Aug. 30, 2019

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VOLUME 25 NUMBER 22

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Diane Adoma ignores judge’s ruling, vows to keep her City Council seat

By Valerie J. Morgan STONECREST, GA—Former City Councilwoman Diane Adoma lost Round 1 in her challenge to Georgia’s Constitution, but remained undeterred, saying she would not vacate the seat, despite a judge’s ruling Diane Adoma against her on Aug. 26.

DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Mark Anthony Scott denied Adoma’s request for an emergency injunction to keep her seat while she seeks the office of mayor. Judge Scott stated in his ruling that Adoma’s seat was vacated when she qualified to run for Mayor of the City of Stonecrest as mandated in Article II, Section II, Paragraph V of the Georgia Constitution.

Ignoring Judge Scott’s ruling, Adoma drove from the courthouse in Decatur to Stonecrest City Hall. She went into the closed-door executive session with the City Council, and then seated herself on the dais at the council’s 7 p.m. meeting.

Adoma took Councilman George Turner’s seat because her chair and placard had been removed from the dais. Turner had to find another chair for himself. Adoma then proceeded to raise her hand to vote on city business and at one point, tried to second a motion. The council members ignored her presence. Adoma left the meeting at 8:08 p.m., and the council ended the meeting around 9:40 p.m. without her.

City Attorney Winston Denmark said the city filed a restraining order against Adoma after she used her key on Aug. 26 to enter a City Hall office, where she met with a Channel 46 news reporter. Most of the city’s directors were at lunch or away at meetings when she arrived. Adoma had been instructed to turn in her keys and other city property immediately after qualifying on Aug. 23, but she had refused.

A hearing on the restraining order before Judge Clarence Seelinger was scheduled on Aug. 31 at 9:30 a.m. City officials said they were requesting that Adoma not be permitted in any areas where the public is not allowed at City Hall. If the judge signs the order and she violates it, she could be charged with aggravated stalking, a felony, officials said.

“We cannot have anarchy in the city,” Attorney Denmark said. “It’s one thing if you want to challenge the Constitution, but we have to respect the rule of law. What you do is take it to the Gold Dome and talk with state legislators and maybe you can get the law changed. What you don’t do is disagree with the law and say ‘We are going to go rogue.’”

The day after using her key to gain entry into a City Hall office and sitting on the

SEE ADOMA page 7

Canton Jones leads the crowd in praise at Voices of Faith’s campus in Conyers on Aug. 24. Photos by Mackenzie N. Morgan/OCG News

Kingdom Stand Up presents stellar lineup for gospel concert

By Mackenzie N. Morgan

K

ingdom Stand Up promoter Daynier Brown says he’s praising God for allowing his vision to come to fruition on Aug. 24 in Conyers for a gospel concert that featured a stellar lineup of artists including Jekalyn Carr, Koryn Hawthorne, Bizzle, Canton Jones, Tasan, Mr. Gallimore, Kelontae Gavin and Papa San.

Kingdom Stand Up promoter Daynier Brown and wife, Candice Brown.

SEE CONCERT page 7

Johnny Isakson to resign U.S. Senate seat at the end of 2019 Leaders throughout Georgia say they will miss Isakson’s leadership

Republican U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson says he plans to resign from office on Dec. 31 due to failing health. Once Isakson vacates the seat, Gov. Brian Kemp plans to make a temporary appointment until a special election is held in November 2020. The Georgia senator has three years unexpired on his term.

The 74-year-old, who has Parkinson’s disease, said in a statement that he is dealing with mounting health issues, and must step down. “…I am leaving a job I love because my health challenges are taking their toll on me, my family and my staff. My Parkinson’s has been progressing, and I am continuing physical therapy to recover from a fall in July. In addition, this week I had surgery to remove

U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson

a growth on my kidney,” Isakson said in a statement issued on Aug. 28.

“In my 40 years in elected office, I have always put my constituents and my state of Georgia first. With the mounting health

challenges I am facing, I have concluded that I will not be able to do the job over the long term in the manner the citizens of Georgia deserve. It goes against every fiber of my being to leave in the middle of my Senate term, but I know it’s the right thing to do on behalf of my state.

“I look forward to returning to Washington on September 9 when the Senate goes back into session.

And after December 31, I look forward to continuing to help the people of Georgia in any way I can and also helping those who are working toward a cure for Parkinson’s.”

Isakson was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2013. In July, Isakson fell and suffered four fractured ribs and a torn rotator cuff. Isakson underwent surgery in

SEE RESIGNS page 7

PAGE 2 • AUGUST 30, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

Qualifying set for Stonecrest’s District 5 City Council seat The Stonecrest City Council unanimously approved the qualifying period for the unexpired District 5 council seat at the Aug. 26 City Council meeting Qualifying for the District 5 seat, formerly held by Diana Adoma, will be held on Sept. 3-5, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., at City Hall, 3120 Stonecrest Blvd. Adoma is running against Mayor Jason Lary(incumbent) and challenger Charles S. Hill, Jr. The qualifying fee for the District 5 council seat is $450 and must be paid at the time of filing the paperwork.

Voters will decide who will fill the seat in the Nov. 5 special election, when all municipal elections will be held in DeKalb County. Advanced and absentee voting begins Oct. 15.

For more information, contact Elections Supervisor Megan Reid: 770224-0200.

Anyone with information should contact Crime Stoppers of Greater Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS.

DCE to host Stonecrest mayoral candidates’ forum The DeKalb Cultural Exchange will host the Stonecrest Mayoral Candidates’ forum on Saturday, Sept. 14, 9 a.m., at The Travelers Rest Baptist Church/House of Hope, 4650 Flat Shoals Parkway, Decatur. Stonecrest Councilman Rob Turner and his wife, Dekalb County School Board member Vickie B. Turner, will host the meeting.

The candidates will share their strategic plans, vision and direction for the City. Stakeholders should come prepared to engage the candidates in a robust discussion.

Citizens set town hall to discuss Evans Mill Road cell tower removal Citizens for a Healthy and Safe Environment, Atlanta for the Planet and Stonecrest Citizens Coalition will have a town hall to discuss the dangers of cell towers placed in residential areas.

The town hall is set for Sept. 14, 2 to 5 p.m., at the Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road, Stonecrest.

The groups will be discussing the cell tower recently erected on Evans Mill Road and are calling for its removal.

“We believe it was placed illegally at 3610 Evans Mill Road, Stonecrest, and are calling for its removal,” the groups stated in a news release.

The community is encouraged to attend the meeting. For more information, call 770-559-9669.

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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 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 (678) 526-1910 www.ocgnews.com

AUGUST 30, 2019 • PAGE 3

City of Stonecrest approves purchase of former golf course for future police precinct, rec center

By Valerie J. Morgan The city of Stonecrest is in the process of buying a 66.25-acre tract located at the end of Fairington Parkway for its future Stonecrest police precinct and recreation center.

Officials said the site is a former golf course where homes were planned but never took root.

The City Council unanimously approved the purchase of the tract in a 5-0 vote on Aug. 26. The city plans to use special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) dollars for the $352,000 purchase, said Mayor Jason Lary.

“This will be the second planned police precinct in the city of Stonecrest.

We’re going to take the opportunity to combine it with a recreation center so that we can service that area properly,” said Lary, adding that the city will unveil more detailed plans soon.

Communications Director Adrion Bell said the Fairington Parkway property was purchased from Howard Joffe dba Joffe 67 LLC through an auction by John Dixon & Associates, Inc. Robert Scott of T. Dallas Smith & Associates, who handles real estate matters on behalf of the city, and the mayor negotiated the bid. The city put down $35,200—10 percent of the purchase price—and expects to close on the property on Sept. 20.

Bell said that about 15 percent of

Stonecrest’s SPLOST dollars is slated for public safety facilities and parks and recreation, and this Fairington Parkway project is in line with the city plans to improve services for its 54,000 citizens.

The city of Stonecrest expects to receive about $48 million of the $388 million DeKalb County for the six-year SPLOST program. DeKalb County voters adopted and approved the SPLOST, to be shared by all 12 cities in the county, in a November 2017 referendum and began funding projects in 2018. The revenues may be used for infrastructure improvements including transportation projects, libraries, senior centers, health centers, public safety and recreation facilities.

Chris Wheeler, the city’s Planning and Zoning Director, said a survey

shows that more than 50 acres of the 66-acre tract is buildable. The rest, he said, is in a flood plain. Wheeler said a plat of the property shows the water and sewer easement is on 52.92 acres, which means that the city won’t have to run water and sewer lines on the majority of the property.

“We will only have to run electrical and fiber optics, if desired,” said Wheeler, who said some trees on the land could be sold as timber, if the city chose to do so, or preserved as greenspace.

Mayor Lary said the city plans to appoint an advisory committee to help develop and provide direction for the new police precinct and recreation center.

“Public safety is the No. 1 development for our city,” said Lary.

DeKalb Sheriff’s Office, GPTC launch welding pilot program for inmates

Nine DeKalb County Jail inmates are training to become welders through a pilot program launched by the Sheriff’s Office, WorkSource DeKalb, Georgia Piedmont Technical College (GPTC) and the Technical College System of Georgia (TCSG).

Seven males and two female inmates are participating in the welding program, which is being held at GPTC’s Decatur campus.

The inmates began classes on Aug. 19 and will complete the program in two semesters—roughly eight (L-R) GPTC President Tavarez Holston; Theresa Ausmonths. They will be certified as Director of WorkSource DeKalb; and, welders and receive assistance from tin-Gibbons, DeKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann announced program partners in helping them a partnership that helps DeKalb Jail inmates earn to find jobs when they are released college-level certification as welders so they can find employment after release. Photo provided by from jail.

DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office.

DeKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann announced the program inmate to participate in the welding at a news conference on Aug. 28, program is $3,288, which includes saying he hopes to reduce criminal enrollment, books/materials, and recidivism in DeKalb by facilitatgraduation upon completion of the ing career paths for inmates upon program. While inmate students release.

“Apparently, the welding indus- are in custody, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office covers their basic try is experiencing a serious shortliving costs (food, clothing, shelter) age of trained, certified welders,” as well as transportation to and from Mann said. “Some 400,000 jobs as class, class supplies, and study aids. career professionals at up to $35 Georgia Piedmont Technical Colper hour are available nationwide lege has waived the application and for men and women who meet the enrollment fees for participants in requirements.” this program.

The program was presented to WorkSource DeKalb is providinmates who have been ordered to ing funding to cover tuition costs serve sentences up to 24 months through the Individual Training at the DeKalb County Jail. Those Account (ITA) Agreement with the who were interested received oricollege, along with the costs related entation to the program and a series to training and equipment within of individual interviews by the jail WIOA regulations. program coordinator.

Mann said he welcomes the proThe approximate costs for each

gram. Obtaining adequate income through meaningful, long-term employment is one of the major hurdles ex-offenders face when returning to society.

“The correlation between criminal behavior and low or no education or employable skills is dismal and well documented,” said Mann. “…It can be a determining factor in a decision to re-offend.”

Mann said the agency partnership is necessary to eliminate other roadblocks such as the lack of support services and the stigma of having been incarcerated.

“We are committed to seeing every citizen trained and equipped for our workforce, regardless of where they happen to be in life,”

said GPTC President Tavarez Holston. “It is our desire to see our graduates improve their quality of life by obtaining gainful employment. This is how we move our economy forward. We are excited to partner with the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office in this effort.”

The GPTC welding curriculum includes classroom instruction as well as practical training in safety, the use of equipment, and specific job-related skills. The program is offered to “sentenced inmates” at the jail--those sentenced by a judge to serve up to 24 months in the county jail, rather than in a state prison. Participants are transported to and from the campus in secure sheriff’s office vehicles by

SEE SHERIFF page 7 CITY OF STONECREST BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17TH 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-19-003 Chupp Marshall GA LP c/o Todd M. Peaster 6457 Chupp Road M (Light Industrial) District To reduce the driveway throat length, width and radius per Section 14-202.3 of the Stonecrest Zoning Ordinance.

PAGE 4 • AUGUST 30, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

DeKalb County School District seeks public input on proposed changes to E-SPLOST budget The DeKalb County School District (DCSD) will wrap up its series of public input meetings in September on proposed options to address changes in the E-SPLOST budget due to construction costs increases.

District officials presented the proposed options to the Board of Education on July 8.

A key part of the proposed options is a potential referendum to approve a general obligation (“GO”) bond issue to complete the current E-SPLOST program and to complete additional projects to address urgent facility needs. The bond would range between $222 million and $265 million, officials said.

The district held public meetings at Clarkston, Chamblee and Miller Grove high schools in August. The final meetings will be held at: • Columbia High School, Sept. 4, 7 p.m.

• Lakeside High School, Sept. 10, 7 p.m.

To learn more about the proposed options, visit www.dekalbschoolsga. org/e-splost .

More information on the proposed GO bond and a public input survey can be found at www.dekalbschoolsga.org/e-splost/e-splost-and-gobond-2019. The survey opened July 22 and will close Sept. 15.

‘Community Walk & Talk’ series set with Commissioner Gannon DeKalb County Commissioner Kathie Gannon is announcing her Autumn “Walk & Talk” series, which will feature five different walks, exploring various Super District 6 parks and PATH trails.

The informal community “walks” begin Thursday, Sept. 19, 10 a.m., along the 2-mile South Peachtree Creek PATH trail from Mason Mill Park towards Medlock Park.

Other dates include: • Friday, Sept. 27, 10 a.m., cart path@Sugar Creek Golf Kathie Gannon and Tennis Club • Tuesday, Oct. 8, 6 p.m., South Fork Trail @Zonolite Park • Tuesday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m., Brookside Park • Thursday, Nov. 7, 10 a.m., Frazier Row Park The walks highlight DeKalb County’s partnership with the PATH Foundation, Friends of Parks and private conservatory groups to preserve open space and create cohesive connections between neighborhoods.

Dress for the weather and bring plenty of water.

Visit Commissionerkathiegannon.com for additional venue specifics and any changes in dates and times.

Get the scoop on garden trends DeKalb County Cooperative Extension will host a "Garden Trends” class on Sept. 12, 6:45 to 8:30 p.m., at the DeKalb County Extension Office Auditorium, located at 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur.

Attendees will learn what’s hot and on trend in home and public gardens.

The class is $10 per person. To register, contact the DeKalb County Cooperative Extension Office at 404-298-4080.

DeKalb History Center to present Chip Davidson, descendant of world’s largest granite producers Chip Davidson, III, a descendant of the family who was once considered the largest producer of granite in the world, Davidson Granite Enterprises.

The enterprise first began operations around 1895 and owned Arabia Mountain for most of the twentieth century.

By the 1960s, Davidson Granite Enterprises was a top Photo provided the DeKalb History Center. producer of granite in the world. Granite from Lithonia quarries are present today in well-known buildings and structures in places such as New York and Washington, D.C. In the 1970s, the Davidson family decided to donate 500+ acres of Arabia Mountain and some of its surrounding land to DeKalb County as a nature preserve. Now named the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve, the park has since expanded to over 2,000 acres and is enjoyed by many as a place for hiking, biking, and enjoying the unique landscape of the monadnock.

The Lunch & Learn will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 17, noon to 1 p.m., at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse, 101 E. Court Square (second floor), Decatur. Admission is free. Bring your lunch.

Pride of Conyers Masons, Rockdale County partner to host men’s health fair On Saturday, Sept. 14, the Pride of Conyers #578 Masons and Rockdale County will host a men’s health fair, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Piedmont Rockdale Hospital (classrooms 1,2, and 3), 1412 Milstead Ave. NE, Conyers.

The fair will feature health screenings, veteran services, a chiropractor, massages, a healthy cooking demonstration, healthy shopping, athletic activities and more. The event is free but RSVPs are appreciated for planning purposes.

To RSVP, visit https://menshealthfair2019.eventbrite.com or for more information, call the Rockdale County Board of Commissioners Office at 770-278-7001.

CITY OF STONECREST PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: WEDNESDAY, SEP 4TH 2019 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, SEP 23TH 2019 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 The following petition(s)/amendment(s) within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above.

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

Untitled-1 1

SLUP-19-003 Lisa. Foster & Belinda Brunson 66764 Hill Creek Cove R-100 (Med Lot District) Applicant is requesting a Special Land Use permit for operation of personal care home up three people.

8/15/19 3:06 PM

CALL FOR SPECIAL ELECTION AND NOTICE OF QUALIFYING FEES AND DATES FOR NOVEMBER 5, 2019 SPECIAL ELECTION Notice is hereby given to the citizens of Stonecrest, Georgia that the Special Municipal Election will be held November 5, 2019, between the hours of 7:00AM and 7:00PM for election of District 5 council member.

The qualifying fees for Council Districts 5 are set at $450. The fees are 3% of the total gross salary of the preceding year (Georgia Election Code 21-2-131 (a) (1) (A). Qualifying for the November 5, 2019 Special Municipal Election will be held at the Stonecrest City Hall, 3120 Stonecrest Boulevard, Stonecrest, GA 30038 on Tuesday, September 3, 2019, Wednesday, September 4, 2019, and Thursday, September 5, 2019. The hours of qualifying shall be between the hours of 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. (Georgia Election Code 21-2-132 (d)(3). Each candidate shall file a notice of candidacy in the office of the City Clerk of Stonecrest and must meet the qualifications of the Charter and Code of the City of Stonecrest, as well as all applicable state and constitutional laws.

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AUGUST 30, 2019 • PAGE 5

Homegoing set for legendary Redan Baseball Coach Marvin Pruitt

By Mark Brock DCSD Athletics Specialists

F

ormer Redan Raider state championship coach Marvin Pruitt passed away on Aug. 23 after a hard-fought battle against several medical ailments. He was 66.

Pruitt was DeKalb County’s winningest baseball coach in history at 447-252-3 in stops at Lakeside, Stephenson, Southwest DeKalb and Redan high schools. A stint job as a coach in Rockdale County in the late 80’s helped add up to a career record of 510-333-6.

Remembered for his quiet strength and big, broad smile, Pruitt coached like he expected his players to play.

Pruitt coached the Raiders to 13 playoff appearances in 14 seasons including the 2013 Class 4A state championship and two Final Four appearances in 2003 and 2010.

Pruitt joined the Lakeside baseball staff in 1978 as an assistant junior varsity coach and coached under Mike Trapani from 19801982 before taking over as head coach in 1983.

“One of the things I remember most about Coach Pruitt was that he was the kindest gentleman in the coaching profession I ever met,” said Trapani. “He was the most positive coach and inspired the kids. He was just the kind of person you wanted your son to play for expecting hard work and discipline.

He was also a great teacher in the

Coordinator Chris Chilton played for and worked with Pruitt for 37 years since his days as a junior varsity player at Lakeside in DeKalb.

“I could talk about Marvin forever,” said Goodwin. “He was a legendary coach, but an even better man. Everyone you talk to about him always said what a great person he was.”

Goodwin was a “One of the things I remember most baseball foe and friend for over 30 years and about Coach Pruitt was that he was he along with Pruitt, Dennis, Dion the kindest gentleman in the coaching Steve Williams and Ron Elgin started the DeKalb profession I ever met.”

Dugout Club, which still honors DeKalb players - Mike Trapani and coaches for their accomplishments each season.

Marvin Pruitt “The thing I remember most Pruitt had 13 20-win seasons Oct. 3, 1952 – Aug. 23, 2019 about Coach Pruitt was his smile,” during his career in DeKalb, 11 of said Chilton. “I remember the first them being at Redan. His 500th classroom.”

Former Avondale and Lakeside time I saw him I was walking up the career victory came on April 1, 2014 stairs at school and he was coming as his Raiders defeated Banneker head baseball coach Bill Newsome down with that big ol’ smile on 14-0 on the way to a 22-win season was part of Pruitt’s first team and his face. He coached me in junior and playoff appearance in Pruitt’s remembers his mentor fondly. varsity for two years and three years final season in the dugout.

“Coach was an ambassador for afterwards.”

The celebration of life services DeKalb baseball; even though he Former Columbia head baseball for Marvin Pruitt will be Saturday, was a quiet person everyone listened coach Steve Dennis said Pruitt’s Aug. 31, 11 a.m., at The Covenant when he talked and respected what passing will leave a big hole in the Church, 1700 Corey Blvd., Decatur. he had to say,” said Newsome. “I coaching community.

Bishop Quincy L. Carswell, senior remember that first playoff win “Coach Pruitt was my mentor pastor, is officiating the service. against North Cobb so well. We lost and I enjoyed getting to coach Visitation is Friday, Aug. 30, 10 the first game and Coach Pruitt got against him over the years,” said a.m. to 8 p.m., at the Gregory us back to Lakeside and made us B. Levett & Sons South DeKalb take batting practice in the dark. We Dennis. “He was a competitor Chapel, 4347 Flat Shoals Parkway, run-ruled North Cobb in the second and always got the best out of his players no matter where he was Decatur. game and then won 3-2 in the third coaching.”

Coach Pruitt will be laid to rest game by throwing out the tying run Pruitt took over the Redan at Hillandale Memorial Gardens, at the plate in the bottom of the last baseball program in 2001 from Greg 6201 Hillandale Drive, Lithonia. inning.”

Goodwin who would later become DeKalb County Schools his principal at Redan.

Athletics Specialist and Baseball

PAGE 6 •AUGUST 30, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

FAITH & SPIRIT CALENDAR senior pastor at St. John’s.

All pets, big or small, are welcome. For safety, please have your pet on a leash or in a carrier.

In view of the unconditional love of Christ, St. John's seeks to be a diverse and compassionate congregation that embodies God's love in Atlanta and in the world. We are located at the intersection of Ponce de Leon and Oakdale Road. For more information, please visit www. stjohnsatlanta.org.

On Sunday, Sept. 8, 10 a.m., the anniversary worship service will be held at Southwest DeKalb High School’s auditorium, 2863 Kelley Chapel Road, Decatur.

The church will host VIPs from all over the state—that’s everyone, including you. Pastor Kerwin B. Lee of Berean Christian Church is the guest preacher.

Transforming Faith Church is a new ministry founded by former DeKalb County Commissioner and Interim CEO Lee May and Life Coach Robin May. For more information: www.TransformingFaithChurch.com.

St. John’s Lutheran Church will offer a Pet Blessing Service on Sunday, Sept. 29, at 10:30 a.m. PHOTO CREDIT: Greg Williams

heart of great leadership and how to nurture a culture of engagement.

Mark Miller, vice president of High Performance Leadership at Chick-fil-A, will discuss how to develop employees and volunteers who really care about their work, each other, and the organizations they serve. Miller is a best-selling author with over 1 million books in print.

His most recent book, “Win the Heart,” was released in March 2019.

Childcare is available for children ages 12 and under at no cost and will open at 9 a.. Registration is required. For more information, visit victoryatl.com.

Annual Feed My Neighbor Walk/Run/Bike set

Pet Blessings Faith Church St. John’s to celebrate pets Transforming turns 2 years old Sept. 29 St. John’s Lutheran Church, 1410 Ponce de Leon Ave. N.E., Atlanta, will offer a Pet Blessing Service to the public on Sunday, Sept. 29, at 10:30 a.m.

“In this service, the life of all God’s creatures is celebrated. Bring your beloved pet to church with you as we honor our animal companions and the joys they share with us!” says the Rev. Nancy Christensen,

On Sept. 7-8, Transforming Faith Church (TFC) and Pastor Lee Maywill celebrate 2 years as a church.

He is inviting the community to come celebrate together.

On Sept. 7, from 11 a.m. – 3 p.m., the church will host a free Community Fun Day at Rainbow Elementary School, 2801 Kelley Chapel Road, Decatur. Come out for bounce houses, game truck, music, food and games.

Chick-fil-A Vice President to speak at free leadership conference Connect with other leaders at this fall’s Lead Well conference on Saturday, Sept. 14, 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., at Victory World Church, 5905 Brook Hollow Pkwy, Norcross. The free workshop will offer attendees an opportunity to explore what is at the

Join the fight against hunger on Saturday, Sept. 28, 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., at First Saint Paul AME Church, 2687 Klondike Road, Lithonia.

Registration is $15 in advance for adults ($10 for senior citizens) and $20 on the day of the event.

Participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item. For more information, call 770-484-9660.

The event is sponsored by the First Saint Paul Women’s Missionary Society. Proceeds will benefit Eldoris S. Williams Food Panty and donations are tax deductible.

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STONE MOUNTAIN CAMPUS SUNDAY @ 8AM & 11:30AM WEDNESDAY @ 7:30PM 2500 ROCKBRIDGE RD SW STONE MOUNTAIN, GA 30087 770-498-5850

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7:30AM: WORSHIP SERVICE 9:30AM: SUNDAY SCHOOL 11:00AM: WORSHIP SERVICE 1877 IRIS DRIVE, SE, CONYERS GA 30013 PHONE: 770.929.1111

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Antioch-Lithonia Baptist Church

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

ROCKDALE CAMPUS SUNDAY @ 9:30 WEDNESDAY @ 6PM 1290 SIGMAN RD CONYERS, GA 30012 678-374-5040

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Featuring The United in Psalms Worship Choral”.

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Worship Sundays 10AM Thursdays 7PM

James C. Ward, Pastor First Lady Idell Clark Ward Sunday morning Services 7:30AM & 10:30AM Bible Study Wednesday 12 Noon & 7:00PM

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AUGUST 30, 2019 • PAGE 7

CONCERT continued from page 1

“Even though it rained, people were willing to stand up and participate in worship. As we praised God, the Holy Spirit moved among all in attendance,” said Brown.

The outdoor concert took place at Voices of Faith Ministries’ Conyers campus and featured gospel artists from a range of genres including gospel R&B, Rap/Hip Hop, reggae and soul. Local gospel artist and Voices of Faith’s praise and worship leader Princess Rouche-Cox kicked off the preshow with an energetic performance heating up the stage for the star-studded event.

“The responses received were heartfelt and very encouraging, as we moved through dealing with various challenges on the day of the event. Even long after the event had ended, we were still receiving comments from people indicating just how much they felt the power of God impressing upon their heart to worship. We are excited for what God has done and what obedience to his will has made possible,” said Brown. “We are excited about next year’s event and have already begun preplanning for the new lineup.”

ADOMA continued from page 1 dais at the council meeting, Adoma continued her defiance. She handed over her City Hall keys to Communications Director Adrion Bell at radio station WAOK, where she and Bell, along with Elections Superintendent Megan Reid interviewed with talk show host Rashad Richey but made it clear she would not step down. Adoma sent the following email at 2:14 p.m. on Aug. 27 “I have not vacated my seat. However, I will be returning the city computer and phone,” Adoma said in the e-mail to Bell, Reid and interim City Manager Julian Jackson.

Bell said Adoma finally returned the property on Aug. 30 via UPS around 11:15 a.m.

Adoma posted online that she plans to hold a press conference to explain “the ambiguity and unfairness of the law.”

DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Mark Anthony Scott wrote in the order in “Diane Adoma vs. City of Stonecrest, Megan Reid, Clerk”:

RESIGNS continued from page 1 August at WellStar Kennestone Hospital in Marietta to remove a carcinoma growth from one of his kidneys.

Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp said Isakson would be sorely missed: “No one embodies the heart and soul of Georgia more than Johnny Isakson," said Kemp. "Our state and country have been immeasurably blessed by his leadership in the Georgia General Assembly, U.S. House, and U.S. Senate. Senator Isakson’s list of accomplishments on behalf of the state that he loves is long and revered, but what Georgia should be most thankful for is the high standard that Johnny held as a true gentleman, a fighter for his constituents, a trusted advocate for our nation’s veterans, and one of the greatest statesmen to ever answer the call of service to our country. Marty and I are forever grateful for the friendship that Johnny and Dianne have shown us over the years and wish them the very best in the years to come. I will appoint Senator Isakson’s replacement at the appropriate time.”

"Senator Isakson is a lifelong family friend, and we are deeply grateful for his dedicated service to our state and nation, including alongside my father in the Georgia General Assembly," said First Lady Kemp. "Georgia is incredibly blessed to have had Johnny on our side for all these years. Our family is praying for Johnny and Dianne as they embark on this new journey."

Isakson, who won re-election with 54 percent of the vote in 2016, became the first Republican in Georgia to be elected to a third term in the U.S. Senate. He served in the Georgia House and Senate in addition to the U.S. Senate.

Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) praised Isakson for a distinguished political career.

“The loss of Johnny Isakson from public life will leave a void in Georgia which is beyond comprehension,” Ralston said. “While I respect his reasons, I feel a tremendous sense of personal sadness – Johnny is a mentor, role model and friend. Over a distinguished career in the Georgia House, Georgia State Senate, State Board of Education, U.S. House and U.S. Senate, Johnny Isakson demonstrated that civility and reasonableness are virtues that will never go out of style. My family and I will continue to pray for Johnny, Dianne and the Isakson family.”

Congressman Hank Johnson, who represents Georgia’s Fourth District, described Isakson as a man of principle and said Georgia will lose a consummate public servant when he leaves office.

"I am saddened to hear that Sen. Johnny Isakson is stepping away from his seat in the United States Senate. Despite our disagreements on the important issues of today, I have always respected Sen. Isakson for his work ethic on behalf of Georgia, and for he and his staff's willingness to meet with any constituent, regardless of political leaning and regardless of the issue.

His doors have always been wide open to all Georgians, and his constituent services operation and his legislative shop have been very effective. I extend my warmest regards to Sen. Isakson, his family and his staff as he transitions to private life.”

“On August 23, 2019, the Plaintiff was the 5th district council member of the city of Stonecrest, Georgia. She became qualified to run for the City of Stonecrest Mayoral position on August 23, 2019, and was informed by the City Clerk that her city council position was now considered vacated. The City Clerk requested all city property to be immediately returned that day.

The Plaintiff requests this court to Superior Court Judge Mark prohibit any action barring the Plaintiff Anthony Scott from representing her constituents that may be unconstitutional and to grant injunctive relief for 30-60 days since the defendants’ actions are non-reversible and will cause irreparable harm to her. The Plaintiff also requests this court to issue an injunction to permit her to represent her constituents at a council meeting on Monday, Aug. 26, 2019.

Upon consideration of the Plaintiff’s Complaint for Emergency Injunction, the court finds that Article II, Section II, Paragraph V of the Georgia Constitution mandates that the office of any municipal elected official shall be declared vacant upon such elected official qualifying for another municipal elective office. In this case, Ms. Adoma’s position as 5th district council member of the City of Stonecrest was vacated when she qualified to run for Mayor of the city of Stonecrest.

The court hereby DENIES the Plaintiff’s Complaint for Emergency Injunction.

SHERIFF continued from page 3 armed deputies under the same guidelines and procedures in use for our daily transport of inmates to and from DeKalb County courts. Care has been taken to avoid interaction or contact by the inmates with other students or personnel at the college, unless they are authorized program staff.

“Although this initial class is a pilot, we can change outcomes,” said Mann. “We are committed to facilitating opportunities well into the future for qualified sentenced inmates at our jail. This initiative is an on-ramp for DeKalb County ex-offenders to a road that can lead to an improved quality of life. Having that advantage, we expect they will choose not to return to past behaviors, and that decision can begin to eliminate instances of recidivism in our community.”

ON COMMON GROUND NEWS MARKETPLACE LAWN CARE

PUBLIC NOTICE Mayor and Council Members needed in the City of Lithonia

The city of Lithonia is looking for qualified candidates for the position of Mayor and Council positions. The general election will be held on November 5, 2019. Each candidate will file notice of his/her candidacy and the appropriate affidavit in the office of the City Clerk, Lithonia City Hall, 6920 Main Street, Lithonia, GA 30058.

Qualifying for candidates will begin on Tuesday, August 20, 2019 and end on Thursday, August 22, 2019 between the hours of 9:30 am and 4:30 pm. (office closed for lunch between the hours of 1:30 – 2:30 pm).

The qualifying fee is $234.00 for the position of Mayor and $122.40 for the position of Council Member. The City of Lithonia deserves the best.

City Hall Contact Information: Phone: 770-482-8136

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