities. Private colleges and universities develop and implement their own policies. Each student should check their institution’s requirements. College students may be required to have the following vaccinations, which the Board of Health may provide:

• MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) for students born in 1957 or later.

• Varicella (chickenpox) for students 18 and younger at college entrance, for all U.S. students born in or after 1980 and for all foreign-born students regardless of their birth year.

• Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis). One dose is required if the student has not previously received Tdap. A booster is required if it has been 10 years or more since the student received Tdap.

• Hepatitis B series for students who will be 18 or younger

• Meningococcal conjugate for students living in campus housing.

DeKalb’s health centers are routinely open Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For extended dental screening hours, call the nearest health center. No appointment is necessary.

Parents should:

• Bring each child and his or her immunization record.

• Bring, if applicable, each child’s Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids, State Health

Benefits Plan (Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Georgia) or Aetna card.

•Be prepared to pay by cash, debit/credit card or a check from a Georgia bank

•Most insurance is accepted. Please call the health center to verify.

A certified birth certificate is also required for school registration. Birth certificates for children born in Georgia are available for $25 from the Board of Health’s Office of Vi-tal Records, room 191, Richardson Health Center, 445 Winn Way, Decatur. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.

Only a legal parent, grandparent or guardian can obtain a birth certificate for a child under 18 years old. Payment for certificates can be made in cash or by debit/credit card 404-294-3700.

DeKalb Health Centers:

• Central DeKalb (T. O. Vinson) Health Center, 440 Winn Way, Decatur, 404-294-3762.

• East DeKalb Health Center, 2277 S. Stone Moun-tain-Lithonia Road, Lithonia, 770-484-2600.

• North DeKalb Health Center, 3807 Clairmont Road, Chamblee, 770-454-1144.

• Clifton Springs Health Center, 3110 Clifton Springs Road, Decatur, 404-244-2200.

WCJ Outreach to host Back-to-School rally in ConyersWorshipping Christ Jesus (WCJ) Outreach Ministries will host its fifth annual

back-to-school rally on Saturday, July 18, noon – 4 p.m., in the Hawthorn Suites Hotel Banquet Room, 1659 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers.

The free event, open to families with children ages 5 to 17, will offer school supplies, games with prizes up for grabs, door prizes, and safety presentations.

DJ Carey will be spinning gospel favorites for the community.

Students get ready to head back to school Bus drivers have learned their routes and teachers have put their lesson plans together. It’s that time of year. School districts in metro Atlanta are preparing to welcome students back to school.Here are the dates that area schools will start their first day of school: Rockdale—Aug. 3 Atlanta Public Schools (APS): Aug. 5Gwinnett, DeKalb and Fulton counties: Aug. 10

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS JULY 18,2015 • PAGE 9

Lithonia Jamboree, school supply giveawayThe City of Lithonia is preparing for its Back-to-School Jamboree, a community

festival of food, fun and school supplies. The Jamboree will be held July 25, 10 a.m. to noon, at the Lithonia Stewart Amphitheater, 2501 Park Drive, Lithonia. To RSVP for the event, call 770-482-8136.School supplies may be donated at City Hall, 6920 Main st., Lithonia.

Let’s Move! Back-to-School event returns DeKalb County Commissioner Larry Johnson, the Center Helping Childhood Obesity In

Children End Successfully, Inc. (C.H.O.I.C.E.S.) and the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority are joining forces this month for the Let’s Move! DeKalb Back to School event. The fifth annual event will take place on Saturday, July 25, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Exchange Intergenerational Rec-reation Center, 2771 Columbia Dr., Decatur.

The goal of the event is simple: teach families back-to-school routines that are healthy and affordable enough for them to sustain all year round. Participants should be ready to get fit while learning about nutrition in healthy, engaging ways.

Last year’s event drew crowds of over 1400, with more than 500 children receiving back to school items.

“As a Let’s Move! Cities, Towns & Counties ambassador, I am committed to providing engaging programming dedicated to inspiring our kids to live healthier lives,” said Commissioner Johnson.

“Partnering with C.H.O.I.C.E.S. and The Fulton DeKalb-Hospital Authority through this event allows us to reach the masses while putting on a fantastic event for our children and their families.”

Children will receive school supplies in exchange for participating in fitness activities and nutrition education games. There also will be on-stage talent performances for all ages. Admis-sion and parking are free.

APS Schools sets Back-to-School Bash Atlanta Public Schools (APS) is helping families prepare for the 2015-16

school year at its first APS Back-to-School Bash.The districtwide APS Back-to-School Bash will be held Saturday, July 25, 10

a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Atlanta Metropolitan State College Easley Conference Center, 1630 Metropolitan Parkway, SW, Atlanta.

The bash is a one-stop shop for all incoming and returning APS students and their families to learn about everything students will need for the first day of school, Wednesday, Aug. 5.

With more tan 70 exhibitors, the free event will offer health screenings, on-site enrollment and registration, APS programs and services, community and after-school resources, activities for children, and a free backpack stuffed with school supplies (while supplies last). Upon arrival, APS families will receive a passport to help them navigate through the various booths to receive a free backpack for students in grades PreK-12.

The bash will also provide raffle contests, giveaways, a Sodexo Food truck to sample school menu offerings, the Braves Around Town, and the Fox5 StormChas-er. Premiere sponsors for the event include Georgia Power, UPS, Google, Georgia Natural Gas and Atlanta Metropolitan State College.

Admission is free for all APS families. Free shuttle bus transportation will be provided to and from the Bash at 9:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. from the Oak-land City MARTA Station, located at 1400 Lee St., SW, Atlanta, and the following APS schools:

Sutton Middle School, 2875 Northside Dr., NW, Atlanta Carver High School, 55 McDonough Blvd., NW, AtlantaGrady High School, 929 Charles Allen Dr., NE, AtlantaJackson High School, 801 Glenwood Ave., SE, Atlanta, GA 30316Douglass High School, 225 Hamilton E. Holmes Dr., NW, Atlanta, Mays High School, 3450 Benjamin E. Mays Dr., SW, AtlantaTherrell High School, 3099 Panther Tr., SW, AtlantaWashington High School, 45 Whitehouse Dr., NW, AtlantaSouth Atlanta High School, 800 Hutchens Rd., SE, AtlantaCurrent APS students who require special needs transportation to and from the

APS Bash can call 404-802-5513 to schedule a pick-up time and location.For more information about the Bash, visit www.apsbacktoschool.com

School supply drive under way for Stoneview Elementary DeKalb for Seniors, Inc. is collecting school supplies for families of Ston-

eview Elementary School in Lithonia. The supply drive started on July 6 and will be held until July 31 at the Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia, Monday through Friday.

Here is a list of the requested supplies: Glue/glue sticks Mead composition books (black/white)1-inch binders Writing journalsCopy paper, Pencils, colored pencils, ink pens, crayons, markersHighlighters, Erasers Headphones/earbuds, ProtractorsFolders, Three prong pocket foldersRuled writing paper ScissorsKleenex tissue, paper towels, Clorox/sanitizing wipesIndex cards RulersPeach State Federal Credit Union, Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce,

Bruce Street Senior Center are co-sponsoring the supply drive. If you or your organization cannot like someone to pick up the new school

supplies, please contact Donna Dees at 678-982-9805 or email dekalbfs@gmail.com or Kandra Dallas 770-322-2932 or email dekalbforseniors@hotmail.com.

PAGE 10 • JULY 18, 2015 WWW.OCGNEWS.COMTO CONTACT USBY PHONE: 678-526-1910BY FAX: 678-526-1909BY E-MAIL: EDITOR@OCGNEWS.COMVISIT ONLINE: WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

People Movers & Shakers in the Community

Deal appoints LaRonda Sutton to Georgia film advisory board

Gov. Nathan Deal has ap-pointed LaRonda Sutton to the Georgia Film, Music and

Digital Entertainment Advisory Com-mission Board. Sutton is currently serv-ing as director of the City of Atlanta’s Office of Film and Entertainment.

In her role with the city, Sutton oversees the permitting process for film productions and assists with facilitat-ing employment of local talent, create production-related educational and training opportunities, and work with community stakeholders to safeguard the interests of residents and businesses affected by film productions.

“The entertainment industry is a huge economic driver for the state. We are developing homegrown talent in this industry,” said Deal. “LaRonda Sutton has the experience, the know-how and the vision to continue developing this

industry within our state.”The film and entertainment industry

continues to have a major impact on the City of Atlanta. Under Sutton’s lead-ership, the Mayor’s Office of Film and Entertainment has issued more than 656 permits this year – a 13 percent increase over FY14 – generating increased revenue for the City’s general fund. Currently, there are approximately 25 film and television productions shooting in Atlanta.

“Since joining my administration and becoming the director of the Office of Film and Entertainment, LaRonda Sutton has demonstrated an exemplary track record in attracting world-class productions to Atlanta, projects that create jobs for local residents, provide

an economic boost for the city’s busi-nesses and residents, and give addi-tional opportunities for young artists and filmmakers throughout Atlanta,” said Mayor Kasim Reed. “Ms. Sutton is an exceptional leader and will be a tremendous asset to Governor Deal’s Film, Music and Digital Entertainment Advisory Commission Board.”

The Georgia Film, Music and Dig-ital Entertainment Advisory will advise on issues such as the development of a five-year strategic plan, public and private sector incentive development, facilities development, sponsorship op-portunities and program development.

LaRonda Sutton

Relatives host birthday party for 101 year oldBy Joshua Smith

Some family members reminisced about the delicious cakes Rosie Wiley baked until she was well into her

80’s, while others remembered her for leading powerful church devotions in song. Sharing fond memories of Rosie Wiley was part of the celebration family members enjoyed recently to mark the Atlanta centenarian’s birthday. On June 18, Wiley turned 101.

The family serenaded Wiley and ate cake at the nursing home where she lives. And they talked about the sage advice Wiley was known for offering.

“She always said her most important job was being a good wife to my father, Andrew Wiley,” said Rosie’s daughter, Fannie Wiley. “She has tried to teach her five girls her secrets of being a good wife. Some listened. Some didn’t, but as we got older, we realized she was right 99 percent of the time.”

Today, Wiley spends most of her days re-laxing, people watching or catching soap operas on television. She used to enjoy quilting and tending her garden in her younger years.

“People would always come by just to tell her how beautiful the flowers were,” Fannie Wiley said.

Rosie Wiley said people also enjoyed mak-ing and giving away quilts.

“I always liked doing my quilting. My

daughters, nieces, everybody in this family probably has one of my quilts,” Rosie Wiley said.

A native of Hartwell, Georgia, Rosie Wiley was born to Osby and Fannie Wiley in 1914. Rosie met and courted Andrew Wiley and they married on Christmas Eve 1939. The couple, who were married 63 years before Andrew Wiley died 11 years ago at age 90, had six children: Frances, Bobbie Jean, Bernice, Fannie,

Diane and Olin. Fannie Wiley said her mother, who never

smoked or drank credits her longevity to God’s grace and good habits: Eating a banana and apple every day and fish at least times a week.

Rosie Wiley learned the appreciation of a dollar at an early age, growing up picking cotton and helping out on her family’s farm. Relatives say Rosie continued to pick cotton and do other backbreaking odd jobs from sun up to sun down

to help support her family. Fannie Wiley says her mother found solace

at church where she sang, leading several church devotions over the years. The singer she admired most was Mahalia Jackson, who also sang gospel music.

“My mother turning 101 is something we had to take time and honor because she is the oldest aunt on both sides of the family and the oldest person in the family,” said Fannie Wiley.

Legal Notice

NOTICE OF NONDIS-CRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

The HARRIET TUBMAN SCHOOL FOR LEADERSHIP AND ENTERPRISE Inc., ad-mits students

Of any race, color, nation-al and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discrimi-nate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its education-al policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan pro-grams, and Atlantic and other school-administered programs.

LIKE US ON:

101-year-old Rosie Wiley was treated like a queen for the day when her daughters and other family and friends hosted a birthday party for her in Atlanta.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS JULY 18, 2015 • PAGE 11

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