VOLUME 21 NUMBER 49
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MARCH 12, 2016
Published Since April 1995 Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties • www.facebook.com/ocgnews
Stonecrest cityhood bill advances
DeKalb’s ICEO Lee May vows to chart a course “onward and upward” By Valerie J. Morgan
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Jason Lary President Stonecrest City Alliance
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he Stonecrest cityhood bill moved another step forward with House Bill 208 unanimously passing the House Governmental Affairs Committee recently. State Representative Dee Dawkins-Haigler, who is the primary sponsor of the bill, has been hosting a series of community meetings to gather citizen input for the proposal. “The citizens of South DeKalb deserve the opportunity to vote on whether or not they want to create a new city just like other cities have been afforded the opportunity and have thus formed cities in North DeKalb over the past 10 years,” Haigler said. Last year, the Senate passed the bill 45-1. The bill must clear the House Rules Committee, full House of Representatives and be signed by the governor in order for a referendum to be on the ballot in May.
eKalb County’s Interim CEO Lee May said he plans to finish his term this year by moving forward with a number of improvements to make DeKalb better. May, who isn’t running for election, said in his final State of the County address that he would push to repave the county’s worn roads, provide competitive salaries for public safety employees, revitalize Memorial Drive and launch a free afterschool program for middle school students. He said although the county already has witnessed significant improvements under his leadership, more work remains to be done as he charts a course to restore DeKalb. “The notion of good government is incumbent upon us all as we chart a course onward and upward. I know that we can get there as we forge ahead to a better DeKalb,” said May. In discussing the county’s achievements in terms of the quality of life for residents, May pointed out the increase in the number of code enforcement officers.
“Since I was appointed by the governor to this post two and a half years ago, the quality of life in our communities has been my top priority,” said May. “ I am happy to report we have made significant progress with more in store. We have increased the number of code enforcement staff from 28 to 52. We have made substantial headway on key gateway interchanges throughout DeKalb County.” May urged citizens to approve a referendum for a one percent Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, which will help generate $100 million a year over 5 years to continue improving the county’s aging infrastructure. “Your voice and your
ICEO Lee May
vote in November will allow this county the ability to proactively address our capital and infrastructure needs,” May said during his March 10 speech at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in South DeKalb. Earlier during the day, May addressed the business community during a luncheon. May said he would make competitive salaries for county employees, especially first responders a priority. “Fair and equitable compensation for the DeKalb County employees is paramount,” said May. “The overwhelming majority of our workforce who are dedicated, honest and hard –working, deserve fair compensation. May discussed the
investment that he wants to make in DeKalb’s youths. His administration is working in partnership with the school system, faith-based organizations and nonprofits to launch a pilot afterschool program for middle school students. “Collectively, we will wrap our arms around one of the most vulnerable segments in our school system - our middle schoolers. By piloting this initiative, we plan to grow this into a universal afterschool program, county-wide, free of charge,” said May. May also said he is moving ahead with plans to relocate county government operations to Memorial Drive near the DeKalb County Jail. The site was See Lee May , page 10
Pack of candidates qualify for DeKalb and Rockdale elections
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s of March 10, dozens of candidates had qualified for races in DeKalb County and 16 had qualified in neighboring Rockdale County. Qualifying ends on March 11 at noon. The DeKalb CEO race had three candidates at On Common Ground News’ Thursday deadline. Here is a look at who is running for some of the top positions: Joe Bembry, who listed his occupation as automated services, former DeKalb Commissioner and State Representative Connie Stokes and former DeKalb County Schools Superintendent Michael Thurmond (all Democrats) are in the race for DeKalb CEO. The DeKalb’s Sheriff’s race has five Democrats and one Republican so far: Incumbent Jeffrey Mann, Geraldine Champion, Kyle Jones, Michael Williams, Ted Golden, all Democrats; and Republican Harold Dennis.
Two people are running for DeKalb Tax Commissioner: Irwin Johnson, who is in the position now, and Susannah Scott. Qualifying for DeKalb Clerk of Courts: Incumbent Debra Dewberry In Rockdale’s race for Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, three candidates are running:
Incumbent Richard Oden, Commissioner Oz Nesbitt and Tax Commissioner RJ Hadley, all Democrats. Two had qualified for the Rockdale’s Sheriff’s race: Incumbent Eric Levett and Donald Ferguson, both Democrats. Only one person had qualified for Rockdale Tax Commissioner: Tisa Smart Washington, who is currently the deputy tax commissioner. Qualifying for Rockdale Clerk of Courts: Incumbent Ruth Wilson and Janice Morris. Qualifying for Rockdale Probate Judge: Incumbent Charles Mays, Attorney Clarence Cuthpert,Jr. and Tolbert Morris. To find out who else has qualified for the 2016 elections, go to page 9.
PAGE 2 •MARCH 12, 2016
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MARCH 12,2016 • PAGE 3
Rep. Johnson honors DeKalb officer with Badge of Bravery
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ongressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) presented DeKalb County Police Officer Jonathan Lamar Lewis with a Congressional Badge of Bravery at the Lou Walker Senior Center for his acts of heroism in the line of duty on Dec. 12, 2014. Johnson presented the award to Lewis with DeKalb Public Safety Director Dr. Cedric Alexander, First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia Kurt Erskine, Newton County Sheriff Ezell Brown, Interim CEO Lee May, fellow police officers and Lewis’ wife and mother in attendance. “I want to thank my family for giving me the strength to serve this great county,” said Lewis, who grew up in Lithonia.
DeKalb County Officer Jonathan Lamar Lewis receives the Congressional Badge of Bravery in a ceremony at the Lou Walker Senior Center for his acts of heroism in the line of duty on Dec. 12, 2014.
“I also want to thank my fellow officers – because without them, I wouldn’t be here today.” “Each day, law enforcement officers across the country risk their personal safety to keep our families and our communities safe,” said Johnson. “We are fortunate that no
lives were lost that December morning in 2014 but tragically that is not always the case. Let’s take a moment to give a round of applause for Officer Lewis and all of the law enforcement officers who serve us every day.” On Dec. 12, Officer Lewis – along
with four other officers – stopped a home invasion and armed robbery in progress at a DeKalb County apartment complex. Lewis and his colleagues confronted two heavily armed and dangerous suspects. Two of the five police officers were struck by gunfire during the incident but survived. Officer Lewis not only confronted the armed suspects with force, but rendered aid to his fallen colleagues as well. One suspect was arrested at the scene and the second was arrested after a four-hour manhunt. The Congressional Badge of Bravery is reserved for the individuals who display selflessness in the face of adversity and courage in the heat of battle.
DeKalb Tax Commissioner: 2016 exemptions deadline is April 1
DeKalb Tax Commissioner, Irvin J. Johnson, is reminding new homeowners that if they owned and occupied their property on Jan. 1, 2016, they may qualify for homestead exemption. The basic homestead exemption may be applied for by mail or via the Internet.
This exemption provides significant tax savings to homeowners. Johnson stressed that exemptions are not automatically granted to residents, mortgage companies or any other entities that file on behalf of property owners. Homeowners must make sure they have filed. There is no charge to file for exemptions. Exemptions are not available for rental property. In addition to basic homestead exemption, there are special exemptions for citizens 62 years of age and older. Eligibility is determined by application based on age and household
income. Special exemptions are also available for citizens that are 100% totally and permanently disabled. Applicants for senior or disability exemptions must visit one of the Tax Commissioner Office locations in person (locations listed below) so that specific circumstances and required documentation may be reviewed. Documentation of income including 2015 Federal and State income tax returns, proof of age and/or disability status is required. Residents must make application by April 1 in order for the exemption to be applied to 2016 property
taxes; however, applications are accepted year round. Any application received after the April 1 deadline will be applied to the 2017 tax year. Taxpayers with questions are encouraged to call 404-298-4000. Office Locations Central: 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 100, Decatur 30032 – across from the DeKalb County Jail North: 1358 Dresden Drive, NE, Atlanta 30319 – 2 blocks east of Brookhaven Marta Station South: 2801 Candler Road, Suite 66, Decatur 30034 - The Gallery @ South DeKalb Mall near Macy’s
get underway. The project is expected to be completed between 12 and 18 months, Jackson said. “The demolition marks the end of one era and the beginning of a new era for the city. Having something actually happen has been a long-term objective of the city,” said Jackson. The city owns about 80,000 square feet of the plaza, roughly half, and Safari Enterprises, Inc.
owns the other half. Jackson said Safari has agreed to make improvements to the part of the building that it owns. Environmental soil testing will be conducted once demolition is completed in about two weeks. The site used to be a former drycleaner and the testing must be done to make sure the site is safe to build on, Jackson said. Wendover Housing Partners is re-de-
veloping the site. Jackson said she is excited about the redevelopment because it will provide affordable housing for working families and individuals who will pay no more than 30 percent of their incomes for the units. The apartments are meant for low-income to moderate-income earners such as teachers and public safety workers, Jackson said.
City of Lithonia prepares to redevelop defunct plaza
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he City of Lithonia will begin demolishing the cityowned portion of the old, blue Lithonia Plaza on Main Street to make way for the new Granite Crossing Apartments, which will include 75 one, two and three-bedroom units. Mayor Deborah Jackson said a “demolition party” is set March 14, 12:30 p.m., in the plaza where the redevelopment will
PAGE 4•MARCH 12,2016
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DBA, First Baptist in Decatur to host Easter egg hunt
Coming Up
The annual Decatur Business Association’s Easter Egg Hunt returns Saturday, March 19, 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., on the front lawn of the First Baptist Church, 308 Clairemont Ave., Decatur. In the event of rain, the location will be the church gym. The bunny arrives at 10:30 a.m., and the hunt begins at 11 a.m. This year, the hunt will be staggered by age groups so that parents with more than one child, in different age groups, can experience the fun with each of their children. After the hunt, enjoy free face-painting, story time with Little Shop of Stories, and craft time with Treehouse Kids & Crafts. Also new this year is an interactive photo booth with the Easter Bunny and plenty of props. Parents can use their own cellphones and cameras to take photos. .GWINNETT
Atlanta Science Exploration Expo 2016 set Metro Atlanta’s largest free interactive science day returns. Take the children to enjoy a day of discovery during the Third Annual Atlanta Science Festival’s Exploration Expo on Saturday, March 26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Centennial Olympic Park, 265 Park Avenue West NW, downtown Atlanta. The event kicks off at 10 a.m. with a parade that will leave the parking lot of Centennial Academy at 531 Luckie Street N.W. and make its way to Centennial Olympic Park. This family-friendly event brings more than 100 interactive exhibits; hands-on experiments; exciting demonstrations and a line-up of live science-themed performances. Attendees will have a chance to fly a drone, touch a brain, participate in a 40-foot LEGO build of the city of Atlanta, express themselves through science haikus, and discover the science inside an Oreo, just to name a few of the 100 activities. For more information, visit www.atlantasciencefestival.org or call 770322-4992.
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DEKALB
Friends to host book sales for Scott Candler Library The Friends of Scott Candler Library, 1917 Candler Road, Decatur, will have a book sale on Saturday, March 19, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Monday, March 21, 3 to 6 p.m. A variety of books will be available for sale. For more information, call 404-286-6986.
Meditation for Beginners at Stone Mountain Sue-Kellogg Library Learn the basic concepts of meditation and how to fit meditation into your busy schedule. Sekayi Stringer will present a workshop on Saturday, March 19, 10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Stone Mountain-Sue Kellogg Library, 952 Leon Street, Stone Mountain. The class is limited to 20 participants. To register, call 770-413-2020.
. Sen. Gloria Butler seeking Georgia’s Vietnam veterans . State Sen. Gloria Butler (D – Stone Mountain), who represents portions of DeKalb and Gwinnett counties, plans to honor Georgia’s Vietnam Veterans in two special ceremonies in April. If you are a Vietnam Veteran or know a Vietnam Veteran who would like to be honored for their service, please contact Senator Butler’s office at 404-656-0075 or by mail: ATTN: Senator Gloria Butler, 206 Washington St. Suite 420-C, Atlanta, GA 30334. Please include full legal name, address, phone number, email address, branch of service, dates of service, rank and a copy of your DD214. The deadline is March 30 The ceremonies will be held Saturday, April 16. An 11 a.m. ceremony will be held at South Gwinnett High School, Performing Arts Auditorium, 2288 E. Main St, Snellville A 3 p.m. ceremony will be held at the Performing Arts Building, Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive, Decatur.
Gwinnett to host annual networking event for potential vendors The Gwinnett County Purchasing Division will host the 10th annual Supplier Symposium on Thursday, April 21, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, 75 Langley Drive in Lawrenceville. The symposium provides vendors with an opportunity to meet buyers and contracting officers in Gwinnett County and other metro Atlanta agencies. Potential vendors are invited to attend. To register for this free event or view current projects open for bidding and explanations of bidding procedures in Gwinnett County, visit the Purchasing Division’s webpage at www.gwinnettcounty.com.
Pickneyville Recreation Center to present coffee and movie Gwinnett County residents are invited to enjoy a leisure afternoon with friends, a movie and a hot beverage bar on March 16, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Pickneyville Park and Recreation Center, 4560 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Norcross. The cost is $3 per person. Register online at www.gwinnettparks. com or by calling 678-277-0920.
ROCKDALE
Rockdale NAACP to celebrate 28th Annual Freedom Fund Scholarship Banquet Each year, the Rockdale County NAACP sponsors an annual Freedom Fund Scholarship Banquet to raise money to award scholarships to a deserving minority student from each of the l three Rockdale high schools. This year the banquet will be held on March 19, 6 to 10 p.m., at the Georgia International Horse Park in the Carriage Room, 1996 Centennial Olympic Parkway, Conyers. Reserved tables are available for $500, adult tickets are $50 and tickets for children 12 and under are $20. For more information, contact Allene Eatman, chairperson, at 678-4139520 or 770-715-4836. Reminder: Always check with the event planner or web site provided to make sure no cancellations or changes have been made prior to going.
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American Heart Association donates 200 infant CPR kits to Northside Hospital
A couple learns about infant CPR during a course at Northside Hospital.
Jan Murphy, of the American Heart Association (AHA); Rachel Starr, vice president Donor Relations for AHA; Linda Kelly, clinical manager at Northside Hospital’s NICU and Kim Nickels, Southeast Community CPR manager for AHA.
ATLANTA—Northside Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) is providing newborn families with a lifesaving take-home tool. The American Heart Association recently presented Northside Hospital with 200 “Infant CPR Anytime” kits. The kits are being given to parents of babies admitted to the NICU. “Babies born very early need additional special care after birth,” said Linda Kelly, RN, Clinical Manager Northside Hospital’s NICU. “We want to give parents the knowledge and confidence to handle an emergency should it occur.” Kelly said all parents of newborns at Northside’s NICU are required to take an infant CPR course prior to discharge. The Infant CPR Anytime kits donation was made possible because of benefactor Nellie Axelroad of Atlanta. Axelroad told the American Heart
Association she was honored to be part of helping train parents in infant CPR as it teaches the ability to save a life. “Our goal is to train 20 million people in CPR by 2020,” said Kim Nickels, Southeast Community CPR Manager for the American Heart Association. “We believe that everyone should know the lifesaving skill of CPR, especially parents who are taking babies home.” Nickels said the kits come with a 20-minute video and a mini Baby Anne manikin that can be used by parents to train every caregiver, grandparents or anyone watching their child. “This is one of the tools we are using to get to every single person to make sure that they are trained and can act in the chance that they are faced with an emergency,” she said.
Olde Town Conyers sets annual St. Patrick’s Day parade DeKalb School District seeks volunteers for E-SPLOST committee Olde Town Conyers is ready to host the annual “World’s Fastest Growing St. Patrick’s Day Parade” on Thursday, March 17, at 4:30 p.m. The parade, a Conyers tradition since 1985, will be led by Grand Marshal Mayor Randy Mills and invited honorary grand marshals Bill Rogers, Bill Spivey, Marty Jones and Charles Walker, former city councilmen and former mayor, respectively, accompanied by bagpiper, Robert Harwell, playing classic Irish tunes. Local businesses, organizations and school groups will also participate in this year’s parade. Anyone who wishes to participate in the two-block walking parade is encouraged to meet at the corner of Main and Center streets prior to 4:30 p.m. There are no vehicles allowed in the parade. The annual crowning of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade children’s king and queen and winner of the Leprechaun Lookalike Contest for adults will take place at the Olde Town Pavilion following the parade. Complimentary Irishthemed refreshments will be provided New this year, a festive, Irish-attired pet will also be selected for a prize. All guests are encouraged to dress in their best and most creative Irish attire. The 7th Annual World’s Shortest Endurance Run sponsored by the Rotary Club of Rockdale County will also be included in the day’s events. The run, .1 mile in length from the Conyers Welcome Center to The Pointe on Railroad Street, begins with a shotgun start at 5 p.m. and participants who enter will receive a T-shirt. Registration is still open for those interested in participating. For more information, visit www.rockdalerotary.org or contact Jim McBrayer at 404-525-3423 or jmcbrayer17@gmail.com. Businesses in Olde Town will offer food and drink specials for parade attendees. Live music and traditional Irish dishes will be available in select restaurants until midnight. Commercial Street will be closed 4 p.m.-11 p.m. on Saturday, March 12, for a pre-St. Patrick’s Day event dubbed “St. Practice Day” sponsored by the Celtic Tavern with live entertainment. “The one-of-a-kind events like the parade and fun run truly make St. Patrick’s Day in Olde Town the place to be,” said Olde Town event coordinator Sandy Fowler. “We look forward to a great crowd ready to celebrate the Irish in our community’s unique way.” For more information, call the Conyers Welcome Center at 770-6022606.
The DeKalb County School District invites the public to volunteer their services for a 12-member E-SPLOST Advisory Committee. The committee provides citizen review of the voter-approved Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax project list. Qualified candidates must be citizens who reside within the boundaries of the DeKalb County School District, may not be members of the Board of Education or employees of the School District, and may not have any economic interest in any of the District’s projects. Experience in accounting, architecture, auditing, construction, engineering, finance, K-12 education, legal, planning, project management and/ or real estate is desired. Volunteers must be able to dedicate at least two hours to monthly meetings—generally, in the evenings. Volunteers also must pass a background check and sign a non-disclosure agreement. Interested DeKalb County residents who want to be considered for the committee can submit their information online at www.dekalb.k12.ga.us. Online applications will be accepted Friday, March 11, until 11:59 p.m. Friday, April 8. Questions about the Citizen’s SPLOST Oversight Committee may be emailed to splost-oversight@dekalbschoolsga.org.
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Salem High thespians present musical comedy
CONYERS—Salem High School’s Thespian Troupe 5120 opened its spring musical, “A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum,” on Thursday, March 10, 7 p.m. This madcap Stephen Sondheim musical set in ancient Rome, directed by Jenni Caruso with musical direction by Lenae Rose, will run March 10-12 and March 17-19 at 7 p.m.; March 13 and March 20 at 3 p.m., at Salem High School, 3551 Underwood Rd. Cast members include: Jordan Moreno as Pseudolus, Naz Harvey as Hysterium, Ally Denhart as Philia, Darnell Downer as Hero, Demetrious Sampson as Senex, Martine Destin as Domina, Helvin Holloway as Marcus Lycus, Beau Burroughs as Erronius Naheem Mitchell
as Miles Gloriousus, Jada Pinkston as Tintinabula, Gracen Brantley as Panacea, Brianna Bigelow and Kristen Bolton as The Geminae, Melyse Nesbitt as Vibrata, Victoria Hernadez as Gymnasia, Brian Thompson, Symaya Fields, Erica West as Proteans. Virginal courtesan Philia, played by Ally Denhart, and her suitor Hero, played by Darnell Downer, gaze into each other’s eyes. Ringmasters Hysterium, played by Naz Harvey, and Pseudous, played by Jordan Moreno, set the plot in motion by devising a plan to obtain their freedom from the House of Senex. Tickets are $8 adults, $6 students/senior citizens. For more information, contact theatersaleminfo@gmail.com
Rotarians pitch in to help Pine Southwest DeKalb High recognized as “Dream Street’s fourth graders take field trip Team of the Week”
L-R: Attorney Thua Barley, Council member Shivern Jeter, Superintendent Richard Autry
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ourth graders at Pine Street Elementary School in Conyers will be traveling to the Tellus Museum in Cartersville, thanks to the Rotary Club of Conyers. The Rotarians donated $2,000 to help make up the balance needed for the students to go after the students raised $1,500 toward the costs. The Rev. Shivern Jeter, who has a fourth grade student at Pine Street and who serves as a liaison with the Superintendent Parent Advisory Board, said she reached out to Attorney Thua Barlay, a member and former past president of the Conyers Rotary Club, for help. Barlay contacted the Rotary Club of Rockdale, the partner for Pine Street Elementary, and got the ball rolling with help from Youth Services Chair Cheryl Dozier and President Tony Dowd. Together, the Rotarians raised the money from members’ contributions and Barlay presented the check on March 9. Rockdale Superintendent Richard Autry and fourth grade teachers at the school were on hand to accept the donation.
“I was especially impressed by the drive of the students and teachers to attempt to raise the funds themselves through a hot dog sale on March 4. If they took this initiative, then there should be no reason why we could not find a way to assist,” said Barlay. Said Dozier: “The Rotary Club of Rockdale County gladly supports the youth. The work of Rotary begins in our community and what better way than literacy and education.” Jeter said the children had been planning the project for six months. The students raised $1,500 collectively toward the cost of the trip. The trip costs came to $30 per student and included tickets to the museum, motor coach transportation and meals. Jeter said she is so grateful for the Rotarians’ help, commending them for giving with an open heart. She said Magistrate Judge Phinia Aten has donated snacks for the students’ trip. The students are scheduled to take the day trip on March 29.
Front row, L-R: Tyanna Jones and Yolanda Simpson Back row, L-R: Council member Shivern Jeter, teachers hCarolyn Stephens, Mandi Flakes
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he Atlanta Dream has seSequoyah in the semifinals. lected Southwest DeKalb In addition, Southwest DeKalb High School in Decatur as currently boasts a No. 3 state rankthis week’s recipient of the “Addie” ing in Class AAAAA and sits at 20th Award. The honor is presented overall in the state of Georgia. weekly during the WNBA offseaIn the classroom, the team has son to a girls’ high school basketalso excelled, boasting a combined ball team that exhibits exceptional team grade-point average of 3.07, on-court performance, academic led by top performers senior Cori achievement and an unquestioned Bostic (3.74) and freshman Desiray passion to advance the sport. Coulter (3.87). The Lady Panthers have enjoyed Daisa Alexander leads the Lady consistent success on and off the Panthers offense with an average of court this season as they currently 15.5 points while adding 4.4 reboast an overall record of 26-6 enbounds. Jada Walton chips in 12.6 tering tonight’s Georgia State Class points and 4.7 rebounds. AAAAA Title game vs Winder-BarThe Atlanta Dream congratulates row. Southwest DeKalb advanced the entire Southwest DeKalb High to the title game with a 65-50 win over Columbus in the quarterfinals, See Dream Team, page 10 followed by a 55-47 victory over
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We Worship
Faith-Based News & Inspiration
Antioch-Lithonia Baptist Church celebrates 21st pastoral anniversary
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ntioch-Lithonia Baptist Church is inviting the community to celebrate the 21st pastoral anniversary of James C. Ward and First Lady Idell Ward. The church, located at 2152 Rock Chapel Road, Lithonia, will honor the couple on Sunday, March 13, for their unwavering dedication and service. A day of praise and worship is planned beginning with the 7:30 a.m. worship service where Antioch-Lithonia’s Minister Garland Salem will be the speaker. Minister Darius Key will be the speaker at 10:30 a.m. and powerhouse Chandra Currelley, an award-winning singer and actress, will be the special musical artist. Currelley’s credits include the movie, “Madea’s Big Happy Family” and the musicals “The Hot Mikado” and “Sophisticated Ladies,” to name a few. Currelley now appears on the Oprah Winfrey Network as the hilarious Ms. V in “For
the James C. Ward Chorale. Since Pastor Ward, who calls himself a “country boy” from Abbeville, Alabama, took the helm in 1995, Antioch has been a church on the move. It has established dozens of ministries and grown to thousands of members. . Pastor Ward says God has blessed him tremendously with diverse life experiences that prepared him for his divine appointment at Antioch-Lithonia. From work in the corporate world as a public relations manager at Exxon to Regional Systems Manager at AT&T, his path, he says, has be directed by God. Pastor Ward earned a bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College with a double major in Philosophy and German Literature. An accomplished musician, Pastor James C. Ward & First Lady Idell Ward composer and arranger, he also earned a minor in music Better or Worse.” world-renown pianist Mark at Morehouse. In addition to Currelley joins several Hayes. The church has its his degrees from Morehouse, top musical singers that Anown excellent liturgical dance Pastor Ward earned a bachetioch has welcomed including ministry and choirs, including
lor of science in accounting from the University of New Orleans and a Master’s of Divinity degree from the New Orleans Baptist Seminary Pastor Ward was recognized by President Clinton with a plaque for Dedicated Community Service in 1999 and invited to the White House in 2001 to join 50 pastors from across the nation to strategize on affective ways to reach the community and other issues. “As Nell and I celebrate our 21st anniversary as Pastor and First Lady of the greatest church in the universe, we must first give honor to God who guides and leads us each day,” said Pastor Ward. “God is a God of order that has always ordered our steps as He provides us with the vision for this great church. We pray that the light of God will continue to shine through us as we continue to uplift His name and follow His directions.”
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Region 2 DeKalb Council sets panel on Opportunity School District The Region 2 DeKalb Council of the Georgia PTA is hosting a panel discussion concerning Gov. Nathan Deal’s proposed “Opportunity School District” legislation to overhaul schools in Georgia that have been labeled as “chronically failing.” The discussion will be held on March 12, 9 a.m. to noon, at Arabia Mountain High School, 6610 Browns Mill Road, in Lithonia. The Georgia PTA has said it does not support the Constitutional Amendment currently created by Senate Bill 133. The organization says the proposed legislation would remove local control of neighborhood schools and would expand government bureaucracy with an unproven and failing plan expanding.
Former AJC reporter named DA’s communications director Veteran journalist Marcus Garner was appointed Director of Communications for the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office. Garner replaces long-time Director of Communications Erik Burton who now works for the DeKalb CEO’s office and Assistant District Attorney Megan Matteucci, who served as Acting Director of Communications. Garner brings more than 20 years of experience in news, media and communications. Garner reported on breaking news, courts and crime for The Atlanta Journal-Constitution for more than eight years. After leaving the newspaper, he served in corporate communications roles with The Coca-Cola Company and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prior to joining the AJC, he served as a reporter and editor for the Syracuse Post-Standard in New York, the Peninsula Clarion in Alaska, and one of the Sun-Times Group’s suburban Chicago newspapers. Garner graduated from Clark Atlanta University and did graduate coursework at Syracuse University.
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MARCH 12,2016 • PAGE 9
Qualified Candidates for Elections 2016
Editor’s Note: Below are the DeKalb and Rockdale candidates who qualified as of Thursday, March 9. Qualifying ends on March 11 at noon. Updated information will be provided at www.ocgnews.com.
STATE SENATOR,DISTRICT 43 DEE DAWKINS-HAIGLER E-mail: dawkhaig7@aol.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: MINISTER/ CONSULTANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.deeforgeorgia. com TONEY L. COLLINS E-mail: collinsforsenate@yahoo. com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: ENGINEER/ HEALTH & WEALTH CONSULTANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 TONYA P. ANDERSON E-mail: electtonya@gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: CERTIFIED LIFE COACH AND PASTOR QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.tonyapanderson. com STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 84 RAHN MAYO E-mail: rahnmayo@gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: BUSINESS CONSULTANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: rahnmayo.com
RENITTA SHANNON E-mail: renittashannon@gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: MEDICAL SALES REP QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.renittashannon. com STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 85 KARLA DRENNER E-mail: dren16999@aol.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.karladrenner.org STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 86 JOSCELYN ONEIL E-mail: oneiloooo4@comcast.net PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: RETIRED QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: gahousedistrict86.com MICHELE HENSON E-mail: michelehenson@earthlink. net PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: BUSINESSWOMAN QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: http://www. repmichelehenson86.com STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 87 EARNEST “COACH” WILLIAMS E-mail: teacherpost89@yahoo.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: RETIRED TEACHER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016
IVY GREEN E-mail: electivygreen@outlook.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: BUSINESS WOMAN QUALIFIED DATE: 03/10/2016 STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 88 BILLY MITCHELL E-mail: billy@billymitchell.org PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: BUSINESS MAN QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.billymitchell.org STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 90 PAM STEPHENSON E-mail: pamelann@bellsouth.net PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: ATTORNEY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/10/2016 STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 91 VERNON JONES E-mail: housedistrict91@gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: CONSULTANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/09/2016 STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 92 DOREEN CARTER E-mail: doreen@doreencarter.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: ACCOUNTANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.doreencarter.com STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 93 DARSHUN KENDRICK E-mail: dkendrick@ kendrickforgeorgia.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: SECURITIES ATTORNEY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www. kendrickforgeorgia.com STATE REPRESENTATIVE, DISTRICT 94 KAREN BENNETT E-mail: kb51701@aol.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: SMALL BUSINESS OWNER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: karenbennettcares.org DeKalb County CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (CEO) CONNIE STOKES E-mail: connie@conniestokes.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: REAL ESTATE BROKER / CONSULTANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.conniestokes.com
com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: ATTORNEY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/10/2016 WEBSITE: electmikethurmond.com BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 1 NANCY JESTER PARTY: REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: SELF EMPLOYED QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 4 LANCE LAWYER HAMMONDS E-mail: lhammonds4dekalbcommissioner@ gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: CHEMICAL SALES QUALIFIED DATE: 03/08/2016 WEBSITE: www. hammonds4dekalbcommissioner. com SHARON BARNES-SUTTON E-mail: sbsutton4dekalb@bellsouth. net PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: COMMISSIONER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 STEVE BRADSHAW E-mail: votestevebradshaw@yahoo. com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www. votestevebradshaw.com WILLIE J WILLIS E-mail: wwillis505@gmail.com PARTY: REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: TAX EXAMINER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/10/2016 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 5 MEREDA DAVIS JOHNSON PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: ATTORNEY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS DISTRICT 6 KATHIE GANNON PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: RETIRED SOCIAL WORKER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 CLERK OF SUPERIOR COURT DEBRA DEBERRY PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: CLERK OF COURT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016
JOE BEMBRY PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: AUTOMATIVE SERVICES QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016
PROBATE JUDGE JERYL DEBRA ROSH E-mail: jrrosh@dekalbcountyga.gov PHONE NUMBER: (770) 457-2828 PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: PROBATE JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016
MICHAEL “MIKE” THURMOND PO BOX 870789 STONE MOUNTAIN GA 30087 E-mail: dekalblikesmike@gmail.
SHERIFF GERALDINE CHAMPION PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO
OCCUPATION: RETIRED HOMICIDE DETECTIVE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016
HAROLD DENNIS E-mail: hdennisfordekalbsheriff@ gmail.com PARTY: REPUBLICAN INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: FORMER DEKALB RESERVE LIEUTENANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/10/2016 JEFFREY MANN E-mail: mann4sheriff@gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: SHERIFF QUALIFIED DATE: 03/08/2016 WEBSITE: votejeffmann.com KYLE KEITH JONES E-mail: votekylejones@gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: BUSINESS OWNER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/10/2016 WEBSITE: votekylejones.com MICHAEL WILLIAMS E-mail: michaelwilliams558@ gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: LAW ENFORCEMENT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/10/2016 WEBSITE: www. williams4sheriff2016.com TED GOLDEN E-mail: ted4sheriff@gmail.com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: RETIRED SPECIAL AGENT DEA QUALIFIED DATE: 03/10/2016 WEBSITE: www. tedgoldenforsheriff.com BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 1 STAN JESTER E-mail: stanjester@gmail.com PHONE NUMBER: (770) 455-1546 PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: IT CONSULTANT QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: stanjester.com BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 3 MICHAEL ERWIN E-mail: michael.erwin6@gmail.com PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: ASSISTANT PROFESSOR BIOLOGY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/08/2016 BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 5 VICKIE B. TURNER E-mail: vickie_turner@ dekalbschools.org PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: electvickiebturner.com BOARD OF EDUCATION DISTRICT 7 JOYCE “DR. JOYCE” MORLEY PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: PRESIDENT CEO OF MORLEY & ASSOCIATES INC. QUALIFIED DATE: 03/08/2016
JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED MIKE JACOBS) MIKE JACOBS E-mail: georgiamike@comcast.net PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.judgejacobs.com
JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED WAYNE M. PURDOM) WAYNE M. PURDOM E-mail: wpurdom@gmail.com PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED DAX E. LOPEZ) DAX LOPEZ PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: STATE COURT JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 RODERICK BRIDGES PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: ATTORNEY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/08/2016 WEBSITE: yourjudgebridges.com JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED STACEY HYDRICK) STACEY K HYDRICK PO BOX 158 DECATUR GA 30031 E-mail: staceyhydrick@mac.com PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED JANIS C. GORDON) JANIS GORDON PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: STATE COURT JUDGE DIV 7 QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 SOLICITOR DONNA COLEMAN-STRIBLING E-mail: donna@donnafordekalb. com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: ATTORNEY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/08/2016 WEBSITE: www.donnafordekalb. com NICOLE MARCHAND GOLDEN E-mail: nicoleforsolicitor@gmail. com PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: ATTORNEY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/09/2016 WEBSITE: nicoleforsolicitor.com ASSOCIATE JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED SHONDEANA C. MORRIS) SHONDEANA C. MORRIS E-mail: shondeanamorris@gmail. com PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: www.judgemorris.com ASSOCIATE JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED KIESHA R. STOREY) KIESHA R. STOREY E-mail: judgestorey2016@gmail. com PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES
OCCUPATION: JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 ASSOCIATE JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED RONALD B. RAMSEY, SR.) RONALD B RAMSEY SR E-mail: judgeramsey@att.net PHONE NUMBER: (404) 285-5262 PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 ASSOCIATE JUDGE OF STATE COURT (TO SUCCEED BRIAN ROSS) BRIAN K. ROSS E-mail: briankeithross@gmail.com PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 WEBSITE: judgebrianross.com CHIEF MAGISTRATE BERRYL A ANDERSON PARTY: DEMOCRATIC INCUMBENT: YES OCCUPATION: JUDGE QUALIFIED DATE: 03/07/2016 TAX COMMISSIONER TO FULFILL UNEXPIRED TERM OF CLAUDIA LAWSON, RETIRED IRVIN J. JOHNSON PO BOX 63 AVONDALE ESTATES GA 30002 E-mail: irvinj42@gmail.com PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: TAX COMMISSIONER QUALIFIED DATE: 03/08/2016 WEBSITE: irvinfordekalb.com SUSANNAH SCOTT E-mail: susannah@scottfordekalb. com PARTY: NON PARTISAN INCUMBENT: NO OCCUPATION: ATTORNEY QUALIFIED DATE: 03/09/2016 WEBSITE: scottfordekalb.com Rockdale County CHAIRMAN CHAIRMAN RICHARD ODEN OZ NESBITT R J Hadley ROCKDALE COMMISSIONER, POST 1 FRANKLIN BEAUFORT THUA BARLEY PHYLLIS HATCHER JOHN MCDONALD, JR. MAGISTRATE JUDGE PHINIA ATEN TAX COMMISSIONER TISA SMART WASHINGTON SHERIFF SHERIFF ERIC LEVETT DONALD FERGUSON PROBATE JUDGE CHARLES MAYS CLARENCE CUTHPERT, JR. TOLBERT MORRIS CLERK OF COURT JANICE MORRIS RUTH WILSON
PAGE 10•MARCH 12,2016
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OP-ED Voicing Your Opinion
Republican law makers must stop trying to control DeKalb
Warren F. Mosby
By Warren F. Mosby CEO May and Commissioners Johnson, Watson, Barnes-Sutton and Johnson: It is time to stop the rhetoric and demand that Georgia’s Legislature respect the majority of the people who live in DeKalb County, GA. It is evident that Republican-led members of the Georgia Legislature are content on violating the Georgia Constitution and their own rules when it concerns the governance of the people of DeKalb County. They have repeatedly broken the very laws they are sworn to uphold for the purpose of segregation of the people of this great County and the implementation of purely partisan political objectives to advance the Republican party in a majority Democratic political subdivision of the State. With the United States Supreme Courts effective suspension of Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act, the Republican-controlled Legislature of our State has declared war on the rights of the State’s minorities and allowed the majority to hurt and harm the minority citizens whose rights are now in jeopardy – unless those actions are duly challenged. The State’s Republican-led Legislature’s racial gerrymandering of DeKalb County is exactly what Justice
Ruth Bader Ginsburg stated that she feared would come of this crippling of the protections envisioned in the Voting Rights Act of 1965 by the Supreme Court. DeKalb County has become ground zero for this attack by one of the most outspoken local segregationists of our time, Senator Fran Millar. It is time for the DeKalb County Governing Authority acting through Board of Commissioners in solidarity with its Executive Officer - the only entity that we have that has the resources and standing to bring an action against the Legislature and fight the illegal activities and injustices that the people of DeKalb County are being forced to bear at this time - to stand up and use its resources to bring these issues to light in the only proper forum who can hold the State of Georgia accountable to its own laws, the Georgia Supreme Court. It is past time that the people of DeKalb get relief from the institutionalized discrimination, racism and prejudice being perpetuated under the Gold Dome throughout the majority of this Century against the majority of the population of DeKalb. We must end the Legislature’s penchant for allowing a minority of the citizens to dramatically impact the taxation of the majority without the majority’s consent (the formation of the micro-cities of Dunwoody, Brookhaven, Tucker and possibly Stonecrest and Glenhaven). We must end the ability of the minority to change any aspect of the form of Government without the consent of the people (a violation of the State’s Constitutional protection of the people’s rights to govern themselves in a political subdivision or Home Rule). And finally, we must deny the rights of the Speaker of the House of Representative and the Leader of the
Dream Team, continued from page 6
School girls’ basketball program and head coach Kathleen Richey-Walton for their exceptional efforts in earning this week’s Atlanta Dream Girls’ High School Basketball Team of the Week Award. The award was inspired by Lakeview High School (Ohio) 2016 team captain and senior Addison Becker. Becker contacted the Dream about her concern for the lack of coverage and recognition she perceived regarding the accomplishments of female high school athletic programs in her area, as well as nationally. The passion Becker displayed in wanting to be a part of creating awareness and fostering change was unquestioned, so the franchise has decided to name the Atlanta Dream’s Girls’ High School Basketball Team of the Week Award as the “Addie,” to recognize her commitment in bringing more attention to the dedication, talent and accomplishments of female athletes. “I am writing because something has come to my attention that I feel can no longer be simply ignored,” Becker wrote. “I play basketball for myself and for the love of the game. However I have noticed that less girls are picking up a basketball in our community. I feel this is due to the lack of attention, recognition and most importantly the support they receive. Female athletes are just as dedicated as their male counterparts and I feel it is time young people brought attention to this matter. I want to change this
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Senate (currently the Lt. Governor) to eliminate Home Rule through some arbitrary assessment of the political realities of a piece of legislation (Rules currently in force that allow local political minorities like Senator Fran Millar and Representative Tom Taylor (R-79) to control the affairs of a political subdivision that is primarily composed of members of the opposite party). I am therefore respectfully asking you, the African American members of the Governing Authority of DeKalb County, Georgia, to unite together on behalf of the over 350,000 African American residents of DeKalb County that represent 55% of the DeKalb’s population, and bring suit against the State of Georgia to protect the people of DeKalb County against the illegal actions of the State in denying their rights to Constitutionally mandated self-governance. In relief, we should request that we have the right to bring to a vote by all of the people of DeKalb County the continuation of the Cities of Dunwoody, Brookhaven, Tucker and any other municipality formed without the consent of all of the people of DeKalb County whose taxation was or could have been impacted by the formation of a municipality that was formed sometime during this Century (after the year 2000 – the Legislature currently has the right to dissolve an incorporation which, in this instance, should be denied them and given directly to the people since the Legislature did not do their sworn duty and protect the people of DeKalb County from the illegal formations of municipalities). In relief we should also request that the Legislature be specifically barred from enacting rules that violate the State Constitution and that both bodies of the Legislature be barred from implementing Rules
that are partisan in nature in any way. In relief we should also ask that any legislation that violates the Constitutional protection of Home Rule be suspended or overturn by operation of Law without recourse (including Senator Millar’s Senate Bill 378). Other charges and reliefs might be appropriate and I defer to DeKalb’s leadership and Legal Counsel to determine the exhaustive list of charges and reliefs needed by DeKalb’s Citizens. I am also requesting that the County’s District Attorney look into this matter to assess the possibility of criminal charges related to the activities of elected officials like Senator Millar who have masterminded these illegal actions of the State against the people of DeKalb County and conspired to illegally deny the people of their rights (dereliction of duty, violation of oath of office, fraud, conspiracy to defraud) and theft of personal property (illegal seizure of property via tax schemes including HOST manipulation). Thank you for your service to your constituents. Remember that they do not and will not have a voice if you refuse to act on their behalf. Your continuing inaction would be a grave dereliction of your sworn duties as their public servants, however, I believe better for all of you who I have known personally over the years. Your action, regardless of the final outcome, certifies your calling and election to this precious and significant position over the affairs of God’s people – the citizens of DeKalb County and the State of Georgia. Warren F. Mosby, DeKalb County resident
Lee May, continued from page 1
to include a soccer headquarters but the deal fell through. “For a minute, we thought that we would be doing this in partnership with a professional soccer team,” said May. “The increased geo-technical requirements for that project resulted not in the loss of a soccer team, but instead, netted the forward motion of transforming this area into the beginning of a new day for the very way we do business in DeKalb County government. Now, since I announced the concept of a new “Downtown DeKalb” we have made significant progress toward the possibility of a real public-private partnership that would bring real, meaningful revitalization to the Memorial Drive corridor.”
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