OCG News Feb. 7, 2020

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VOLUME 25, NUMBER 45

FEBRUARY 7, 2020

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Camps prepare for battle as Senate acquits Trump of impeachment District Attorney Sherry Boston

DeKalb’s DA office chosen as partner site for criminal justice reform study

The DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office has been selected to participate in the Vera Institute of Justice’s Reshaping Prosecution program, a national initiative focused on criminal justice reform.

Along with DeKalb, Ingham County in Michigan, and Boulder County in Colorado, were selected for the Vera partnership after demonstrating a strong commitment to working to transform policies, practices, and office culture to address disparities, promote racial equity and increase transparency and accountability to their respective communities.

“We’re thrilled for the opportunity to work with three new partner offices and ensure they have the resources and support they need to reimagine the role of the prosecutor as they seek justice and promote safety in their communities,” said Jamila Hodge, director of Vera’s Reshaping Prosecution program.

DeKalb District Attorney Sherry Boston praised the new partnership.

“This is an opportunity for us to take an honest look at our operations, understand what we’re doing well, and identify areas for improvement in our ongoing efforts to create a more fair and equitable system for processing cases and promoting just outcomes,” said Boston.

The Vera selection comes on the heels of Boston offering a comprehensive training on the issue of implicit bias for every staff member, a first in the history of the DeKalb District Attorney’s Office and amongst other prosecution offices statewide. The Vera partnership commences immediately, with an estimated duration of 18-24 months, Boston’s office said.

P

resident Donald J. Trump was found not guilty on Feb. 7, bringing an end to the Senate’s impeachment trial, clearing the path for him to seek re-election and emboldening opponents to defeat him at the ballot box.

Trump was acquitted 52-48 on abuse of power, the first article of impeachment. He was acquitted 53-47 on obstruction of justice, the second article of impeachment. The U.S. Constitution requires a two-thirds majority in the Senate (67 senators) to convict in an impeachment trial.

Republicans hold 53 seats in the Senate, while Democrats hold 45.

Congressman Hank Johnson, who represents Georgia’s Fourth District and is a senior member of the House judiciary Committee, denounced the Senate’s acquittal, saying now voters must go to the ballot box to replace Trump.

“President Donald Trump broke his oath of office by pressuring Ukraine to dig up dirt on former Vice President Biden for his own political self-interest and then did

Congressman Hank Johnson

President Donald J. Trump

everything in his power to cover it up,” Johnson said. “It reinforces the fact that the scales of justice are still tilted toward the rich and powerful and away from everyday Americans, workers, people of color, the poor, and other disenfranchised citizens.

But that doesn’t mean we haven’t made progress. And it certainly doesn’t mean we should stop fighting.

While I’m disheartened, I am also emboldened. Because this process

has revealed a solemn truth: The only way Donald Trump and his gang of cronies will be stopped is in the public square, in town halls, and at the ballot box. By you, by me, by us together participating in the democratic process.”

Johnson also criticized Trump for awarding conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh the Presidential Medal of Freedom during Trump’s State of the Union Address on Feb. 4.

SEE IMPEACHMENT page 7

DeKalb Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson to host District 5 Greek Day, voter education event

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eKalb County Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson is inviting the community to the “District 5 Greek Day & Voter Education Symposium” on Thursday, Feb. 13, 6:30 to 8 p.m. The event will be held at the Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road, Stonecrest.

The District 5 Greek Day and Voter Education symposium will feature presentations by the historically black Greek organizations referred to as the “Divine Nine.” The organizations include: • Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, founded 1906, Cornell UniversityAlpha

• Kappa Alpha Psi Sorority, founded 1908, Howard University • Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, founded 1913, Howard University • Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, founded 1914, Howard University • Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Founded 1920, Howard University • Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Founded 1922, Butler University • Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Founded 1963, Morgan State University • Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, founded 1911, Indiana University • Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, founded 1911, Howard University The District 5 Greek Day and Voter Education symposium also will

feature live demonstrations for the public on how to operate Georgia’s new voting machines, DeKalb NAACP President Teresa Hardy, DeKalb County census office representatives and the opportunity for attendees to register to vote.

“This is an opportunity for us to get more engaged and become more knowledgeable about Georgia’s new voting machines and the upcoming census,” Johnson said.

The event is free and open to the public.

For more information, visit www. commissionermeredajohnson.com or call 404-371-2159.

SEE GREEK page 7

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UP TO

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$2,000 REWARD Conyers Police seek hit-and-run driver FOR TIPS LEADING TO THE ARREST OF THE SUSPECT(S) BELOW

CASE is NUMBER: Conyers Police Department 20-010784 seeking the public’s help in locating the suspect vehicle that was involved in a hit-and-run that happened on Jan. 28, 2020. The vehicle picturedIncident struck a Location: vehicle from behind around Highway 6:55 p.m.

138 near and then fled northbound on Hwy GA 20138.

S Any information leading to the arrest of these persons of interest may result in a cash reward of up to $2,000.00.

Vehicle Description: Tipsters will remain anonymous Muddied black possible Ford F150 and are asked to contact Crime towing hay bale Stoppers with any information: Call: trailer with Bobcat 404-577-TIPS (8477) Click: www.

CrimeStoppersAtlanta.org.

On January 28, 2020 at approximately 6:55 PM, the suspect vehicle pictured struck a vehicle from behind then fled northbound on Hwy 138.

Second suspect arrested in fatal shooting of elderly Ellenwood man

�ny informa�on leadin� to the arrest of these persons of interest may result in a cash reward of up to $2,000.00.

Tipsters will remain anonymous and are asked to contact Crime Stoppers with any informa�on: Call: 404.577.TIPS (8477) Click: www.CrimeStoppersAtlanta.org

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Fugitive Unit on Feb. 4 arrested Charlie Lee Geddis, 23, of Decatur, who had been on the run for murder since last October.

Geddis is the second of three suspects sought in the fatal shooting of 68-year-old Jesse Turner III. Turner Antonio Crowley Charlie Lee Geddis was shot at the BP gas station on Panthersville Road on Oct. 7, 2019 after an altercation with the three suspects. Authorities said Turner had paid for gas and was standing at a pump when one of the men opened fire and shot Turner.

Antonio Crowley, 21, turned himself in to authorities one day after the shooting. Tyler Anderson, 23, is still wanted.

Police said the three suspects were driving a stolen vehicle that was later found burning about two miles from the scene of the shooting.

Investigators tracked Geddis on Jan. 4 to a location on Empire Boulevard in Atlanta, where he was taken into custody without incident and transported to the DeKalb County Jail. The Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Unit worked with the U.S. Marshals to locate Geddis.

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PUBLISHER Glenn L. Morgan

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EDITOR Valerie J. Morgan

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ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill

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STAFF WRITER Mackenzie N. Morgan

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

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

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

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

On Common Ground News P.O. Box 904 Lithonia, GA 30058 770-679-5607 www.ocgnews.com

FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • PAGE 3

Rockdale voters to decide on Sunday alcohol sales start time Board of Elections approves 1400 Parker Road as early voting site Rockdale County would join the city of Conyers in selling alcohol on Sundays beginning at 11 a.m. instead of 12:30 p.m., if voters give the nod on May 19.

The Rockdale Board of Elections approved the Board of Commissioners’ resolution putting an amendment on the ballot to change the Sunday alcohol sales at its special called meeting on Feb. 4.

Currently, Sunday alcohol sales in Rockdale begin at 12:30 p.m.

Supervisor of Elections Cynthia Willingham said the Board of Commissioners requested the measure be brought to voters. The amendment would be consistent with the city of Conyers, which permits alcohol sales on Sundays beginning at 11 a.m.

The special election would be held during the General Primary elections for federal, state, county and non-partisan races on May 19. Mail-in and early voting is scheduled March 31-May 15.

The Board of Elections also approved at its special called meeting relocating early voting to the 1400 Parker Road government annex, the former offices for the Board of Elections. The site would be one of four sites available for early voting. No early voting would be held at 1261 Commercial Drive, Conyers,

Willingham said she asked the board to consider her request for early voting to be relocated to Parker Road to ensure easier access and parking for voters.

Willingham said she recently learned the Board of Commissioners does not plan to seek condemnation of the land to provide a new access road in back of the elections and voter registration offices at 1261 Commercial Drive.

“With that being known now, I do not believe it would be safe for our voters to drive through the parking and office part of the area in order to get to this office,” Willingham said.

Those who wish to vote early may go to any of the designated locations. In addition to 1400 Parker Road, early voting will be held at: • Cornerstone Church, 2900 Salem Road • Conyers Church of Christ, 1410 Flat Shoals Road • St. Simons Episcopal Church, 1522 Highway 138 N.E.

DeKalb DFCS moves to new location The DeKalb County Department of Family & Children Services (DFCS) has relocated its office and all operations to 2300 Parklake Drive, Atlanta as of Monday, Feb. 3. The previous location, 178 Sams Street, Decatur, permanently closed its doors on Friday, Jan. 31.

DeKalb County residents now will need to apply for all services at the new location: 2300 Park Lake Drive, Atlanta. Operating hours are weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday to walk-in customers – except holidays.

The new 113,000-square-foot office building houses over 500 DFCS staff, and is expected to serve more than 100,000 DeKalb families.

DFCS, which provides economic assistance and child welfare services to DeKalb County residents, used a staggered system to move staff to the new location throughout the winter to ensure minimal disruptions to our families.

For more information, call 404-370-5000.

To report child abuse or neglect, call the DFCS CPS Intake Communication Center at 1-855-GA-CHILD (1-855-422-4453).

RSVP deadline extended for Rockdale County Chairman’s “Pastor’s Table” The deadline to RSVP first-come, first-served for The Pastor’s Table has basis. The chairman says the been extended to Friday, theme is “Fish and Grits.”

Feb. 21.

The topics will include Rockdale County but will not be limited to: Chairman Oz Nesbitt, Sr. is how local government hosting The Pastor’s Table, and church leaders can an event where local clergy collaborate at a greater in Rockdale County can level, how local government Oz Nesbitt network and speak with the can help church leaders, Chairman and other religious leaders, and how to ensure their church is enjoy refreshments, and learn more properly registered. about opportunities to serve the The Pastor’s Table will take community. place on Monday, Feb. 24, 6 p.m., Senior-level ministry leaders in at Coaxum’s Low Country Cuisine, Rockdale are strongly encouraged 1300 Iris Drive S.W., Conyers. to attend. Space is limited to only To RSVP for the event, email one senior level religious leader or Sitarah Coote at sitarah.coote@ associate religious leader per house rockdalecountyga.gov by Friday, of prayer. Space is available on a Feb. 21.

Proceeds benefit the children’s programs of The Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence, DeKalb’s comprehensive resource for survivors of domestic violence and their families.

PAGE 4 • FEBRUARY 7, 2020

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Rockdale Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten to present Fifth Annual Youth Law Camp Students in Rockdale, Newton and surrounding counties are invited to attend Chief Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten’s Fifth Annual Youth Law Camp on Monday, Feb. 17, 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

The free, one-day camp, offered in partnership with NewRock Legal Society, is open to 8th to 12th grade students who will be out of school for winter break. Free admission includes breakfast and lunch.

Judge Aten is hosting a day of fun and learning for Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten those interested in a law-related or law enforcement career pathway, or those who would like to learn more about the justice system. The program includes a legal careers session, teen choices and consequences talk, mock trial and legislation sessions, inspiring keynote address, meet and greet with government officials, free giveaways and more.

To register or for more information, contact patricia.carreker@ rockdalecountyga.gov or call 770-278-7792.

Storytelling, free film at Nancy Guinn Memorial Library Join master Storyteller Lillian Grant-Baptiste for an afternoon of storytelling on Saturday, Feb. 15, 2 to 3 p.m., at Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, 864 Green St S.W., Conyers.

Participants will learn how storytelling has been used as both a tool of resistance and reconciliation. All ages are welcome.

Patrons also have the option to watch a free screening of the film, “Queen of Katwe,” in the meeting room on the library’s lower level from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Both events are free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Master Storyteller Lillian Grant-Baptiste

Volunteers needed for 2020 Great American cleanup Keep Conyers-Rockdale Beautiful is now accepting registrations for the next Great American Cleanup to be held on Saturday, April 11, 9 a.m. to1 p.m., at Pine Log Park Pavilion, 1500 GA Highway 138, Conyers.

The half-day event, hosted in partnership with the City of Conyers and Rockdale County, encourages citizens to pick up garbage, tires and other debris around the community and teaches youths about the importance of litter prevention and recycling.

Civic and neighborhood groups, businesses, Boy and Girl Scout troops, churches, youth groups, individuals and families are invited to participate.

Volunteers will be provided cleaning supplies including garbage bags, gloves and brightly colored safety vests while available.

Register at www.rockdalecountyga.gov or in person at the county’s Administration and Services Building, 958 Milstead Ave., Conyers. The deadline to register is April 6. Participants also will receive free food and a T-shirt for participating, while supplies last. For more information, email kcrb@rockdalecountyga.gov or call 770-278-7052.

CITY OF STONECREST BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH 2019 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 The following Variance Petition located within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for a Public Hearing as stated above.

LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:

V-19-020 Variable Steel c/o Jesse Tilman 2183 S. Stone Moutain Lithonia Road M (Light Industrial) District To reduce front and side yard setback for the construction of attached awning.

New Birth celebrates “Living Legends” During Black History Month Andrew Young, former Atlanta Mayor and United States Ambassador to the United Nations , will be honored as a “Living Legend” at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church’s on Feb. 9.

The 87-year-old civil rights leader will be recognized during a special portion of the 10 a.m. worship service by Dr. Jamal Harrison Bryant as part of the church’s Black History Month celebration.

Each Sunday, during the month of February, the New Birth congregation will recognize the contributions of notable African-American icons whose Pictured are Xernona Clayton and Dr. Jamal Bryant during the Feb. 2 “Living Legends” contributions have broken barriers and made a considerable national and global recognition. impact.

Young, who worked as a leader in the Civil Rights Movement and executive director of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, served as a United States congressman and later, the 55th Mayor of Atlanta. Noted for his role in drafting the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965, Young now works on a number of national and global initiatives through Good Works International.

“We stand on the shoulders of giants like Ambassador Young as well as so many others and we all owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid,” said Bryant. “Ambassador Young is an esteemed international leader and living legend who continues to serve as an unmatched force for global good who embodies the spirit of the Civil Right Movement.”

Civil rights leader and Trumpet Foundation creator Xernona Clayton was honored by the Stonecrest church on Feb. 2. Clayton, 89, was the former aide to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and organizer for many key initiatives of the Civil Rights Movement and the SCLC. “Mrs. Clayton is still making an impact today and her legacy has helped defined a movement that changed the nation and the world,” added Bryant. “New Birth is celebrating the life and legacy of trailblazers who relentlessly demanded justice and equality so future generations could have the opportunity to go further and dream bigger than those before them.”

New Birth will honor Congressman John Lewis on Feb. 16 and the Rev. Charles Steele, Jr. will be honored on Feb. 23.

M E T R O P O L I TA N AT L A N TA R A P I D T R A N S I T A U T H O R I T Y

Notice of Public Hearing Notice is hereby given that the MARTA Board of Directors will hold public hearings to consider bus route modifications designed to address public input and service safety, schedule reliability, operating efficiency, and connectivity.

Proposed Bus Service Modifications for April 11, 2020 for the following bus routes: Route 8: North Druid Hills Road; Route 79: Sylvan Hills Route 82: Camp Creek / South Fulton Parkway; Route 114: Columbia Drive; Route 124: Pleasantdale Road Route 126: Chamblee-Tucker Road; Route 192: Old Dixie / Tara Boulevard Route 295: Metropolitan Campus Express All route information, videos and comment forms are available at www.itsmarta.com.

Tuesday, February 11

Saturday, February 15

East Point City Annex

Chamblee Library

3121 Norman Berry Drive East Point, GA 30344

4115 Clairmont Road Chamblee, GA 30341

Community Exchange: 6 PM

Community Exchange: 11 AM

PUBLIC HEARING: 7 PM

PUBLIC HEARING: 12 PM

Riding MARTA: Route 192

Riding MARTA: Route 19

Copies of the proposed Bus Service Modifications and the FY2020 Service Standards will also be available for public viewing at MARTA’s Headquarters Office of External Affairs, 2424 Piedmont Road, N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30324 during regular business hours, Mon-Fri-8:30 am to 5:00 pm.

Hillcrest Church of Christ

1939 Snapfinger Rd, Decatur, Ga 30035 | hillcrestcoc.net WORSHIP SERVICE TIMES: Sunday Mornings 10am to 12pm Sunday Evenings 5pm to 6pm

BIBLE CLASSES: Sunday Mornings 9am to 9:45am Wednesday Nights 7pm to 8pm Thursday mornings 10 am to 11am

"You are invite to attend our Worship Service dressed in African Attire with a Soul Food Luncheon afterward on February 23rd”

For formats (FREE of charge) in accordance with the ADA and Limited English Proficiency regulations contact, (404) 848-4615. For those patrons requiring further accommodations, information can be obtained by calling the Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (404) 848-5665.

In addition, a sign language interpreter will be available at the hearing. If you cannot attend the hearing and want to provide comments you may: (1) leave a message at (404) 848-5299; (2) write to MARTA’s Office of External Affairs, 2424 Piedmont Road, N.E. Atlanta, GA 30324-3330; (3) complete an online Comment Card at www.itsmarta.com; (4) email to custserv@itsmarta.com; (5) or fax your comments no later than February 15, 2020 to (404) 848-4179.

All citizens of the City of Atlanta and the counties of Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton and Gwinnett whose interests are affected by the subjects to be considered at the hearing are hereby notified and invited to appear at said time and place and present such evidence, comment or objection as their interests require.

Jeffrey A. Parker, General Manager/CEO

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FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • PAGE 5

CELEBRATING 90 South DeKalb trailblazer Juanita Johnson’s most famous students were “Little Richard” and Sam Moore of the duo, “Sam and Dave.”

D

ecatur resident Juanita Johnson, a retired missionary, evangelist and musician with a long list of accomplishments, recently celebrated her 90th birthday with a host of family and friends.

Johnson, who has been teaching private piano lessons and voice since 1950, counts Rock ‘n’ Roll artist Little Richard and Sam Moore of the soul and R&B duo, Sam and Dave, among her most famous students.

“I worked with Little Richard on playing the keyboard and Sam Moore came to me for vocal and keyboard lessons. Sam’s grandmother paid me for his lessons,” recalled Johnson, adding that they all lived in the same community in Miami.

Even at age 90, Johnson says that music still remains

a big part of her life.

“I still play piano. I’m currently Minister of Music at Greater Fortress Avenue Baptist Church in Atlanta, where I have served since 1982,” said Johnson, who was 12 years old when she started playing piano for Sunday School at Israel Baptist Church.

As a teen, Johnson formed a gospel singing group with two of her sisters, Willie D. Chaney and Sarah Mitchell, called The Williams Sisters.

Johnson married and helped found St. Mark Primitive Baptist Church in 1962 with her husband, Pastor F.L. Johnson, who is now deceased. In 1968, Johnson became a missionary and evangelist. She went on to earn her master’s degree in music and education from Florida International University in 1975. She

served as music director at many churches in the Atlanta area.

In addition to her music career, Johnson played an active role with the historic National Council of Negro Women, serving nine years as office manager under the organization’s national president, Dorothy Heights.

Johnson, who also coowned with her husband the Eastern Star Studio and four other businesses, helped organize three Eastern Star Chapters: 141, 142 and 143.

“Being involved in the community runs in my family,” said Johnson, who is the grand-daughter of the late Rev. Reuben Reed, recognized in the U.S. National Archives for being an organizer of Florida A&M University in Tallahassee.

Johnson said she was overjoyed that her pastor,

Juanita Johnson is all decked out for her party.

the Rev. William T. Perkins, a former dean of Theology at Morehouse College, and his wife, Margaret, along with motivational speaker Michael Howard attended her birthday celebration at her home in Decatur.

Howard is a former piano student, Johnson said.

Johnson said another highlight of the celebration was The Community Choir, who sang at the event.

For years, Johnson directed The Community Choir as well as the Lithonia Senior Center’s choir, The Lithonia Voices.

Johnson said her daughter, Grace Guardarrama, who lives in Miami, came the farthest distance. Johnson’s two sons also attended.

“It was an amazing birthday celebration,” said Johnson.

PAGE 6 • FEBRUARY 7, 2020

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Voices of Faith celebrates National School Choice Week

By Mackenzie N. Morgan Staff Writer

scarves. It was many of their first times riding a school bus.

“I thought it was important to bring both Over 80 preschoolers and elementary school campuses together so the kids could meet other students at Voices of Faith’s Christian Academy students like themselves. Everyone wore their in Stone Mountain and Conyers took learning School Choice scarves and learned together, in out of the classroom during a special program unison. We all educate and worship the same as to celebrate School Choice Week. The national well as share the same spiritual values – it was initiative educates students and parents about important that we came together under one roof various education options available – from public to share in the vision set forth by our leader, to private schools, charter, magnet, Montessori Bishop Gary Hawkins, Sr.,” said Principal Hayes. and even ways to get started with homeschooling This year’s theme introduced students to online. robotics and technology giving each child the Voices of Faith’s Christian Academy Principal opportunity to engage with robotics through Sabrina Hayes said this was the schools’ first time music, imaginative play and toy robots. participating in the national education campaign.

Baziel Pearce from Pearce Learning Tech led She said she wants parents to know there are an the group in a variety of tech activities and said abundance of resources to give children the best that preschool is the best time to introduce kids to educational experience they can. technology.

“There are a multitude of educational options “Early childhood is often overlooked that cater to a variety of situations and family for technology-based learning but this is a dynamics. Parents just have to be tuned in. I see a foundational stage in a child’s development. lot of grandparents raising kids or parents seeking Kids can learn these concepts with or without a specialized education solutions. The School screen.”

Choice website, along with social media, are Pearce said that introducing kids to computers great places to start tapping into local resources at an early age diminishes gender and racial to find what works for you,” said Hayes. stereotypes about who works in technology and The weeklong celebration kicked off with also fosters early critical thinking skills. a student/teacher meet-and-greet followed “Coding is going to be very important for by a week of daily themed activities merging everyone 20 years from now. We have to do our technology, education and faith-based character part to ensure we give all kids a competitive building. Students enjoyed STEM-based games edge,” said Pearce. and activities, music, a performance by the Voices of Faith Christian Daycare Director Voices of Faith Academy cheerleaders and a Antoinette Woodside said she was pleased with special guest appearance by Deacon Aaron the turnout as well.

Hawkins, who was dressed as Batman and Voices “It is so important that we expose our of Faith’s Director of Music Princess Rouchechildren to quality educational opportunities at an Cox, who was dressed as Minnie Mouse, at the early age so they can have a strong foundation,” conclusion of the program. Preschoolers from Woodside said. “We have to keep our kids the church’s Rockdale daycare also attended the excited about learning and provide every resource Jan. 31 pep rally wearing matching bright yellow we can to keep them competitive.”

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IMPEACHMENT

continued from page 1

“This is a racist trope that panders to the Medal of Honor recipient Rush Limbaugh.

Unacceptable,” Johnson said in a tweet.

Teresa Hardy, president of the DeKalb NAACP, concurred with DeKalb NAACP President Teresa Hardy Johnson that voters would have to defeat Trump with their vote.

“We all need to speak up and speak in volumes at the voting booths in every election because we all know the truth,” said Hardy.

Georgia NAACP President James Woodall said mobilizing communities is even more critical this year.

“President Trump’s acquittal shows us that not only do elections have consequences but that we have much more work today. There are three elections in 2020. It’s time we mobilize our communities.”

Meanwhile, Trump supporters in metro Atlanta celebrated his victory.

GOP Chairman David Shafer reflected on his record of success for Georgians and praised the President’s State of the Union speech.

“President Donald J. Trump’s State of the Union address highlighted the unprecedented economic success that has led to prosperity for all Americans. Unlike the failed administration he succeeded, President Trump kept his promises to deliver a modern and rebalanced trade deal to replace NAFTA, to fight for our veterans, and to lift Americans out of poverty.

The President’s unparalleled record of success is apparent – and that is why he will be reelected in November,” said Shafer Savannah Viar, Georgia Press Secretary for Donald J. Trump for President, Inc., also praised Trump’s achievements.

“Last night’s packed watch parties prove that the 2020 Democrats stand no chance against President Trump in Georgia. Two terrorist leaders killed, two Supreme Court Justices confirmed, and two major trade deals signed into law and a blue collar boom to top it off means two terms for President Trump.”

GREEK continued from page 1 At press time, the following had confirmed to attend Greek Day: Trent Taylor Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Nu Mu Lambda Chapter Luevenia Holloway Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Lambda Epsilon Omega Chapter Adrienne Wright Jackson Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Decatur Alumnae Chapter Dennette Battle Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Stone Mountain – Lithonia Alumnae Chapter Orette Ferdiand Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. Kappa Alpha Sigma Chapter Sherry Pope Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Sigma Mu Zeta Chapter Tamesha Favors Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. Eta Sigma Alumnae Chapter

FEBRUARY 7, 2020 • PAGE 7

Congressman Hank Johnson announces 2020 Congressional Arts Competition Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) is accepting entries from high school students who live in or attend school in Georgia Fourth Congressional District to enter the Congressional Arts Competition.

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. Since the Artistic Discovery competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.

Since 2007, more than 700 Fourth District students have competed in Rep. Johnson’s

Congressman Hank Johnson

annual event. Last year’s winners in the 2019 competition were awarded four college scholarships worth a total of $35,000.

Students submit entries to their representative’s office and panels of selected constituents

and district artists select the winning entries. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. The winning works are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.

All entries are due to the Congressman’s District Office, 5240 Snapfinger Park Drive, Suite 140, Decatur, GA, 30035,

by Feb. 24.

For more information, rules and guidelines for the 2020 competition, visit https:// hankjohnson.house.gov/servingyou/art-competition or call Director of External Affairs and Engagement, Xeron Pledger, at 770-987-2291.

Mayor Jason declares “Prevention of Violence Day” in Stonecrest A discussion on the safety and well-being of youths in the community was one of many topics discussed on Feb. 1 at the Jared’s Heart of Success, Inc’s. Prevention of Violence Awareness Day. The event, held at the Stonecrest Library, was a part of an ongoing national awareness program that educates youth on violence prevention through programs on bullying, suicide prevention, social isolation, gun violence, and teen dating.

Mayor Jason Lary and members of the law enforcement community were guest honorees and panelists at the event. The mayor presented the organization with a proclamation declaring Feb. 1, 2020 as Prevention of Violence Awareness Day in Stonecrest.

R

DeKalb residential sanitation service for Presidents’ Day to run one day late In observance of Presidents’ Day on Monday, Feb. 17, sanitation service for residential customers will run one day late as follows: Monday, Feb. 17 – Presidents’ Day observed. No sanitation service.

Tuesday, Feb. 18 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Monday, Feb. 17, will be serviced on Tuesday, Feb. 18.

Wednesday, Feb. 19 – Residential customers whose

TAXES

regularly scheduled collection day is Tuesday, Feb. 18, will be serviced on Wednesday, Feb. 19.

Thursday, Feb. 20 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Wednesday, Feb. 19, will be serviced on Thursday, Feb. 20.

Friday, Feb. 21 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Thursday, Feb. 20, will be serviced on Friday, Feb. 21.

The Sanitation Division’s

administrative office, North Transfer Station and Seminole Road Landfill will be closed on Monday, Feb. 17, and will reopen on Tuesday, Feb. 18, during normal operating hours.

For more information, contact the Sanitation Division’s customer service team at 404-294-2900 or sanitation@ dekalbcountyga.gov, visit www. dekalbsanitation.com, or follow the Sanitation Division on Twitter @DKalbSanitation.

LAWN CARE

PAGE 8 • FEBRUARY 7, 2020

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Gum Treatments Tooth Colored Fillings Oral Surgery Cosmetic Bonding & Veneers Crowns, Bridges & Dentures Root Canals Implants We Accept Most Insurance Plans Peachcare & Medicaid Emergency Walk-In Time Available

900 N. Hairston Rd. Suite B Stone Mountain, GA 30083 900 N. Hairston Rd. 404-294-8500

Suite B Stone Mountain, Spalding Dentistry GAGentle 30083 6460 Spalding Drive 404-294-8500 Norcross, GA 30092 770-849-0006