See Alexander, page 8

VOLUME 20 NUMBER 38  WWW.OCGNEWS.COM  DECEMBER 20, 2014  FREE

SERVING DEKALB, FULTON, GWINNETT, HENRY AND ROCKDALE COUNTIES n WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

See Underground, page 9

Photos by Joshua Smith /OCG News

Rockdale says farewell to Commissioner JaNice Van Ness

Page 9

Conyers Middle School’s aerospace program takes flight

Page 5

Rockdale’s “Coach Stroud” honored in bronze

Page 3

CommunityCommunityCommunity

Cedric L. Alexander

Chick-fil-A ClassicBasketball tournament

to feature top talent High school basketball teams

from Florida, Tennessee, Mississippi, and Alabama will join in competition against some of DeKalb County’s best squads and other Georgia teams at the Chick-fil-A Invitational Holiday Classic on Dec. 26 – Dec. 30 in Tucker.

The 16 high school boys teams will compete for bragging rights and tournament honors at Tucker High School, 5036 LaVista Road, Tucker.

Participating DeKalb schools include Columbia, Miller Grove, Martin Luther King, Jr., Stephenson, Tucker and Cedar Grove.

The tournament is the brainchild of DeKalb County Athletics Director Horace Dunson.

Dunson has expanded DeKalb County athletics to new levels by hosting tournaments like this one. He also brought to the county the “Battle of the Borders,” a similar tournament for high school football teams from Florida and Georgia to compete in a “battle of the bands” as well.

“DeKalb County is one of the top-recruited districts in the Southeast. We have selected teams from states that have national reputations for top talent. It is a great competition to see these teams take each other on,” said Dunson. “We thank the schools, Chick-fil-A, the DeKalb Visitors Bureau, Sports DeKalb and everyone working with us on this event. Fans will be traveling from all over Georgia and the South to witness this showdown,” said Dunson. “We plan to make it bigger and bigger each year with more teams and more top talent.”

Tickets for the tournament are $10 and will be sold at each participating school or at the venue. For more information, call the DeKalb County Athletics program at 678-676-1821.

President Obama has appointed Cedric L. Alexander, DeKalb County’s deputy chief

operating officer for public safety, to a task force that will develop measures to improve relations between police officers and the communities they serve.

The President signed an executive order Oct. 18 creating

the Task Force on 21st Century Policing.

The task force, which includes officials from law enforcement, civil rights, non-profit organizations, and other stakeholders will study methods that are working and report back to President Obama by March 2. The task force will terminate 30 days after it submits its report.

The assignment comes in the wake of protests across the country after grand juries in Ferguson, Mo., and Staten Island, N.Y. declined to indict white police officers in connection with the deaths of unarmed African American males.

President Obama said the group will “reach out and

listen to law enforcement, and community activists and other stakeholders,” and make recommendations on the best ways to promote working together.

The task force will be chaired by Charles Ramsey, the police commissioner in

DeKalb’s Public Safety Chief appointed to Obama task force

By Valerie J. Morgan

WRS, Inc., a South Carolina real estate investment company, plans to redevelop Underground Atlanta, transforming the area from not only a destination for tourists, but a community where people will live and shop every day.

WRS, Inc. is under contract to buy Underground Atlanta for $25.8 million from the city of Atlanta and the Downtown Development Authority, city officials announced Dec. 17.

The company plans to redevelop the Atlanta landmark with apartments built on top of retail stores located at the street level of Underground Atlanta. The “underground” portion of the 12-acre tract will remain in tact with new retail and restaurants filling up vacant spaces, officials said.

Construction on the project is expected to start in mid-2016 and be completed within three to five years.

“The sale of Underground Atlanta

is another milestone in the revitalization of our downtown corridor,” said Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed. “WRS, Inc. brings a high level of expertise and strong track record of successful developments to an area of the city in need of a fresh approach. Based on the city’s track record with Ponce City Market, the

Lakewood Fairgrounds (now EUE Screen Gems) and Buckhead Atlanta, I am confident that we will succeed in transforming Underground Atlanta into a vibrant component of our city’s commercial business district.”

‘A FRESH START’WRS, Inc. to bring mixed-use concept to Underground Atlanta site

Conyers Holiday Spirit

Picturesque Olde Town Conyers looks like a postcard with its glistening Christmas lights and an ice skating rink on Main Street. The city is ready for the holidays and wishes residents and visitors alike a Merry Christmas.

PAGE 2  DECEMBER 20, 2014

DECEMBER 20, 2014   PAGE 3

DECEMBER 20, 2014 VOLUME 20, NO. 38 

EDITOR/PUBLISHERValerie 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 

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Rockdale’s “Coach Stroud” honored in bronze

GBI plans no action after reviewing detention officer’s death 

On Dec. 13, Rockdale County High School’s first black head coach, Cleveland “Coach” Stroud, was honored with a

gymnasium dedication and a bronze plaque, placed at the front entrance of the gym.

The dedication for the former coach was made Dec. 13 following the high school’s basketball game.

“It was a beautiful occasion. I know at least 100 people came to support Coach. We reached out to the community and they wasted no time to help us raise the money for the plaque,” said Aldren Sadler, who serves as president of the Citizens Progressive Club of Rockdale County, which worked on the project. “The community helped us raise thousands of dollars for the bronze plaque that will be permanently mounted on the walls of the RCHS’ Cleveland Stroud Gym.”

Stroud, who worked his way up as a janitor and school bus driver, had

numerous accomplishments as a coach with the Rockdale School System. Some of his accomplishments in the school system include: being selected as the first black coach and department

chair; serving as chair of the health and physical education departments; finishing second in the region in 1975 and 1976 as head baseball coach; winning 393 varsity games, which was

seven short of automatic induction into the Georgia Athletics Coaching Association Hall of Fame, and 62 junior varsity games as boys basketball coach in 1976; being recognized as region champion three out of four years as head coach of girls’ softball; being named “State Coach of the Year in 1987” and “Region Coach of the Year” seven times; and being honored as the “Rockdale County Teacher of the Year” in 1988.

Stroud is not only known for his contributions to the school system. He is often referred to as a pillar in the community for his political work. He has served as a councilman for District 1 on the Conyers City Council since 1994.

“This is one of the greatest honors I have received in my life. I thank all the teams of players and parents that worked with me over the years,” said Stroud. “As I look around the room, I am honored to share this moment with all of you.”

By Joshua Smith

The Maloof Auditorium was already hot due to the heater being on high, but residents and the Board of Commissioners were

steaming when the issue of confirming George Turner for a seat on the board came up on Dec. 16.

Tempers flared as the board’s three white commissioners--Jeff Rader, Kathie Gannon and newly-elected Nancy Jester--demanded a special election for the seat. The three black commissioners--Larry Johnson, Sharon Barnes Sutton and Stan Watson, say they don’t want to wait any longer and demanded confirmation of Turner’s appointment.

The board deadlocked again--for the seventh time. Watson, Johnson and Barnes Sutton voted to approve Turner’s appointment, while Gannon and Jester voted against it. Rader abstained, avoiding a tie. Four votes are needed for a decision or if there is a tie, DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May would break it.

The board has been squabbling since May nominated Turner in August for the District 5 temporary vacancy.

The board’s impasse has angered District 5 residents, who also are divided over Turner’s appointment. The

community of 140,000 has been without representation on the board for more than a year because their elected official-- May-- was appointed to serve as DeKalb’s Interim CEO last year. Gov. Nathan Deal appointed May to replace Burrell Ellis, who was suspended as CEO amidst corruption charges. Ellis, whose first case ended in a mistrial, is set for a retrial in June. He maintains he is innocent. He will return to his seat if he is found not guilty and May would return to his seat on the board of commissioners. Turner would serve in May’s seat temporarily if the board confirms his appointment.

Meanwhile, residents are speaking out about the board’s inability to fill the seat.

“You’re holding us hostage. It’s time out for all of this foolishness that’s taking place. They need to put Mr. Turner in the seat immediately,” said John Evans, president of the DeKalb County NAACP branch.

But Faye Coffield, a resident of District 5, had a different opinion, saying she wants a special election to be held.

“This seat belongs to the people of the Fifth District. They have the right to have a special election to temporarily appoint someone to that position,” Coffield told commissioners.

County attorneys say a special

election could occur as early as March, if May were to resign in or by February.

“This is no mystery. I’m going to continue to vote no on this nomination, despite what has been asked. I will continue to vote against the process, not Mr. Turner. I am voting against a process in which a powerful CEO appoints a successor. It’s too much concentration of power here,” said Commissioner Rader, who represents District 2 in DeKalb.

Jester, who won a special election on Dec. 2 to finish out the term of Elaine Boyer, said a resignation of interim CEO May from his former seat would solve the problem.

“Just like I was selected to fill this seat (District 1) after a vigorous campaign, that’s what we can do for the people of District 5,” said Jester. “Fair is fair. Let the people vote for who will represent them and make decisions on their behalf.”

DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson blasted Jester, Rader and Gannon, saying they are trying to bully May out of his position. Watson said Jester should not compare her recent election to the District 5 situation. A special election had to be held to permanently replace Boyer, who

DeKalb commissioners remain deadlocked over District 5 “temporary vacancy”

Following DeKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann’s request last month for an independent review, the Georgia Bureau of Investigations (GBI) has released its report on the circumstances surrounding the death of recruit George Ward. The GBI briefed Mann in a meeting and told him it does not plan to take any further action on the case.

Ward was a detention officer recruit who died unexpectedly during training exercises in May 2013 during the second day of the Jail Academy

training program. His death came under scrutiny after WSB-TV launched an investigation. “We understand that Mr. Ward’s family continues to grieve his loss, and they have our sympathies,” said Mann. “After reviewing the report, however, I remain confident that this agency acted responsibly with regard to his tragic death and to our training program during retired Sheriff Thomas Brown’s administration. We continue to do so today. When Mr. Ward became

ill while training, we responded swiftly, professionally and appropriately.”

According to initial reports by the DeKalb Medical Examiner, Mr. Ward was a victim of serious pre-existing medical conditions. This was reconfirmed by the GBI Medical Examiner as part of its review. Sheriff Mann refers to the DeKalb Sheriff’s Office training program as “text book” for law enforcement agencies and he says it is managed by experienced officers who share recruits’ desires to

succeed. “Given the nature of the detention

officers’ job, it is critical that all our officers are well-trained physically, emotionally and mentally,” he says. “They must be able to function effectively in the life-or-death situations that occur inside the jail. While hundreds of officers have successfully graduated from our Jail Academy, those few who found it to be too challenging were either released or left the program voluntarily.”

See Commission seat, page 10

PAGE 4  DECEMBER 20, 2014

Coming Up

ATLANTA

City reminds businesses to renew licenses by Feb. 15 The City of Atlanta’s Office of Revenue is reminding businesses in the

city that they have until Sunday, Feb. 15, to file their business license renewal application. Once a renewal application is filed, businesses will have until April 1, 2015 to pay the invoiced amount. Businesses are encouraged to renew their license, using their PIN, online at https://web.atlantaga.gov/blis/.

Some types of businesses are not eligible for online renewal. These businesses include: parking garages, attorneys, legal services, insurance accounts and any business with an account with a returned mailing address omitted from their online renewal file. These businesses are encouraged to download and complete the city’s business tax renewal application.

Businesses should note that they will be penalized for not filing. Business owners who do not submit a business license renewal application by the Feb. 15, 2015 deadline will receive a “failure to file notice” and a $500 fine. Failure to meet the April 1, 2015 payment deadline will result in a 10 percent failure to pay penalty. Unpaid balances accrue a monthly interest fee of 1.5 percent.

For more information, contact 404-330-6270 or email biztax@atlantaga.gov.

DEKALB

County hosts blanket drive for the needyDeKalb County is hosting a blanket drive for the needy through Wednesday,

Dec. 31. The office of the CEO, Parks and Recreation and Cultural Affairs have set up several drop-off locations for new or gently-used blanket. Once all items are gathered, they will be distributed to people in need.

The following locations are accepting blanket donations during normal business hours:

Maloof Building, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur Browns Mill Recreation Center, 5101 Browns Mill Road, LithoniaExchange Recreation Center, 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur Gresham Recreation Center, 3113 Gresham Road, AtlantaHamilton Recreation Center, 3263 Chapel Street, ScottdaleLucious Sanders Recreation Center, 2484 Bruce Street, LithoniaMason Mill Recreation Center, 1340-B McConnell Drive, DecaturMidway Recreation Center, 3181 Midway Road, DecaturN.H. Scott Recreation Center, 2230 Tilson Road, DecaturPorter Sanford III Performing Arts Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, DecaturRedan Recreation Center, 1839 Phillips Road, LithoniaTobie Grant Recreation Center, 644 Parkdale Drive, ScottdaleTucker Recreation Center, 4898 LaVista Road, TuckerFor more information, call LaShanda Davis, public education specialist: 404-

371-3643.

DeKalb Parks and Rec to hold winter break day camp DeKalb County’s Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will

hold a Winter Break Day Camp Dec. 22 – 31 and Jan. 2 and 5, 7 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., at all 11 county recreation centers.

Camp will be closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 in observance of the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. Winter Break Day Camp is open to ages 5 -12 and will be held Monday through Friday at a charge of $6 per day. Participants must provide their own lunch and snack.

Registration is now open and all payments should be made payable to DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs by cashier’s check or money order.

To access the online registration, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks and click the “Register Online” button on the Department’s homepage or you may register in person at a center near you. For more information, contact Bernita Reese, division manager, at 404-371-3643.

GWINNETT

Energy assistance available for low-income families Applications for Gwinnett’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program

(LIHEAP) will be accepted Monday – Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Buford

Human Services Center, 2755 Sawnee Ave., Buford; Centerville Community Center, 3025 Bethany Church Road, Snellville; and Mondays only, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m., at Norcross Human Services Center, 5030 Georgia Belle Court in Norcross.

Applications will be taken until funds are exhausted for households meeting the 60 percent median income guidelines. Applicants are seen by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, visit www.pcaction.org or for more information, call Partnership for Community Action at 404-537-4300.

Septic tank workshop offered to residents Gwinnett County is offering a free workshop to residents, “Septic Tank

Maintenance,” on Thursday, Jan. 15, 6 – 7:30 p.m., at the Norcross Human Services Center, 5030 Georgia Belle Court, Norcross.

Residents are invited to attend this workshop and learn what to look for when a problem exists, what to look for in a good contractor, and what permitting requirements are for new systems. For more information and to register, email dwrswreg@gwinnettcounty.com or call 678-376-7193.

ROCKDALE

Rockdale-Newton NCNW sets parenting empowerment discussion The Rockdale-Newton Section of the National Council of Negro Women, Inc.

will host a community discussion designed to bring parents and guardians together with a host of experts who interact directly with the youth of Rockdale County to keep children out of the juvenile/prison pipeline system. The discussion will be held on Jan. 10, 11 a.m., Antioch AME Church, 1790 Ebenezer Road, Conyers.

“We recognize that the most recent cases of police killings have impacted our communities across the nation and in grave ways. And although there may be varying views on the outcomes of the most recent cases, our organization is primarily aiming to equip those raising youth in our local communities with information they need yet avoid another unnecessary end to a valuable life,” said Rhonda Taylor, president of the Rockdale-Newton Section of the National Council of Negro Women. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions of the panelists who include Rockdale County School Superintendent Rich Autry; Rockdale County Sheriff Eric Levett; City of Conyers Police Department, Sgt. Peggy Franklin; Rockdale County Magistrate Court, Chief Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten; Rockdale County Juvenile Court, Judge William Schneider; Criminal Law Attorney Gary Washington; and Education Advocate (SNAP) Anthony Ivory, M.Ed. For more information about the empowerment event, contact Rhonda Taylor at 678-824-2946 or email her at Rockdalenewtonncnw@gmail.com.

BOC seeks volunteers for several boardsThe Board of Commissioners is accepting applications for volunteer

appointments to several groups that serve the county including the Planning Commission, Economic Development Council, Development Authority, Ethics Commission. Two alternates will be selected from a drawing that will be held in public from eligible candidates.

If you are interested in serving, fill out an application and return it at your earliest convenience. The more experience that you have in the related field, the better chance you have of getting selected.

You can also follow up with a phone call to 770-278-7001 or an email to the commissioners stating why you would be a great choice. Email Jennifer.rutledge@rockdalecounty.org to apply. You can also email CEO Richard Oden at richard.oden@rockdalecounty.org, Oz Nesbitt at oz.nesbitt@rockdalecounty.org or Doreen Williams at doreen.williams@rockdalecounty.org.

Last community bike ride of the year set Families are invited to join the City of Conyers’ final 2014 Bicycle Ride in and

around Olde Town on Sunday, Dec. 28, 4 – 5 p.m. Bring your bike and helmet and enjoy a four-mile, 45-minute leisurely group

bike ride for families on the beautiful historic streets of Olde Town Conyers. The ride begins at the Conyers Welcome Center/Depot at 901 Railroad Street, Conyers. For more information, contact Eddie Shirey at 770-365-0480.

Big Peach Drop celebration set for New Year’s Eve

Underground Atlanta, 50 Upper Alabama St., S.W., Atlanta, is ready and prepared for thousands of on-lookers to watch the 26th Annual Peach Drop at midnight on New Year’s Eve. Activities, however, will be held throughout the day starting at 11 a.m.

There will be carnival-style rides, arcade games, face painting, balloon artists, performances from youth groups and a DJ just for kids during the day.

There also will be a variety of live performances that night including Janelle Monae, who has six Grammy nominations. Monae will perform around midnight when the 800-pound Peach drops and a fireworks display are held. House DJ and Emcee “World Famous G-MAK,” Garrett Webster will get the crowd pumped up. For more information, call William Ciccaglione at 404-523-2311, ext. 7010.

DECEMBER 20, 2014   PAGE 5

2695 PANOLA ROAD, LITHONIA, GA 30058

Season Greetings

from our family to your family

Come in and try our famous chicken wings and biscuits now available at breakfast

By Joshua Smith

An airplane engine weighing 6,000 pounds, landing gear, rooms filled with flight coordinates and a veteran pilot

of 37 years were all part of the open house at Conyers Middle School, where a new Center for Technology and Engineering program was rolled out on Dec. 16.

Conyers Middle School Principal Allison Barbour praised the new program, saying it will help students excel in engineering, business video gaming, video/audio production and aerospace engineering.

“We will develop college and career-ready global learners who will use industry-leading technology to solve problems while gaining skills in communication, collaboration and critical-thinking,” Barbour said.

Assistant Principal Anterro Graham, who will oversee the program, said Conyers Middle School, recognized as a NASA Explorer School in 2006, is a natural fit. The school was selected

because of its demographics, which include students from disadvantaged families.

NASA’s Explorer Schools take on partnerships with NASA to engage, educate and inspire the next generation of explorers. Students get visits from astronauts and NASA staff and the chance to communicate live with astronauts in space.

Students at Conyers Middle School must apply for admission into the state-funded program, which will start next school year.

At the Dec. 16 open house event, parents and students toured the school, which was transformed into the “Conyers International Airport” for the night.

Parent liaisons such as Chester Benton, who helped organized the open house, said this will be an outstanding program for students who are often overlooked.

“We have some great minds here that are thirsty for this kind of knowledge, but a lot of people give this school and our kids a bad wrap that they don’t deserve,”

said Benton. “If given the chance, I know our kids are able to excel in these fields. We will prove the naysayers wrong and look forward to expanding the program with more funds, more equipment and more students from in and around Rockdale in the future.”

Retired Delta Captain Calvin “Cal” Flanigan, who served as the guest speaker for the open house, said he is eager to lend his support to the program. Flanigan, who lives in Conyers and was named Delta Airlines’ top pilot for eight consecutive years during his 45-year career with the company, works on contract as a pilot recruiter. He said the students are the future.

“I’m committed to this program and these kids. I will share whatever knowledge is requested from me I and I will be back whenever they need me,” said Flanigan. “I look forward to flight simulators going up in the back and all the other great things Principal Barbour and her staff have in mind for this program.”

Also at the open house were Delta technicians and mechanics, as well as

independent air traffic control workers. For sixth-grader Jose Cortez, 11, the

program will pave the way for something he has dreamed of doing some day--becoming a pilot.

“I think it would be the best job ever. You get to see so many countries and cities, and I could fly my family everywhere,” said Cortez. “I’m excited about the program. I hope I get in and do well.”

Students may apply for the program Jan. 6 – 20. The school system will use an electronic application process. No paper applications will be accepted. The Student Registration Office at 1143 West Ave., Conyers, will provide assistance to access the online application, if needed, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. - 3 p.m., on a first-come, first-served basis. In the event there are more eligible applicants than space available, students will be selected via a random lottery drawing. If needed, a lottery will be held the last week in January.

For more information, visit: www.rockdale.k12.ga.us.

Conyers Middle School’s aerospace program takes flightPhotos by Joshua Smith/OCG News

PAGE 6  DECEMBER 20, 2014

DECEMBER 20, 2014   PAGE 7

PAGE 8  DECEMBER 20, 2014

Alexandercontinued from page 1

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Philadelphia, and Laurie Robinson, a former assistant attorney general who is now a professor at George Mason University in Fairfax, Va. Ron Davis, director of the Justice Department’s Community Oriented Policing Services Office, will serve as the group’s executive director.

In addition to DeKalb’s Alexander, who also is president of the National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives, other task

force members are:• Jose Lopez, lead organizer of Make

the Road New York, a Brooklyn-based non-profit focused on civil rights, education reform, and combating poverty.

• Bryan Stevenson, founder and executive director of the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI), headquartered in Montgomery, Ala.

• Brittany Packnett, executive director of

Teach For America in St. Louis, Mo.• Susan Rahr, executive director of the

Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission.

• Tracey Meares, the Walton Hale Hamilton Professor of Law at Yale Law School.

• Constance Rice, a civil rights attorney and co-director of the Advancement Project, an organization she co-founded in 1999. Rice was selected

to lead a panel that investigated the largest police corruption scandal in Los Angeles Police Department history.

• Roberto Villaseñor, chief of police in Tucson, Ariz.

• Sean Smoot, director and chief counsel for the Police Benevolent & Protective Association of Illinois and the Police Benevolent Labor Committee

DECEMBER 20, 2014   PAGE 9

Undergroundcontinued from page 1

Rockdale officials take oath of office Families and residents of Rockdale County packed Superior Court Judge Robert Mumford’s

courtroom to witness the swearing-in ceremonies of incumbent Chief Superior Court Judge David B. Irwin, incumbent District Attorney Richard Read and political newcomer Doreen Williams, who was officially sworn into office as the Post 2 County Commissioner.

“I know Rockdale County is headed in the right direction with the swearing-in of these great leaders,” said Judge Mumford. “We can all go into the holiday season knowing the county has put some great people in place.”

Rockdale CEO Richard Oden, Sheriff Eric Levett, Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley, Chamber of Commerce President Fred Boscarino, Church of New Beginnings Pastor Aldren Sadler were among the dignitaries and community leaders who attended the ceremonies.

Williams, a Democrat who was elected to replace Republican veteran commissioner Janice Van Ness in the November election, fought back tears as she read her oath to the community. Van Ness received 45.89 percent of the vote, while Williams earned 54.03 in the November election.

“I’m just so happy to share this moment with my family and friends. I want to say thank you to all the voters and thank you especially to all the volunteers that helped,” said Williams. “I look forward to serving and working in Rockdale County.”

By Joshua Smith

Rockdale residents and its top officials said farewell to veteran commissioner JaNice Van Ness

during a Holiday Open House on Dec. 16. The open house was held to

honor Van Ness, who is relinquishing

her District 2 board seat to newly-elected Doreen Williams, who was sworn in on Dec. 18. Van Ness, the only woman on the three-member Board of Commissioners, served eight years, from 2007 to 2015. Van Ness received 45.89 percent of the vote while Williams earned 54.03 in the November election.

“I want to thank the community for their support over the years. It’s been a lot of fun,” Van Ness told well-wishers. “I’ve enjoyed all the outreach programs that we’ve had, love the parks and recreation and the expansions of programs we have been able to offer our families and seniors. I know we’ve made some positive strides for economic development and I know I will see many of you out in the community and I look forward to that.”

Van Ness encouraged those attending the open house to get involved in the community.

“My hope in 2015 is that you will take initiative to get involved in our community in some way: volunteer on a board, coach a sports team, mentor a student, or lead new discussions on

topics of interest. Just get involved and help make a positive change locally,” Van Ness said.

Rockdale CEO Richard Oden, on behalf of the Board of Commissioners, presented Van Ness with an engraved clock plaque for her years of service and dedication.

“This is both, a happy and a sad moment, as we celebrate the success of eight years of Commissioner Van Ness’s service,” said Oden. “She was the eagle eye. She really zeroed in on all the details. Commissioner Van Ness has been very clear and passionate about this community. We have had our disagreements and passionate arguments but we all had the same goal: to make Rockdale the best county in Georgia.”

Fellow board member Oz Nesbitt, Post I, said Van Ness was someone who truly cared about the people and the development of the county.

“She has been our senior commissioner in this administration for the last six years and I learned a lot from her when it comes to paying close attention to the details,” said Nesbitt. “As a native of this community,

she didn’t have to pretend or put on airs about being dedicated to the people. She has genuinely served this community. I’ve witnessed her passion, asking the tough questions, making sure Rockdale County is a shinning star among the 159 counties we have in Georgia. We are going to miss her on the board.”

Kim Todd, who works with troubled juveniles in Rockdale, echoed Nesbitt’s sentiments, but said she expects Van Ness to stay involved in the community.

“We will all miss her so much sitting on the board but I know she will keep her promise to stay active in our community. I’ve already seen her out at several events. She will always be working for the people, whether she has the commissioner badge or not,” said Todd. “We thank her so much for what she has done for the community.”

Along with a bouquet of flowers and a card from Todd, Van Ness also received a “Women in Congress” book from the Office of Congressman Hank Johnson, as well as a poinsettia and other gifts from the community.

Rockdale says farewell to Commissioner JaNice Van Ness

WRS has an extensive history in developing retail shopping centers. Since 2001, it has developed more than 30 shopping centers with over 7 million square feet of retail space.

Among the company’s notable development projects are retail-anchored projects for nationally-known corporations including Belk, Wal-Mart, Staples, Kohl’s, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. WRS also is developing the Horizon District in South Carolina, an urban research district that will contain more than 2.5 million square feet of mixed-used space with street-level retail, restaurant and office space and workforce housing.

“WRS, Inc. is committed to leveraging Underground Atlanta as a catalyst for long-term economic and social sustainability in downtown Atlanta,” said CEO and President Scott Smith. “Development plans for the site will create a community rather than a destination, making Underground Atlanta a place where people can live and shop every day.”

Jarrett Maynard, 30, who likes shopping at the Ginza Boutique located at Underground

Atlanta, says he hopes the redevelopment also will include improved parking and focus on safety.

“Parking at Underground is horrible. You often can’t find a space and it’s expensive, if you do. In addition to that, all the homeless people laying around and other illegal activities going on there can’t be good for shoppers or tourists,” said Maynard, who recently had a friend drop him off at the Ginza Boutique so that he could purchase a pair of Michael Jordan Retro 11’s that weren’t scheduled for release until Dec. 20.

Details about the project are expected to be presented to the Atlanta City Council and the DDA board for approval next month.

The City and DDA have jointly owned Underground Atlanta since August 1986. Officials said as a result of the sale, the city would save $8 million a year.

The Underground Atlanta transformation will complement several new downtown attractions including the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, the College Football Hall of Fame and the new Falcons Stadium, which will open in 2017.

Snapshot of Underground Atlanta’s History1969: Underground Atlanta officially opened on April 8 with restaurants, bars, nightclubs and music venues. With the old-style architecture lending considerable charm to the district, Underground Atlanta was compared to Bourbon Street in New Orleans.

1972: Underground had 3.5 million visitors and $17 million in sales.The construction of the MARTA East Line began in 1975. Several blocks of clubs and parking were eliminated.

1980: Underground Atlanta closed and sat dormant for years.

1987: The Rouse Company began a $142 million renovation, which included $85 million in city municipal bonds.

1989: Underground Atlanta re-opened on June 15 as more of a modern shopping mall than an entertainment district.

1992: In the wake of the Rodney King trial verdict, the Underground area was severely damaged by rioters on April 30.

Source: Wikipedia

Chief Superior Court Judge David B. Irwin District Attorney Richard Read County Commissioner Doreen Williams

Lucille Smith Lamar, long-time Rockdale nurse passes

Feb. 10, 1925 – Dec. 16, 2014

Lucile Smith Lamar, a longtime resident of Rockdale County, passed away on Dec. 16 after a long illness. She was 89.

For over three decades, Mrs. Lamar worked with Dr. Joseph Brown, the man known in Rockdale as the “baby doctor.” Mrs. Lamar left a legacy as a licensed practical nurse who offered a comforting voice and steady hands for expectant women.

“She was a mild-mannered person who was well-liked and well-respected by the community. She was a gentle woman who always wanted to help people,” said her daughter, Josephine Lamar of Lithonia.

Mrs. Lamar was raised in Washington, GA and moved to Rockdale after marrying Jodie Lamar, who preceded her in death. She went to work for Dr. Brown around 1943 after moving to Rockdale from Washington, GA.

Her grandson, Joey Lamar, recounted how his grandmother took great pride in her work and sometimes dealing with derogatory remarks.

“There were times when she was called the “N” word and she did not let it faze her one bit. She told me that she had a lot of responsibility as a nurse. She often deposited the money for the office so she knew she was not only respected, but trusted. She took a great deal of pride in that,” said Joey Lamar.

Mrs. Lamar is survived by two daughters: Ms. Bobbie Jean Gary of Decatur and Ms. Josephine Lamar of Lithonia; four grandsons; four great grandchildren and a host of other relatives.

The funeral service for Mrs. Lucile Smith Lamar will be held Saturday Dec. 20, 11 a.m. at Bald Rock Baptist Church, 2284 Olld Covington Road, Conyers with Pastor Christopher Shipp and the Rev. Jeffery Briggs, officiating. Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Homes Rockdale Chapel, 1999 Hwy 138 Conyers, GA, is handling the arrangements.

Interment will be at Summer Hill Church Cemetery, Conyers.

Photo by Joshua Smith /OCG NewsJaNice Van Ness holds an engraved clock plaque for her years of service and dedication presented to her by Rockdale CEO Richard Oden, on behalf of the Board of Commissioners.

PAGE 10  DECEMBER 20, 2014

Commission seatcontinued from page 3

Red Cross pushes blood drive for National Blood Donor Month

The American Red Cross is urging eligible donors to give blood regularly in 2015, beginning with National Blood Donor Month in January.

National Blood Donor Month recognizes the importance of giving blood and platelets while honoring those who roll up a sleeve to help patients in need. Winter is an especially difficult time to collect enough blood to meet patient needs. Unpredictable winter weather can result in blood drive cancellations, and seasonal illnesses, like the flu, may cause some donors to be unable to make or keep blood donation appointments.

Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. With a shelf life of 42 days, red blood cells must be continually replenished to maintain an adequate supply for patients. Individuals who come out to give blood Jan. 1--4 will receive a long-sleeve Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767). Following is a partial listing of places and times to donate:

Upcoming blood donation opportunities:

1/1/2015: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Walmart, 1400 Lawrenceville Hwy., Lawrenceville1/2/2015: 1:30 - 6:30 p.m., Snellville City Hall, 2342 Oak Road, Snellville 1/2/2015: 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Decatur Library, 215 Syamore St., Decatur 1/4/2015: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., Congregation B’Nai Torah, 700 Mt Vernon Hwy NE, Atlanta 1/4/2015: 7:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., North Atlanta Church of Christ, 5676 Roberts Drive, Atlanta 1/5/2015: 3 - 7 p.m., Workout Anytime, 2836 LaVista Road, Decatur 1/6/2015: 2:30 - 7:30 p.m., Decatur First United Methodist Church, 300 East Ponce De Leon, Decatur 1/6/2015: 3 - 8 p.m., Cowart Family Ashford Dunwoody YMCA, 3692 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Atlanta 1/7/2015: 12 - 5 p.m., Emory University Yerkes Research, 954 North Gatewood Road, Atlanta 1/7/2015: 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Colony Square, 1201 Peachtree Street, NE, Atlanta 1/7/2015: 11:15 a.m. - 4:15 p.m., Sandy Springs Library, 395 Mt Vernon Hwy., Atlanta 1/7/2015: 3:30 - 7:30 p.m., Annistown Road Baptist Church, 4554 Annistown Road, Snellville 1/8/2015: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., DeKalb Department of Family and Children Services, 178 Sams St., Decatur 1/10/2015: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Salem Missionary Baptist Church, 4700 Church St., Lilburn 1/10/2015: 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Woodruff Physical Education Center, 600 Ashbury Circle, Atlanta 1/10/2015: 12 - 6 p.m., Stonecrest Mall, 2929 Turner Hill Road, Lithonia 1/12/2015: 3 - 7 p.m., Conyers First United Methodist Church, 921 N Main St., Conyers 1/12/2015: 3 - 7 p.m., Berkmar United Methodist Church, 675 Pleasant Hill Road, Lilburn 1/12/2015: 3 - 7 p.m., First Baptist Church of Lilburn, 285 Main St., Lilburn 1/12/2015: 3 - 7 p.m., Robert Fowler YMCA, 5600 W. Jones Bridge Road, Norcross 1/13/2015: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Buckhead Centre, 2964 Peachtree Street, Suite 340, Atlanta 1/14/2015: 3 - 8 p.m., Immaculate Heart of Mary Catholic Church, 2855 Briarcliff Road NE, Atlanta 1/14/2015: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m., Gwinnett YMCA, 2985 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville 1/14/2015: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Emory Eastside Medical Center, 1700 Medical Way, Snellville 1/15/2015: 8 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Tucker High School, 5036 Lavista Road, Tucker

L-R: Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police President, City of Monroe Chief of Police, Keith Glass with Officer Stephen J. Blanchette, Governor Nathan Deal, and Conyers Police Chief Gene Wilson

Gov. Deal honors Conyers police officer for heroism Gov. Nathan Deal honored Conyers Police Officer Stephen J. Blanchette and 11 other officers for their outstanding acts of heroism during the Governor’s Public Safety Awards (GPSA) ceremony on Dec. 17. The program was held at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth.

Blanchette was awarded a medallion for rushing to the rescue of victims involved in a a fiery automobile crash after being flagged down by a witness who saw the crash. He dragged one of the victims up an embankment. The accident happened in February.

Blanchett’s name was added to the GPSA monument located inside the training center for heroism. “It is my honor to recognize Georgia’s brave law enforcement officers and emergency responders,” said Governor Deal. “These courageous individuals have made a commitment to help safeguard our communities and protect our families and I cannot thank them enough for their loyal and tireless service to our state.” The annual GPSA program began in 1998 to recognize public safety officers who go above and beyond the call of duty to protect citizens and make significant contributions to the public safety profession at large.

DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson, along with the Board of Commissioner, presents a $10,000 donation to the Police Alliance.

DeKalb County Police Alliance receives $10,000 donation The DeKalb County Police Alliance received a $10,000 donation at the Dec.

16 Board of Commissioners’ meeting. The money, raised during Commissioner Stan Watson’s fourth annual DeKalb International Food and Music Festival on Oct. 18, will be used toward the insurance premium that covers sworn law enforcement officers of the county and municipalities of DeKalb.

“Our officers serve the county in dangerous situations every day,” said Interim Chief of Police James Conroy. “This donation helps protect our brave officers and their families. We also hope to use some of the funds toward the construction of the K-9 memorial.”

Gwinnett County residents won’t see an increase in water and sewer bills after all. The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners adopted a resolution that eliminates an increase in rates that was scheduled to take effect on Jan. 1. Without this action, water rates would have increased by approximately 3.5 percent and sewer rates would have increased by about 10 percent.

The new rate resolution was approved by the Board of Commissioners and the Gwinnett County Water and Sewerage Authority on Dec. 15 As has been the County’s practice, the newly adopted rate resolution covers the period of 2016 – 2021. Modest rate changes of approximately 1.5 percent for water and about 2 percent for sewer

are planned in 2017, 2019 and 2021. “This plan provides an appropriate

funding level for the water and sewer system’s operations and maintenance needs in the future,” said Commission Chairman Charlotte Nash. “The efforts of Water Resources Director Ron Seibenhener and his staff to control costs put us in a position where we could forego the planned increase in 2015. The district commissioners and I know that rates have risen considerably over the last few years, and we felt that we needed to give this relief to the ratepayers.

Seibenhener cited several examples of efficiency improvements and cost reductions, including process changes at water treatment and water reclamation facilities that have reduced the use

of both chemicals and power. The department has reduced water loss throughout the system with an advanced leak detection program and lowered the number of costly equipment failures with staff training focused on improving preventive maintenance.

“Most importantly, we have optimized our capital program to ensure the right projects are happening at the right time in the right way,” Seibenhener said.

Gwinnett County has also taken advantage of favorable credit ratings and low interest rates to refinance water and sewer bonds. Interest savings on long-term debt for capital projects as a result of refunding are approximately $30 million, freeing up funding for other purposes.

Under the new resolution, basic water rates for a residential home will remain $4.85 per thousand gallons through the end of 2016. Residential water rates will rise by seven cents per thousand gallons every other year starting in 2017, topping out at $5.06 per thousand gallons in 2021. Residential sewer rates, which are $7.82 per thousand gallons today, will remain the same until the end of 2016. Then, these rates will increase in alternating years beginning in 2017. The total increase for residential sewer rates during the seven-year period will be 48 cents per thousand gallons.

For more information about future rate increases for residential, retail and wholesale accounts, visit www.gwinnettcounty.com.

Gwinnett forgoes planned New Year increase for water and sewer

resigned from her seat and pleaded guilty to defrauding taxpayers of more than $90,000. Boyer will be sentenced next year in federal court on the charges.

“There is a difference in how Commissioner Jester was elected and what we are trying to do in District 5. There has been no resignation in District 5 like there was in District 1. This board is asking our Interim CEO to resign via from our bully pulpit and I don’t think that’s going to happen,” said Watson. “We need to stop playing politics. We need to play with the cards we have been dealt. We are being held hostage. On the last meeting of the year, they said Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, but then voted no.”

Turner said it is clear the District 5 seat is about a shift in power on the

board. “I think they are looking at me

as a person who will simply vote as a bloc with the ideas of particular commissioners, but they don’t know me. I have my own mind and would have my own vote,” said Turner.

Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton echoed Turner’s beliefs during sentiments she made at the Dec. 16 board meeting.

“This isn’t even about process. This is about power, trying to control this board and playing with the lives of the people of District 5,” said Barnes Sutton. “Believe me: There are people here who have an agenda. The proof is in the way you vote. Look at who is voting for what… These are power plays. Enough is enough.”

DECEMBER 20, 2014   PAGE 11

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