FREE VOLUME 24 NUMBER 52
MARCH 29, 2019
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‘DAY OF REMEMBRANCE Antioch-Lithonia MBC celebrates 150 years of praise and worship By Mackenzie N. Morgan Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church, one of DeKalb County’s oldest African-American churches, is celebrating a landmark anniversary. The church kicked off its anniversary festivities on March 24 with two worship services, which were led by Antioch-Lithonia’s Pastor James C. Ward and Pastor Robert Taylor of Jonesboro’s Shiloh Baptist Church, the oldest African-American church in Clayton County. The church’s sesquicentennial worship service and concert on March 31 will celebrate a legacy of leadership, love and loyalty since the church was founded 150 years ago. The “Day of Remembrance” concert will feature guest conductor Heather Sorenson, along with other special guests including Cellist Ty Young of Dallas, Texas and the Covington/Conyers Choral Guild. Deacon Rickey Dixson’s brass ensemble will accompany the choirs. “This will be a great worship service because we will have one of the most gifted musicians, Heather Sorenson, in our midst. More im-
SEE CHURCH page 9
Pastor James C. Ward conducts the James C. Ward Classical Arts Chorale. Photo provided.
PAPA JOHN’S NEW FACE Shaquille O’Neal appointed to board of directors, pizza marketing ambassador
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Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary thanked Sean Ali and his family for agreeing to sell his property to the city for a park. Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/ocgnews.com
Stonecrest City Council gives green light to buy tract for community park By Valerie J. Morgan The city of Stonecrest is moving forward with its plans to purchase an 8.8-acre tract to build a community park at the corner of Evans Mill and Salem roads, after getting the nod from the City Council on March 25. In a 5-0 decision, Mayor Jason Lary and four City Council members approved spending up to $350,000 to buy the property, halting plans for a Mayor Jason Lary gas station and convenience store. City Councilwoman Jazzmin Cobble was absent from the meeting and did not vote. The council’s approval drew applause from the audience, a number of whom had staunchly opposed plans for the gas station and convenience store, saying they did not want that type of commercial development in the middle of a residential community. Lary, who had vowed to push for the city’s first real estate acquisition and turn the tract into a community park, thanked Sean Ali, the property owner, for his cooperation. Lary and Councilman George Turner, whose council District 4 includes the tract, met with Ali over a period of several days to discuss the possibility of the city buying the property. Ali pulled back on building the gas station after
SEE STONECREST page 8
BA Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal will join Papa John’s pizza as a member of its Board of Directors, the company has announced. O’Neal, a franchisee of nine Papa John’s restaurants in the Atlanta area, also will enter into a marketing agreement to be an ambassador for the Papa John’s brand, officials said in a news release. O’Neal’s new assignment follows an about face for the corporation, which suffered public backlash last year over an offensive comment Papa John’s founder John Schnatter made. According to Forbes magazine, Schnatter admitted he used the “N” word during a Shaquille O’Neal conference call with a marketing agency when he was apparently trying to convey his distaste for racism when he said: “Colonel Sanders called blacks “N” and never faced any public backlash at KFC.” Forbes said the call was part of Papa John’s media marketing training to avoid public disasters. Schnatter apologized for the comment and stepped down as chairman of the board. Since that time, Papa John’s has added six new board of directors, including O’Neal; Jeff Smith, CEO of Starboard Value, who has been named chairman of the board, and Steve Ritchie, president and CEO of Papa John’s. “We are thrilled to partner with Shaquille and welcome him to the Papa John’s Board,” said Chairman Smith. “Shaquille has an excellent entrepreneurial background, including as a restaurant franchise owner, and is a natural creative marketer. Shaquille has demonstrated great success through understanding the customer value proposition with product and brand differentiation. The Board and I are excited to work with Shaquille and look forward to the terrific possibilities to strengthen our position together.” O’Neal has significant experience helping to market and grow leading consumer brands across multiple categories. The four-time NBA champion and television sports analyst on Inside the NBA has established a track record as an investor, restaurateur and franchise owner. O’Neal currently owns a Krispy Kreme Doughnuts franchise in Atlanta and previously owned 27 Five Guys Burgers and Fries franchises. He is the founder and owner of Big Chicken, a fast casual fried chicken restaurant in Las Vegas, and Shaquille’s, a fine dining restaurant in Los Angeles. In the sports arena, O’Neal is a minority owner of the Sacramento Kings NBA
SEE FACE page 8
PAGE 2 • MARCH 29, 2019
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M. Morales-Hernandez
D. Hazel
K. Dubose
W. Berius
T. Davis
J. Turner
S. Wimberly
A. Galloway
D. Franklin
Conyers Police nab 9 in pandering sting operation Conyers Police arrested nine men in a pandering sting operation on March 22. The men who were charged ranged in age from 19 to 52. Police said those arrested used various online advertising sites and mobile applications to meet at motels. The police department’s Criminal Investigations Division, at the direction of Chief Gene Wilson, launched the sting operation to continue cracking down on such criminal activity. The department has conducted over 20 such operations since 2013 following two violent pandering incidents that occurred in early summer of that year. One “john” was robbed by two men after setting up a meeting with a prostitute using a popular advertising site. One month later, four men were arrested after kidnapping, raping, and robbing two women who had posted an ad for prostitution on an online advertising site. In the recent sting operation, nine men were charged with
pandering/disorderly conduct and one man faces additional charges of possession of marijuana and obstruction of a law enforcement officer because he attempted to flee the scene on foot before he was apprehended within a short distance. The following were arrested: • Karlos Demond Dubose, 19, Lithonia, Pandering • Marcos Rene Morales-Hernandez, 36, Conyers, Pandering • Treymane Davis, 33, McDonough, Pandering, Possession of marijuana •J ohnny R. Turner, 52, Decatur, Pandering • Wenshel Berius, 40, McDonough, Pandering • Demetrius Bernard Hazel, 34, Stone Mountain, Pandering • Demonte Sanchez Franklin, 23, Stone Mountain, Pandering, Possession of Marijuana and Obstruction • Antwuan M. Galloway, 32, Covington, Pandering • Sterling Thomas Wimberly, 52, Waynesboro, Pandering
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MARCH 29, 2019 • PAGE 3
Family of Shali Tilson files lawsuit against Rockdale Sheriff’s Office PUBLISHER Glenn L. Morgan
gmorgan1@ocgnews.com
EDITOR Valerie J. Morgan
editor@ocgnews.com
ADVERTISING MANAGER Richard S. Hill
richardhill@ocgnews.com
STAFF WRITER Mackenzie Morgan
mackenzie@ocgnews.com
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
The family of Shali Tilson is suing Rockdale County Sheriff Eric J. Levett and other Rockdale officials over the negligent death of Tilson, Attorney Mawuli Davis announced today (March 27). The 22-year-old mentally ill man died of severe dehydration while in the custody of the Rockdale County Jail on March 12, 2018, nine days after he was arrested on misdemeanor charges for disorderly conduct, Davis said. A year later, Rockdale officials maintain Tilson’s death is still under investigation. “The family cannot wait any longer for answers. This is our legal demand for accountability for those responsible for the tortuous and painful death of this young man,” said Davis, who is representing the family. Tilson was arrested last March after behaving eratically and banging on a former neighbor’s door. His family
Pictured left to right are the parents and sister of Shali Tilson: Vladimir Joseph, Tynesha Tilson and Diamond Tilson. Photo provided by Davis Bozeman Law Firm
members said he was schizophrenic and required medical help. Tilson instead was placed on suicide watch in isolation at the jail. Davis said Tilson had been crying out for help and pressing an emergency call button, which wasn’t working on the day jail officials discovered him dead. Davis said the jail officials were required
to make checks on Tilson every 15 minutes because he was on suicide watch but failed to do so and then falsified their watch logs after he was found dead. Davis said deputies also used force on Tilson six times while he was locked up. Less than three months after Tilson’s death, Jamie Henry, a 40-yearold mother of one, also died in the custody of the Rockdale Jail. Henry was arrested for violating probation. Davis, who is also representing Henry’s family, said jail officials failed to provide medical help to Henry, who was suffering from withdrawal symptoms and died from complications related to cocaine and morphine. Davis said there is a disturbing pattern of trouble at the Rockdale Jail, citing reports of deputies linked to illegal drug distribution, illegal firearms, stalking and sexual battery.
DeKalb Works kicks off Summer Youth Employment Program Applications available for internships and worksites DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond and the Board of Commissioners are partnering again with WorkSource DeKalb to launch the 2019 DeKalb Works Summer Youth Employment Program. Applications will open on April 1 for both internship seekers and worksites providers. The six-week program runs from June 3 through July 26. DeKalb residents ages 14 to 24 are invited to apply for the program at www.dekalbcountyga.gov/intern once the link goes live on April 1. Interns will be paid $10 per hour. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Rockdale Commissioner Sherri Washington to host “Eggs and Issues” Rockdale County Commissioner Post 1 Sherri Washington will host an “Eggs and Issues” brunch on Saturday, April 6, 10:30 a.m.to 12:30 p.m., at Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, 864 Green St. S.W., Conyers. Rockdale County School Board Chair and Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) President Katrina Young will be the special guest. The event is free and open to the public. A light breakfast, pastries, and refreshments will be provided.
Sherri Washington
Questions about the internship program should be directed to Jermaine Hampton at jlhampton@ dekalbcountyga.gov, or 404-687-3806. WorkSource DeKalb is also seeking worksites for interns. With DeKalb Works, WorkSource DeKalb will provide intern training prior to the start of the work assignments. Additionally, they will cover all payroll and workers’ compensation for interns. Employers interested in participating as a worksite are encouraged to register at: www.dekalbcountyga.gov/ worksite.
PAGE 4 • MARCH 29, 2019
Gregory B. Levett, Sr. Family Foundation to host ‘Forever Young Senior Citizens’ Prom
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DeKalb CEO’s State of the County Breakfast:
Donations to benefit foster children
The Gregory B. Levett, Sr. Family Foundation will host the “Forever Young Senior Citizens Prom” on Saturday, April 27, 7 to 10 p.m., at South Gwinnett High School, 2288 Main St. E., Snellville. This year’s event will create a special opportunity to celebrate seasoned elders throughout the community. The night will be filled with dinner, dancing and live entertainment. Larry Tinsley, V103 Sunday Morning Radio Host, will serve as master of ceremonies. The event attracts hundreds of seniors and the foundation anticipates hosting more than 500 sfor this year’s event. Gregory and Betty Levett, Sr., owners and CEO of Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory has been serving families throughout the metro Atlanta area for almost 40 years. The couple opened its first chapel in 1980 in Scottdale. The family business has since expanded to include three additional chapels and a crematory in Decatur, Lawrenceville and Conyers. The Levett legacy of providing traditional, thoughtful and dignified funeral services spans over four generations. Seniors ages 50 and older are invited to register for the event promptly by calling 678-601-5588. A $10 admission fee will be collected at the door. All proceeds will benefit the Gregory B. Levett, Sr. Family foundation for scholarships for minority students.
Foster children will be the beneficiaries of donations collected during a community breakfast sponsored by DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond. A suggested minimum donation of $20 is requested for the community breakfast on Saturday, April 27, 9 a.m., at Greenforest Community Baptist Church, 3188 Rainbow Dr., Decatur. Currently in DeKalb County, there are 904 children under the age of 18 in the foster care system. “We partner with one common goal: to serve CEO Michael Thurmond the children and families of DeKalb County,” said Kwesi Booker, director of the DeKalb office of the Division of Family and Children Services. Thurmond will give his outlook for 2019 during the breakfast, which is open to the public.
KCRB accepting registrations for 2019 Great American Cleanup
State Rep. Doreen Carter (D-Lithonia) recently introduced House Resolution 680, which would create the House Study Committee on School Nutrition Program Funding. “It is our responsibility as lawmakers to ensure that we have a healthy, nutritious and effective nutrition program in place for Georgia students in order to foster positive educational environments,” said Rep. Carter. “To do this, I believe we need to review the current funding sources that are in place for our school nutrition program.” The House Study Committee on School NutriRep. Doreen Carter tion Program Funding would study state and federal funding of school nutrition programs before the recession of 2007 to 2009, during said recession, and since the end of said recession. The study committee would also review the issues of funding levels, historical trends, participation in programs, local funding, and employee pay, as well as the
Keep Conyers-Rockdale Beautiful (KCRB) is inviting civic and neighborhood groups, churches, businesses individuals and families to participate in the Great American Cleanup (GAC) on Saturday, April 27, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Participants will kick off the event at Pine Log Park Pavilion, 500 Georgia Highway 138, Conyers. The deadline to register is April 22. KCRB is partnering with the City of Conyers and Rockdale County to host the event. Last year, 250 volunteers participated in the Great American Cleanup by sprucing up local roadways, subdivisions, commercial properties, parks, schools and illegal dumpsites across Rockdale. Volunteers will be provided cleaning supplies – garbage bags, gloves and brightly-colored safety vests – while available, and will need to be returned to Pine Log Park before lunch. Volunteers also will receive free food and a T-shirt, while supplies last. On the day of the cleanup, one representative from each group should report to the park’s pavilion to check in and pick up supplies for their entire group beginning at 9 a.m. Registration for the cleanup is encouraged at www.rockdalecountyga.gov. For more information, email kcrb@rockdalecountyga.gov or call 770-278-7052.
Rockdale County BOC April Meetings Spring Recess: Rockdale County Board of Commissioners meetings scheduled for Tuesday, April 2, 2019 and for Tuesday, April 9, 2019 are cancelled Evening Work Session: Tuesday, April 16, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. - Shoal Creek Elementary School located at 1300 McWilliams Road, Conyers Zoning Public Hearing: Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at 9:00 a.m. – Assembly Hall located at 901 Main Street, Conyers Voting Session: Tuesday, April 23, 2019 at 10:00 a.m. – Assembly Hall located at 901 Main Street, Conyers For more information on Rockdale County or to watch these meetings live on Rockdale 23, visit our website at www.rockdalecountyga.gov and scroll down, click on the graphic of a television set to the right of the screen that says “Watch Live 23.”
Congratulations
Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Isaac Gordon, II Mr. Derrick and Mrs. Lora Mathis; and Mr. Glenn and Mrs. Harriet Gordon are ecstatic to introduce you to their daughter - the former Jasmyne Mathis, and their son, Isaac Gordon: AKA International Hip Hop Artist “1K Phew”. The happy couple united March 23, 2019 in a private ceremony officiated by Pastor Canton Jones. Join both family and friends as they CONGRATULATE, Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Isaac Gordon, II
Rep. Doreen Carter seeks to boost nutrition in schools
SEE CARTER page 10
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MARCH 29, 2019 • PAGE 5
DeKalb County food drive collects donations to provide 10,000 meals
CEO Thurmond pictured with DeKalb County Commission, House and Senate leaders
DeKalb leaders support Charter Review study
DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond signed an executive order to create a DeKalb Charter Review Commission on March 27 at the Georgia Capitol. The document was also signed by DeKalb Commissioner Jeff Rader, presiding officer of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners; State Rep. Karla Drenner, who chairs the DeKalb House delegation; and Sen. Emanuel Jones, who chairs the DeKalb Senate delegation. “Today is a historic day for DeKalb County,” said Thurmond. “The signing of the executive order is evidence that DeKalb is ready to work with our local leaders and stakeholders to thoroughly examine the county’s current form of governance and improve the delivery of services to all of our citizens.” During the 2018 session of the Georgia General Assembly, leadership in the DeKalb House and Senate delegations worked with Thurmond and the Board of Commissioners to develop the purpose and framework of the commission. The Charter Review Commission will be comprised of 17-members charged with examining the DeKalb County form of government by conducting a comprehensive review of the DeKalb County Organizational Act with the goal of identifying ways to improve the form of government to its highest quality and most efficient form. The Charter Review Commission will convene from May 1, 2019, to Dec. 31, 2020. A final report and recommendations will be issued by Dec. 31, 2020.
DeKalb County Commissioner Kathie Gannon’s “Yes We Can” food drive collected enough food and online donations to create 10,000 meals. The donations will help the Atlanta Community Food Bank help the 19 percent of DeKalb’s population that is “food insecure.” These are households who on an occasional or regular basis do not know where their next meal will come from. The “Yes We Can” food drive is the 10th annual drive sponsored by Gannon, in partnership with DeKlab District Attorney Sherry Boston, Clerk of Superior Court Debra DeBerry, Solicitor-General Donna Coleman-Stribling, Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson, Javoyne Hicks, clerk of State and Magistrate Courts, the DeKalb County Public Library, and DeKalb Senior Centers. “Thank you to everyone who contributed. 10,000 meals will feed a lot of people,” said
DeKalb Commissioner Kathie Gannon (fifth person from left) helped lead the recent food drive to assist the Atlanta Community Food Bank. Photo provided.
Gannon. “We are grateful for the generous contributions from DeKalb County employees and citizens.”
Rockdale County to host bonfire event for high school juniors and seniors Rockdale County Government and the Rockdale County Public School Systems are partnering to host a community bonfire for high school juniors and seniors in Rockdale County. The bonfire will be held Friday, April 5, 6 to 9 p.m., at the field at 1400 Parker Road. County officials and community leaders will be on site to share in the festivities as well as provide information on the importance of civic engagement. Representatives from the Rockdale County Fire-Rescue and the Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office will share opportunities in public safety with the youths. Students of all ages are welcome, but those who are not high school juniors or seniors must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. This is a first-come, first-served event and will be held weather permitting.
Your DeKalb Pennies At Work! D e K a l b Co u nt y S p e c i a l P u rp o s e L o c a l O p t i o n S a l e s Ta x (S P LO ST ) I m p rov i n g t h e Co u nt y One Penny at a Time!
DeKalb County SPLOST supports county-wide improvements that promote a high quality of life for all residents. To date, the following projects have been funded.
• Fire Rescue: 313 new Motorola two-way radios & 10 Rapid Response vehicles purchased
• Police Cars: 100 new cars funded • Road Repairs: the first 100 miles of the worst roads are being repaired and resurfaced
• SPLOST Citizen Oversight Committee formed to enhance transparency and accountability
• Coming Soon: Parks improvements, corridor beautification, sidewalks and more
UPCOMING SPLOST OPEN HOUSES April 9, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Maloof Auditorium 1300 Commerce Drive Decatur, GA 30030
April 10, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Central DeKalb Senior Center 1346 McConnell Drive Decatur, GA 30033
April 11, 6:30 – 8 p.m.
Lou Walker Senior Center 2538 Panola Road Lithonia, GA 30058
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
www.dekalbsplost.com • (404) 371-7000
PAGE 6 • MARCH 29, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
“Hops at the History Center” to feature local beer sampling, book signing
Pictured left to right: STS Vice President of Operations Suzanne Moon, Rebecca Hill, and Bill Hardman, past president and CEO of Southeast Tourism Society.
City of Conyers’ Rebecca Hill earns Travel Marketing Professional certification Georgia International Horse Park Assistant Director Rebecca Hill has completed the three-year program of the Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College and earned certification as a Travel Marketing Professional (TMP). Hill has been an employee of the Georgia International Horse Park, owned and operated by the city of Conyers, for 16 years. She was named assistant director of the facility in 2018. Hill was among 62 STS Marketing College graduates who were announced at the STS Connections conference in Daytona Beach, FL, in early March. The program, which began in 1992, has produced 1,154 travel marketing professionals. “STS absolutely is enhancing the professional skills of people throughout the Southeast and elevates the tourism industry,” said Monica Smith, president and CEO of STS. “Earning TMP certification is a challenging combination of classroom
If you’d like us to bring this presentation to your community, please contact us at proptax@dekalbcountyga.gov
Irvin J. Johnson
work and special projects in the students’ workplaces. Becoming a TMP takes dedication.” Study topics include tourism advertising, vacation research, crisis management, special events marketing, media relations, heritage tourism, tourism sales and community/rural tourism. In addition to classroom work, students must complete projects that relate to their employment. “The knowledge gained from the instructors and real-life experiences and examples offered by my classmates at Marketing College were relatable and inspirational,” said Hill. “The instruction and information have been applicable in all aspects of my position at the Georgia International Horse Park.” Hill is the fifth employee from the city of Conyers to graduate as a travel marketing professional from the Southeast Tourism Society Marketing College.
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!
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 DeKalb History Center will present “Hops at the History Center: Atlanta Beer: A Heady History of Brewing in the Hub of the South” featuring authors and beer enthusiasts Ron Smith and Mary Boyle.. The event, which includes beer sampling and a book signing, will be held on April 17, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse, 101 E. Court Square, Decatur. The doors will open at 5:30 p.m. Smith has studied artisanal beer for over two decades, sampled local brews from across the U.S. and Europe and runs the Beer Guru Atlanta Blog. Co-host of several beer dinners and a craft beer enthusiast since 2003, Mary Boyle is currently webmaster at BeerGuruATL.com, produces a local pub's newsletter, and is adding a line of beer-focused jewelry to her handcrafted jewelry business. With over 6,000 breweries as of 2018, Atlanta is quickly becoming a brewing hub. From humble beginnings to a bustling metropolis, Atlanta is full of history and interspersed within is the dynamic industry of brewing and how it has grown almost as large as the city itself. Atlanta Beer: A Heady History of Brewing in the Hub of the South delves into the full history of beer within Atlanta and discusses the circumstances that led to beer becoming a beloved staple of the city. Join the DeKalb History Center in welcoming Smith and Boyle as they discuss the fascinating story of Atlanta beer. Tickets are $5 for members of the DeKalb History Center. Tickets for non-members are $10. The prices include one drink ticket.
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 29, 2019 • PAGE 7
DCS District to provide Spring Break meal service April 1 and April 2
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tudents at DeKalb County School District (DCSD) will not have to miss a school lunch during Spring Break 2019 thanks to School Nutrition Services. On April 1 and April 2, DCSD will offer daily hot lunch service, on-the-go breakfast and snacks, and other services to all DCSD children who can attend at Indian Creek Elementary and Snapfinger Elementary beginning at 11:30 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. Additional resources will also be available at certain locations on specific dates. Menu items on April 1 will include BBQ chicken, squash casserole, sweet potatoes, and assorted beverages. On April 2, students can enjoy fajita chicken, Amarillo rice, and Italian green beans. DCSD families can also take advantage of free community wellness resources. On April 1, health services can be found at Indian Creek Elementary. On April 2, these services will be available at Snapfinger Elementary. In addition, on April 2, nutritious backpack distribution will take place at each school. Because resources are limited, backpack distribution will be limited to one per family. Indian Creek Elementary is located at 724 N. Indian Creek Drive in Clarkston. Snapfinger Elementary is located at 1365 Snapfinger Road in Decatur. For more information, visit the DeKalb County School District’s School Nutrition Services website at www.dekalbschoolsga.org/ school-nutrition.
M.L. King Jr. Lions capture first ever DCSD track title By Mark Brock DeKalb County School Athletics
A
first-ever DeKalb County Track and Field Championships boys’ title went to the Martin Luther King Jr. Lions as they held off Arabia Mountain during Monday’s track finals 88-73. Martin Luther King Jr. held a 24-point lead (51-27) over Arabia Mountain in the boys’ meet with Tucker (23.50) in third, Dunwoody (23.00) in fourth and defending champion Southwest DeKalb in fifth (21) after the first day of competition. The Lions picked up three gold medals on the first day led by Keion Cush’s sweep of the discus (140’-06.00”) and shot put (47’-02.00”). TaQuan McKenzie picked up the Lions’ third medal on Saturday with his win in the high jump (6”-02.00”). King’s Jhivon Wilson and Arabia Mountain’s
Jordan Barrow put together a pair of exciting races in the 100- and 200-meter dashes as they traded firsts and seconds. Wilson (10.77) came out on top in the 100-meter dash by just 0.01 of a second over Barrow (10.78). Barrow (21.631) returned the favor in the 200 as he managed to nip Wilson (21.633) at the line by a mere 0.002 of a second. The two teams battled throughout the rest of the meet and held off charges by Miller Grove and defending champion Southwest DeKalb for the top two spots. Miller Grove made a big leap in the standings picking up four gold medals on the day including a sweep of the hurdle titles. Walik Robinson won the 110 hurdles in 14.48 with Darryl Burton III finishing second in 14.59. Burton claimed the 300 meter hurdle title with a time of 39.16. Chuck Shawn Collins picked up the 400-meter dash gold for Miller Grove with a time of
SEE TRACK page 10
PAGE 8 • MARCH 29, 2019 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
FACE continued from page 1 franchise. Papa John’s President and CEO Ritchie said in addition to his business acumen, O’Neal understands how to build lasting connections with consumers and energize employees. “I look forward to working with him as a board member and brand partner to advance the many initiatives we are pursuing across the organization to create even greater success for Papa John’s and our stakeholders,” Ritchie said. O’Neal said he is looking forward to his new appointment to the board and marketing opportunity. “I have truly enjoyed the high-quality Papa John’s product for years and am excited to be able to help Papa John’s raise their game to new heights,” said O’Neal. “This is a triple threat opportunity for me. I am excited to join the Board and to help lead from the top, while also investing in nine stores in my home town of Atlanta and being an ambassador for the brand. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Board and using my experience in business and community to build on the progress being made at Papa John’s. Papa John’s is building a better culture, and I want to be a part of improving the Company from the inside out.”
STONECREST continued from page 1 speaking with Lary and Turner and hearing the community did not want it. Lary called on Ali, who was seated in the back of the room during the March 25 council meeting, to thank him publicly for his support of the city. Ali, however, motioned that he wanted to remain in the seated with his family. Said Lary: “We’re going to do right by you, Mr. Ali, because you did right by us. All (Ali) asked is that we cover his costs (for the land and cancellation of tankers, which were supposed to start work this month) and give him the opportunity to build some place else… We appreciate you, Mr. Ali. Thank you very much.” The city’s deal with Ali cannot exceed $350,000 because legally, the city cannot pay more than the appraised value of the property, Lary said. Lary said the city would use funds from its special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) to purchase and improve the intersection where the park will be built with a round-about or traffic signal, street lights and other improvements. The mayor said the city would seek citizens’ input on the naming of the park and components of the development. Lary said he has already received some suggestions including naming the new greenspace Flat Rock Park or Jesse “Jay” Cunningham Memorial Park for the late DeKalb County School Board member. Lary said other ideas include building a multi-use cultural center or botanical gardens at the site. Lary said the city would get started on getting an appraisal of the property immediately. In other action, the City Council approved directing the city attorney to draft an ordinance to strengthen the process concerning cell tower applications. Several residents have demanded that the city order the removal of the cell tower, which was recently constructed at 3610 Evans Mill Road, citing negative health and safety concerns in addition to a decrease in property values among their chief concerns. City Attorney Winston Denmark said, however, he researched drafting a temporary moratorium on cell towers as he was directed to do by the council at the March 11 meeting but found that a moratorium would violate federal statutes. He said he prepared a legal opinion on the matter and shared that information with the City Council. Said Denmark: “The FCC has said in a very clear voice in a number of decisions that… if a city were to pass a moratorium, the carrier would immediately go to federal court and the moratorium would be struck down. And not only would we not be able to enforce the moratorium, they would be entitled to get the cell tower permit without any further consideration.” Lary said the city would continue to fight on behalf of the citizens. “This is no small fight so I’m going to put this on the executive side and you all will have to decide how much we’re going to go to the river. I’m going to ask staff to issue a stop work order on the cell phone tower.”
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MARCH 29, 2019 • PAGE 9
CHURCH continued from page 1 portantly, we will thank God for our congregational ancestors who have gone before us and have sustained and advanced our congregation,” said Pastor Ward. As part of the celebration, the James C. Ward Classical Arts Chorale will pay tribute to the church’s ancestral members whose courage and commitment paved the way for the church’s continued significance in the community. The choir will sing an original composition entitled “The Heritage Hymn,” commissioned to honor Antioch’s deceased congregants. The piece is a collaboration between composer and arranger Heather Sorenson and Pastor Ward. Antioch church members submitted names of deceased relatives and neighbors who attended the church during their lifetime. Each name now appears in a keepsake book featuring brief narratives of each individual’s contributions to the church. “We are well aware that some names have been lost in history, but their names are written on the lamb’s book of life,” said Pastor Ward. Founded in 1869 under a brush arbor, Antioch-Lithonia spans five generation and has a rich history steeped in service, tradition and music. It served as the first branch of the DeKalb NAACP and remains a lifetime member today. The maternal grandfather of Martin Luther King, Jr., A. D. Williams, served as a pastor of Antioch from the late 1800s to 1924 and the Rev. Thomas Dorsey, who was the cousin of Thomas A. Dorsey (the father of gospel music), also served as pastor of the church for 18 years. Antioch has hosted Spelman’s Glee Club twice, as well as the late legendary singer Natalie Cole. Fourth generation church member Olitha McGuire Reid, 69, has a long history at Antioch. Her parents, grandparents and great-grandparents all were members of Antioch. Her great-grandfather, Allen Albert, was one of the church’s founding members in the 1800s. Reid said she remembers how everyone at Antioch dressed up in their Sunday best for worship. In the winter, the men would have on fedoras, and the women would be dressed in their gloves and furs. The little girls would have on their patent leather shoes and the boys would have on neck ties. Reid, who has been a member of the church since she was 6 years old, has served in just about every capacity within the church – from singing in the choir to serving as an usher. Of her many roles, she is most proud of serving on the interior design committee when the congregation relocated and constructed a new edifice in 2004 at 2152 Rock Chapel Road in unincorporated Lithonia. “Moving from the old church to the new one was a big change and even though I loved the old church setting, our congregation had outgrown it,” said Reid. “We did, however, manage to bring along some of our favorite things from the old church.” Relics from the former church include an old light fixture and bookcase in the church’s library, along with an original bible and a grand piano. Reid said that though the physical space has changed, many of the church’s traditions remain: Easter and Christmas children’s speeches, weekly Sunday school classes, the church’s annual homecoming celebration and a culture of good gospel music. “We were known as the church that did all the singing, gospel concerts and choir anniversaries. And it’s still true to this day,” said Reid. Among the many noteworthy members, Reid credits Minister Mary Alice Moore for building an outstanding children’s youth department. Deacon Charles Johnson Antioch, who has served on multiple boards in addition to previously being the church’s chief operation officer, echoed Reid. Johnson said he and his wife, both 74, were impressed by Antioch’s welcoming congregation when they moved to Atlanta 35 years ago and joined in 1982 under the Rev. R.E. Glass, who was pastor at the time. The couple, both from Sparta, Georgia said they were happy to find a church that still felt like their small town home church. “The congregation was loving and caring. They treated you like family and it was the perfect place to raise kids and get the family involved with God. It just felt right,” said Johnson. Johnson said several deacons at Antioch mentored him including Norris Jonson, Walter Guthrie, Henry Harper Hill and others. He credited Pastor Ward for nurturing his spiritual growth and for having the vision and leadership to build a new edifice to house the church’s growing congregation. “We have really blossomed under Pastor Ward’s leadership. We were able to build our new church under his leadership,” said Johnson. Gail Golden, another fourth generation member is a 61-year-old retired schoolteacher who has attended the church for over 50 years. “We change with the times,” said Golden, who prepares the weekly bulletin and oversees the church’s Girl Scouts program and Vacation Bible School. “We have five choirs and the children have their own Sunday where they do everything from singing, ushering to reading the church announcements. Everybody’s friendly and it is a place where you can get some good preaching, teaching and singing. Everybody has a place here.” The worship service and concert takes place Sunday, March 31, at 10:30 a.m. A fellowship meal will be held following the service. Antioch-Lithonia Missionary Baptist Church is located at 2152 Rock Chapel Road (State Road 124), Lithonia.
Pastor James C. Ward and his wife, Idell Ward photos provided.
Pictured is Antioch-Lithonia MBC at its former location at 2547 Parkway Drive in the city of Lithonia.
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Rockdale Constitutional Corner
Slow your roll in Rockdale school zones Slow Down Driving through our School Zones! School zones are put in place to ensure the safety of children in and around schools. While class is in session, drivers are responsible for maintaining safety and awareness on the streets surrounding schools. All children should be able to walk or bike to and from class without fear of being hit by passing vehicles. As drivers, we must not be careless around school zones. We must respect every school zone speed limit and understand the traffic laws for these locations. We must follow them at all times. The school zone speed limit in Rockdale County is 25- 30 mph, unless otherwise posted. As Rockdale County Sheriff’s School Resource Officers and Crossing Guards continue to make school zones safer for students, the solution is easy to make school zones safer for students. Let’s take a look at the best strategy we can implement to keep the future of education bright!
By Sheriff Eric J. Levett
Speed is one of the most frequently cited contributing factors that increase the number of accidents and traffic violations. Following the directions given by the crossing guards and posted safety signage are vital because they serve as a warning sign when vehicles are entering the zone, and slowing down is necessary to protect the school children crossing the street. It can be very scary when drivers
don't abide by the rules in school safety zones. Rockdale County, enough is enough, and our traffic units are ready to enforce those who don't obey the traffic laws ZERO! That’s how many accidents we want to see this year in our school zones. We’re fortunate to have a traffic unit, Rockdale County Public Schools Officials and others, working together to make this happen. During school zone hours, drivers are supposed to slow down to 25 miles per hour, Corporal Jeff Peek couldn't believe it when he caught one person going 55 miles per hour. "I was shocked," Peek said. "I was like, 'Wow, that actually happened,' and he was on his cell phone." "Since the first of the year, we've made over 100 traffic stops around the Rockdale County Schools," Peek said. Deputies will be out at different school zones running laser, radar, and actively slowing people down, plus school crossing guards will
be out at schools as well. Rockdale County suggests you drive under the speed limit in those zones. Their overall message is for people to drive safe and remember that it is their job to pay attention in order to prevent accidents. If you're not paying attention, we're going to help you pay attention. You know I hate to say that and we don't like to do that but our job is to keep you safe, your family safe, and our children safe. If you don't want to take it upon yourself to help us do that, we are just going to give you a friendly reminder. The children, teachers and faculty are a top priority, and we want them to safely complete a great school year, so we're asking people to slow down because there will be consequences for those who are speeding in our school zones creating an unsafe environment. We don't want to issue citations but we do want the public to know they need to slow down.
TRACK continued from page 7 48.05 and the 4x400 meter relay team was first in 3:18.37. Clarkston’s Thaddee Barge won the 1600-meter run in 4:30.30 edging out Decatur’s Eoin McNally (4:30.35) and then came up just short to Lithonia’s Jalen Bristol (1:59.25) with a time of 1:59.31. Southwest DeKalb (41.74) opened the day on Monday cruising to a win in the 4x100-meter relay over Miller Grove (42.09) for the gold. Arabia Mountain’s first day got a boost from Kerrell Hurt Jr.’s win in the triple jump (44’-07.00”). Other winners during action on the first day of competition included Carter Rathur of Druid Hills in the 3200m run (9:51.74), Tommy Wright of Southwest DeKalb in the long jump (23’-01.75”) and Dunwoody freshman Alon Rogow in the pole vault (13’-04.00”).
CARTER continued from page 4 reasons for not including school nutrition program workers in state benefit plans and to investigate alternate sources of school nutrition program funding. The committee would undertake a study of the conditions, needs, issues and problems mentioned above and recommend any action or legislation which the committee deems necessary or appropriate. For more information on HR 680, please click here. Representative Doreen Carter represents the citizens of District 92, which includes portions of Rockdale and DeKalb counties. She was elected to the House of Representatives in 2015 and currently serves on the Code Revision, Education, Industry & Labor, Small Business and Special Rules committees.
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.
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MARCH 29, 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