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By Joshua Smith

For Val Archer watching George Lucas’ film, “Red Tails,” is like looking into a mirror. The story of

Archer, a former technical sergeant and crew chief with the Tuskegee Airmen has viewed the film four times and appreciated something new with each screening.

The movie opened on (Friday) Jan. 20 and brought in $6 million on opening night. Strong word of mouth resulted in a 40 percent increase in audience for Saturday and almost $20 million as of Sunday afternoon, making it the No. 2 movie in America (despite opening in 500 fewer theaters than the No. 1 film, “Underworld Awakening”). “Red Tails” brought in $19.1 million, second only to “Underworld Awakening,” which raked in $25.4 million.

“When I look at a character like Antwan “Cofee” Coleman (Andre Royo), I see myself and other crew chiefs in him. We loved repairing the aircrafts and we were also responsible for flying schedules and making sure everything was where it needed to be for successful takeoffs and landings,” said Archer, who joined the Army Air Corps at the age of 15. “The movie was just so well done. Every time I see it, my appreciation grows.”

Archer who was born April 13, 1929, watched the movie with the Tuskegee Legacy Aviation Group (T-LAG).

“Everyone—from the pilots to the ground crew—was represented very well in the film. I think Red Tails does a really good job of picking up where the HBO Tuskegee Airmen film left off and even opens the door for another film,” said Archer, who also served as an instrument specialist on P-47 and C-47 fighter aircrafts with the Tuskegee Airmen. “The Tuskegee Airmen blazed a force in the desegregating the military.”

Archer, who received a

Congressional Gold Medal in 2007 for his service with the airmen in ground operations, says his job is not finished. He says his generation must continue to educate future generations on the importance of those who serve in the military.

“I gave 22 active years to the military, with 13 years serving on overseas tours, but my work will never be done,” said Archer. “The airmen before us mentored us heavily. For that reason, I feel it is our job to continue to mentor today’s generation, supporting their positive endeavors and showing them the importance of having respect and appreciation for those in uniform who risk their lives to defend the Country as we once did.”

The veteran airman says it is critical for him to keep close ties to the community and continue to join forces with those who fight for equality, as his 332nd fighter group once did to serve in the military. Archer says he remains active with groups such as Junior Reserve Officers programs, Training

Corps Programs, Tuskegee University and the NAACP. Archer has especially close ties with the DeKalb branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and its president, John Evans.

“John has been a family friend for quite some time now. I have stood with him on many occasions fighting for civil rights and I will continue to do that with him,” said Archer. “John is always on the frontline fighting for justice. Most recently, I enjoyed working with John and Jesse Jackson in fighting against foreclosures with the Rainbow PUSH Coalition.”

The Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce will recognize Archer for his work with the community in honor of Black History Month at its Third Wednesday Luncheon on Feb. 15 in Lithonia. The luncheon will be held at the Fairfield Inn & Suites Atlanta East/Lithonia, 7850 Stonecrest Square. For more information or to register, visit www.lithoniachamber.com or call 770-482-1808.

Tuskegee Airman reflects on ‘Red Tails’

Chamber welcomes public to travel to

Italy, Cuba and China By Joshua Smith

The Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is building a reputation around metro Atlanta for offering trips abroad at affordable prices. The Chamber, which took the public to China last

October and Spain in November, is heading to Cuba and Italy for the first time this year, and a making a repeat trip to China.

“Anyone from anywhere can go. We have a lot of exciting events planned for all of the excursions we’re taking this year,” said Fred Boscarino, president of the Rockdale Chamber. “This really is a great way to take an international vacation. There will be planned activities and plenty of free time for sightseeing and shopping.”

The Chamber has secured affordable rates through a travel agency that specializes in offering packages for groups like the Chamber.

Carolyn Williams, a retiree from Lithonia, took the trip to China last year with her “traveling buddies,” sister, Dot Ford, and her friend Vivian Hood.

“This was a great opportunity to travel to China, a place I always wanted to go to,” said Williams, who has visited Hawaii, Russia, London, Sweden, Finland, Paris, Mexico, Bermuda, Rome, the Caribbean and Alaska. “The Rockdale Chamber offers great service throughout the entire process and I wanted to take advantage of what I felt was a great price that you won’t find with other groups traveling to these kinds of destinations.”

The nine-day China trip, Oct. 14-22, includes visits to Beijing, Shanghai, Suzhou and Hangzhou. Travelers will see the famous Great Wall, the Lingyin Temple, and China’s Economic Redevelopment Zone. The trip costs $2,199 per person and includes air fare, four- and five-star hotels, three meals a day and English-speaking tour guides.

The Chamber will take a nine-day trip to Havana, Cuba and Trinidad Sept. 13 – 21. The $3,299 fee includes airfare from Miami, hotel stays and 19 meals (seven breakfasts, seven lunches and five dinners).

Travelers will explore Cuba’s architecture such as the Cathedral de la Havana, built in 1748, and the Museo de la Revelucion, which housed Cuba’s leaders from the 1920s until 1959 and showcases an interior designed by Tiffany’s of New York. The western providence of Pinar del Rio, known for its stunning scenery filled with a landscape of flat-top mountains, or “mogotes,” tobacco plantation, caves and rivers, will also be visited. The excursion also includes a trip to Trinidad, where the providence of Cienfuegos, known as Cuba’s “Pearl of the South,” will also be visited. A walking tour of Trinidad de Cuba, one of the Country’s oldest cities, founded by the Spaniards in 1514, is included. An experienced bilingual Cuban host will lead the tours.

The trip to Tuscany, Italy will be held Nov. 7 – 15. The nine-day journey, at a cost of $2,695 per person, includes stops in Lucca, Pisa, Florence, Siena, San Gimignano, Cinque Terre and the costal town of La Spezia. Travelers can enjoy the world-renowned spa treatments at the Montecatini resort, art galleries and museums, the Leaning Tower, and a wine tasting in the Tuscan countryside.

The $500 registration fee for the Cuba trip is due by Feb. 24. The $200 registration fee for China is due July 2. The $500 registration fee for Italy is due July 20.

A current passport and Travel Visa are required for China. A passport is required for the two other trips. A standard Cuban Travel Visa is required for travel to Cuba and is included in the price of the traveling program. Obtaining a passport is the traveler’s responsibility and must be valid six months beyond Visa approval date.

For more information, call the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce at 770-483-7049. The Chamber is located at 1186 Scott Street, Conyers.

Tuskegee Airman Val Archer

Jerome EdmondsonGreg Adams

By Valerie J. Morgan and Joshua Smith

Two challengers—a former police officer and a well-known

businessman—have announced they will run for DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis’ seat, making the contest a three-way race so far.

Ellis kicked off his re-election campaign outside the historic Old Courthouse in downtown Decatur calling on a group of about 40 supporters to “stay together” to finish the job.

“Our work is not finished. We still have a job to do. I came to you in 2008 and pledged to work as your CEO to make your priorities DeKalb County’s priority. As we enter 2012, I will come to you again to ask you to renew that mandate,” said Ellis. “Yes, we have challenges to overcome, but I know we can work together and walk united as one DeKalb and continue our progress to finish the job of fulfilling DeKalb to its destiny of greatness.”

Ellis is facing Greg Adams, who served on the DeKalb Police Department for four years before giving up his job last year in order to run in this year’s election. Adams said he is officially kicking off his campaign Feb. 2 at The Ravina Club. The retired U.S.

Army veteran is building a campaign on protecting the citizens.

“I am running because I feel DeKalb needs someone with strong leadership who will work to rebuild the reputation of the county to be a place that is safe and has a positive rapport with the North and South regions of the county,” said Adams, who is a minister at a church in Scottdale. “The people recognize me and remember me from protecting them. I don’t have any politicians or board members backing me at this point. It’s too early for that anyway, but I know the citizens of DeKalb fully back and support me.”

Ellis’ other challenger is business consultant Jerome Edmondson, who owns the Entrepreneur Development Network and is president of Edmondson Associates Business Advisors. Edmondson says that he has been meeting with homeowners’ groups, business owners, political leaders and community leaders throughout DeKalb to build his base of supporters.

“I’m running because

DeKalb needs a new leader—one who doesn’t look down on county workers, one who will be accessible and not have padlocks to his office,” said Edmondson. “One who who will bring business to this county and halt raising taxes, one who can get along with the Board of Commissioners.”

Recently, Ellis had a heated exchange with DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson over his appointment of Gary Cornell as interim county planning director. Commissioner Lee May said Ellis used the interim title as a “backdoor” way of making Cornell the actual director. The

board voted to reject the appointment. May said he wants a legal opinion on the matter.

Meanwhile, Ellis is holding town hall meetings across DeKalb to give residents a chance to meet with him face to face. The meetings are scheduled through March 27. Ellis has posted the series of meetings at www.burrellellis.com.

“We’ll be talking about your county government’s budget, public safety, jobs and economic development, delivery of county services, code compliance and municipal government,” Ellis said.

For more on this story visit www.ocgnews.com

DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis was joined by DeKalb County School Board chair Eugene Walker at his Jan. 25 re-election kick-off campaign in downtown Decatur.

DeKalb CEO race heats up

Photo by Joshua Smith/OCG News

PAGE 2 FEBRUARY 1, 2012

FEBRUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 3

Community News

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AbouT us on common ground News is published twice a month on the 1st and 15th 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.

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By Joshua Smith

Rockdale Community activist Josie Dean has launched a non-partisan “Think Tank” comprised

of concerned citizens who will endorse a slate of candidates—Democrats and Republicans—running for office this election season.

Dean is inviting Rockdale citizens to attend a meeting on the third Saturday of this month to discuss community concerns and formulate a strategy on selecting candidates the group will support, including candidates for the upcoming Presidential primaries.

“The mission of the group is to embrace a spirit of unity by incorporating and engaging concerned individuals who live in Rockdale County,” said Dean. “We want to endorse the best candidates who will represent Rockdale, regardless of party affiliation.”

Dean says she is forming the political action group because to help Rockdale voters to seek the best candidates, and not cast votes based on race. Several key positions are up for grabs in the county including Rockdale CEO/Chairman of the Board of Commissioners; County Commission, Post 1; Clerk of Superior Court; Judge of Probate Court; Magistrate Court judges, State Court judge, Tax Commissioner, School Board members and Sheriff.

“We have been voting Democrat just because that’s what we know to do. I want us to find the best candidate, no matter the party, black or white.”

Dean says the political action group will conduct debates for all countywide political positions and will notify the public of endorsements through both the local newspapers and handouts given at public locations.

“Our hope is to bring people together to hear different viewpoints without the filter of a Party or media. We will examine and hold our local governments accountable to the whole of Rockdale.”

Dean said she understands economic hardships and other issues Rockdale may be facing. The activist, who grew up in a family of 11 children, said she remembers sleeping on the floor and going to her friend’s house to eat when there wasn’t enough to go around at home.

“We all want the same things, prosperity, opportunities for our children, safety in our

homes and businesses. We may not agree on how best to achieve that, but we are more alike than different,” said Dean.

RCTT will conduct voter registration at its meetings and at other public gatherings. The group meets every third Saturday of the month, 2 – 4 p.m., at Johnson Park, 1781 Ebenezer Road, Conyers. RCTT’s first meeting will be on Feb. 18.

Dean launches non-partisan ‘Think Tank’ to help voters decide

DeKalb paves way to provide faster

service for elderly, disabled voters

By Mackenzie N. Morgan

Life has its privileges—for some. DeKalb County’s seniors and disabled voters

will be given priority when they go to the polls under new measures the county is implementing this elections season. The county plans to designate space at the main polling precinct on Memorial Drive, specifically to alleviate long waits for the elderly and disabled voters.

Officials say DeKalb is believed to be the first in the state to offer the exclusive service.

The designated area at DeKalb’s Supervisor of Elections office on Memorial Drive in Decatur will be able to accommodate about 25 seniors or disabled. There also will be additional staff on hand to help them fill out the necessary paperwork to cast their ballots.

By law, seniors over the age of 75, as well as the disabled, are not required to stand in line at the polls. Officials say the problem in the past has been that delays occurred when busloads of seniors showed up to vote and end up having to wait long periods of time as they waited for members of their groups—even when permitted to skip the regular lines.

The “accessible voting” area is expected to be operational by Feb. 13 for early voting during the Presidential Primary. The priority area will only be available at 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur.

PAGE 4 FEBRUARY 1, 2012

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DEKALB Chamblee PTSA to host college fair

Chamblee Charter High School’s PTSA will host its annual college fair on Saturday, Feb. 11, 1 – 5 p.m. Meet representatives from colleges, including junior, 2-year and 4-year, trade schools, technical schools, and military options. Experts in financial aid, career development, and college study habits will be available to answer questions in those areas. There will also be guest speakers.

The event is free and open to the public. Chamblee Charter High School is located at 3688 Chamblee-Dunwoody Rd, Chamblee GA 30341. For more information, e-mail CCHSCollegeFairchair @gmail.com.

Decatur’s Active Living Board to meetThe City of Decatur’s Active Living Board will meet on Feb. 7, 7 – 8 p.m., at the Beacon Hill

Center, 430 West Trinity Place, Decatur. The Active Living Advisory Board is Decatur’s newest citizen advisory committee. The group

will plan public education and outreach activities that promote physical activity, healthy eating habits, and wellness in workplaces and other institutions to seniors, teens, the physically disabled and diverse populations to encourage an active lifestyle.

The meeting is open to the public. For more information, call 404-370-4100.

Chamblee Library to present classic romance film series

February is the month of love and to celebrate, DeKalb County’s Chamblee Library branch will present “Classic Movie Monday.” The free series will be held from 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Here’s the lineup:

Feb. 6—“Breakfast at Tiffany’s”Feb. 13—“Pillow Talk” Feb. 27—“Roman Holiday” Couples 18 and older are invited to attend. The library is located at

4115 Clairmont Road, Chamblee. 770-936-1380.

DeKalb100 Black Men set forum on youth violence The 100 Black Men of DeKalb County, Youth In Action and Youth Move will host a

community town hall meeting, “Shake Off Violence,” on Feb. 7, 6 – 8 p.m., at McNair High School, 1804 Bouldercrest Road, Atlanta.

Mary-Pat Hector, Youth Move National Director, and Brian Watkins, the organization’s Southeast Regional Director, are encouraging the public to join in the forum. Local elected officials, community leaders, parents and youths will participate.

“This Round table takes a unique approach involving young people in the conversation. It is not a gripe session, but an opportunity to come together,” said Hector. “We need to not only break down the walls that often prevent us from honestly addressing the issue of youth violence but come up with some real solutions.“ For more information, call 678-732-0405.

ATLANTALibrary to offer free GED classes

The Atlanta-Fulton County Public Library System will offer free GED classes to prepare for testing throughout the month of February to those who have not received their high school diploma.

The GED program at the system’s central library, One Margaret Mitchell Square, Atlanta, meets every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 5:30-8:30 p.m. and is taught be members of the Atlanta Public School system. New students are admitted on the second Tuesday of every month at 5 p.m. Reservations are required. 404-802-3560.

GED preparation classes are offered at the Adamsville-Collier Heights Branch, 3424 Martin Luther King Jr., Drive, Atlanta, on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Classes are facilitated by Y.E.S. (Youth Empowered to Succeed) tutors. 404-699-4206.

Emory to host the “Bach Bowl” Emory University will present the “Bach Bowl”

highlighting classical music on Feb. 5, 4 p.m., at the Emerson Concert Hall’s Schwartz Center, 1700 North Decatur Road, Atlanta.

Classical artists will play original pieces and several works from Johann Sebastian Bach, a German composer, organist, harpsichordist and violist whose pieces have been enjoyed throughout the world.

Artists, including pianists Keiko Ransom and William Ransom, harpsichordist Tamara Albrecht and organist and harpsichordist Timothy Albrecht will be the featured performers.

A performance from the Vega String Quartet will conclude the event. The quartet features violinists Domenic Salerni, Jessica Shuag Wu and Yinzi Kong and cellist Guang Wang.

The concert is free to attend. For more information, contact the Emory Box Office at 404-727-5050 and boxoffice@emory.edu or visit http://www.arts.emory.edu.

Mycologist, author comes to AtlantaNorth American and Canadian non-fiction writer Lawrence Millman will visit the Woodruff

Library, 540 Asbury Circle, Atlanta on Feb. 6, 6:30 p.m., for an open discussion with fans.

As an author, Millman has written 15 books, including such titles as “Last Places,” “A Kayak Full of Ghosts,” “Lost in the Arctic,” and most recently, “Fascinating Fungi of New England.” As a mycologist, he has studied fungi all over the world but especially in his own backyard of New England.

Millman has made more than 40 expeditions to the Arctic and Subarctic. His honors as an author include a Northern Lights Award, a Lowell Thomas Award, an award for the best article on Canada in a U.K. publication and a Pacific- Asia Gold Travel Award. He has been anthologized in “The Best American Travel Writing” three years in a row. Millman holds a Ph.D. in literature from Rutgers University.

Millman will sign books at the end of the open discussion. 404-727-4683.

Lawrence Millman

Vega String Quartet

FEBRUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 5

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GWINNETTLibrary sets ‘Lunch & Listen’ fundraiser

Gwinnett County Public Libraries will welcome New York Times bestselling author Lisa Gardner for a “Lunch & Listen” Feb. 9, 1 p.m. at the Garden Plaza at Lawrenceville, 230 Collins Industrial Way, Lawrenceville.

“Catch Me,” Gardner’s latest work, will be released the same week as the library’s event. The author will read from the book, followed by a Q&A session, lunch and then a book signing session with the author.

Two of Gardner’s previous books were on the NYT Bestseller List at the same time in 2010 and a movie based on her novel, “Hide,” premiered on Turner Broadcasting’s TNT network in December.

Seating is limited and tickets may be purchased at any branch, online, or by phone for $10 per person. Tickets at the door will be $15,. Books will be available for purchase and signing at the event.

Proceeds from the luncheon will support the Gwinnett County Public Library system’s author events and other popular literary programs. For more information, call 770-978-5154 or visit www.gwinnettpl.org.

Commission chairman to deliver State of GwinnettGwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash will deliver the

State of the County address on Feb. 15, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. at the Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth.

The Gwinnett Council for Quality Growth and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce will co-host the luncheon.

Nash will give an overview of the county’s efforts in economic development, revitalization, public safety and transportation.

Sponsorship, table and admission prices vary. For more information or to register, call 678-957-4958 or visit www.gwinnettchamber.org.

Dance for dads and daughters setThe Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Department will welcome girls and their

fathers for the Daddy-Daughter Valentine Dance on Feb. 10, 7 – 9 p.m. at the Pickneyville Community Recreation Center, 4650 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Norcross.

Fathers are invited to swing their favorite Valentine around the dance floor and enjoy a festive atmosphere with light refreshments. Ages 4 and up are invited to attend.

The cost is $10 per person. Pre-registration is required. Call 770-417-2200 ( code: PPCC14100) or visit www.gwinnettcounty.com to register.

ROCKDALE

Genealogical Society welcomes Gary Frizzell The Rockdale Genealogical Society will

welcome researcher Gary Frizzle, as its guest speaker on Feb. 12, 3 p.m., at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (LDS) Church, 1275 Flat Shoals Road, Conyers.

Frizzell, Adult Librarian at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library in Conyers, will speak about the genealogical programs and services available at the library.

The society promotes and encourages participation in genealogical research. Members can set up a family file folder listing the results of genealogical research. Sharing data is encouraged. The society does not charge a membership fee to belong. 770-388-5041 or 770-760-7941.

Gary FrizzellLisa Gardner

– Kenley Waller, Owner

Kenley’s Catering & Sandwich Shop75 Piedmont Ave. N.E., Atlanta404-217-2455 www.kenleysrestaurant.com

Celebrating Black HistoryJust as we pride ourselves

on preparing delicious food, we take pride in celebrating

the achievements of black trailblazers—those who empower us.

We salute On Common Ground News for 17 years of empowering the community.

Please don’t forget to support black-owned businesses during the month of February. Remember, we need your support to continue building a legacy for the community.

PAGE 6 FEBRUARY 1, 2012

DeKalb History Center to salute community champions

The DeKalb History Center will honor five DeKalb leaders at its fifth annual Black History Month Celebration luncheon on Feb. 9, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., at 101 East Court Square, Decatur.

The “A Salute to Community Champions” will honor the family of Sheriff-Elect Derwin Brown; the family of Dr. William C. Brown; DeKalb NAACP President John Evans; South DeKalb High School Football Coach William “Buck” Godfrey and businessman Gregory B. Levett, Sr.

For luncheon ticket information, contact director@dekalbhistory.org or 404-373-1088, ext.22.

Celebrating Black History Month

DeKalb NAACP President John Evans, second from left, celebrated his 79th birthday on Jan. 29. A crowd of more than 200 people honored him at his birthday bash, which was held at the International Bar & Grill in Lithonia. The civil rights leader is one of the great champions of our time featured in On Common Ground News’ premier issue of Top Attorneys magazine (on stands with this issue and also available to share on the world wide web at www.ocgnews.com.

Libraries celebrate Black History MonthThe DeKalb County Library System will mark Black History Month with several

events throughout the month of February. Feb. 6 – 12, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. The Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore Street, welcomes

children ages 5 to 17 to make arts and crafts reflecting prominent figures in Black History. Feb. 6, 4 – 5 p.m. The Stone Mountain-Sue Kellogg Library, 952 Leon Street, will

present “Quilt Codes in the Underground Railroad.” Children ages 6 – 12 are invited to learn about the significance of quilts as part of the Underground Railroad and then make paper quilt blocks. A teen or adult must accompany children younger than 8.

Feb. 6 – Feb. 10. The Covington Library, 3500 Covington Highway, Decatur invites teens 13 to 17 to pick up a Black History trivia sheet and return sheets with correct answers daily. The winner will be announced on Feb. 13 and will receive a $25 gift card.

Fridays, Feb. 3 – 24, 2 – 4 p.m. The Hairston Crossing Library, 4911 Redan Road, Stone Mountain, invites adults to watch the entire “Roots” series every Friday throughout the month of February. The “Roots” series concludes on Feb. 24 with “Crossing Over: How Roots Captivated an Entire Nation.”

Tuesdays, Feb. 7 – 28, 5:30 – 7p.m. The Gresham Library, 2418 Gresham Road, Atlanta, invites all families with children age 5 and above to “Black History Through Film”. The series starts on Feb. 7 with “Sounder,” continues on Feb. 14 with “Selma, Lord Selma,” and on Feb. 21 the library will show “Ruby Bridges.” The series concludes with a Feb. 28 showing of “KING.”

Feb. 25, 2 – 3 p.m. The Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Lithonia, invites teens to the “Black History Book Buffet.” The library will have a variety of teen books written by African-American authors for the teens to sample.

For more information and a detailed schedule of events, call 404-370-8450 or visit www.dekalblibrary.org.

Stan Watson to host ‘Soul of DeKalb’ forumIn recognition of Black History Month, DeKalb

County Commissioner Stan Watson will present a panel forum, “The Soul of DeKalb: Reflections of our Progress,” on Feb. 16, 6:30 – 9 p.m., at the Porter Sanford, III Performing Arts and Community Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur.

“In a continued effort to improve the lives for those who work and live in our great County, I am pleased to announce that I am presenting the 2nd Annual “Soul of DeKalb” Reflections of Our Progress panel discussion (formally The State of Black DeKalb-How Far Have We Come),” Watson said

Watson said the new name further expands his vision to encompass all of DeKalb and the issues that will be addressed effect each person in the County and is a part one of two in public discussions. The second panel discussion will be presented on June 25.

“Although the name has changed, the purpose of the discussions from last year that inspired leaders and citizens to collectively work together to raise awareness, generate community support and collaborate on ways to be proactive verses reactive in stabilizing and improving the lives of those who call DeKalb County home, has not.”

Topics that will be addressed include: economic development, political aspects that impact DeKalb; improving education and graduation statistics; faith-based and community partnerships and resources; improving healthcare access, services, and prevention. The event concludes with a discussion on the future of DeKalb.

Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

Derwin Brown William “Buck” Godfrey Gregory B. Levett, Sr.

FEBRUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 7

Members, led by President Rubie Tolbert Williams, held a candle-lighting ceremony to rededicate themselves to the organization.

DeKalb NCNW celebrates Founder’s DayThe DeKalb Section of the National Negro Council of Women held the organization’s

22nd Annual Founder’s Day banquet in January. Rubie Tolbert Williams, president of the DeKalb section, said in addition to honoring civil rights leader Mary Mcleod Bethune, who founded the organization in 1935, the event was held to thank those who have supported the NCNW’s annual projects. State Rep. Earnest “Coach” Williams, who represents District 89, sponsored the event.

Three women served as mistresses of ceremonies for the event: DeKalb Solicitor Sherri Boston; Neva Jones, NCNW corresponding secretary, and DeKalb Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson. Boston and Johnson are also members of the organization.

The event, which was held at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia, was attended by about 100 people including several dignitaries and collegiate presidents representing sections at Georgia State University; Clayton State University and Clark Atlanta University.

SCLC sets 3rd Annual A.D. King parade Join the SCLC in celebrating the “Third Annual A.D. King Youth

Empowerment Parade” to honor the work of the Rev. A.D. King, brother of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The parade will be held Feb. 18, 12 – 2 p.m.

The parade route will begin at Morris Brown Herdon Stadium, 643 Martin Luther King Jr., Drive, S.E., Atlanta and end at the Georgia State Capitol.

Named after his grandfather, the Rev. Dr. Alfred Daniel Williams King played a significant role in coordinating the logistical operations behind the Civil Rights movement.

King aided in organizing the Poor People’s Campaign and the Birmingham Civil Rights Campaign and also helped co-found the Southern Christian Leadership Coalition he built congregations at Mt. Vernon Baptist Church (Newnan, Georgia), First Baptist Church of Ensley (Birmingham), Zion Baptist Church (Louisville), and Ebenezer Baptist Church (Atlanta), where he served as co-pastor after the death of Martin Luther King, Jr.

The Rev. Dr. A.D. King died on July 21, 1969, one year after the assassination of his older brother Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Trophies and cash prizes will be awarded to the best float presentation and best band performance. For more information or to sign up to perform, call 404-707-5303 or 770-873-9265.

Ebony Society presents ‘Journey Through Black History

The United Ebony Society of Gwinnett will host a “Journey Into Black History,” on Feb. 1 – 29, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., at the Gwinnett County Administrative and Justice Center, 75 Langley Drive Lawrenceville

The “Black Women in American Culture and History” exhibit profiles African American women achievements with an emphasis on the contributions of African American women to Gwinnett’s history and culture. The exhibit will be open daily Monday – Friday.

The exhibit is also open to residents to submit information. In an effort to gather and disseminate information about the history and culture of Gwinnett County Georgia, The United Ebony Society of Gwinnett County, Inc. is calling for the general public to submit photos, newspaper and magazine articles and other documented reports of African American women who impacted the history and culture of Gwinnett County from 1817 to 1980.

For more information or to submit names and photos, visit www.unitedebonysociety.org or call 770-822-4046.

Greeks team up with libraries for reading relay The Greek organizations Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority

have teamed up with the Gwinnett County Library system to offer the Reading Relay, every Saturday at various branches, 1 – 2 p.m., during the month of February.

Each Saturday members from the two Greek organizations, as well as some of the youths they mentor, will be reading books at various branches to honor the many contributions and achievements of African Americans, past and present, while promoting literacy in the community.

The series kicks off on Feb. 4 at the library’s Duluth, Suwanee and Peachtree Corners branches and ends on Feb. 25 at the Buford, Hamilton Mill and Lilburn branches.

For a complete schedule of participating branches, call 770-978-5154 or visit www.gwinne ttpl.org.

Centerville library welcomes Akbar Imhotep Gwinnett County Library’s Centerville

Library branch will welcome African folktales storyteller Akbar Imhotep on Feb. 20, 3 p.m., 3025 Bethany Church Road, Snellville

Imhotep will bring drums and puppets to give life to African folktales. Participants are invited to listen to storyteller Akbar Imhotep as he weaves together fables and songs in celebration of Black History Month.

For many years, Imhotep was a favorite at the Wren’s Nest in Atlanta. Locally, he conducts theater workshops and teaches puppetry arts skills. He has appeared at numerous festivals across the country including Florida and Brooklyn, New York and Georgia. 770-978-5154.

Conyers library hosts Black History ProgramNancy Guinn Memorial Library invites all to celebrate Black History on Feb. 9, 4 – 5

p.m., 864 Green Street, S.W., Conyers. Participants will listen to stories highlighting great African American works and

inventions, as well as make crafts in the library’s Youth Services Department. 770-388-5040.

A.D. King

Akbar Imhotep

Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

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Business News

Rienard A. and Ruthie L. Wilson started Premier Crematory on Feb. 1 in 2002 with one purpose in mind: Meet people at their needs by

providing excellent service at an affordable rate.

“Everyone doesn’t have $10,000 for services of a loved one but they still need and deserve 100 percent service and that’s what we provide to our families,” said co-owner Ruthie Wilson who met her husband and business partner in 1994 while receiving their funeral service and crematory degrees. “You can always come to me or my husband directly for our services. We are always on call for the people because death waits on no time or day.”

The married director and directress say serving the community through properly taking care of deceased loved ones was a passion that was instilled in them in their childhood.

“At the age of 9, I started working with my uncle at his funeral home, Hart’s Funeral Service in North Carolina. I knew at an early age I wanted to do this and at the age of 17 I was really able to get into it and look into a career,” Rienard said. “For me, it was at the age of 5 when I witnessed my grandfather’s funeral and went through with my family that difficult time. That’s when I knew I wanted to do this and help families going through similar situations,” Ruthie said.

Rienard managed the City of Decatur’s cemetery before starting his own business. He says at that time there were only 25 crematories and now with more than 80

in the state it is important for him to build relationships and serve not only the Conyers community but throughout Atlanta and even as far as Canton, Macon and Hartwell, Georgia.

“It’s all about building relationships and we have done our best to do that with the hospices, hospitals and funeral homes who enlist our services,” said Rienard. “Now we have plans to expand our offices and we are working with the Thumbies Fingerprint Jewelry company to start offering a finger print keepsake service that allows you to put the fingerprint of your lost loved one on pendants. We are always looking for innovative ways to serve families.”

Premier Crematory offers a competitive 24-hour direct cremation package, which

at $875 includes the removal of the deceased, corrugated alternative container (cremation container), the cremation process, procurement of documents, and providing the alternate urn (within 50 miles of the crematory). Premier will also come to your home and transport your deceased loved one for an additional charge of $75, because additional staff needed for that process.

Families can have their entire funeral and memorial service at the Premier Crematory chapel as well. Premier Crematory is located at 495-A Smyrna Road, Conyers. Someone is always on call 24-hours a day at 770-761-2304 or you can visit them online at http://premiercrematory.net.

Premier Crematory celebrates 10 years in the community

FEATURE SPOTLIGHT SBA expands ‘Express’ loans

Small export business in Georgia may

be able to get help to launch or expand through a new federally-backed program offering loans up to $500,000. And businesses will know if they’re approved fairly quickly. The Small Business Administration will provide answers in less than than 36 hours.

The SBA has executed an agreement with nine lenders in Georgia to offer the Export Express program.

The SBA Export Express program touts flexibility to both, borrowers and lenders. It is the simplest export loan product offered by the SBA and allows participating lenders to

use their own forms, procedures and analyses. Loans made through Export Express, up to $350,000, have a 90 percent guaranty and loans between $350,000 and $500,000 have a 75 percent guaranty. Loan proceeds may be used for business purposes that will enhance a company’s export development.

Export Express can take the form of a term loan or a revolving line of credit. As an example, proceeds can be used to fund participation in a foreign trade show, finance standby letters of credit, translate product literature for use in foreign markets, finance specific export orders as well as to finance expansions, equipment purchases, and inventory or real estate acquisitions.

For more information, visit www.export.gov.

Gregory B. Levett, Sr. often tells people he meets that he’s just an

ordinary “country undertaker.” He came into the business under his father, who is now deceased, and eventually he

opened Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home, Inc., with his own children joining him in the business.

Levett recently received the Generational Torch Award presented by the Georgia

African-American Chamber of Commerce.

“The award salutes African American families whose businesses started generations ago yet continue to thrive to this day,” said Anna Henderson, president of the GAACC. “We, as a people, have had to face so many adversities, but the fact that businesses like Mr. Levett’s have been able to rise above the odds is certainly commendable. The companies we recognize have set an awesome example that family business is, indeed, good business and good for Atlanta.”

Levett will also be honored this month by the DeKalb History Center as one of four community champions.

The Chamber held the awards at its 14th Annual Legislative Breakfast in downtown Atlanta in January.

Levett, who was born and raised in Conyers, has been serving families throughout the metro Atlanta area for more than 32 years.

“I can really appreciate an award like this one because my family and our business are one in the same. It’s not about us. It’s about serving the community and treating families who trust us with their loved ones with respect,” said Levett.

Levett and his wife, Betty, opened their first chapel in 1980 in Dekalb’s Scottdale community. They have since expanded their family business to include three additional chapels—Lawrenceville, Buford and Decatur. The Levetts have two sons and a daughter, Gregory, Jr., T. Lanier, and Deana, who are all active in the operations of the family business.

BBA welcomes Sam Massell for ‘State of

Buckhead’ The Buckhead Business Alliance will

welcome Sam Massell to deliver the State of Buckhead address on Feb. 16, 7:30 – 9 a.m. at the City Club of Buckhead, 3343 Peachtree Road, Suite 1850, Atlanta.

Massell, former mayor of Atlanta, will cover issues affecting the Buckhead community, city advancements and the future of the area at the address.

The cost to attend the address and breakfast is $20. For more information or to register, call 404-467-7607 or visit www.buckheadbusiness.org.

Greg Levett honored for family business

SBA Export Express Lenders in Georgia • Colony Bank• First Intercontinental Bank• First National Bank of Coffee County• Metro City Bank, Private Bank & Trust Company• Queensborough National Bank & Trust Company• Quantum National Bank• State Bank & Trust Company • United Community Bank

EICC presents tax seminar and panel

The Embassy International Chamber of Commerce will host the 2011 Tax Seminar and Panel on Feb. 9, 7 – 9 p.m., at the Double Tree Hotel, 3342 Peachtree Road, N.E., Atlanta.

Expert CPAs will provide consultation and a Q& A session, which will be led by CPAs Curt Mencer and Eric McGlothen.

Attendees can network with some of Atlanta’s most progressive professionals and entrepreneurs.

The cost to attend is $20. For more information, call 1-888-418-9945 or visit www.embassychamber.net.

cAleNDAr

Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

Lithonia Chamber installs new board membersThe Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce kicked off its first meeting of the year on Jan. 18 with a new

president, Doreen Carter, a new board of directors and a packed audience who attended its luncheon at the Fairfield Inn at Stonecrest.

In his “State of East DeKalb Address,” DeKalb County Commissioner Lee May, the luncheon’s keynote speaker, touted East DeKalb as a “promising” economic engine, one prime for development, jobs and the I-20 transit rail.

“Unlike the rest of DeKalb County, where buildings must be torn down or renovated for redevelopment, the Stonecrest area here in East DeKalb has 60 percent of undeveloped land,” May said. “This is where we have real opportunities to create and build and grow.”

The chamber’s Feb. 15 luncheon will be held 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Fairfield Inn & Suite at the Mall at Stonecrest. The guest speaker will be Charles Whatley, DeKalb County’s director of Economic Development. The chamber will celebrate Black History Month by presenting and honoring Tuskegee Airman Val Archer at the meeting. The luncheon is $15, payable in advance. To RSVP, call (770) 482-1808 or e-mail greaterlithoniachamber@live.com.

“Coast to Coast” sets free job fair

Coast-to-Coast Career Fairs will host a free job fair in Atlanta on Feb. 6, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Capitol Conference Center, 450 Capitol Avenue, S.E., Atlanta.

The business group is bringing together some of the area’s top local employers, such as the U.S. Border Patrol, TRUGREEN and American Income, which will be hiring for hundreds of positions.

Anyone looking for work is encouraged to attend the job fair. This event will offer job seekers an opportunity to meet face to face with dozens of employers who are hiring. Coast-to-Coast Career Fairs will also have a career expert on hand to provide a free professional resume review.

Registration is required. Register in advance at www.coasttocoastcareerfairs.com or call 1-866-838-5111 for more information.

The Chamber board includes: •Doreen Carter, President

•Jackie Leonard

•Bonnie Wilkins

•Valerie Morgan

•Gregory Williams, Vice President

• Andrew Chamblin, Secretary

•Tamika Conde

•Dexter Johnigan, Treasurer

•Carol Griggs

•Saddie Dennard

•Jerome Edmondson

•Dr. Nailah Smith

•Mike Valentine

FEBRUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 9

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Health & Wellness

cAleNDArRockdale Medical: Makeovers for cancer patients Rockdale Medical Center will host “Look Good Feel Better” for cancer patients on

Feb. 6, 10 a.m. – noon at 1412 Milstead Ave., Conyers (Classroom 1).This hands-on workshop is dedicated to helping female cancer patients cope with and

combat the appearance-related side effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatment. Learn skin care and makeup applications, as well as demonstrations on hair and wig techniques. A free gift of full-size cosmetics is given to each attendee.

The workshop is free to attend. For more information or to register, call 1-800-227-2345 or 770-918-3000.

DeKalb Medical to present Diabetes 101 DeKalb Medical at Hillandale will host “Diabetes Facts: What You Should Know,” on

Feb. 9, 6 – 7 p.m., 2801 DeKalb Medical Parkway, Lithonia.Supervisor of diabetes education at DeKalb Medical, Kay Jordan, R.N., M.S.N.,

C.D.E., will discuss steps to take to reduce the risk of diabetes as well as signs, symptoms and complications of the disease and the different types of treatment available.

Participants should meet at the hospital’s community room. For more information or to register for this free class, call 404-501-WELL.

Emory sets workshop on heart health Emory Healthcare’s Heart and Vascular Center will offer “Taking Control of Heart

Failure” on Feb. 15, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., at 1364 Clifton Road, Atlanta, second floor.This interactive seminar with physicians and other healthcare providers will offer

attendees the chance to learn more about medications, low sodium diets, exercise and other strategies to better manage and prevent heart failure.

The seminar is free to attend. Register in advance at 404-778-7777 or visit www.emoryhealthcare.org.

Gwinnett Medical discusses age, vision Gwinnett Medical Center is accepting registrations for its seminar, “Aging and Your

Eyes.” The free seminar for seniors and their families will be held Feb. 21, noon, at 550 Medical Center Boulevard, Lawrenceville.

Davis Scott Carlin, MD, will cover eye disorders such as cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration, and their severity as you age.

Participants should meet in the hospital’s Women’s Pavilion Room. Register at www.gwinnettmedicalcenter.org or call 678-312-1000.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is warning diabetics and caregivers that insulin pens must never be used on more

than one person. Agency officials say they have

become increasingly aware of reports of improper use of insulin pens, which places individuals at risk of infection including hepatitis viruses and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Regurgitation of blood into the insulin cartridge can occur after injection creating a risk of bloodborne pathogen transmission if the pen is used for more than one person, even when the needle is changed.

The pen-shaped injector devices contain a reservoir for insulin or an insulin cartridge. These devices are designed to be used multiple times, for a single person, using a new needle for each injection. Insulin pens must never be used for more than one person.

The recent warning follows an alert issued in 2009. The Food and Drug

Administration (FDA) issued an alert for healthcare professionals reminding them that insulin pens are meant for use on a single patient only and are not to be shared between patients. In spite of this alert, there

have been continuing reports of patients placed at risk through inappropriate reuse and sharing of insulin pens, including an incident in 2011 that required notification of more than 2,000 potentially exposed

patients. These events indicate that some healthcare personnel do not adhere to safe practices and may be unaware of the risks these unsafe practices pose to patients.

Recommendations

Insulin pens should be clearly labeled with the person’s name or other identifying information to ensure that the correct pen is used only on the correct individual.

Hospitals and other facilities should review their policies and educate their staff regarding safe use of insulin pens and similar devices.

If reuse is identified, exposed persons should be promptly notified and offered appropriate follow-up including bloodborne pathogen testing.

These recommendations apply to any setting where insulin pens are used, including assisted living or residential care facilities, skilled nursing facilities, clinics, health fairs, shelters, detention facilities, senior centers, schools, and camps as well as licensed healthcare facilities.

Centers for Disease Control issues alert about insulin pens

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Beulah marks pastor’s 20th anniversaryDECATUR—Beulah Missionary

Baptist Church this year is celebrating the 20th anniversary of its leader and visionary, the Rev. Jerry D. Black. To mark Rev. Black’s milestone with the church, the congregation is planning several events this month that will bring the church, friends and the community together for joyous celebrations.

The events include a Step Extravaganza, Celebration Gala, Praise and Worship Concert, Wonderful Wednesday Services and Celebration Sunday Services with the culmination celebration worship service on Feb. 12, nearly 20 years to the date of Pastor Black’s installment. Pastor Marvin L. Sapp of Lighthouse Full Life Center, Grand Rapids, MI will lead the culmination service.

Pastor Black was installed as the seventh pastor of Beulah on Feb. 9, 1992. In the two decades under his leadership, he has not only helped transform the church from 800 members to more than 8,000 members, but he has also

helped developed Beulah’s congregation into a 100 percent tithing church, said Christopher Hightower, the church’s media spokesperson.

With Pastor Black’s guidance, Beulah has instituted numerous ministries to serve the community, assisting the homeless, elderly and needy with food, clothing and other necessities.

Last October, the United States Postal Service recognized Pastor Black as a Living Legend and dedicated a postal stamp in his honor. Pastor Black, who has been in ministry for 33 years, was also the recipient of the Faith-Based Award given by the DeKalb Branch of the NAACP at its 55th Annual Freedom Funds Awards Banquet in 2011.

The community is invited to participate in the celebrations. For more information, visit www.beulahbaptist.org or contact the church office at 404-241-3307. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church is located at 2340 Clifton Springs Road, Decatur, GA 30034.

Cosmopolitan A.M.E. to mark 144th anniversaryCosmopolitan A.M.E. Church will Celebrate its 144th anniversary and pew dedication

on Feb. 12, 10:30 a.m., 170 Vine St. N.W., Atlanta. The guest speaker for the celebration will be Rev. David B. Rhone, Jr., Presiding Elder

of the North Atlanta District. The community is invited. For more information, call 404-525-0168 and 404-688-

9189.

Light of the World Christian Church held a groundbreaking

ceremony for the new worship center it plans to build on its campus, located at 5883 Highway 155 North, Stockbridge. The church, under the leadership of Archbishop Ruth Smith Holmes, plans to construct a 20,000-square-foot edifice that will seat 1,000. Sunbelt Builders, located in Covington, is constructing the building and will begin work sometime this year, church officials say.

“This new Light of the World Worship Center will be a symbol of the presence of God in the community and will be for worship only,” said Archbishop Smith Holmes.

Once the new edifice is built, the church plans to transform its existing sanctuary into the Jimmie Lee Smith Community Center, named for the ministry’s founder, the late Archbishop Jimmie Smith, who served as senior pastor until he passed in January 2008.

The community

center will provide various services including a barber and beauty shop, indoor walking trail, exercise equipment, personal and spiritual development classes, adult care, children and youth services and other activities for the entire family.

Archbishop Jimmie Lee Smith and Archbishop Ruth Smith Holmes established the Light of the World Christian Tabernacle International Incorporated Association, which oversees ministries in 13 countries.

Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

Light of the World plans new worship center

Jehovah’s Witness to host annual Circuit Assembly The annual Circuit Assembly for Jehovah’s Witnesses in Henry, Newton and Rockdale

counties will be held Feb. 11 and 12 at the Assembly Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses, 125 Glen Road, Conyers.

District Overseer Roy O’Brien will deliver the Sunday keynote address at 1:30 p.m. The program’s theme is “ Let God’s Name be Sanctified.” Attendees are encouraged to bring their Bibles. The two-day assembly will start with opening song and prayer at 9:40 a.m. and will conclude at 3:55 p.m. on Saturday and 3:30 p.m. Sunday.

All are welcome. No collections will be taken. For more information, call Harry Dawson at 404) 317 – 1245 or e-mail harrypdawson@gmail.com.

FEBRUARY 1, 2012 PAGE 11

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