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VOLUME 25 NUMBER 11
JUNE 14, 2019 Stay connected
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Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett, Henry and Rockdale Counties
DeKalb community mourns Arabia High student who collapsed, died after workout By Valerie J. Morgan
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colorful memorial of balloons and flowers were placed on a bank outside of the Zaxby’s restaurant where 17-year-old Elyse Purefoy worked as a cashier in Stone Mountain. The rising senior at Arabia Mountain High School, who was a member of the school’s dance team, collapsed on June 10 during a summer training workout and was taken to a hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Purefoy was a straight-A student who worked part-time at Zaxby’s. Kimberly Cuffie, one of Zaxby’s shift managers, said workers at the restaurant were shocked and saddened by Purefoy’s death. “We are all praying for her family,” said Cuffie, who described Purefoy as a quiet, shy girl. Cuffie said that Zaxby is hosting a fundraiser to help the family with funeral expenses. The fundraiser and a balloon release will be held on Saturday, June 15, between 5 – 8 p.m. at the Zaxby’s located at 451 S. Deshon Road, Stone Mountain. “We just want to do whatever we can to help the family,” Cuffie said.
Elyse Purefoy
Photo by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
Centenarian celebrates 104 years of living, laughing, dancing By Mackenzie N. Morgan
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eanette Everhart is not your average centenarian. The spry 104-year-old brought in her birthday laughing, singing and cutting up on the dance floor. The celebration took place on June 13 at the Traditions Health and Rehabilitation Center amidst an intimate circle of family, friends and well-wishers. Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary attended the celebration and danced a little jig with Everhart. The mayor beamed as he presented a bouquet of flowers to potentially the oldest centenarian in the City of Stonecrest.
SEE PUREFOY page 10
SEE CELEBRATES page 11
Gov. Kemp makes historic appointments for insurance Commissioner, Cobb District Attorney
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wo minorities made history in Georgia with appointments by Gov. Brian Kemp’s on June 12. Doraville Police Chief and Brigadier General John King was named Georgia’s Insurance Commissioner and Safety Fire Commissioner, the first Hispanic to serve in that capacity. Cobb Judicial Circuit’s Chief Magistrate Judge Joyette Holmes was named the incoming District Attorney. She is the first AfricanAmerican and first female to serve as District Attorney in Cobb. Holmes succeeds Victor Reynolds, who was appointed in February as director of the Georgia Bureau of Investigations by Kemp. “John King is a decorated soldier, passionate community advocate, and devoted law enforcement leader with decades of experience,” said Kemp. “As Georgia’s next Insurance Commissioner and Safety Fire Official, John will put hardworking Georgians first by shaking up the status quo. He will restore faith in the Department of Insurance and will always do the right thing – even when no one is looking. Chief King
John King
Joyette Holmes
has once again answered the call for public service. I know he will continue to be a bold leader and champion for the people.” “Judge Holmes is a servant leader in her community, and I am very excited to select her as Cobb’s new District Attorney,” said Kemp. “I know Joyette will put the safety of Cobb families first and always do the right thing - even when no one is watching.” A native of Mexico, King has worked diligently to keep his community safe. He created
and implemented several youth education, crime-prevention, and anti-gang programs. To help build strong relationships with diverse populations, Commissioner King hired bilingual officers, place numerous languages on his fleet of police cars, and partnered with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce to enhance economic growth in the community. Commissioner King is an American hero serving as a Brigadier General in the U.S. Army National Guard as Director of the
Joint Staff for the Georgia DOD. He is the former Commander of the 48th Infantry Brigade Combat Team and has deployed to BosniaHerzegovina, Iraq and Afghanistan. During his long tenure in the military, King earned a Bronze Star Medal and Combat Infantry Badge, meritorious service medals, and a NATO award for his service in both Bosnia and Afghanistan. He also received the El Salvador gold medal for achievement in 2006. King received his Bachelor of Arts degree in criminal justice and public administration from Brenau University and a master’s degree in strategic studies from the U.S. Army War College. Holmes is a native of Valdosta, Georgia. She earned dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and criminal justice. Holmes earned her law degree from the University of Baltimore School of Law in Maryland. Before her appointment as the Chief Magistrate Judge for Cobb County Judicial Circuit, Holmes served as prosecutor under District Attorney D. Victor Reynolds and Solicitor Barry Morgan. Prior to that, she represented clients in in her private practice.
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DeKalb Sheriff’s Office arrest murder suspect Joe Eakmon Harris The DeKalb County Sheriff's Office Fugitive Unit has arrested 37-year-old Joe Eakmond Morris of Decatur on a charge of felony murder. An arrest warrant issued on June 5 alleges that Morris caused the death of Rico Jabar King, 35, of Monterey Drive by shooting him multiple times with a handgun on June 4 on Belvedere Lane in Decatur. No probable cause was given for the incident. Morris has a long history of various charges including drug trafficking, battery, family violence, theft by receiving stolen property, robbery and proJoe E. Morris bation violation dating back to early 2000. DeKalb Sheriff's Office deputies located Morris at a Decatur hotel, where he was apprehended and transported to the DeKalb County Jail without incident.
Fugitive armed robbery suspect Calvin Smith is captured Conyers Police captured armed robbery fugitive Calvin Smith on June 7. Police arrested Smith after he and another man, Trayvion Clark, ran from a vacant house. Police pursued the men on foot chasing them through Olde Town, Sgt. Kim Lucas said. Code Enforcement officers and Trayvion Clark Calvin Smith a gang detective had observed fresh gang-related graffiti on a vacant residence. and were meeting with a homeowner in front of the house when the pair ran out of a back door. A foot chase ensued and a perimeter was quickly established to locate the pair. Cadet Shelton Ragland spotted Smith running out of the woodline and Officer Haygood placed him in custody. Officer Scruggs and K9 Eddie were able to flush Tayvion Clark out of the woodline and he was taken into custody as well. Smith and Clark were taken to the Rockdale County Jail. The men are now facing multiple charges in addition to Smith's original armed robbery charge that occurred on May 24.
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DeKalb County gets ready for 2020 Census Count 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
Commissioner Larry Johnson to lead county’s Census Committee
By Sarita Mason OCG News Intern DeKalb County District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson is gearing up for the DeKalb 2020 Census. Johnson, who has been appointed chairman of the DeKalb 2020 Census Complete Count Committee by the DeKalb Board of Commissioners, says every effort will be made to educate citizens on the importance of the 2020 Census report. “We will knock on doors, visit churches, nursing homes, attend events and more to gain a 100 percent response rate for this upcoming report,” said Johnson. “It is very important that the citizens are aware
Larry Johnson
of the impact their response to the Census will make on their daily lives.” Johnson said his committee is charged with developing a plan to educate the public about the importance of the Census, which is conducted every 10 years to count America’s population and collect data on race, education, employment and
other aspects of life that will help determine policies and federal funding for programs and initiatives. Johnson said the funding is critical for DeKalb, which is Georgia’s third-largest county(estimated population 756,558) following Gwinnett County(estimated population 927,781) and Fulton County, which has a population of 1 million people. Johnson said he plans to work with the DeKalb Board of Commissioners to recruit others to serve with him on the DeKalb 2020 Census Complete Count Committee. Johnson said he is seeking leaders who are strongly connected to DeKalb and its communities to help ensure
every resident is counted. “This process requires all hands on deck and we need all DeKalb residents to participate,” said Johnson. “I want to make sure people understand that this affects us for the next 10 years.” DeKalb could receive funding of $985 million per year for 10 years if the county has a 100 percent response rate, county officials stated in a news release. DeKalb had a 72 percent response rate for the 2010 Census report, resulting in a loss of $275 million in funding, officials said. For the first time, the Census will be digital. Residents will be able respond to the Census online, by phone or by mail, officials said.
DeKalb County among three pilot sites to fight HIV epidemic By Mackenzie N. Morgan Staff Writer DeKalb County, home to one of the highest HV positive populations in the nation, has been selected as one of three pilot sites in the country to serve as models for an initiative to fight the HIV epidemic. Baton Rouge and Baltimore, also burdened with high HIV populations, have been selected to pilot treatment and prevention programs. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC), which is headquartered in Atlanta, has announced it will spend $1.5 million with the DeKalb Board of Health on the “Georgia: Ending the Epidemic” campaign. The funding will be used for patient treatment and to promote the use of pre-exposure
prophylaxis (PrEP), a medication taken daily to block HIV by those at risk of infection, such as partners of HIV-positive persons. Other initiatives include expanding testing activities, establishing an HIV intervention hotline and providing access to clean syringes via syringe exchange programs to reduce new HIV cases among HIV-negative intravenous drug users. “I think there is still a lot of stigma surrounding HIV. The biggest group of HIV positive people in Georgia is men who have sex with men. Coupled with the opioid crises, this doubles over as a very large sum of people at increased risk for infection,” said Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford, director of the DeKalb Board of Health.
The funding stems from President Trump’s “Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative” to reduce new HIV infections by 75% in the next five years and 90% in the next 10 years. I In 2017, Georgia had the second-highest rate of new HIV diagnoses, and more than 58,700 people are currently living with HIV in the state, officials said. "We are hoping that as a pilot, our intervention efforts can be duplicated around the country and help others secure funding based on success in DeKalb,” said Ford. Georgia Gov. Brian P. Kemp, U.S. Senators Johnny Isakson and David Perdue, DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond and Georgia Department of
SEE EPIDEMIC page 9
Stonecrest District 4 Town Hall set June 19 Stonecrest City Councilman George Turner, District 4, will hold a town hall meeting on June. 19, 6 to 8 p.m., at Salem Panola Road Library, 5137 Salem Road. The meeting will include information on the development at Browns Mill and Panola Roads intersection, the next steps regarding the SPLOST program, DeKalb’s transportation master plan and discussion on the committee for District 4’s overlay protection. The community is encouraged to attend the meeting. For more information, Councilman Turner can be reached at turnerg1@comcast.net or 404-886-2053.
CITY OF STONECREST BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, JUNE 18TH 2019 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 The following Variance Petition located within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above. LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
V-19-002 Colin Jones 3585 River Rock Road RSM (Small Lot Residential Mix) District To encroach into the rear yard setback for the construction of a deck. *Applicant was administratively held from May BZA hearing.
George Turner
Sanfoka Community drive-through food pantry set The Sankofa Community Food Pantry is hosting a drive-through food pantry on Saturday, June 15, 12 to 3 p.m. at 1240 Sigman Road. The free food giveaway, which will be held every third Saturday, is open to the community and will feature fresh fruits and vegetables along with other items. Attendees are asked to drive their grocery-ready vehicles behind the building to pick up their items. No ID required.
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COVINGTON
Food & Film @ the Field The City of Covington, Chamber of Commerce and Newton County Recreation Commission have partnered to provide "Food & Film @ the Field" on Friday, June 21, 6 p.m. at Legion Field, 3173 Mill Street, Covington. The first 200 guests can enjoy a free hot dog, chips and drink prior to the screening of "Ralph Breaks the Internet" on a large outdoor screen. This event is monthly during the summer season. For more information, visit cityofcovington.org DEKALB
YOUR SUMMER GUIDE TO FREE FAMILY EVENTS CONYERS
Free outdoor movies set in Olde Town Conyers Free family fun is in store for Conyers residents with the popular return of the Olde Town Summer Film Series this summer. Free outdoor movies will be shown at the Olde Town Pavilion, 949 S. Main Street, at the Randal S. Mills City Center Park on the following Saturdays: June 15 (“Ralph Wrecks the Internet 2”); July 20 (“Incredibles 2”); and Aug. 17 (“How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World”). The July 20 movie event also features a “Touch a Truck.” Public safety officials from the Conyers Police Department, Rockdale County Sheriff’s Office, Rockdale County Fire Department, and National EMS will be present with their vehicles to allow children to climb inside and explore. Children are invited to arrive as early as 7 p.m. for free games and crafts. The movies are scheduled to begin at sunset, or at approximately 8:45 p.m. Families are encouraged to bring blankets and lawn chairs. Concessions will be available on-site by Ice Days of Conyers and at Olde Town Conyers restaurants. There is also a free indoor movie showing the following week, June 22 ,at the Rockdale County Government Complex, 1400 Parker Road, Conyers. The featured film is “Lego Ninjago” and starts at dusk. The 2019 Olde Town Summer Film Series is sponsored by Conyers First United Methodist Church, Ice Days of Conyers, and Edward Jones – Tim Johnson’s office in Olde Town Conyers. For more information, call 770-278-7529.
Decatur Beach Party brings sand to the city Kick off the summer at the Decatur Beach Party on Friday, June 21, 5 to 11 p.m., at the Olde Depot District on E. Howard Avenue and N. Candler Street in downtown Decatur. Gather up the beach toys and come ready to play in 80 tons of imported sand and enjoy a variety of kids’ activities along the boardwalk, including a toddler play area, rock climbing wall, dunk tank, and more from 5 to 9 p.m. The party will continue into the night with live music, food trucks, a beer garden and more. The event is sponsored by the Decatur Business Association and is free and open to the public. Individual fees for food and certain activities may apply. For more information, visit DecaturDBA.com. ATLANTA
Fox Theatre Kicks off 2019 Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival The Fox Theatre presents the 2019 Coca-Cola Summer Film Festival with a screening and sing-along of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” for the film’s 30th anniversary. After opening night, the festival will include early and evening shows including “Saturday Morning Cartoons,” “To Kill a Mockingbird,” a “Mary Poppins” sing-along, and “The Wizard of Oz” which will be celebrating its 80th anniversary. Patrons will enjoy movies under the theatre’s 26-by-56-foot screen. Advanced discount tickets are available online at foxtheater.org. For the full film festival schedule or to purchase tickets, visit FoxTheatre.org.
Conyers First United Methodist Church to host “Fun with the Sun” beach party Conyers First United Methodist Church will host a four-day Bible adventure and beach bash June 18-20 at the Olde Towne Pavilion from 6 to 8 p.m. There will be singing, dancing, games, snacks and Christ-based education. The event will culminate with a beach bash on Friday, June 21, on the front lawn of Conyers First United Methodist Church, 921 N. Main Street. Each night, parents are invited to stay or to drop off rising kindergarten to rising 6thgrade students.
LIVE on Commercial Street Commercial Street will close to vehicle traffic and open to pedestrians for an evening of fun every Saturday this summer through the end of August in OldeTown. The event, which takes place at 901 Railroad Street, will include live entertainment. On June 15, enjoy “Downtown Abby & The Echoes,” outdoor dining, games and family fun in the street. On June 22, Cake Jam performs. The series is presented by Tin Plate, The Celtic Tavern and Sweet Treat Depot. For more information on the series, visit conyersga.com or call 770-602-2606. Conyersga.com
UGA to present “Fun with Fresh Food” Join UGA Extension Services for a family fun event " Fun with Fresh Food' on Thursday, June 20, 11 a.m., at the Nancy Guinn Memorial Library, 864 Green Street in Conyers. Learn how to eat the rainbow and enjoy taste tests, demonstrations and free produce. The featured color of the week is yellow. This is a recurring event that takes place every Thursday through July. For more information, call 770278-7373.
DeKalb County Board of Health Provides Back-to-School Services
We are Here for Your Health! Friendly, affordable health services, including: • • • •
Childhood Immunizations (Form 3231) Hearing, Vision, Nutrition, and Dental Screenings (Form 3300) Birth Certificates for Children Born in Georgia Sports Physicals Extended Hours for ALL Services at ALL Centers Saturday, July 13 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Mon., July 29, Tues., July 30, & Thurs., August 1 Mon., August 5, through Wed., August 7 8:15 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. Normal Business Hours Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Clifton Springs Health Center East DeKalb Health Center North DeKalb Health Center T. O. Vinson Health Center
(404) 244-2200 (770) 484-2600 (770) 454-1144 (404) 294-3762
For More Information: (404) 294-3700 www.dekalbhealth.net
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JUNE 14, 2019 • PAGE 5
ChurchesNow.org isina June, digital display ChurchesNow.org is coming Churches Now is a digital displayfor network for Churches. network Churches. For info on Churches Now call 678-770-7851. For more more info on Churches Now call 678-770-7851. Rockdale County
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Springfield Baptist extends community outreach Springfield Baptist Church of Rockdale County, 1877 Iris Drive, Conyers, will host its free monthly food pantry and distribution event on June.18, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The pantry is open to those in need. I.D is required for onsite registration. Mark your calendar for the other following Springfield events: The Springfield Small Business Workshop, will be held on June. 22, 9 a.m. to noon, at Springfield Baptist Church, 1877 Iris Drive SE, Conyers. The ministry is inviting all aspiring, start-up and established business owners to meet with and discuss marketing plans with industry experts. Admission is free. The Springfield Zaxby’s Back to School Spirit Night will be held at two locations on July 16, 5 to 8 p.m:, 1871 Highway 138 S.E., Conyers and 429 Sigman Road, Conyers. A portion of sales will be donated to support school supplies for students and the A.R. Barksdale Boys and Girls Club in Rockdale County. Springfield will donated $20,000 to the club at its worship service on June 23, 11 a.m.
Voices of Faith Celebrates Homecoming 2019 The rain didn’t stop the shine of members and visitors attending the Voices of Faith Ministries 2019 tailgate homecoming event in Stone Mountain on June 9. Visitors and congregation members took selfies and enjoyed Rockdale County’s Salem High School drum line, and Voices of Faith’s liturgical dancers and Praise and Worship Team before Bishop Gary Hawkins, Sr., founder of Voices of Faith, delivered a rousing sermon. “We praise God for all who attended our homecoming. We had 22 souls that were saved on that day. It was an awesome worship experience and tailgate event,” said Bishop Hawkins. The tailgate celebration was held inside the church’s Family Life Center. Meeting rooms and the church’s banquet hall were filled with barbecue ribs and chicken, fried fish, macaroni and cheese, baked beans and other Southern picnic dishes for all to enjoy. Voices of Faith holds the homecoming tailgate annually in June. This year marked the 7th year the event has been held.
SPRINGFIELD BAPTIST CHURCH
Hillcrest Church of Christ
1939 Snapfinger Rd, Decatur, Ga 30035 Hillcrestcoc.net
SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICES 7:30AM: WORSHIP SERVICE 9:30AM: SUNDAY SCHOOL 11:00AM: WORSHIP SERVICE 1877 IRIS DRIVE, SE, CONYERS GA 30013 PHONE: 770.929.1111
VOICES OF FAITH MINISTRIES
WORSHIP SERVICE TIMES: Sunday Mornings 10am to 12pm Sunday Evenings 5pm to 6pm
PASTOR ERIC WENDEL LEE, SR.
Antioch-Lithonia Baptist Church
BIBLE CLASSES: Sunday Mornings 9am to 9:45am Wednesday Nights 7pm to 8pm Thursday mornings 10 am to 11am
Come join us in celebrating our 74th Anniversary on Saturday June 22nd from 3 to 6 pm for an Acapella Concert featuring The Hillcrest Singers.
STONE MOUNTAIN CAMPUS SUNDAY @ 8AM & 11:30AM WEDNESDAY @ 7:30PM 2500 ROCKBRIDGE RD SW STONE MOUNTAIN, GA 30087 770-498-5850 ROCKDALE CAMPUS SUNDAY @ 9:30 WEDNESDAY @ 6PM 1290 SIGMAN RD CONYERS, GA 30012 678-374-5040
BISHOP GRAY HAWKINS, SR./ FOUNDER & OVERSEER
Join Us For
Worship Sundays 10AM Thursdays 7PM
James C. Ward, Pastor First Lady Idell Clark Ward Sunday morning Services 7:30AM & 10:30AM Bible Study Wednesday 12 Noon & 7:00PM
2152 Rock Chapel • Lithonia, GA 30058 • 770-482-1277
“Where the Spirit of God Lives”
Founder & Senior Pastor Vincent Harris, Sr. First Lady LaTonya K. Harris
1140 Reynolds Street 2nd Floor Covington, GA 30014 770-362-6178 | houseofbethelcc.org
Your ChurCh Ad here!
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Advertising online is a costeffective and highly visible way of promoting your Church. Through churchesnow.org, we can help you share your unique Sunday worship experiences, Bible Study, Vacation Bible Study, special events such as your anniversaries, revivals, conferences, concerts, missionary trips, Men’s and Women’s Day, etc. All packages include slide presentation, video and ad in Churches Now. BONUS: 3x3 print ad runs for a month; Web ad displays for a month.
FOR MORE INFO CALL: 678-770-7851
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JUNE 14, 2019 • PAGE 9
2019 International Trailblazer Awards recipients announced
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ABY INC. has announced its honorees for the 2019 International Trailblazer Awards, which will be held July 21 at the Atlanta Commerce Club, 191 Peachtree Street, Atlanta. The awards recognize outstanding trailblazers who are transforming communities around them and raise scholarships for outstanding high school students. “We are excited to celebrate 11 years of honoring outstanding community leadership. The annual program helps us to award scholarships to send our young people to college,” said Ceasar Gaiters, co-founder of JABY. Last year, the nonprofit provided three $1,500 scholarships to high school students and
two $5,000 grants to community groups instrumental in making a difference in the lives of others. The 2019 honorees are: DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Clarence F. Seeliger New Birth Missionary Baptist Church Pastor Jamal Bryant Western Air Vice President Sherrexcia Rolle Wake County, N.C. District Judge Ashleigh Dunston-Parker Veteran Travies Mims Tucker High School’s Community Angel Carolyn Collins.
The event will include musical performances by R&B artist Ericka Lee and Atlanta artist Tunisia Bowen, along with a performance by Mentalist Mark Johnson. The VIP red carpet event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a silent auction. The Red Carpet will be hosted by WSB-TV’s Veronica Waters. The awards program will begin at 7 p.m. with the doors opening at 6:30 p.m. To purchase tickets for the event, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-international-trailblazer-awards-tickets-48530709659 ot No ticket sales at the door. For more information, call 404-913-9791.
Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce to present Geoffrey Lofton, SBA coordinator, on June 19 Geoffrey Lofton, program coordinator with University of Georgia’s Small Business Development Center, will serve as the guest speaker for the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce upcoming luncheon. The luncheon meeting will be held on June 19, 11:30 a.m., at This Is It Banquet Hall, 2853 Panola Road, Stonecrest. Lofton will discuss the GLCC partnership as well as service offerings available at UGA’s Small Business Development Center in DeKalb County. Registration for the luncheon is $20 in advance or $25 at the door Chamber members are admitted free with advance registration. Visit https://www.greaterlithoniachamber.com CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JULY 8, 2019 AT 7:00 PM CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BOULEVARD STONECREST, GA 30038 The Department of Community Affairs and the Atlanta Regional Commission has completed the regional review of the Revised 2019 Comprehensive Plan for the City of Stonecrest. DCA/ARC determined that the Revised Comprehensive Plan 2038 conforms to the Minimum Standards and Procedures for Local Comprehensive Planning. The Mayor and City Council will hold a public hearing to adopt the approved Plan at its regularly scheduled meeting.
Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, Attorney Mawuli Davis, and his wife, Jana Johnson-Davis, at the Georgia State University’s College of Law awards ceremony.
Decatur Attorney Mawuli Davis receives “Ben F. Johnson, Jr. Public Service Award”
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ttorney Mawuli Davis of the Davis Bozeman Law Firm in Decatur is the 2019 recipient of the Ben F. Johnson, Jr. Public Service Award, the highest awarded presented by Georgia State University’s College of Law. The award is presented each year to a Georgia attorney whose overall accomplishments reflect the high tradition of founding dean, Ben F. Johnson, Jr., Wendy F. Hensel, Dean of Georgia State College of Law, applauded Davis for his service to the community. "Many of us talk about the need to fight injustice, to be better people ourselves, and to help other people lead productive lives. Mawuli, however, is someone who lives that ethic every day in everything he does, " Hensel said. Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, who attended the awards program, said Davis has a “contagious passion for people who don’t often have avoice in our community.” "To choose to practice the people's law is a very special calling and a very important calling because it's not one that many people would make. Quite often, people will chase the money and forget our communities. But you, Mawuli, have made sure that not only are our communities not forgotten but that we don't forget our communities as well,” Mayor Bottoms said.
Congratulations to Stonecrest’s leadership, staff and The Collaborative Firm for the development of its very first Comprehensive Plan! For more information, contact Plez Joyner, Assistant City Manager with the City of Stonecrest at pjoyner@stonecrestga.gov, or Mary Darby, Director of Planning with The Collaborative Firm at mdarby@tcfatl.com.
CITY OF STONECREST PLANNING COMMISSION, PUBLIC HEARING: TUESDAY, JULY 2ND 2019 AT 6:00 P.M. STONECREST CITY HALL, 3120 STONECREST BLVD LITHONIA, GA 30038 CITY OF STONECREST MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL, PUBLIC HEARING: MONDAY, JULY 22ND 2019 AT 7:00 P.M. CITY OF STONECREST, 3120 STONECREST BLVD STONECREST, GA 30038 The following petition(s)/amendment(s) within the City of Stonecrest is scheduled for Public Hearings as stated above. LAND USE PETITION: PETITIONER: LOCATION: CURRENT ZONING: PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT:
RZ-19-005 Jose Ayala 2193 Panola Road R-100 (Residential Med Lot) District Applicant is requesting to rezone 2.6 acres to C-1 (Local Commercial) for the development of a commercial building.
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DeKalb History Center sets “Silk and Stich” exhibit Join the DeKalb County History Center (DHC) for the opening reception of “Silk and Stich: An Exploration of Embellishment in Fashion.” The event is free and will be held Thursday, July 11, 6 to 8 p.m., at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse, 101 E. Court Square, Decatur. The exhibit offers a look at specific techniques of women’s fashion in DeKalb County throughout the late nineteenth to early twentieth century. The exhibit focuses on the changes in women’s fashion in response to different circumstances such as moving into the workforce and a desire for more comfortable clothing during that time.
PUREFOY continued from page 1 The city of Stonecrest held a moment of silence for the Purefoy family after learning of the student’s death during the City Council meeting at City Hall on June 10, the day she died. Arabia Mountain High School is located within the city of Stonecrest and people attending the meeting were shocked by the breaking news. “As a father of two sonse, it’s unimaginable for me to lose one of them. My heart goes out to the family. God bless them,” said Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary. At On Common Ground News’ deadline on June 13, Elyse Purefoy’s cause of death had not been determined by the DeKalb Medical Examiner. Meanwhile, the incident is under investigation. Students said Purefoy was running on the school’s field with other members of the dance team when she collapsed during a morning workout. Some students told news reporters that Purefoy asked for water during the training but was denied by the coach supervising the workout. The coach’s identity has not been released to the public. One mother and daughter, who spoke under anonymity, told Channel 11Alive that there is a culture of hazing and water deprivation among coaches overseeing the dance team’s training exercises. Members of the dance team have been called in to speak with the DeKalb School District’s police. Purefoy’s father, Henry “Hank” Purefoy, set up a Gofundme page to help with funeral expenses. As of June 13, the Gofundme campaign had raised $12, 002. Hank Purefoy expressed the family’s deep grief in a post on the Gofundme page: “Today started just like any other day. I made you breakfast and lunch, and hugged you and told you to have fun at dance training. I smiled as I saw you and your brother get in the car to drive you to practice, but who could have known that you would not be coming home to us. The doctors did their best to bring you back but your heart just stopped working. Elyse you are a beautiful spirit. And we will miss you so much.” Thank you to everyone who has called, prayed and shown support during our time of bereavement. There are no words to describe the hurt and loss we feel. We love you Elyse… Purefoy Family” In a letter to the Arabia Mountain High School family, Principal Rodney F. Swanson said: “Our hearts and thoughts are with the Purefoy family and all who knew and loved Elyse. Our school counselors were on-site today, and we will have additional grief counselors available tomorrow at the school for anyone needing support during this time. As additional information is shared by the family in reference to arrangements, we will share it with you. Our thoughts go out to the family during this time of need. I know we will come together to support, and lift one another as we remember Elyse.” DeKalb County School District officials released the following statement: “The entire DeKalb County School District community, and especially the Arabia Mountain High School family, mourns the passing of a member of the school’s dance team. Our hearts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time.”
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Pictured left to right, top to bottom: Rockdale County Board of Education Chairwoman Katrina Young, Vice-Chair Mandy North, members Wales Barksdale, Pamela Brown, Tony Dowdy, Heather Duncan, Sandra Jackson-Lett.
Rockdale Board of Education receives “exemplary” status from Georgia
T
he Rockdale County Board of Education (BOE) was recently honored as a 2019 Exemplary Board, the highest status in the Georgia School Boards Association (GSBA) Board Recognition
Program. “We are extremely proud that the Rockdale County Board of Education has earned Exemplary status each year this recognition has been awarded,” said RCPS Superintendent Dr. Terry Oatts. “This is the highest level of distinction conferred by the Georgia School Boards Association. Not only has our board exceeded the previous recognition program criteria, but it has also met the more rigorous criteria of the revised recognition program. This affirms our board’s commitment to world-class governance as well as the dedication of each member to facilitating optimal student learning, achievement, and growth for the students of Rockdale County Public Schools.” GSBA Board Recognition, a three-year, three-tiered program, is designed to showcase best practices in school governance and leadership to foster educational community cultures in order to advance student learning and achievement. Only 55 school boards out of 180 elected school boards in the state have earned the status of 2019 Exemplary Board. The Rockdale County BOE also earned Exemplary status in 2015, 2016, and 2018. The GSBA Board Recognition Program was paused during 2017 and revised to require an even higher level of commitment from school boards and individual members. The mission of GSBA is to ensure excellence in the governance of local school systems by providing leadership, advocacy and services, and by representing the collective resolve of Georgia’s 180 elected boards of education. Please visit www.gsba.com for more information.
Online registration now open for new DeKalb County students
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amilies who are new to the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) can now access the district's new online registration system. Parents or guardians can visit www.dekalbschoolsga.org/online-registration now, and navigate through a series of prompts to enter the vital information needed to ensure accurate school assignments and support services for their student. District officials said online registration currently is open to new students only. Students transferring within DCSD must withdraw from their current school and register at their new school. Parents of students returning to the same school must submit updated information to the school before the end of the school year or during summer registration. Online registration requires: • Parent Guardianship • Proof of residence in the DeKalb County School District – a current utility bill (gas, water, electric) or rent/lease agreement (or mortgage) in the parents’ name, or an affidavit will be needed • Certified copy of birth certificate, Passport, or I-94 (Kindergarten & firstgrade students must provide a birth certificate) • Immunization Certificate – form 3231 • Hearing, Vision, and Dental – form 3300; • Social Security card (you may complete a waiver) • School transcripts (if applicable) DCSD will also operate an in-person Online Registration site for those who need direct assistance. The site is located at the former Avondale High School, 1192 Clarendon Ave., Avondale Estates. The online registration site will be open Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. until 4 p.m., through June 20, and July 8-25. The site will be closed June 21 through July 7. For more information, contact the Online Registration Call Center at 678-676-0998 or visit www.dekalbschoolsga.org.
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JUNE 14, 2019 • PAGE 11
DeKalb announces proposed property tax increase Benchmark millage rate stays flat The DeKalb County Governing Authority announces its intention to increase 2019 property taxes this year by 4.22 percent over the rollback millage rate. DeKalb County has seven separate tax levies. Two of those levies (the general and hospital funds) are used in the required calculation for the rollback rate. The other tax levies (police, fire, designated, and two bond funds), when combined with the general and hospital levies, produce the same benchmark millage rate of 20.810 mills from last year. The combined millage rate for the general and hospital funds will exceed the rollback millage rate. However, the method used to calculate the rollback rate does not take into account offsets in those rates or factor in the credit given by the equalized homestead option sales tax beginning in 2018. When the current total digest of taxable property is prepared, Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 48-5-32.1 requires a rollback millage rate must be computed that will produce the same total revenue on the current year’s digest that last year’s millage rate would have produced had no reassessments occurred. The 2019 budget tentatively adopted by the DeKalb County Governing Authority requires a millage rate higher than the rollback millage rate, therefore, before the DeKalb County Governing Authority may finalize the tentative midyear budget and set a final millage rate, Official Code of Georgia Annotated § 48-5-32.1 requires three public hearings to be held to allow the public an opportunity to express their opinions on the increase. All citizens are invited to the public hearings on this tax increase to be held at the Manuel J. Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Dr., Decatur, on June 25, at 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. and on July 9, at 10 a.m.
CELEBRATES
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Photos by Glenn L. Morgan/OCG News
“Happy birthday,” Lary told Everhart, who asked him to dance with her, drawing laughter from family members. Before moving to the senior residence, Anderson lived in Stone Mountain with her granddaughter. A native of Washington, Georgia, Everhart was born in 1915 during the height of World War 1 and was the eldest of 12 children. Everhart has been around since the advent of Pyrex glass and sonar technology used to detect underwater adversaries during the war. Two of her siblings are still living and are 94 and 92 years old. She had two children, a son and a daughter, and worked as a nanny for a white doctor. At 104 years old, Everhart is steady on her feet, mentally sharp and even has a boyfriend named Mr. Willie, according to her granddaughter, Tammy Rufus. Rufus said her grandmother loved cooking and cleaning “back in the day,” and she enjoys Southern food, Pepsi and was overjoyed that President Obama “made the White House.” “It’s a blessing that she is 104 years old,” said Claudia Anderson, Everhart’s daughter.
DeKalb County kicks off Fresh on DeK Mobile Farmers Market DeKalb County Extension has launched the fifth season of Fresh on DeK, DeKalb County’s Mobile Farmers Market, which travels throughout the county offering nutrition education and fresh grown fruits and vegetables for sale. The season is open now through Sept. 20. Fresh on DeK's purpose is to improve the health of the community, the viability of local produce and to preserve the environment for future generations by providing access to fresh produce and nutritional education programming throughout DeKalb County. The market accepts EBT, credit cards and cash. For a detailed listing of locations in DeKalb County, visit www.freshondek.com. In addition to nutrition education, DeKalb County Extension’s programming focuses on horticulture, the environment, communities, youth and families. For more information about Fresh on DeK or to learn more about other programs and services, contact the DeKalb County Cooperative Extension office at 404-298-4080 or visit www.extension. uga.edu/county-offices/dekalb.html.
Fresh on DeK brings fresh fruits and vegetables to DeKalb County.
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