FREE
VOLUME 24 NUMBER 3
APRIL 14, 2018
News 24/7
ocgnews.com
Stay connected
Published Since April 1995
Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties
facebook.com/ocgnews
Detectives are still looking to locate a possible witness captured by surveillance footage who has not come forward. Photo provided
Juvenile charged with Easter murder of 3-year-old T’Rhigi
July 4, 1959—April 6, 2018
By Valerie J. Morgan
D
eKalb County Police have arrested a 15-yearold male suspect in the fatal Easter shooting of a 3-yearold toddler who was sleeping in the back seat of his mother’s SUV. Police made the arrest around 2 p.m. on April 11—10 days after T’Rhigi Craig was shot in the chest as his mother, Rashonda Craig, was driving around 11:30 p.m. on Bouldercrest Road near Eastland Road in East Atlanta. The juvenile was charged with murder. His name was withheld because of his age. Police Chief James W. Conroy said detectives worked tirelessly to locate witnesses who were at the gas station near the intersection the night the child was killed. The loss of T’Rhigi is tragic and senseless. It is my hope that this arrest will bring some sense of comfort and closure to his family,” Conroy said. The toddler had celebrated his third birthday two days before the shooting, relatives said. Family and friends held a candlelight vigil for T’Rhigi as his parents grieved. He was buried on April 7. Be Someone founder Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson who teaches young people how to make the right choices through the game of chess, said he was saddened by the child’s death. Hudson said he is praying for the family and he is inspired to work even harder to make a difference through his program in DeKalb. “We’ve got to teach our
T’Rhigi Craig
children to pause, ponder and pray before they proceed. I believe if he (the shooter) had been in my program, we could have made a difference,” said Hudson. “I believe we could have changed the trajectory of his life. We have a generation of children who think it’s cool to be a thug. We’ve got to stop this nonsense.” Hudson said he recently trained about 15 juveniles in DeKalb who are in detention. DeKalb County Police cracked the case after reviewing surveillance footage and locating witnesses at a gas station near the intersection. Police initially thought the single bullet came from a gray or silver Dodge, which Craig said pulled up beside her black SUV. Craig told police the occupants had a paintball gun. She didn’t realize her child had been shot until she pulled over and saw the child bleeding. Conroy said police determined, however, that based on the trajectory, the shot came from the gas station—not the car that pulled up beside Craig. Detectives are still looking to locate one other person captured by surveillance footage who has not come forward. This individual is considered a witness and is asked to call DeKalb PD Homicide at 770724- 7850.
Friends placed a memorial of flowers and balloons in front of Jesse’s Restaurant & Lounge, located in the Wesley Chapel Crossing Shopping Center in South DeKalb. Mr. Cunningham was remembered on April 7 at the Cultural Exchange Community Breakfast hosted by Stonecrest City Councilman Rob Turner and his wife, DeKalb School Board member Vicki B. Turner. The packed audience held a moment of silence to remember Mr. Cunningham. Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCGNews
Jesse “Jay” Cunningham Former DeKalb School Board Member remembered as a dedicated community servant
F
By Valerie J. Morgan
ormer DeKalb County School Board member and business owner Jesse “Jay“ Cunningham is being remembered by family and friends as a dedicated servant who deeply cared about his community. Mr. Cunningham died of a heart attack on April 6. He was 58. “Georgia has lost one of its tallest pines,” said State Rep. Vernon Jones. “He will be missed.” Evelyn Cunningham said her husband had continued to work and serve the community, despite health issues. She said he had suffered a heart attack last year and recently, he had a stroke. He had complained of feeling tired a couple of days before he passed, she said during an interview at their home. “He was running the business, putting in a lot of hours,” said Evelyn Cunningham. Jesse Cunningham had recently renovated Jesse’s Restaurant & Lounge on Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur. With the help of his brother, Malcolm Cunningham, a businessman in the automobile industry, and his son, Brandon, they reopened the restaurant earlier this year after a renovation. Brandon, who was helping to promote the business through social media, said the restaurant is temporarily closed as the family grieves. State Rep. Earnest “Coach” Williams said
Jesse Cunningham poured his all into the restaurant just as he did into public service. “He was a good public servant. He put all the effort he could into serving the community,” said Williams, who supported the restaurant, holding his birthday party and his wife’s birthday party at Jesse’s. Pastor Lee May, DeKalb County’s former interim CEO, said Cunningham had a big heart. “When we were organizing our church last year, we would have breakfast at the restaurant and he would serve us and join us to offer input,” said May. May said he first met Cunningham in 2006, the year they both were elected for public office. May was elected to the DeKalb Board of Commissioners. Cunningham was elected to the DeKalb Board of Education, serving for eight years. “He really lobbied to help the schools in our community. In fact, he lobbied for the expansion of Southwest DeKalb High School, which is where my congregation is now leasing space for our church on Sundays,” said May. Cunningham was a well-known champion for MLK, McNair and Southwest DeKalb high schools, as well as Flat Rock and Narvie J. Harris elementary schools. He also served as the District 11 director for the Georgia PTA. Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary said Cun-
SEE JAY page 4
Sponsors needed to serve meals during summer food program Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning (DECAL) is seeking eligible organizations to sponsor the Summer Food Service Program in their communities. The program, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), provides access to healthy meals to children during the summer months when school is out. The program reimburses non-profit, governmental, and other eligible organizations for providing free meals to
children in low-income areas during the summer months. The following entities can qualify as sponsors: public or private nonprofit schools; universities, colleges or camps; units of local and state government; private nonprofit organizations, including faith-based organizations considered tax exempt by the IRS. Sponsors can operate the program and feed children at various sites such as schools, churches, recreation centers, community and migrant centers, and other areas where
children congregate. Mobile meal sites are also an option for sponsors – particularly in rural areas of the state. “The Summer Food Service Program is critically important in combating childhood hunger during the summer,” said DECAL Commissioner Amy M. Jacobs. “Sponsoring organizations ensure children across the state have access to nutritious and well-balanced meals during the summer months when school is not in session. Without the work of these community-
based organizations, many children may not receive the healthy meals they need.” DECAL is focusing on boosting the number of sponsors participating in the program, particularly in South Georgia, where program participation has been historically lower than participation in the metro Atlanta area. Sponsors receive training and support relating to the application process and nutrition education. They also receive technical assistance
while the program is operating. For more information about the SFSP, contact Shani Drake, marketing and outreach manager, at Shani.Drake@ decal.ga.gov or 404-656-3221. For more information on becoming an SFSP sponsor, visit DECAL’s website at http://www.decal.ga.gov/BftS/ SFSPBecomingASponsor.aspx or contact the SFSP team toll free at 1-855-550-SFSP (7377) or via e-mail at SFSP@decal. ga.gov.
PAGE 2 • APRIL 14, 2018 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
DeKalb rabies cases total six so far DeKalb County officials are reporting the capture of a second raccoon confirmed with rabies within two days. The most recent incident occurred on April 8 in the 4500 block of North Peachtree Road in Dunwoody. Two days earlier, on April 6, a raccoon was retrieved from the 3100 block of Albatross Lane in Decatur and it later tested positive for rabies as well. This year, there have been six positive raccoon rabies incidents in the county including Dunwoody, Decatur, Tucker, Stone Mountain, Avondale Estates and Lithonia. Georgia is a rabies endemic state and the virus is present all year long, officials say. Rabies is usually passed from animal to animal but can be passed from animals to human beings. The virus is spread through saliva, usually from a bite of an animal that has the disease, which affects the brain. Residents should make sure pets have current preventative vaccination and should eliminate outdoor feeding stations. Anyone who has been bitten or scratched by a wild animal should seek medical attention immediately. Additionally, residents are advised to watch pets and contact DeKalb County Animal Control if unusual behavior occurs. For more information or to report any animal bite, contact DeKalb County Animal Control at 404-294-2996, press and select option 2 from the menu.
WorkSource DeKalb sets new business hours WorkSource DeKalb, 774 Jordan Lane, Building No. 4, Decatur, has set new business hours that will become effective Monday, April 30. The hours will be Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information on WorkSource DeKalb, including upcoming events, visit www.worksourcedekalb.org or call 404-687-3400.
PET OF THE Week
LifeLine Animal Project presents our DeKalb County Animal Services Pet of the Week, Miss Fit. This pretty and petite girl wants nothing more than a bone to chew on, a lap to curl up in and home to call her own. Miss Fit loves playing with dogs, going for walks and giving kisses. Her foster parents say that she is also super smart and has picked up all the tricks they have taught her. Being the total package that she is, Miss Fit is also crate and potty trained, and she enjoys sleeping in her dog bed next to her foster parents’ bed at night, while dreaming of her forever home. Meet this wonderful dog today by emailing foster@dekalbanimalservices.com.
CITY OF STONECREST PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, MAY 1ST 2018 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, MAY 21ST 2018 AT 6:00 P.M. CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 The following Land Use Petition located within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above. LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING:
RZ-18-002 Beverly J. Searles Foundation 6757 Covington Hwy C-1 (Local Commercial) District MR-2 (Medium Density Residential) District Conditional PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT: Request to rezone property to construct senior living facility LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
SLUP-18-002 Pawanjit Kavr 6721 Covington Hwy C-1 (Local Commercial) District C-1 (Local Commercial) District Request Special Land Use Permit to construct liquor store.
TEXT AMENDMENT: PETITIONER: PROPOSED AMENDMENT:
TMOD 18-0003 City Staff Amendment to Article IX, Section 9.1.3 to add a definition for “Short Term Vacation Rental”.
TEXT AMENDMENT: TMOD 18-0004 PETITIONER: City Staff PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Amend IV, Table 4.1 Use Table as to the permitted locations of Short Term Vacation Rentals, Amend Article IV, Section 4.2.5.8 to provide supplemental regulations for Short Term Vacation Rentals, Amend and Adopt. TEXT AMENDMENT: TMOD 18-0005 PETITIONER: City Staff PROPOSED AMENDMENT: Chapter 14, in its entirety, relating to Land Development, subdivision, soil and erosion, and tree regulations.
Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce invites travelers to experience Thailand
T
he Conyers-Rockdale Chamber of Commerce is accepting reservations from the public for its Thailand Odyssey set for late this summer. The trip, open to anyone who wants to go, will transport visitors to some of Thailand’s most popular places offering a glimpse into the culture, history and lives of its people. The nine-day adventure, Sept. 11-19, will provide an abundance of sightseeing, shopping and sampling of authentic Thai cuisine. Highlights of the trip include exploration of the country’s capital, Bangkok, and a visit to the nearby province, Kanchanaburi, known for its role during World War II. The group will visit the Allied War Cemetery and take a historic ride on Death Railway Train, passing over an original wooden viaduct constructed by Allied Prisoners of War. After departing Kanchanaburi, the group will travel to the ruins of Ayutthaya, once known as the ancient capital Siam. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, located about 50 miles north of Bangkok, was formerly a prosperous international trading port. Tourists will also get a glimpse of The Grand Palace and the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, the most highly
revered Buddha image carved from a single block of jade. The Chamber is excited to offer the trip at the attractive rate of $2,449 per person for double occupancy. Solo travers pay an additional $475. The package includes round-trip airfare from Atlanta, hotel accommodations, daily buffet breakfasts, four lunches and one dinner, ground transportation and transfers, tours with English-speaking guides, attraction entrance fees, and the Grand Pearl Cruise from Ayuthaya to Bangkok. The Chamber is also offering a three-day extension to Phuket for an additional $390 per person for doubles (the cost is an additional $600 for single occupants). Enjoy an optional tour of the city and/or a speedboat tour of Coral Island with lunch for an additional fee. A webinar concerning the trip will be held on Tuesday, April 17, 5:30 p.m. Visit the link at https://meeting.zoho. com/register?sessionId=9296730146. To see the full itinerary and brochure, visit www.conyers-rockdale. com. To attend the briefing or book now, contact Stephanie Layson at the Conyers-Rockdale Chamber at 770483-483-7049 or e-mail Stephanie@ conyers-rockdale.com.
Attention Homeowners! The mandatory EPA phase-out of freon based HVAC units goes into affect within 8 months across the country. This mandatory EPA phase-out of freon will affect over 700,000 homeowners across all counties in the Metro Atlanta Area. We assist existing homeowners/homeowner associations, first responders, faith based communities, real estate agents, new homebuyers, government municipalities, senior citizens, and military personals. If your HVAC unit is 10 years or older or non-functional call us today for your free energy evaluation and HVAC unit replacement. At the National Sustainable Energy Group we offer quality affordable name brand HVAC units and affordable financing options. Second look financing/ Recent bankruptcy approvals and Rent To Own (RTO) financing with no credit check. Monthly payments start at $99 Over 4000 satisfied homeowners Call us today: 404-220- 8719 https://www.hvachomesystem.com/ We feature the following brands
Affiliations
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
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
PRODUCTION MANAGER Travis Hudgons travis@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
MARK YOUR CALENDARS April 14 DeKalb NAACP Annual Unity Breakfast, 8:30 a.m., Greenforest Baptist Church Early Learning Center (Genesis), 3250 Rainbow Drive, Decatur. DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond will be the keynote speaker. Tickets: $30 per person. www. dekalbganaacp.org. April 17 Rockdale County officials to host bond referendum forum, 6–7 p.m., Shoal Creek Elementary, 1300 McWilliams Road S.W., Conyers. The Board of Commissioners work session will follow the forum at 7 p.m. To view the agenda, https://rockdalecountyga.gov/ about/boc-agenda/ April 20 Why is Rockdale proposing a bond referendum? Get informed. Take a guided tour of the Rockdale County Courthouse, 9 to 10 and 10 to 11 a.m., 922 Court St., Conyers: April 24 Last day to register to vote in the May 22 elections. The voting session for the Rockdale Board of Commissioners will be held at 10 a.m. in the assembly Hall, 901 Main Street, Conyers. April 25 Stonecrest Overlay Committee meeting, 6:30 p.m., Stonecrest City Hall. Open to the public.
APRIL 14, 2018 • PAGE 3
Former DeKalb police officer indicted in stealing drug money in fake traffic stops A DeKalb County Grand Jury has indicted a former police officer accused of orchestrating a theft scheme targeting drug dealers. Lori Monique Johnson, 33, is charged with Violation of the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) and 13 counts of Violation of Oath by Public Officer in the 14-count indictment. The charges against Johnson stem from a series of traffic stops between April 29, 2014 and March 13, 2015. The indictment alleges that Johnson, working in concert with drug dealers with whom she was affiliated, staged two traffic stops involving other unsuspecting drug dealers. During the stops, Officer Johnson is accused of “seizing” drug money from the motorists’ vehicles under the
Lori Monique Johnson
guise of her law enforcement authority. Legitimately forfeited funds should have been turned over to the DeKalb Police Department. Instead, Johnson is accused of diverting those funds to her drug dealer partners, who in turn, paid her for performing the fake traffic stops and making the fake seizures. Johnson is also accused of responding to
another officer’s legitimate traffic stop and stealing money from those motorists as well. The amount of diverted funds between those three stops totaled more than $150,000. Johnson’s alleged scheme was uncovered through an investigation by the DeKalb County District Attorney’s Office in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Following indictment, a Grand Jury warrant was issued for Johnson’s arrest. She surrendered to authorities on March 29 and has since posted bond. The DeKalb County Police Department issued a statement saying it was involved in the investigation since its inception and cooperated fully with the District Attorney’s Office throughout the case. The department said Johnson
resigned on Oct. 20, 2017 while under investigation for these violations. “The reprehensible actions of Ms. Johnson are unacceptable and do not reflect the high standards of the DeKalb County Police Department,” said Police Chief James W. Conroy. “Her actions tarnish the reputations and service which is demonstrated by our honorable law enforcement officers each and every day. Trust, transparency, and accountability make up the foundation of our department and corruption will not be tolerated which is reflected by our active participation in the investigation.” The case will be prosecuted by the District Attorney’s Anti-Corruption Unit. A trial date has not yet been scheduled.
State Rep. Karen Bennett honors Fairfield’s retiring pastor, Rev. Micheal Benton
S
tate Rep. Karen Bennett, District 94, recently honored Fairfield Baptist Church’s retiring pastor, the Rev. Micheal Benton, for his contributions to the community. Bennett presented a resolution saluting Rev. Benton for 41 years of pastoring at Fairfield. He was honored at the state Capitol and a reception was held for him, his wife, Dr. Y’vonne Benton, and several members of Fairfield. Fairfield Baptist Church, located at 6133 Redan Road, Lithonia, was established in 1885. Benton was the fifth pastor to serve the church. He retired on Dec 31, 2017, after serving as Fairfield’s
pastor since 1977. “I felt it was important to recognize the contributions Pastor Benton has made as the spiritual leader of his congregation and the significant contributions that his ministry has made in the community,” said Bennett. “He, and Dr. Benton, have been mentors, leaders, champions of the family and a source of comfort, guidance and spiritual leadership to all.” Among his many accomplishments, Rev. Benton led the Fairfield through the construction of two sanctuaries and a family life center. He has licensed over 75 preachers and ordained five pastors and 40 deacons. His commitment
Mayor Lary leads the MARTA planning task force team with staff and consultants from WSP. The scope of the committee is to determine the viable transportation nodes and associated development in Stonecrest. Photo provided
and his powerful biblical teachings were pivotal to the growth of the church. Fairfield Baptist Church’s new pastor, the Rev. Melvin Brooks, will be installed on April 22.
Before accepting his new assignment, he served as pastor of the New Cedar Grove Life Changing Church in Buffalo, N.Y.
Rockdale Probate Judge Clarence Cuthpert appointed to state judicial council Rockdale County Probate Judge Clarence Cuthpert, Jr. has been appointed to serve on the Council of Probate Court Judges of Georgia’s Access, Fairness, Public Trust and Confidence Committee. As president of the council, Bibb County Probate Judge Sarah Harris made the appointment.
Judge Cuthpert, who hails from Savannah, earned his bachelor’s degree from Savannah State University, a master’s degree in public administration from Georgia Southern University and his law degree from Nova Southeastern University. Prior to being elected by
the citizens of Rockdale County as their probate judge, Judge Cuthpert ran his own law practice, specializing in civil law, discrimination, contract negotiations, landlord-tenant matters and personal injury cases. Judge Cuthpert is also a registered mediator and arbitrator.
Judge Clarence Cuthpert Jr
In celebration of Earth Day, show your love for a park project
In celebration of Earth Day, on Sunday, April 22, the DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will host volunteer projects throughout the county. Participants can join in projects and activities at local parks, recreation centers and other natural areas, including: nature walks and exploration, gardening, trail repair, mulching, cleanup, planting, weeding, invasive species removal and much more. Scheduled projects include: Friday, April 13 - Gresham Recreation Center, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 19 - Tobie Grant Recreation Center, 3 – 4 p.m. Friday, April 20 - Exchange Recreation Center and Rainbow Academy, 3 – 4 p.m. Hamilton Recreation Center, 5 – 6 p.m. • Lucious Sanders Recreation Center, 3:30 – 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 21 - Briarlake Forest Friends of the Park, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. • Hairston Friends of the Park, 9 a.m. – noon Sunday, April 22 -Pendergrast Friends of the Park, 9 a.m. – noon For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs public relations specialist, at 404-371-3643.
PAGE 4 • APRIL 14, 2018 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
JAY continued from page 1
Photo by Travis Hudgons/OCGNews
Discover Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area National treasure to host open house The Arabia Mountain Heritage Area Alliance, 3350 Klondike Road, Stonecrest, is accepting reservations for its upcoming open house, which will be held on Saturday, May 5, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Although there is no charge to attend, organizers want the public to RSVP by May 1 so that they can plan accordingly. Visitors are welcome to drop in, grab a snack, and speak with staff and board members to learn about the people and places that form the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area. The Heritage Area is an open landscape of breathtaking beauty, peace and wonder that is located about 20 minutes east of Atlanta. Dominated by two granite outcrops, it offers natural wonders, compelling history and heartpumping activity. Arabia is one of only 49 National Heritage Areas recognized by Congress for its
unique contribution to the nation’s development. Arabia encompasses portions of DeKalb, Rockdale and Henry counties, and includes more than 33 miles of paved hike/bike trails; historic and natural sites such as the Davidson-Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve, Panola Mountain State Park and Flat Rock Archives; and is home to the Monastery of the Holy Spirit. To RSVP, visit the link: http:// arabiaalliance.org/event/openhouse-trail-mixer-2018. Parking for the open house is available at the Vaughters’ Farm Trailhead near the office at 3366 Klondike Road. For more information, contact Angela Walton, director of marketing, at angela@ arabiaalliance.org or 404-998-8384 x5. To learn more about Arabia Alliance and the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area, visit www. arabiaalliance.org.
ningham provided great insight about the school district as Lary worked to create the city of Stonecrest. Cunningham threw his name in the hat and was a candidate for the District 4 City Council seat. “Jay was the first person that I discussed what the footprint for our schools would look like in the new city. He drove me around and we talked about the importance of education. He knew more about the schools than anybody,” said Lary. “I will miss him as a leader of this community and as a friend.” Lisa Cunningham, one of Jay Cunningham’s sisters, said their family is taking the loss of their loved one very hard. “We knew Jay had dealt with some health issues, but he was looking forward to a successful future. He had gotten a new wardrobe and he was looking good,” said Lisa Cunningham. “It’s just a bitter pill to swallow.” Lisa Cunningham said Jay, the eldest of seven children, was not only a brother, but a father figure to her and her siblings. “He helped raise the six of us when our father died,” said Lisa Cunningham. The Celebration of Life Services for Jess “Jay” Cunningham will be held Monday, April 16, 2018, noon, at The Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church, 1879 Glenwood Ave SE, Atlanta. Mr. Cunningham will be laid to rest at Hillandale Memorial Gardens, 6201 Hillandale Drive, Lithonia, GA 30058. Visitation will be held on Sunday, April 15, noon to 7 p.m., at the South DeKalb Chapel of Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home. The wake service will be from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Jesse “Jay” Cunningham Foundation at Wells Fargo bank.
Shirley Cunningham wrote this tribute to her eldest son, Jesse “Jay” Cunningham: Revelation 14:13 Then I heard a voice from heaven say, “Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on.” “Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.”
Jesse “Jay” Cunningham and his mother,
Shirley Cunningham. Photo provided My Dearest Jay, I will truly miss you, but your spirit will forever linger in my mind, heart and soul. You were our first born of seven children. You were the one who took the reins of the family after the death of your father. Through GOD’s grace and mercy, you continued to lead and guide the family. I am extremely thankful for the past seven months that GOD allowed me to spend quality time with you not knowing you would be going to your new home with the Lord. I couldn’t be prouder of the Man you grew up to be. You were STRONG, INDEPENDENT, CARING, THOUGHTFUL, FORTHRIGHT, GOD FEARING, LOVING, KIND, CONSIDERATE, SOCIABLE, and OUT SPOKEN. My Son, you walked softly, but carried a big stick.
JOB WELL DONE, MA
Think your doctor should listen to more than just your heart?
Stress or Physical Pain?
At Full Body Rejuvenation Center our staff offers the most effective quality health care to satisfy every individual's personal needs. Our combination of chiropractic therapy and physiotherapy allow us to focus on the physiological, as well as the biomechanical aspects of the body. Dr. Smith encourages you to come in and begin your healthy approach to pain management, weight loss or stress relief!
Chiropractic Treatment Physiotherapy Your path to Natural Health
We’re With You.
We believe in “Personal Care” at the doctor’s office. By partnering with a network of specialists and a state-of-the-art health system, we give you the care you need and the attention you deserve.
Bring in this ad and receive a
complementary chiropractic consultation
FULL BODY REJUVENATION CENTER
Candace White, DO
Lithonia, GA 30038
Bl ial
Litho nia Ind us tr
in S napf ger Woods Dr
278
DeKalb Med Pkwy
Pano la R d
Covin gton Hwy
Fairington Rd
20
Old Hillan
Call us for an appointment 770.987.2155
Chupp Rd Hillandale Dr
MOST MAJOR INSURANCES AND OBAMA CARE ACCEPTED!
Susan Lee, NP
Accepting New Patients
vd
3636 Panola Rd, Ste B
Carmen Echols, MD
dale Dr
Meet the doctors! Watch our video at lithoniaprimarycare.com 5910 Hillandale Dr.,Suite 301 Lithonia, GA 30058
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
APRIL 14, 2018 • PAGE 5
Stonecrest Library to present teen poetry contest honoring “Bluesologist” Gil Scott-Heron The Stonecrest Library is celebrating the work of renowned “Bluesologist” Gil Scott-Heron with a poetry contest for teens and tweens. This creative writing experience is hosted by DeKalb County’s own award-winning poet and writer Gwen Russell Green on April 17, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at the library, 3123 Klondike
Road, Stonecrest. The competition, open to ages 11-19, will offer first- and second-place cash prizes of $100 and $50 respectively. Teens and tweens are invited to compete by writing an original poem or essay on the theme, “No matter how far wrong you’ve gone, you can always
Registration underway for Senior Olympic Games Registration is underway for DeKalb County’s 32 Annual Senior Olympic Games. The competitions, open to seniors ages 50 and older, will be held at various venues on May 2 – 11. The kickoff begins at 10 a.m., Exchange Recreation Center, 2771 Columbia Drive, Decatur. The Olympic-style sports festival will include free-throw basketball, bowling, golf, horseshoes, track and field, billiards, swimming, table tennis and water volleyball. Events will be held at various venues across the county. Participants are encouraged to compete as a team or enter individual events. Gold, silver and bronze medals will be awarded to the top three finishers in each event. Seniors needing special assistance regarding transportation should call MARTA Mobility at 404-848-5389. To complete an application, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks, click on “Programs and Events,” then click on the 2018 Senior Olympic Entry Form link. All applications must be submitted by April 27 to: DeKalb County Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs, ATTN: DeKalb County Senior Olympics, 1950 West Exchange Place, Suite 400, Tucker, GA 30084. The competitions, open to residents of DeKalb and surrounding counties, is part of National Older Americans Month, which is celebrated in May. For more information, contact Dawn Cribb or LaShanda Davis, Recreation, and Parks and Cultural Affairs , at 404-371-6295 or 404-371-3643.
turn around.” The quote is featured in Scott-Heron’s song, “I’m New Here” from his last commercially released album. Contestants’ poetry or essay that interprets the theme should be 150 words or less. The guidelines are as follows: Include your name and contact information at the top.
Use the theme quote in the title. Do not exceed 150 words. Writers may perform up to 3 poems. Writers will perform their piece(s) for an audience. For more information, call the library at 770482-3838 or e-mail Lylah Lockridge, branch manager, at lockridgeL@ dekalblibrary.org.
CITY OF STONECREST PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, APRIL 3RD 2018 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, APRIL 16TH 2018 AT 6:00 P.M. CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 The following Land Use Petition located within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above. LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
SLUP 17-0002 Alfie Igbadume 3185 Evans Mill Road R-100 (Residential Med Lot) District R-100 (Residential Med Lot) District Request Special Land Use Permit to operate child care institution.
LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
SLUP 18-001 Nicole Harris 5951 Fairington Farms Lane MR-1 (Medium Density Residential) District MR-1 (Medium Density Residential) District Request Special Land Use Permit to operate child care institution.
LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
RZ-18-001 Bernard Knight TRACT “A” 1882 Coffee Road M (Light Industrial) District M-2 (Heavy Industrial) District Conditional Request to rezoning property to M-2 Conditional
TEXT AMENDMENT: PETITIONER: PROPOSED AMENDMENT:
TMOD 18-0002 City Council Amendment to (Industrial) “Parking Regulations” Chapter 27 Article VI Sec. 6.1.3
PAGE 6 • APRIL 14, 2018 WWW.OCGNEWS.COM
Rockdale’s Constitutional Corner
What is year’s support and to whom does it apply?
By Judge Clarence Cuthpert, Jr. Rockdale Probate Judge When a person dies (decedent) with or without a Will, and is survived by a spouse, minor children, or both, those individuals are entitled to an allowance out of the estate of the decedent. This allowance is called “years support,” defined in the law as property that is set aside for the family’s support and maintenance
for the period of 12 months from the date the decedent died. Year’s support is based on the public policy of providing support for the family of the decedent before allowing the estate to be distributed to creditors and other distributees. With a few exceptions, year’s support has the highest priority of claims against the decedent’s estate. Because the year’s support process can be more complex than the issues addressed in this article, you are encouraged to seek legal counsel when filing a petition for the same. The surviving spouse of the decedent can apply for year’s support unless he or she has remarried after the decedent’s death. However, if a decedent died with a Will that made provision
for his or her spouse in lieu of year’s support, the surviving spouse must make an election of one or the other. The decedent’s minor children may apply for year’s support (this includes adopted children or children born out of wedlock) if they are under age 18 and not married. A minor child’s parent, legal guardian, or guardian ad litem may also file on behalf of the child. In order to receive year’s support, the spouse or children must file a petition within 24 months of the decedent’s death. The petition must be filed in the county where the decedent was domiciled at the time of death. If the decedent was not domiciled in Georgia, the petition may be filed in any county in which the
decedent owned property. If any objections to the petition are filed, the probate court will hold a hearing to determine how much property, if any, will be awarded as year’s support. If no objection is filed, the probate court will award the property requested in the petition. The probate court may make separate awards of property to the surviving spouse and the minor children. The probate court may award year’s support as to property located inside or outside the county where the decedent was domiciled at the time of death. Title to property both inside and outside the county where the decedent was domiciled at the time of death shall vest in the surviving spouse, and/
or children. As elected in the petition, property taxes accrued in the year of the decedent’s death, or in the year in which the petition for year’s support is filed, shall be divested if the real property is set apart for year’s support. The information included herein is only intended to provide a basic understanding of year’s support. This information is not all inclusive, and should not be used as or considered to be legal advice. Throughout each month, the clerk of courts, tax commissioner, sheriff and probate judge—Rockdale’s elected constitutional officers—discuss topics relevant to their respective roles.
Rotary honors outstanding RCPS seniors The Rockdale County Rotary Club and Conyers Rotary Club honored Rockdale County Public School high school seniors with top performances in 11 subject areas during its annual Outstanding Senior Awards ceremony on April 12. The awards were announced during the Rotary Club’s luncheon, which was held at Conyers First United Methodist. Interact Club Scholarship winner Rachel Hill (RMSST) and finalist Kendal Hill (RMSST) were also honored.
LEGAL
Rockdale County High School and Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology winners and officials Rockdale County High School Kenecia Smith (Art) Janiece Stewart (Science) Rachel Hill (Interact Club Scholarship winner) Jasmin Vasquez-Sifuentes (Foreign Language) Javion Rolland (Math) Ariel Alvarado (ROTC) Erin Wilson (Music) Wiletta Eley (English) Lamont McGill (PE)
Annalesia Law (CTAE) Taya Bluett (Performing Arts Rockdale Magnet School for Science and Technology Matthew York (Math) Laney “Toni” Norton (Science) Heritage High School Winners Khalil Cooper (PE) Sarah Smith (ROTC) Elijah McWilliams (Performing Arts) Jessica Batey (Art) Hector Castro (Career Technical and Agriculture Education) Lena Curtis (Math) Ronan Fitzgerald (Social Studies)
CREDIT REPAIR
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCGNews
Caroline Dipzinski (English) Gabriel St. Jean (Science) Robert Siggal IV (Foreign Language) Dante Smith (Music) Salem High School Winners Shekinah White (Foreign Language) Christian Peralta (Social Studies) Octavia Herbert (Science) Nazmokeem Harvey (Performing Arts) Tionne Nicely (ROTC) Demetrious Sampson (Music) Brionne Butler (Career Technical and Agriculture Education) Jordan Moreno (English) Shadaymona Jackson (Art) Not pictured: Zachary Lee (PE)
YOUR AD HERE
WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/OCGNEWS
APRIL 14, 2018 • PAGE 7
On Common Ground News Marketplace LAWN CARE
HEALTH SERVICES
CHURCH
HAIR SALON
HEALTH SERVICES
We cater to the entire family. Gum Treatments Tooth Colored Fillings Oral Surgery Cosmetic Bonding & Veneers Crowns, Bridges & Dentures Root Canals Implants We Accept Most Insurance Plans Peachcare & Medicaid Emergency Walk-In Time Available
900 N. Hairston Rd. Suite B Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-294-8500 Spalding Gentle Dentistry 6460 Spalding Drive Norcross, GA 30092 770-849-0006
PAGE 8 • APRIL 14, 2018
WWW.OCGNEWS.COM