OCGN March 22, 2019

FREE VOLUME 24 NUMBER 51

MARCH 22, 2019

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Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary halts gas station, pushes to build a community park

Left to Right: Councilman George Turner and Mayor Jason Lary make big announcement at Straight Talk town hall meeting on March 18. Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

By Valerie J. Morgan

Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary has stopped the construction of a gas station and convenience store planned at the corner of Evans Mill and Salem roads.

Lary said the city is planning instead to buy the property and build a community park at the site, pending City Council approval.

Lary’s promise follows protests by residents who have said at public meetings that they don’t want a gas station and convenience store in the middle of a residential area, even though the property was zoned commercial years ago when the area was rural.

The mayor and Stonecrest City

SEE PARK page 10

Cochran-Johnson + Greater Hidden Hills to launch massive litter cleanup in DeKalb

By Valerie J. Morgan

D

eKalb County’s Super District 7 Commissioner Lorraine CochranJohnson is partnering with the Greater Hidden Hills Community Development Corporation to launch a super litter clean-up campaign in DeKalb. Cochran-Johnson says the initiative will culminate with a county-wide community cleanup day on Saturday, June 1. The effort is part of her larger mission to help make DeKalb a more attractive to residents, businesses and tourists.

“Across DeKalb County there is an abundance of litter along our roadsides,” Cochran-Johnson said. “This litter affects not only the aesthetics of our communities, but reflects the lack of pride far too many DeKalb residents exhibit.

The ‘Your Community, Your Litter Campaign’ is designed to encourage pride in our communities through education and community collaboration. It is time to clean up DeKalb!”

The Greater Hidden Hills Community Development Corporation, which is spearheading the campaign supported by Cochran-Johnson, is seeking to produce a massive presence along roadsides and in high-traffic areas within the four corners of the Hidden Hills Overlay District.

SEE CLEANUP page 10

Left to Right: Lorraine Cochran-Johnson stands with Jan Costello, Nadine Rivers-Johnson, Herbert Love, and Phyllis Frierson, who are all board members of the Greater Hidden Hills Community Development Corp. Photo provided.

DeKalb County completes first 10 Miles of SPLOST paving

T

Harold Hardee stands next to a SPLOST sign posted at Golfbrook and Fieldgreen Drives in Stone Mountain.

Golfbrook is among the first 10 miles of roads to be resurfaced under the SPLOST program. Photo provided.

he first 10 miles of the worst roads in DeKalb have been resurfaced through the special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) program. An additional 22 miles of resurfacing is currently under construction throughout the county, and 100 miles will be completed by the end of September.

“Potholes don’t discriminate, and we have roads that need to be addressed throughout the county,” said DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond. “We are proud to put our citizens’ pennies to work to improve the quality of life throughout the county.”

In September 2018, the county kicked off the first round of SPLOST repaving projects by initiating the paving of 25 miles of roads utilizing Georgia Department of Transportation Local Maintenance and lmprovement Grants and matching SPLOST funding.

That same month, the Board of Commissioners approved a second phase of paving encompassing 75 miles with $34 million of SPLOST funding.

“Before the SPLOST and DeKalb got together, Golfbrook Drive was in disrepair,” said Harold

Hardee, Hidden Hills subdivision resident. “We had potholes in the road and the street looked terrible.

But we are so grateful and excited to get our road repaved. DeKalb County and the SPLOST program did a great job.”

Contracts were awarded to Pittman Construction and C.W. Matthews Contracting Company Inc. These first two projects account for approximately a third of the 300 miles where contractor crews resurface county streets using SPLOST monies.

Road resurfacing construction is reliant on fair weather; crews must pause work during cold and rainy conditions. Construction starts with road milling and leveling, followed by deep patching, final asphalt topping and temporary traffic striping.

Crews return to add permanent traffic striping and complete any follow-up items.

DeKalb County will receive an estimated $388 million in SPLOST revenue over the next six years to improve county roads, infrastructure, libraries, parks and public safety.

PAGE 2 • MARCH 22, 2019

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Serial rapist receives three life sentences

Serial rapist Dominic Lawton will serve three life sentences for sexual assaults on three women, DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston has announced.

Jurors returned guilty verdict against the 33-yearold Ocilla man on charges of rape, kidnapping, false imprisonment, aggravated assault, aggravated sodomy, and weapons offenses in connection with sexual assaults against three women in DeKalb County dating Dominic Lawton, 33, of back to 2016.

Ocilla received three life On Sept. 14, 2016, DeKalb County Police sentences plus 10 years responded to DeKalb Medical Center in reference to for multiples rapes in DeKalb County a report of a kidnapping and rape. The 18-year-old female victim told authorities she had scheduled a date with the defendant at a Snapfinger Park Drive motel after posting an ad on an adult website. When Lawton arrived at the motel, he ordered the victim into his truck after flashing a gun. Lawton drove to Exchange Park on Columbia Drive in Decatur and then ordered the victim to perform sex acts while being held at gunpoint. Lawton then drove the teen back to the motel before leaving the area. The victim reported the crime to a relative, who took her to the hospital.

A little less than a month later, detectives were once again called to DeKalb Medical Center in response to a kidnapping and rape report. The 21-year-old victim had also arranged a date with the defendant after posting an ad on an adult website. When Lawton arrived to pick up the woman in downtown Decatur, the defendant claimed he needed to stop at an ATM before heading to his apartment. Lawton instead detoured to Mason Mill Park on McConnell Drive in Decatur, held the victim at gunpoint, and ordered her to undress and perform sex acts. Following the attack, Lawton drove the victim back to Decatur, where she immediately summoned a police officer for help.

Three days later, while on patrol in Exchange Park, police officers spotted the defendant’s parked pick-up truck. As they approached the vehicle, they noticed the defendant scrambling to put his shirt on and then attempting to drive away before being ordered to stop. A 17-year-old, partially dressed victim, exited the defendant’s truck and ran toward the patrol car and reported being sexually assaulted by the defendant. The victim said she met Lawton one weekend at the mall and he later called

SEE RAPIST page 10

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PUBLISHER Glenn L. Morgan

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EDITOR Valerie J. 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

MARCH 22, 2019 • PAGE 3

DeKalb to host Procurement Summit March 28

In celebration of National Procurement Month, DeKalb County is set to host its third annual Business Opportunity Reverse Trade Show and Procurement Summit.

The free event is from 9 a.m. to noon on Thursday, March 28, at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center, 3181 Rainbow Drive, Decatur.

The DeKalb County Purchasing and Contracting Department encourages current and prospective vendors and the general public to take advantage of this opportunity to learn how to do business with the county.

Participants will have the chance to market their services directly to department representatives and talk with procurement staff. Mini-workshops will detail how to

prepare to bid on contracts and how to be a responsible contractor in fulfilling them. Light continental breakfast and refreshments will be served.

Additionally, participants will have access to information on DeKalb’s special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) and potential business opportunities.

Unincorporated DeKalb is expected to generate $388 million for SPLOST-funded capital improvement projects over six years.

For more information or to RSVP, visit 3rdannualtradeshow.eventbrite.com or dekalbcountyga.gov. Additional information is available by calling the DeKalb County Purchasing and Contracting Department at 404-371-7051.

DeKalb magistrate court announces relocation, expansion of wedding services Due to growing demand, Chief Magistrate Judge Berryl A. Anderson announces the relocation and expansion of marriage services in the Magistrate Court of DeKalb County.

Beginning April 2, magistrates will be available to conduct wedding ceremonies at a new location, the DeKalb County Magistrate Court Criminal Division Building, 3630 Camp Circle, Decatur, GA 30032, on the following schedule: Mondays Tuesdays-Fridays Saturdays and Sundays

No weddings performed 4 – 7 p.m.

1 – 4 p.m.

“In addition to having a larger space for couples, their family and Chief Magistrate Judge Berryl Anderson friends, relocating wedding services will allow judges to perform ceremonies on Saturdays and Sundays,” said Chief Magistrate Judge Berryl A. Anderson. “This change will increase our ability to accommodate the influx of requests that we are receiving. Ceremonies are performed on a first come, first served basis and are always free of charge.”

No weddings ceremonies will be held on DeKalb County observed holidays.

For more information, visit www.dekalbcountymagistratecourt.com or call 404-2942150.

WorkSource DeKalb sets Dislocated Worker Information Sessions WorkSource DeKalb (WSD) and Georgia Piedmont Technical College have partnered to host Dislocated Worker Information Sessions for DeKalb County individuals who have been laid off.

The sessions will take place 10 a.m. to noon at Georgia Piedmont Technical College’s Conference Center, 495 North Indian Creek Drive, Clarkston on the following Wednesdays: • April 10 • May 29 • June 12 • June 26

During the sessions, residents can learn about training programs, funding assistance, and other services that are available to help individuals get back to work. Through successful completion of WIOA training programs, individuals have opportunities to enhance their skills and become more marketable in the workplace.

The sessions are open to DeKalb residents who have been laid off or an individual who has been laid off by a DeKalb County employer. The dislocated worker program can also assist transitional military members and/or their spouse with training. Interested candidates may view the information session schedule and register at: http://bit.ly/ DislocatedWorker

CITY OF STONECREST BID REFERENCE NO. 2019-009

The City of Stonecrest is seeking a qualified Contractor/ Vendor to provide Park and Facilities Maintenance Services to the City. The successful respondent will enter into a contract with the City of Stonecrest for the provision of services related to Landscaping, Sports Field Maintenance, Trail and Trailhead maintenance, and Janitorial services.

Complete scope and other relevant information for RPF 2019009, Parks & Recreation Landscaping, Maintenance, and Janitorial Services is available for download on the City of Stonecrest website at http://stonecrestga.gov to send request via email to procurement@stonecrestga.gov.

CEO Michael Thurmond

DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond to deliver two State of the County addresses DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond will give his outlook for 2019 during two State of the County addresses in April.

Business leaders and other community partners are invited to a State of the County address to be delivered during a ticketed luncheon on Thursday, April 25, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Crowne Plaza Atlanta Perimeter at Ravinia, 4355 Ashford Dunwoody Rd., Atlanta.

The business luncheon is hosted by the Council for Quality Growth and DeKalb Chamber of Commerce.

Tickets are $65 for Chamber members and $85 for nonmembers. Registration is required.

To register for the luncheon, visit www. councilforqualitygrowth.org.

CEO Thurmond also will deliver a State of the County Address during a community breakfast on Saturday, April 27, at 10 a.m., at Greenforest Community Baptist Church, 3188 Rainbow Dr., Decatur.

This event is free and open to the public.

For more information about the State of the County events, contact Nichole Simms at jnsimms@dekalbcountyga. gov or 404-371-2552.

PAGE 4 • MARCH 22, 2019

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Fundraiser set to aid DeKalb Misdemeanor Mental Health Court The DeKalb Criminal Justice Treatment Coalition, Inc. will host its second annual “Full Court Press Basketball Fundraiser” on April 27-28 at Decatur Active Living, 231 Sycamore St., Decatur.

The coalition, which is the advisory council to the DeKalb Misdemeanor Mental Health Court (MMHC), helps to provide funding to assist MMHC participants with transportation, medication/treatment, clothing and hygiene items, housing, utilities, education and food.

S. Derek Johnson-Cage, the coalition’s board chair, said the event is the nonprofit’s most critical fundraiser of the year, helping the mentally ill who are incarcerated for misdemeanors have a better quality of life.

Said Johnson-Cage: “Every week, hundreds of men, women, and young adults with diagnosed and undiagnosed mental illnesses are incarcerated in DeKalb County on various misdemeanor criminal charges, History shows, however, that the jails offer little more than housing for the mentally ill before their cases are resolved and their lives returned to the same hopeless place they were before their arrests.”

Sixteen teams of law-enforcement, first responders and judicial agencies in and around DeKalb County will be competing in the charity event in support of MMHC participants.

The two-day event will include a “Sponsor Free

Throw Contest,” “Chiefs Challenge,” mental health providers to answer questions and provide resource information as well as concessions. There also will be special guest appearances throughout the event.

Game days are Saturday, April 27, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Sunday, April 28, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (playoffs and championship).

Tickets are $5 for adults; $3 for children 4-12; and free admission for children ages 3 and under. For more information, visit dekalbcountyfullcourtpress.com.

Board of Health event to offer free testing on Diabetes Alert Day As part of American Diabetes Alert Day, the DeKalb County Board of Health is hosting a Diabetes Alert Day event on Tuesday, March 26, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the T.O. Vinson Health Center, 440 Winn Way in Decatur. The event is free and open

to the public.

Activities will include a panel discussion, healthy snacks and testing to measure blood sugar.

Individuals with pre-diabetes can learn about and enroll in the Prevent T2 program to avoid developing type

2 diabetes.

“Everyone should be aware of their risk for pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes,” said DeKalb County District Health Director S. Elizabeth Ford, M.D. “Diabetes Alert Day is a wake-up call about diabetes and

SEE DIABETES page 10 CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, MARCH 25 2019 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 Mayor and Council will hold a public hearing on the Revised 2038 Comprehensive Plan. Changes have been made to the originally approved plan document.

CITY OF STONECREST, PLANNING COMMISSION CALLED MEETING: TUESDAY, APRIL 9TH 2018 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 The following CALLED MEETING located within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearing as stated above. The consultant will be presenting the Draft 2038 Comprensive Plan for review of the Planning Commission.

CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, APRIL 22ND 2019 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 The following meeting located within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearing as stated above. The consultant will be presenting the Draft 2038 Comprensive Plan for review of the Planning Commission.

Rockdale Board of Assessors extends hours for Homestead Exemption filing Rockdale County Board of Assessors, 981 Milstead Ave., Conyers, is offering extended hours on Saturday, March 30, 8 a.m. – noon, Chairman Will Barkley announced the extended hours at the Boa. “With the deadline swiftly approaching, we want to ensure every effort to give taxpayers the opportunity to file for their Homestead Exemption,” Chairman Will Barkley said at today’s board meeting.

The deadline for filing for Homestead Exemption is April 1. To be eligible for Homestead Exemption, you must own and reside in the property as your primary residence prior to Jan. 1 of the tax year. Upon filing, you must have a Georgia driver’s license or Georgia ID with the property address you are applying for the exemption.

Proof of residency includes water, gas or electric bills, car registration and/ or voter’s registration prior to Jan. 1 of the taxable year.

For more information, contact the Board of Assessors office at 770-278-7676.

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MARCH 22, 2019 • PAGE 5

Councilman Rob Turner: ‘Future looks bright’ for filming in Stonecrest

City of Stonecrest cites cell tower property owners with code violations The city has issued a Notice of Violation to property owners where the new cell tower was erected off of Evans Mill Road.

The conditions of the property are in violation of the International Property Maintenance Code, according to Dakarta Richardson, a city code enforcement officer.

Richardson cited the property owners for several dilapidated structures on the property, unmaintained grass and weeds and an uncovered pool. The notice is similar to a warning that gives the property owner 45 days to comply with the city’s codes or face fines of up to $1,000 per day for each violation.

“We are still investigating and seeking legal advice on the existence of the cell tower; however, in the meantime, we are going to enforce the city’s ordinances and demand compliance,” Mayor Jason Lary said.

The cell tower has been a topic of conversation at recent council meetings with Evans Mill area residents demanding its removal.

“As soon as our legal team completes their research and investigations, we will inform the public of their findings. It is totally in their hands. We will follow the law just as we are demanding of the cell tower property owner,” Lary said.

Councilman Rob Turner, who heads the city’s film advisory commission, was the keynote speaker at the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce’s March 20 luncheon.

Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News.

C Left to right: The Rev. Jasper Williams, Jr. receives a proclamation from the city of Stonecrest from Mayor Jason Lary.

Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary recognizes local pastor’s effort to change Black America Mayor Jason Lary attended an African American Churches Transforming Society (AACTS) conference on March 13 at Salem Bible Church and presented a proclamation to the Rev. Jasper Williams, Jr., pastor emeritus and conference host.

AACTS was founded by Williams in 2014 after the Michael Brown shooting in Ferguson, Missouri. The organization was founded to address the breakdown in the African American family, according to Williams, who told conference attendees, mostly clergy, that he intends to provide socio-economic and spiritual support to revive black families and restore their position in society.

Williams referred to research indicating that more black men have been killed by other black men than by the KKK. “It begins at home and we as the church must begin to effect change. I am calling all African American churches and community leaders to join forces and help turn our community around,” Williams said.

Lary presented Williams with a proclamation that honored AACTS and recognized March 13, 2019 as African American Churches Transforming Society Day in Stonecrest.

ouncilman Rob Turner said the new city of Stonecrest is now poised to attract the film industry, creating economic development opportunities, jobs and tourism.

Turner, who heads the city’s film advisory commission, said the city developed its strategic plan in 2018 and is now implementing some of the goals. He said the city plans to host job fairs for those interested in the film industry, educational workshops and networking mixers, including a mixer Councilman Rob Turner that is scheduled March 29.

The mixer, which will feature industry professionals, will be held 6:30 to 9 p.m. at AEI Startup Factory, 7310 Stonecrest Concourse, outside The Mall At Stonecrest. Turner said he will be welcoming attendees, along with city staff members and the mayor.

“We have an opportunity to be strong and viable in this area,” Turner told members and guests attending the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce’s March 20 luncheon.

Turner said the city has developed an online database of locations where films could be produced in the city and is continually adding to the database. He said having a variety of filming locations is a plus and he is seeking to add to that database.

Turner said the city also is developing a Stonecrest Film Academy, which is expected to be rolled out soon. The Academy will offer industry professionals to provide advice on getting into the industry and other information.

Turner said the city has forged partnerships with the DeKalb Film and Entertainment Commission, DeKalb Work Source, the Georgia Film Academy and is building partnerships with others including DeKalb County public schools and plans to provide opportunities for students who are interested in the film industry.

“We are just getting started but the future looks bright for the city of Stonecrest,” said Turner.

PAGE 6 • MARCH 22, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

DeKalb seeks hosting sites for summer food program DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs is seeking sites to participate in the Summer Food Service Program June 3 to July 19. The Summer Food Service Program is a U.S. Department of Agriculture-funded program that partners with agencies to ensure that low-income children continue to receive nutritious meals when school is not in session.

To qualify as a site, 50 percent of children served must meet the income guidelines for free- and reduced-price meals in the National School Lunch Program. Children who are members of households that receive food stamp benefits or Aid for Dependent Children (AFDC) assistance automatically qualify.

Applications and full program site participation requirements can be found at www.dekalbcountyga.gov/ parks under Summer Food Application or picked up Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Mason Mill Recreation Center, 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur. The deadline for completed applications is Friday, May 17.

Agencies with summer camps that are interested in becoming a program site should call Rose Myrick at 678698-1114.

For more information, contact the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs at 404-371-2711.

If you’d like us to bring this presentation to your community, please contact us at proptax@dekalbcountyga.gov

Irvin J. Johnson

DeKalb Parks Citizens Advisory Board to meet March 26 The DeKalb Parks Citizen Advisory Board Committee meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 26, 6 p.m. at the DeKalb County Fire Rescue Headquarters, 1950 West Exchange Place, Tucker.

The meeting will take place on the first floor in room 111.

Rockdale Board of Commissioners’ Meetings Zoning Public Hearing: Tuesday, March 26, 9 a.m., Assembly Hall, 901 Main Street, Conyers Voting Session: Tuesday, March 26, 10 a.m., Assembly Hall , 901 Main Street, Conyers Spring Recess: Board of Commissioners meetings scheduled for Tuesday, April 2 and Tuesday, April 9are cancelled

Evening Work Session: Tuesday, April 16, 7 p.m., Shoal Creek Elementary School, 1300 McWilliams Road, Conyers Zoning Public Hearing: Tuesday, April 23, 9 a.m., Assembly Hall, 901 Main Street, Conyers Voting Session: Tuesday, April 23,10 a.m., Assembly Hall, 901 Main Street, Conyers

Springfield Baptist Church to award academic scholarships to high school students Springfield Baptist Church in Rockdale County is inviting interested high school graduates to apply for its 2019 academic scholarships.

Scholarships in the amount of $800 are available for students in Rockdale/Newton and surrounding counties. The deadline to apply is March 30.

The following criteria must be met: • Applicants must be accepted and enrolled as a full-time student at a two-year or four-year postsecondary institution.

• The student must have a current cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.

WELCOME TO HOMESTEADS 101

Tax Year Deadline for 2019 is April 1st.

TAXCOMMISSIONER

DeKalb County Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson Presents: Join us at 1 of 5 FREE presentations hosted throughout the County to learn how homeowners, senior citizens, veterans and disabled veterans can save money each year on their home and car taxes, and be qualified on the spot!

Visit our website to learn more!



Information will be provided on current park improvements and recreation projects.

For more information, contact Carol Underwood, administrative coordinator, at 404-3712927 or cjunderw@dekalbcountyga.gov.

Please bring the following to see if you qualify for an exemption:  Your valid driver’s license Your State & Federal income tax forms.

www.DeKalbTax.org

• The student must have demonstrated spiritual leadership qualities and have documented community service experience.

• The student must be recommended by a teacher or staff member at their current school of enrollment.

Link to apply: https://docs.google.com/ forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfU_v0bmN0YTeQrEja_ Q8S7JJ93KfKZrX2d-oMxkZeDHaMjIQ/ viewform For more information, call the church office at 770-929-1111.

CITY STONECREST CITY OFOF STONECREST PLANNINGPLANNING COMMISSION,COMMISSION, ND PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, APRIL AT 6:002P.M.2019 AT 6:00 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, APRIL 2ND 2019 STONECREST CITY3120 HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST CITY HALL, STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 LITHONIA, GA 30038 CITY STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, CITY OFOF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, ND 2019 AT 7:00 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, APRIL 22P.M. AT 7:00 PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, APRIL 22ND 2019 CITY STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD CITY OFOF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 STONECREST, GA 30038

The following petition(s)/amendment(s) within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above.

The following petition(s)/amendment(s) within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hear LAND USEUSE PETITION: LAND PETITION: LOCATION: LOCATION:

TMOD 19-0001 TMOD Stonecrest 19-0001 Overlay Revision Phase I Overlay Revision Phase I Stonecrest Stonecrest Overlay Stonecrest Overlay

PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Staff is recommending to the Overlay to allow Gas Station By right PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Staff modification is recommending modification to the Overlay to all with specific development standardsdevelopment in Tiers 1, 2, 4, and

by SLUP ininTiers 3 and1, 2, 4, and with specific standards Tiers and Minor Auto repair viaand Special Land Use Permit 5. Self-Storage facilities 5. Self-Storage facilities Minor Auto repair via Sp (SLUP) in Tiers (SLUP) 1 through 5.in Tiers 1 through 5.

LAND USEUSE PETITION: RZ-19-001 LAND PETITION: RZ-19-001 PETITIONER: Blue River Development, LLC c/o Battle Law, P.C. LLC c/o Battle Law, P.C. PETITIONER: Blue River Development, LOCATION: 3898-4001 Panola3898-4001 Road LOCATION: Panola Road CURRENT ZONING: R-100 (Residential Med Lot) District CURRENT ZONING: R-100 (Residential Med Lot) District PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Applicant is requesting to change on 53 acres R-100zoning on 53 acres from PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Applicant is zoning requesting to from change to R-75 for the development of 115 single family subdivison. to R-75 for the development of 115 single family subdivis

LAND USEUSE PETITION: RZ-19-002 LAND PETITION: RZ-19-002 PETITIONER: Stonecrest Capitial Partners LLCCapitial c/o Battle Law, P.C. LLC c/o Battle Law, P.C. PETITIONER: Stonecrest Partners LOCATION: 3606 Dogwood Pass LOCATION: 3606 Dogwood Pass CURRENT ZONING: Small Lot Residental District CURRENT ZONING: Small Lot Residental District PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Applicant is requesting to change zoning in Phase 4 of this existing 113 unit PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Applicant is requesting to change zoning in Phase 4 of thi Parks of Stonecrest subdivision project to from Small Residential Lot (RSM) to Parks of Stonecrest subdivision project to from Small Res Residential Small Lot (R-60) Residential Small Lot (R-60)

LAND USE PETITION: RZ 19-004 Flat Rock Modification LAND USE PETITION: RZ 19-004 Flat Rock Modification LOCATION: 5627 BROWNS MILL ROAD LOCATION: 5627 BROWNS MILL ROAD CURRENT ZONING: R-100 (Reisdenital Med Lot) District CURRENT ZONING: R-100 (Reisdenital Lot) PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Staff is recommending correcting the zoningMed on Phase 4 ofDistrict this existing PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Staff is recommending correcting the zoning on Phase 4 o subdivision project from Residential Med Lot to Neighborhood Conservation subdivision project from Residential Med Lot (RNC) to accurately reflect this conservation development that is clustering 110 to Neighbo (RNC) reflect this conservation developmen homes and providing more to openaccurately space. homes and providing more open space.

LAND USE PETITION: SLUP-19-001 LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: Dileane MatthewsSLUP-19-001 PETITIONER: LOCATION: 3317 Panola RoadDileane Matthews LOCATION: 3317 Road CURRENT ZONING: R-100 (Residential Med Panola Lot) District CURRENT ZONING: R-100to (Residential PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Applicant is requesting a special land use Med permit Lot) for the District operation of personal PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Applicant is requesting to a special land use permit for the care home for four to six people. care home for four to six people.

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MARCH 22, 2019 • PAGE 7

Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church celebrates 150 years

T

his year, the historic Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church is celebrating its 150-year anniversary with several events commemorating its milestone as one of DeKalb County’s oldest African American churches.

The church will kick off its celebration on Sunday, March 24 Pastor James C. Ward with two worship services. Pastor James C. Ward, Antioch-Lithonia’s pastor, will preach at the 7:30 a.m. worship service. Pastor Michael Taylor, Shiloh Baptist Church in Jonesboro, will preach at the 10:30 a.m. worship service.

Pastor Taylor, a native of Greenville, Mississippi, is the senior pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Jonesboro, the oldest African-African church in Clayton County.

Pastor Ward said he is looking forward to welcoming the community to join Antioch-Lithonia’s worship services and events that have been planned for the church’s historic anniversary.

Founded in 1869, Antioch-Lithonia not only has served as a faith institution but it also was the first branch of the DeKalb NAACP, Pastor Ward said.

“We have been around for so long because we have been relevant,” said Pastor Ward, adding that AntiochLithonia’s congregation is comprised of five generations and its worship services reflects that through a variety of music genres. “We welcome everyone to come out and worship and fellowship with us.”

Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church is located at 2125 Rock Chapel Road Lithonia. Worship services will be held on March 24 at 7:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.

Organizer Joyce Reid poses in front of the banner of sponsors.

The judges and winners of the Hat Parade show off their beautiful crowns. Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News

St. Paul AME Parade of Hats raises scholarships for 7th year Saint Paul AME Church in Lithonia hosted its 7th Annual Parade of Hats fashion show and luncheon on Saturday, March 6, in Lithonia. The fashion show, which brings together hat lovers, businesses and the public, serves as a scholarship fundraiser for high school graduates in the community.

This year, the event honored two DeKalb County students who will receive scholarships and care packages for school: Matthew Crawford, a senior at Arabia Mountain High School, and Samir Wadi, a senior at Miller Grove High School.

Joyce Reid, who has organized the event since its inception, said the festive event is a fun way to bring in the Spring and give back to the community.

“I thank all of the sponsors, vendors and

volunteers who helped to make the event possible,” Reid said.

This year, scholarships were awarded to Matthew Crawford, a senior at Arabia Mountain High School and Sami Wadi, a senior at Miller Grove High School.

Sponsors for the event include Chickfil-A, DeKalb County Tax Commissioner’s Office, General Mills, Toni’s Unlimited, On Common Grounds News, SE Pruitt Consulting, McDonald’s, Avon, Bojangles, Coldwell Banker, WellCare, Mary Kay, Moon’s Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC, Anointed Stones, Dignity Memorial, KES Inc., Nexclin Medicine and State Farm.

The Rev. Nathaniel Veal, Jr. is senior pastor of Saint Paul AME Worship Center.

The church is located at 1704 S. Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road, Lithonia.

PAGE 8 • MARCH 22, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

A captivated audience listened to guest speakers, enjoyed live entertainment and applauded as Rockdale’s native daughter and Pulitzer Prize recipient E.R. Shipp andKatrina McCollum Young, president of the Rockdale County School Board and Georgia School Boards Association, presented the Lifetime Achievement award toCleveland Stroud, who was the first African American elected official in Rockdale County. Photos provided.

Black Heritage of Rockdale inducts 12 trailblazers into inaugural Hall of Fame

By Mackenzie N. Morgan

T

he Black Heritage of Rockdale County organization hosted its symposium and inaugural induction into the Black Heritage of Rockdale Hall of Fame on March 16. More than 100 people turned out for the free community event, which was held at the J.P. Carr Community Center in Conyers.

Ten living trailblazers were inducted into the organization’s 2019 Hall of Fame class including Willie Otis Benton, Jr.; Mary Grace Flanigan; Robert Flanigan; Genoulia Lee; Augustus Lett, Sr.; Grover Simmons; and Dora Zachery.

Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievement honors were awarded to former president of Georgia Perimeter College, Dr. Jacquelyn Belcher; Ms. E. R. Shipp, the first African American female to be awarded the Pulitzer Prize in 1996 for her “penetrating columns on race, welfare and other social issues” during her tenure at the New York Daily News; and community activist Cleveland Stroud, who was the first African American elected official in Rockdale County.

Eighty-two deceased trailblazers were inducted into the 2019class for their work in making Rockdale a suitable place for blacks to live, learn and make a living. Program officials stated that the list of trailblazers is a work in progress and is based on oral histories as well as written documentation.

In addition to the awards ceremony, Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and Rockdale native E.R. Shipp moderated a symposium entitled “Embracing the History Around Us,” highlighting four notable black historic sites in Rockdale, Newton, DeKalb and Gwinnett counties.

Shipp was joined by Johnny Waites of the Flat Rock Archives in DeKalb, Nasir Muhammad, director of Dinah Watts Pace and the Reed House and Orphanage in Newton and Catherine Long, cultural resources manager of The Big House, a historic homestead known as the Promised Land in Gwinnett County.

The Black Heritage of Rockdale County is a voluntary association of individuals working to uncover, reclaim, restore, preserve and promote an appreciation of Rockdale County’s black heritage. Black Heritage of Rockdale County was established by E.R. Shipp, c and the Rev. Aldren Sadler, Sr. on June 5, 2017 as a Facebook group. To date, more than 500 people have joined the group.

More information can be found at Facebook.com/groups/ blackrockdale.

WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS

Orrin Hudson sets “Good Deeds Day” celebration Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson, noted mentor and anti-violence and peace activist, is inviting the community to celebrate “Good Deeds Day” on Thursday, April 11, 6 to 8:30 p.m., at the Stone Ridge Events Center, 1750 Stone Ridge Drive, Stone Mountain.

“There will be free food, free parking and I will be giving specific strategies to help students clearly understand there are consequences for every move they make in life,” said Hudson.

Hudson, recognized around the nation for his mentoring work in the community through Orrin Hudson his nonprofit, Be Someone, will use a giant chessboard to teach strategies on problem solving and success.

The chess champion, who was once an at-risk youngster following a path of personal hardship and heartache, says his training is "designed to provide constructive tools for life."

"The game of chess changed my life,” said Hudson. “I use it to change the lives of young people."

Hudson was dubbed the “pied piper of positivity” by CNN for coaching his students to a statewide chess championship and three citywide chess championships. His program has served 65,000 students since 2000. The former Air Force veteran and law enforcement officer has been awarded the George H.W. Bush Points Of Lights Award and the prestigious FBI Director’s Community Leader Award.

To attend Hudson’s upcoming free event, RSVP at orrin@ besomeone.org. For more information about the Be Someone organization, visit www.BeSomeone.org.

VA to hold on-site claims assistance at Scott Candler Library Staff from the Veterans’ Administration will be on site to assist with benefits and claims adjustments on Monday, March 25, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Scott Candler Library, 1917 Candler Road, Decatur.

Justice for Veterans is hosting the free event. For more information, call 678-698-8753.

Youths invited to register for Poetry Slam DeKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs is accepting registration for youths ages 10 to 18 who would like to perform in its fourth annual Poetry Slam. The event will be held Friday, April 19, 7 p.m., at Mason Mill Recreation Center, 1340 McConnell Drive, Decatur in celebration of National Poetry Month. The deadline to register is April 5.

The Poetry Slam will feature young poets and writers from DeKalb.

Admission is $5.

To access online registration, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks and click the “Register Now” button on the department’s homepage, or register in person at any DeKalb recreation center.

For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs public relations specialist, at 404-371-3643 or lsdavis@dekalbcountyga.gov.

Kites festival set at Wade Walker Park DeKalb County will host the first “Kites Over DeKalb Festival” on Sunday, April 14, noon to 4 p.m., at Wade Walker Park, 5605 Rockbridge Road, Stone Mountain.

The free family event is open for all ages and will feature music, bounce houses, kite-flying demonstrations, contests and food vendors.

Participants may bring their own kites or create one at the free kitemaking station while supplies last.

To access online registration, visit www.kitesoverdekalb.eventbrite. com.

For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, Parks public education specialist, at 404-371-3643 or lsdavis@dekalbcountyga.gov.

MARCH 22, 2019 • PAGE 9

Rockdale Chairman Oz Nesbitt to host annual “Lend A Ham”

R

ockdale County Chairman Oz Nesbitt, Sr. is hosting his annual “Lend A Ham” program just in time for Easter. The purpose of the program is to help senior citizens in need of assistance during the holiday.

Frozen ham donations are being accepted 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. seven days a week at Courtesy Dodge, 1890 Dogwood Drive in Conyers until April 14. The Oz Nesbitt hams will be distributed on April 14, 3 p.m., at the Olivia Haydel Senior Center, 1240 Dogwood Drive S.W., Conyers. The distributions are first-come, first-served.

For more information, contact Andrea Lee, executive assistant to the Chairman, at 770-278-7003 or andrea.lee@rockdalecountyga.gov.

Browns Mill Recreation Center to host health + wellness fair

D

eKalb County Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs' Browns Mill Recreation Center, in partnership with Zeta Sorority, Inc., Iota Eta Zeta Chapter and the DeKalb MLK Jr. cluster schools, will host a Health and Wellness Education Spring Fest Fair Saturday, March 30, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 5101 Browns Mill Road, Lithonia.

The Health and Wellness Education Spring Fest Fair will be a free event for the family to enjoy. Residents are encouraged to come out to experience live entertainment, food demonstrations and receive educational information from healthcare professionals.

For more information, contact the Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs at 404-371-2711.

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MARCH 22, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

PARK continued from page 1

CLEANUP continued from page 1 “We hope our efforts will inspire people to show respect for our homes, parks and businesses. We encourage all communities to join us, clean up our streets, and stop littering,” said Jan Costello, president of Greater Hidden Hills CDC. To build litter awareness and encourage community pride, the comprehensive efforts will include a video and jingle content where local students will develop original content supporting the “Your Community, Your Litter – Pick It Up” theme.

The winning students and teachers will receive Amazon gift cards, pizza parties and recognition for their efforts. More importantly, the videos and jingles will become the marketing engine behind the anti-litter campaign.

RAPIST continued from page 2 to take her to the movies on a date. After picking the teen up, the defendant said he needed to stop by an ATM for cash. Lawton instead drove her to the park and ordered her to undress and perform sex acts shortly before police arrived on patrol.

Lawton was arrested at the scene. Further investigation linked him to the other assaults and a similar one that occurred in June 2016 prior to those attacks. The victim in that case is now deceased.

After his arrest, Lawton’s DNA was placed in a criminal database.

It was later a positive match for a previously untested rape kit assigned to the Cold Case Sexual Assault Task Force, a coalition of metro area law enforcement and prosecution agencies, including the DeKalb DA’s Office, tasked with evaluating back-logged sexual assault kits under the National Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI) grant.

The cold case, now linked to Lawton, is pending prosecution in Tift County.

Lawton was sentenced to three consecutive life sentences, plus ten years in prison by DeKalb Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Tabitha Pazmino, assigned to the Sexual Exploitation and Crimes Against Children (SECAC) Unit, with assistance from Senior Assistant District Attorney Zina Pitts, assigned to the SAKI Task Force, along with DA Investigators Crispin Henry and Angie Marty.

Detective P.L. Lopez of the DeKalb Police Department led the initial investigation.

Dequann Mosley

Dequan Mosley charged in stabbing death The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office has arrested Dequan Mosley, 19, of Decatur, charging him with fatally stabling Brandon Watts.

An arrest warrant was issued on Feb. 20 charging Mosely with felony murder in connection with the death of Watts on May 29, 2018 at 901 Wesley Club Drive in Decatur.

According to the warrant, Watts was stabbed several times with a knife.

The DeKalb County Sheriff’s Fugitive Unit located Mosley at a residence in Lithonia, where he was arrested and transported to the DeKalb County Jail without incident.

DIABETES continued from page 4

Councilman George Turner, who represents District 4, which includes the property, announced plans for the park at the mayor’s “Straight Talk” town hall meeting, which was held at City Hall on March 18.

The crowd attending the meeting applauded after Lary unveiled plans for a park at the site.

“Solution: We’re going to buy this corner.

Period,” said Lary, adding that the purchase would be a win for residents and the new city.

Councilmember George Turner expressed excitement over the planned acquisition.

“I’m just elated that we are going to acquire this property,” Turner told the audience.

Lary said the City Council must approve moving forward with negotiations to buy the 8.8acre tract. He said he and Turner have spoken with the property owner, who is willing to sell the property to the city. The city is looking at spending about $325,000 for the property, the appraisal value, Lary said.

“Municipal rules prohibit us from going above the appraised value,” said Lary.

The mayor said funding from the city’s SPLOST (special purpose local option sales tax) would be used to pay for the park and road improvements.

Lary said in addition to the park, the city would install a traffic light or round about at the corner.

Lary said he expects the item to be placed on the March 25 City Council agenda for a vote by the City Council.

ROOM FOR RENT Newly Furnished in DeKalb County, $525 monthly. All utilities + Cable + W & D. On MARTA. 1 person room only. 404-401-9767.

AUCTION Two vehicles: 2007 Trail Blazer. Needs major work. Vehicle was in an accident.

Vin1GNDS13S972206552. Vehicle also has electrical shortage issues.

1995 Honda Accord V6: Needs lots of work.

Not running, needs engine, transmission. Both vehicles abandoned by owners. Auction: March 27, 2019. Vin1HGCE663SA035840. Ride Now Auto, 1581 Lester Road, Suite A3, Conyers, GA, 30012.

the importance of being tested. Early diagnosis can enable people to receive prompt treatment.”

Early diagnosis can help avoid complications including stroke, heart and kidney disease, blindness and amputation.

Health officials say one in three American adults has pre-diabetesand most of them don’t know it. The Georgia Department of Public Health reports that there were more than 1,700 hospitalizations and 174 deaths statewide due to diabetes complications in 2017.

According to the 2018 State of Obesity report, Georgia is projected to have over 1 million cases of diabetes by 2030.

The Board of Health’s Diabetes Alert Day partners include the Diabetes "You Can Win" Foundation, The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority, Live Healthy DeKalb Coalition and Ruby A. Neeson Diabetes Awareness Foundation.

For more information, call 404-508-7847 or email dekalb.ocdp@ dph.ga.gov.

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Weekend Warriors Athletic Training NCAA approved classes ACT/SAT Prep Final Semester Program for High School Seniors Information: Coach Johnson 770-652-7711

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MARCH 22, 2019 • PAGE 11

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PAGE 12 •

MARCH 22, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM

A Day of Remembrance The James C. Ward Classical Arts Chorale Presents:

A Memorial Concert Honoring The Ancestors Of Our Church Featuring:

Heather Sorenson Guest Conductor

Pastor James C. Ward Director of the Chorale

Ty Young Cellist

Dea. Rickey Dixson

Director of the Brass Sextet

Members of the Covington-Conyers Choral Guild

James C. Ward Classical Arts Chorale

Sis. Santhalyn Davis & Sis. Alta Tena Sutton Accompanists

The Inaugural Performance of “The Heritage Hymn”

Sunday, March 31, 2019 10:30AM Antioch-Lithonia Baptist Church

James C. Ward, Pastor

http://www.antiochlithonia.org

2152 Rock Chapel Lithonia, GA 30058 770-482-1277