GwinnettForum | Number 23.33 | April 26, 2024
SISTER ACT WILL BE PRESENTED at the Lawrenceville Art Center’s Aurora Theatre from May 23 to June 23. It’s a rollicking presentation, sure to bring audiences plenty of rip-roaring fun. Those in the cast include BriAnne Knights, Jasmine Renee Ellis, Shelly McCook and Isa Martinez. It will be the final production in Aurora Theatre’s record-breaking Season 28. For more details, see Upcoming below.
IN THIS EDITION
TODAY’S FOCUS: Read what these candidates say about themselves
EEB PERSPECTIVE: Gwinnett should remove District Attorney from office
SPOTLIGHT: Centurion Advisory Group
FEEDBACK: Trump’s illness makes him unfit for presidency
UPCOMING: Sister Act comes to Aurora stage May 23-June 23
NOTABLE: County breaks ground on Beaver Ruin Wetlands
RECOMMENDED: The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
GEORGIA TIDBIT: As governor, Sanders’ years saw lots of economic activity
MYSTERY PHOTO: Warned in advance: Take care in identifying this mystery
CALENDAR: Drug Take Back Program to be held in Gwinnett on April 27
Read what these candidates say about themselves
Today GwinnettForum presents, in their own words, unedited answers from candidates in non-partisan elections in the May 21 Gwinnett voting. Each of the candidates were asked the same four questions. GwinnettForum presents this as a public service, and at no cost to the candidates. Unfortunately, several candidates did not take the time to respond.
Judicial candidates with no opposition were not questioned.
This section will appear in GwinnettForum each issue until election day.
Gwinnett’s nonpartisan candidates
OFFICE: Superior Court (Bachelor seat):
Gallant
CANDIDATE: Kimberly Gallant
Why do you seek this office?
Serving the community has always been my passion. When Judge Batchelor decided to retire, I was honored by the calls and messages I received from community members and attorneys across our county encouraging me to seek the opportunity to serve in a new way. I believe that I possess the temperament, commitment to community, legal knowledge, and character to serve our residents as their next Superior Court Judge. My nine years of direct judicial experience and my eagerness to continue advancing Gwinnett County’s commitment to our community is what distinguishes me in this race.
What distinguishes your candidacy?
As a current Gwinnett Magistrate Judge, I handle everything from dispossessory cases to civil matters to sitting by designation in Superior Court on complex criminal and family matters. I am committed to doing the hard work that each case demands. Serving as an elected judge in a county of nearly a million residents requires a commitment to community visibility and outreach. If we are to continue building trust between residents and their criminal justice system, our judges need to be visibly engaged community members. As the SMILE Director and active community mom, I will continue my commitment to Gwinnett’s communities.
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
Justice is not served when judges apply a single uniform ideology and perspective to every case that comes before them. For justice to be served, judges must recognize that accountability does not look the same in every case. I am a firm supporter of Gwinnett’s various treatment courts that help reduce the recidivism rate through intensive outpatient treatment, drug screenings, and court reviews for residents who qualify. I am committed to holding people accountable while also providing them with a path to recovery. I intend to maintain this commitment as a Superior Court Judge.
Provide us with a 100 word summary of your background.
I was born and raised in the metro Atlanta area. I chose Gwinnett as the home for my family in 2005. My legal career has been anchored by four core principles: Fairness, Respect, Hard Work, and Accessibility. I have served as a prosecutor in DeKalb County and Gwinnett County, a Staff Attorney to a Gwinnett Superior Court Judge, and a Gwinnett Magistrate Judge. I am a graduate of Leadership Gwinnett, the Director of the Gwinnett Summer Mentoring in Legal Education (SMILE) program, Board Member and current President of the North Gwinnett School Foundation, and an active Girl Scouts Troop Leader.
CANDIDATE: Rodney Harris
Mr. Harris did not respond.
OFFICE: Superior Court (Beyers seat)
Gutter-Parker
CANDIDATE: Thassanee Gutter-Parker
Why do you seek this office?
Experience matters. I’m the only candidate who has practiced in all areas which come before the Superior Court–criminal prosecutor, criminal defense, civil plaintiffs, and civil defense. Because experience matters, I’m the only candidate who has been endorsed by various mayors in Gwinnett. No other candidate has mayoral endorsements. I’m a Governor Brian Kemp Board Appointee and have been endorsed by our last Democratic Governor Roy Barnes, a U.S. Congressman in Gwinnett, and state Senators/Representatives from both parties. Additionally, I’m the only candidate with a “20 Point Plan” to make Gwinnett Safer. I have experience in building a safer Gwinnett.
What distinguishes your candidacy?
Three things distinguish me: 1. I have the best experience as I’m the only candidate who has practiced in all areas which come before the Superior Court. For instance, I’m the only candidate that has prosecuted criminals on behalf of the State of Georgia. 2. I’m the only candidate with a Safer Gwinnett Plan. 3. I have far more endorsements which is a testament as to experience, community involvement, and service.
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
The biggest issues facing Gwinnett courts pertain to having a Safer Gwinnett. This Safer Gwinnett encompasses the mental health crises. With my “20 Point Safer Gwinnett Plan”, we can decrease crime, decrease the mental health crisis, and decrease court backlog with a Judicial Efficiency Committee. Please refer to my website.
Provide us with a 100 word summary of your background.
Christian, wife, mother, attorney, small business owner. Hobbies: ballroom dancing, traveling, photography, and eating
University of Wisconsin-Madison, JD and BBA (full academic scholarships for both undergraduate and law school degrees)
Practiced in all 4 core areas of the law–Criminal Prosecution, Criminal Defense, Civil Plaintiffs and Civil Defense.
Currently, Governor Brian Kemp Board Appointee, Gwinnett County Board Appointee, Boys & Girls Club Board Member, Rotary Club Board Member, Northside Hospital Leadership Board, Council of Youth Anti-Drug, Inc. Board Member, member of Berean Christian Church, etc. Past community involvement is too numerous to list. www.GutterParkerForJudge.com
Matthews
CANDIDATE: Regina Matthews
Why do you seek this office?
I believe in the power of service to transform communities. I also believe that I have a responsibility, as part of a community that I love, to use my knowledge, skills, experience, and time to do my part in helping the community thrive by serving others. My decision to run is a testament to that commitment. Additionally, I believe that Gwinnett deserves the most qualified candidate for positions of leadership in our county. I’m running because I know that my education and professional experiences are valuable aspects of my candidacy that make me uniquely qualified to fill this judicial seat.
What distinguishes your candidacy?
Experience- extensive experience as a trial attorney who specialized in the types of cases most frequently heard in Superior Court (felony criminal and family/domestic law), experience as a federal law clerk writing judicial decisions as a regular part of my duties; experience as a staff attorney in this very division of Superior Court (developed an intimate understanding of complex legal issues, court processes/procedures that help make our courts run most efficiently); only candidate with training/certification necessary to preside over established accountability courts; only candidate in my race who has any judicial experience, having made hundreds of decisions in Superior Court.
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
Ensuring our veterans and litigants suffering from mental illness and substance use disorders are appropriately supported by proper and effective rehabilitative treatment: I have already received training from the Council of Accountability Court Judges to preside over our Mental Health Accountability and Veterans Treatment Courts. As it stands, when the judge currently occupying this seat retires, these court programs will cease to exist. I have worked with these Court programs for many years, have presided over those courts in the absence of the sitting judge; and I’ve made an unequivocal promise to continue both accountability court programs without interruption.
Provide us with a 100 word summary of your background.
Former: Assistant Public Defender (5 years)- Handled hundreds of major felony cases in one of Georgia’s largest counties; Sole Practitioner (primary focus of practice- criminal defense and family law); Certified Civil Litigation Mediator; Federal Law Clerk, Northern District of Georgia; Senior Staff Attorney, Division 5 Gwinnett Superior Court; Appointed to the bench in 2020. Current: full-time Magistrate Judge- provide judicial assistance to all eleven Superior Court divisions, by designation; also provide judicial assistance to other courts when needed (State Court, Juvenile Court, Recorder’s Court, Probate Court). Has issued hundreds of decisions in Superior Court, including those rendered in jury trials.
CANDIDATE: Tuwanda Rush Williams
Why do you seek this office?
I understand that Gwinnett County residents move here for better schools, safe neighborhoods, and the higher quality of life. I am running for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge because I value those same things and I care about the residents of the county. If I am honored to win the election, I will focus on curbing the incarceration of persons with mental illness and substance abuse issues; community-wide and school safety for residents; facilitating access to justice by members of ethnic and marginalized communities; fighting human trafficking and supporting survivors; and expanding Gwinnett’s accountability courts for true rehabilitation and combating recidivism.
What distinguishes your candidacy?
I am the only candidate in this race who has practiced law for 31 years. Also, I am the only candidate who has been a career public servant for the past 27 years, mostly working for Gwinnett County Government as a Senior Assistant County Attorney and a Deputy County Attorney. Furthermore, I am the only candidate with a diversity of experience, as I am well-versed in over 25 areas of the law, many of which are heard in Superior Court. Lastly, I am the only candidate who has demonstrated a longstanding commitment to civic and public service in Gwinnett County.
During my career, I’ve seen judicial elections dominated by prosecutors, which has produced fine judges. Family law has also been a path to the bench, and I practiced family law during the early years of my extensive career as an attorney, likewise producing fine jurists. But felony and family law cases are only part of the caseload of Gwinnett County Superior Court. My 18 years of legal practice in the Gwinnett County Attorney’s Office and 9 years of legal practice in the City of Atlanta Law Department has touched every aspect of the lives of Gwinnett County residents, including important issues like condemnations, property tax appeals, complex civil litigation, civil rights litigation, elections law, disputes over land, contracts law, and declaratory judgment actions, all of which are heard in Superior Court
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
A significant issue is the large number of inmates with mental illness housed in the Gwinnett County Jail. As of last May, there were in excess of 500 inmates suffering from some kind of mental health condition. If elected, I would expand the county’s accountability courts by requiring all inmates with a medically diagnosed mental illness to participate in the Mental Health Court or Veterans Court (for treatment of PTSD-related issues). I would work with county and state leaders to address the budget shortfalls that limit the accountability courts and make them more available to those who need help.
Provide us with a 100-word summary of your background.
I am currently “Of Counsel” with Thompson, O’Brien, Kappler & Nasuti law firm in Peachtree Corners. Previously, I was a Deputy County Attorney in the Gwinnett County Attorney’s Office, where I led the Litigation Team and supervised attorneys who handle litigation and transactional matters for Gwinnett Government elected and appointed officials and employees. I have worked in private practice, solo practice, and government practice since being admitted to the Georgia Bar. Born and raised in Rochester, New York, but a proud Georgia Peach for 32 years! Lastly, my 30-year marriage has produced an accomplished adult son, adult daughter, and daughter-in-law.
OFFICE: State Court (Bratton seat):
Bratton
CANDIDATE: Shawn Bratton
Why do you seek this office?
I seek to continue to serve as a Gwinnett County State Court Judge in order to serve the community by using the knowledge and wisdom acquired over my lifetime and legal career to solve legal problems. I have been a Gwinnettian since 1973, and am a product of our schools. I was appointed to this bench in 2014 and I worked tirelessly as an attorney for over 11 years prior to my appointment. The last two years in private practice, I worked a second job as a part- time Magistrate Judge.
What distinguishes your candidacy?
Experience, dedication and focus are the distinguishing attributes of my candidacy. I have been a State Court Judge since 2014 and previously served as a Magistrate Judge for three years. Both as an attorney and as a trial judge, I have tried a wide variety of civil and criminal cases. My background as a military veteran, a prosecutor, a civil litigator, and a judge show that I respect the position and the voters by focusing on doing the work necessary to become qualified to seek this position.
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
The Covid backlog. We emerged from the pandemic with an unprecedented resource, a new courthouse expansion. I used retired judges to run trials in tandem. The only impediment was the court reporter shortage, and I told litigants if they could provide a court reporter, I would get their case tried. It worked. Last September Chief Justice Michael P. Boggs on behalf of the Standing Committee on Judicial Workload Assessment awarded our State Court with the Clearance Rate Excellence Award recognizing us for maintaining clearance rates exceeding 100% which placed us in the top 10% of all courts in our class.
Provide us with a 100 word summary of your background.
I am a K-12 Gwinnett County Public School graduate. Class of 1990, Shiloh High School. I served in the US Navy on a nuclear submarine and held a top secret clearance. I then obtained my college degree (German) from UGA in 36 months while working weekends. I was an engineering aide for Siemens and then attended Georgia State College of Law. During that time I clerked in Cologne, Germany, and then for Bobby Lee Cook. I also worked for The Federal Defender Program, and at the Georgia Court of Appeals. My experience includes criminal prosecution, civil litigation and two judgeships.
CANDIDATE: Ramona Toole Sakhanokho
Ms. Sakhanokho did not respond.
GWINNETT SCHOOL BOARD
OFFICE: School Board (District 1)
Ranel
CANDIDATE: Leroy Ranel Jr.
Why do you seek this office? (School Board, District 1)
I am a lifelong community servant. I volunteered within my community on a variety of boards that support our youth. I am a substitute teacher, reserve police officer, mentor/coach, and community organizer in Dacula; therefore, representing District 1 is simply an extension of what I have always done. Because of this history of community service, I’ve built and maintained hundreds of relationships throughout the county and the state. I will leverage these relationships to improve our student, teacher, administrator, support staff and parent experiences within GCPS.
What distinguishes your candidacy?
I am a non-partisan candidate. I want to represent everyone in District 1, regardless of party, ideology, personal beliefs, etc. Throughout my campaign I have met with a variety of groups and individuals across the political spectrum. Ironically, for the most part we all want the same thing. Safe schools, academic success, and teacher support. Because of these relationships and conversations with diverse groups, I am more informed and more connected to the community.
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
I’ve heard of a reoccurring issue of students causing disturbances on buses. I’ve heard from numerous bus drivers that students are increasingly disruptive on buses. I’ve also heard stories that parents challenge bus drivers who attempt to correct the student’s behavior on the bus. I can still hear my bus driver, “If you don’t stop…I am going to kick you off this bus!” Distracted driving is one of the main causes of accidents. Students who frequently created unsafe conditions for other students were removed from the bus. With bus driver support, that is how I would address bus disturbances.
Provide us with a 100 word summary of your background.
I grew up in historically disadvantage community where the choices were join a gang, or sell drugs. Throughout my public-school experience, my teachers, coaches, and community leaders shielded me from those two choices. However, I was never allowed to claim a status of a victim, and I was not raised to believe the system was stacked against me. And it is not because I never experienced challenges because of my race, but despite those challenges, today I manage a cyber security team and have a concurrent 25-year law enforcement career. A school board role allows me to pay it forward.
CANDIDATE: Rachel Stone
Ms. Stone did not respond.
CANDIDATE: Karen Mulzac Watkins
Ms. Watkins did not respond.
OFFICE: School Board (District 3)
CANDIDATE: Dominique Cooper
Why do you seek this office? (School Board, District 3)
I seek this office because I believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. As a member of the Gwinnett County Public Schools District 3 board of education, I aim to advocate for policies that ensure every student has access to a quality education, regardless of their background or circumstances. I am committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive and inclusive learning environment where students can thrive socially and emotionally. With dedication and collaboration, I aspire to contribute positively to the educational journey of all students and staff in the district.
What distinguishes your candidacy
My candidacy stands out through a multifaceted approach rooted in dedication to the district. With extensive experience since 2011 as a parent, community connector, former substitute teacher, PTA leader, and board service member, I’ve encountered thousands of students and hundreds of staff, gaining firsthand understanding of diverse perspectives and challenges. My avid community involvement makes the entire Gwinnett County community my classroom of impact, fostering a deep connection with stakeholders and a commitment to collaborative problem-solving. With personal experience, professional insight, and unwavering dedication, I advocate for inclusive policies, ensuring every student can excel and thrive.
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
I believe in implementing comprehensive drug education programs early on, emphasizing the dangers of fentanyl and opioids. Collaborating with law enforcement and community organizations, I’ll ensure resources and support are available for struggling students. Prevention, education, and support are my priorities in combating the fentanyl crisis, fostering a safer environment in our schools and community. By empowering students with knowledge and resources, we can make informed decisions and resist peer pressure, effectively addressing the fentanyl crisis and protecting our community’s well-being.
Provide us with a 100 word summary of your background.
I’m a Baltimore, Maryland native and a mom of five boys. With degrees from The College of Notre Dame of Maryland, Capella University, and Harvard University, my Federal Government background blends with roles as a former substitute teacher, author, and inspirational speaker. Over 16 years, I’ve led PTA initiatives, served on school councils, and mentored others. As a nonprofit founder and business owner, I connect communities, serving as a board member of CASA and participating in civic engagement. My involvement spans literacy advisory councils, teacher recognition committees, and instructional reviews, reflecting a passion for education and community empowerment.
Cortes
CANDIDATE: Yanin Cortes
Why Do You Seek This Office? (School Board, District 3)
I am running because I want a bright future for our children and communities. Throughout m professional career, I have learned the immense value of compromise and uniting for a common purpose. There is no greater purpose than the education and future of our children. I’m committed to connecting the school board and our communities, amplifying our voice, fostering consensus, and constructing a world-class school system. My commitment will be to seek common ground, not a political agenda. I am running to prioritize our students and teachers, concentrating on the essentials: student achievement, school safety, teacher support and community involvement.
What Distinguishes Your Candidacy?
What distinguishes my candidacy is my experience. I am a mother, a former teacher in Gwinnett County Public Schools, and an entrepreneur. As a teacher at Shiloh High School, I came to experience and witness the same concerns/issues our schools face today. I know what it means to immigrate to this country without speaking the language, and how to succeed in spite of the barriers faced. As the founder and owner of three restaurants here in Peachtree Corners and Norcross I understand the level of hard-work and dedication that it takes to achieve success. I believe that my experiences are…(100).
Pick an Issue. Expand on how you address it.
Teacher and staff retention is vital to the success of our schools. The board must project a stable, forward-thinking and forward-planning culture within our school system. We must adequately support our fantastic educators and faculty. As a former teacher, I understand that teachers and staff need support and transparency from administrators and District Leaders to feel that they can effectively teach and do their jobs. Teachers need planning time, they need proper notice before a new policy is enacted. On the school board, I will make it a priority to show our teachers and staff that we are there to…(100).
Provide Us with a 100 word summary of your background
I moved to this country when I was little, not speaking any english. Throughout these hard times,it was my teachers that supported me. This led me to become a teacher here in Gwinnett County.My husband and I moved here to provide our kids with a world class education. I left teaching toopen and operate our first restaurant and have expanded our business over the past 16 years andcontinue to serve our community proudly today. Throughout my life, I have learned the impact ahigh quality education can have on our lives and the power of hard..(100).
CANDIDATE: Steve Gaspar
Why do you seek this office? (School Board, District 3)
I am seeking this office to do what I can to help restore our faith and belief in our great public school system. I will continue the great work that I’ve led and been a part of over the past many years for our school system. Teacher support, a quality education for all students, safe & inclusive schools, transparency & accountability and community involvement are extremely important to me. I plan to bring a fresh, community-led perspective to our school board and dedicate my time there to making Gwinnett County Public Schools the very best it can be.
What distinguishes your candidacy?
What distinguishes my candidacy from the others is my current and real time involvement in our schools over the past 4 years. I have devoted countless hours to supporting students, teachers, and the community by attending and speaking at numerous monthly school board meetings and by participating in district committee meetings in the areas of Discipline, Superintendent Transition and Planning, and Curriculum Review. I have also collaborated with Gwinnett County elected officials to provide community feedback to proposed legislation that will further enhance our public school system. I have 2 kids that are currently 8th graders in GCPS.
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
A big issue for me is teacher and support staff recruitment, safety and retention. These educators are the lifeblood of our school system and without them, we wouldn’t exist. They deserve the very best that GCPS can offer and nothing less. I will make sure we continue to recruit teachers & support staff with the most competitive compensation packages for their profession. I will support an enhanced discipline program that will allow teachers to teach all students effectively and not have to constantly focus on disruptive students, both in the classroom and throughout the school building.
Provide us with a 100 word summary of your background.
I am a father to 8th grade twins who currently attend GCPS. My wife & I are owner-operators of a vacation rental business. I am a former 4th grade teacher. I have over 22 years of corporate leadership experience. I have also been a volunteer baseball coach for over 8 years and been involved in my son’s local scout Pack and Troop as a member of their popcorn fundraising committee. My extensive background in the corporate space, being a small business owner, a former teacher and community involvement give me the tools necessary to be an effective GCPS Board member.
CANDIDATE: Anthony Mulkey
Mr. Mulkey did not respond.
CANDIDATE: Shana V. White
Ms. White did not respond.
OFFICE: School Board (District 5)
CANDIDATE: Jacquelyn Evenezer-Gold
Ms. Evenezer-Gold did not respond.
CANDIDATE: Tarece Johnson-Morgan
Ms. Johnson-Morgan did not respond.
King
CANDIDATE: Patrina King
Why do you seek this office? (School Board, District 5)
I am running for the District 5 seat at the request of some of Gwinnett County Public School teachers to help improve student outcomes. As a parent, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that a supportive and enriching educational environment can have on a child’s growth and future opportunities. Having graduated from Georgia’s Public School System myself, I understand the importance of ensuring that every student receives a quality education that prepares them for success.
What distinguishes your candidacy?
My candidacy is distinguished by a comprehensive understanding of the opportunities and limits inherent in a board member’s role. I recognize the power to effect positive change within our schools while also understanding the boundaries within which we must operate. I will leverage these insights to advocate for policies and initiatives that uplift our schools while remaining mindful of fiscal responsibility and legal obligations.
Furthermore, my commitment to community engagement and transparency sets me apart. I have a proven track record of actively involving community members in decision-making processes and ensuring that information is readily accessible to all stakeholders. By…. (100).
Pick an issue. Expand on how you address it.
According to teacher and community feedback, school safety/discipline is one of the top issues within our district. Improving discipline in schools requires a comprehensive strategy that addresses various aspects of the educational environment. If elected, I plan to work with other board members and the superintendent to:
-
- Ensure that discipline policies are clearly defined, consistently enforced, and fair to all students. This will create a sense of equity and trust in the disciplinary process.
- Enforce policies that focus on reinforcing positive behavior while holding students accountable for negative behavior.
- Provide ongoing training and support for teachers and staff on effective…. (100).
Provide us with a 100-word summary of your background.
I am a dedicated community leader and youth advocate with over two decades of experience. Running for the Gwinnett School Board in District 5, my focus is on uplifting the school district. My commitment to education and youth empowerment has shaped my career, driving positive change and encouraging community engagement. I bring a wealth of experience in grassroots organizing and leadership, all aimed at improving the lives of students and families in my community. With a passion for education and a track record of community service, I am prepared to make a meaningful impact on the Gwinnett County school system.
Gwinnett should remove District Attorney from office
By Elliott Brack
Editor and Publisher, GwinnettForum
APRIL 26, 2024 | In 2020, voters of Gwinnett elected a new district attorney, as Republican Danny Porter was defeated by a newcomer, Patsy Austin-Gatson, in a year when most Democrats won in the county. Mr. Porter had been the district attorney for 28 years, and had served with distinction, efficiently prosecuting criminals in Superior Court.
Ms. Austin-Gatson came to the job with little background in trying cases or in prosecuting criminals. She has not performed the duties of the office in the last four years as they should have been. She should be defeated by the Democratic voters in her bid to return to office because of her poor record in putting criminals in jail and her ineptitude in leadership of the office. She has not tried a criminal case since being elected, but relies often on inexperienced staff members without adequate guidance to do her work. She is far over her head, and it shows, unfortunately.
Just look at Ms. Austin-Gatson’s murder conviction rate. Reporting showed in 2022 that the Gwinnett DA’s murder conviction rate was 57 percent, a record low for that office. Other Metro Atlanta jurisdictions for a similar period had significantly higher murder conviction rates, such as 100 percent in Cobb County, and 87 percent in both DeKalb and Fulton counties.
Austin-Gatson
People who are closest to crimes being committed, members of families of victims, know something is amiss in the DA’s office. It’s not unusual to see protests of mishandling of cases by Patsy Austin-Gatson’s office. These families of victims are trying to tell the voters of Gwinnett something….that the county is not getting its money’s worth from the DA’s office constantly losing key cases in Gwinnett courts. We feel for these people seeking justice, and recognize that it is being caused by the lack of leadership in the office of the District Attorney.
Local judges are keenly aware of what is going on in the courthouse. Voters in Gwinnett who are acquainted with any of the 11 Superior Court judges and the seven State Court judges, should ask them personally about the performance of the current District Attorney. You will find that these judges are concerned—even upset—with what they realize is happening in the District Attorney’s office. They want efficiency in this office, and recognize it’s not happening under the Austin-Gatson regime.
People who know the inside working of the courthouse recognize Mrs. Austin-Gatson’s limit. Of the 343 members of the Gwinnett Bar Association, only 11 attorneys (three percent) said Ms. Austin-Gatson was very qualified to serve. Nearly half (49.5 percent) did not know who she was, and those who knew her (40 percent) found her to be not qualified to be the DA.
A series of unethical practices taints Ms. Austin-Gatson’s background. She was found guilty of ethics violations when she was an employee of the Solicitor’s office. She paid fines of $2,500 for her violations to the State Campaign Finance Commission.
In the election of 2020, voters in Gwinnett County recognized another prosecutor, Solicitor Brian Whiteside, was inept in conducting his job, after numerous complaints and a poor prosecuting record. What happened? Gwinnettians voted Whiteside out of office. (Note that Mr. Whiteside in 2024 is a candidate for sheriff.)
We suggest that Gwinnett Democrats in 2024 come together again and remove another inferior office holder, that of District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson, from office. Her poor record in office shows she doesn’t deserve your vote.
- Have a comment? Send to: elliott@brack.net
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Trump’s illness makes him unfit for presidency
Editor, the Forum:
Many years ago, when Donald Trump said that John McCain was not a hero, that, I thought, told me all I needed to know about him and his character. As I learned more about Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD, I began to understand more about why he acts as he does.
His niece, Mary Trump, has a PhD in clinical psychology and agrees that he meets all the criteria outlined in the professional literature for NPD. But she argues that diagnosis gets us only so far. A case could be made that he meets the criteria for antisocial personality disorder which can manifest itself in arrogance and the disregard for the rights of others.
He may also meet some of the criteria for dependent personality disorder which includes the inability to make decisions or take responsibility. Ultimately, she argues that his pathologies are so complex that he would need a full battery of psychological and neuropsychological tests to determine an accurate diagnosis. Of course, he would never agree to such an evaluation.
Not surprisingly, I have found most of his words and actions reprehensible. However, as I have learned more about NPD and possible other disorders which may affect him, I have come to believe that they are so great that he cannot act any other way than he does. I believe that Donald Trump is mentally ill to such an extent that when I listen to my better angels, what he deserves from me is my pity.
That being said, while he deserves my pity, he does not deserve my vote. His illness makes him completely unfit to hold the office of the presidency again.
– John Titus, Peachtree Corners
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Sister Act comes to Aurora stage May 23-June 23
We ask you to bow your heads and “Bless Our Show” then stand up and “Raise Your Voice” for Sister Act, the final production in Aurora Theatre’s record-breaking Season 28. This musical will be presented from May 23 – June 23.
Said Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director, Ann-Carol Pence, “I had long harbored a desire to produce Sister Act, a vibrant show that will musically connect with our strong faith community in Gwinnett. I was thrilled to welcome Jasmine Renee’ Ellis, a distinguished Aurora Apprentice Alumni, back to our organization in 2022 as our Director of Education. Sister Act is a star vehicle and with Jasmine’s return to Aurora I knew we had the formidable artist that will take this musical to new heights with our original take on the beloved story.”
Rounding out the principal cast is Atlanta favorite Shelly McCook, Isa Martinez BriAnne Knights, Charlene Hong White, Jody Woodruff as a Monsignor, plus Marcus Hopkins-Turner, and Jemarcus Kilgore.
The production team of Sister Act will be led by director Justin Anderson. Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director Ann-Carol Pence oversees Music Direction.
Show times are Thursdays and Fridays at 8 p.m.; Saturdays at 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.; and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. There will be a special matinee performance at 10a.m. on Wednesday, May 29.
Return soon if you use an absentee ballot
Gwinnett Voter Registrations and Elections encourages voters to apply for an absentee ballot as soon as possible, because of delays in the U.S. Postal Service.
The general primary and nonpartisan election on May 21 is approaching. Eligible voters have until Friday, May 10 to request an absentee ballot. Voters can request an absentee ballot or check the status of their absentee ballots at MVP.SOS.GA.gov. For assistance, call the Elections Office at 678-226-7210.
Once the absentee ballot application is completed and signed, voters can mail or hand-deliver it to Gwinnett Voter Registrations and Elections Beauty P. Baldwin Building, fax it to 678-226-7208 or email it to Absentee@GwinnettCounty.com.
Voters can return their completed ballot in person at the Elections Office or place it in the drop boxes available at advance polling locations.
Norcross Gallery full of artistic events in May
Norcross Gallery and Studios has a busy lineup of upcoming activities and events. They begin with a Fabric Collage Workshop Saturday, May 4 and Sunday, May 5, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., taught by Gail Lenahan.
There will be a “How to Draw a Convincing Perspective” Workshop, led by Julian Tablada, an experienced watercolor painter, sailor and traveler and member of the American Society of Marine painters, on Monday, May 6, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The second annual “Reflections at the Rectory,” will present artwork by the students of Advanced Placement Art at Norcross and Paul Duke STEM high schools. It will be on display from May 11-18. Come applaud the award-winning artworks at the reception May 11.
The popular Gel Plate Series of workshops taught by Anne Labaire is coming. Gel Plate 101 will be Saturday May 18, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Gel Plate Printing – The Next Level follows on Saturday, May 25, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The ongoing Kaleidoscope exhibit continues until May 18 followed by a juried exhibit, Pigments of the Imagination, running from May 23 to July 6. See website for information and to register for classes at www.norcrossgalleryandstudios.org.
County breaks ground on Beaver Ruin Wetlands
Gwinnett officials broke ground on the new Beaver Ruin Wetland Park off Satellite Boulevard on Monday. The project promotes sustainability and is a collaborative effort between Gwinnett Water Resources and Gwinnett Parks and Recreation.
Approaching an anticipated June completion of the park, the first phase of this project has focused on restoring wetlands to preserve our local ecosystems. Over the last two years, efforts included stabilizing stream banks, enhancing habitats, removing invasive species and introducing native vegetation. As one of the largest wetland areas of its kind in Gwinnett, stormwater from 4.5 square miles collects here, capturing runoff from Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Beaver Ruin Road, Buford Highway, and Old Norcross Road. The wetlands then naturally clean and filter the water before it returns to Sweetwater Creek and the Yellow River.
Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Hendrickson emphasized how these sustainable efforts will enhance the community.“Projects like this hold immense potential for improving the quality of life for our residents. The Beaver Ruin Wetland Park will serve as a catalyst for positive change, fostering sustainability and supporting our environment and communities today and for future generations.”
Spanning 86 acres, the park will include a variety of community spaces, including a state-of-the-art wildlife observation tower, an open play lawn, a covered picnic area, a restroom building, a 41-space parking lot and a playground equipped with swings, nature-inspired play elements and climbers. The playground’s design repurposes an existing detention basin, enhancing opportunities for unstructured adventure play for children.
A 12-foot-wide concrete loop trail boardwalk will seamlessly integrate with the surrounding neighborhood. Additionally, the park will serve as a hub for environmental awareness with interactive exhibits and interpretive panels.
Gwinnett County is using $5 million from the 2017 SPLOST program to support the development of the park, $1.3 million from the Recreation Fund for the playground, $4 million for the boardwalk and $4.5 million from the Watershed Improvement Program for the wetland restoration. Officials expect the new park to open in late 2025.
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store, by James McBride
From Susan J. Harris, Stone Mountain: When workers begin digging up an area of Pottstown, Penn. to build a new housing development, they find a human skeleton. How the skeleton got there is only part of the many hidden secrets that make up Chicken Hill, a worn-down neighborhood that was made up of Blacks and Jews. They share the joys and sorrows of a makeshift existence tentatively supporting each other’s lives. Moshe, a theater owner, and Chona, his wife, are the proprietors of the Heaven and Earth Grocery store, serving European immigrants and Blacks. When a deaf child is threatened with institutionalization, Chicken Hill residents band together with the help of China and Nate Timblin, to keep the child safe amidst horrific obstacles. As the story unfolds, many characters emerge playing a role in correcting many abuses and injustices. This is a quirky and engaging story with some painful events and sorrows overcome.
- An invitation: what books, restaurants, movies or web sites have you enjoyed recently? Send us your recent selection, along with a short paragraph (150 words) as to why you liked this, plus what you plan to visit or read next. Send to: elliott@brack.net
As governor, Sanders’ years saw lots of economic activity
(From previous edition)
Equally as important an achievement was Governor Carl Sanders’s creation of a more moderate racial climate in the state during the turbulent later years of the civil rights movement. Though he himself was a segregationist, he was realistic enough to recognize the futility in continued resistance to federal legislation and court rulings and to refrain from the inflammatory racist rhetoric of his predecessors. He cooperated with the administrations of U.S. presidents John F. Kennedy and Lyndon B. Johnson in insisting on compliance with the new civil rights laws. From his campaign on, Sanders stressed progress and worked to change Georgia’s image as a backward, racist, and rural state.
Another means of achieving that end came with Sanders’s efforts in reapportioning legislative and congressional districts to more fairly represent the state’s electorate. Spurred by a federal court order, he led a massive effort to reapportion both houses of the General Assembly and the state’s ten congressional districts. Along with the banishment of the county unit system in 1962 (of which he had been a beneficiary in his gubernatorial race), this reconfiguration provided further representation to the state’s cities, and thus Black voters, than had earlier been the case.
The Sanders term saw considerable economic development for Georgia. The governor actively courted foreign trade and investments and brought a billion dollars’ worth of new industry to the state. He worked closely with Atlanta Mayor Ivan Allen Jr. to bring professional football and baseball teams to the city, along with a new convention center that helped cement Atlanta’s position as the New South’s premier metropolis.
Leaving office at the crest of his popularity, Sanders seemed poised for national leadership. Although President Johnson offered him several federal positions, he rejected all of them and instead established a new law firm in Atlanta. In 1970, when again eligible to serve, he sought a second term as governor, but he waged an ineffective campaign and lost to state senator Jimmy Carter. Embittered by his first political defeat, Sanders never sought public office again. Maintaining a keen interest in politics, however, he worked behind the scenes and raised funds for the Democratic Party and its candidates, including George Busbee and Zell Miller.
Continuing to reside in Atlanta, Sanders directed his talents and energies to the practice of law, numerous business investments, and civic activities. His law firm grew steadily until it became one of Atlanta’s largest and most prestigious. Through expansion and mergers, the firm of Troutman Sanders eventually employed more than 500 attorneys and opened offices in London, England; Hong Kong; and Virginia. Sanders relinquished day-to-day management of the firm after 25 years of service, but he continued as chair emeritus and partner until his death.
Long associated with the Augusta businessman J. B. Fuqua, Sanders expanded his business investments after leaving the public arena. As he did in both politics and law, Sanders achieved impressive success in business, especially in real estate and banking. He served on numerous corporate boards and was a longtime board member for the YMCA of Metropolitan Atlanta.
Sanders died in Atlanta on November 16, 2014, at the age of 89.
- To view the Georgia Encyclopedia article online, go to https://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org
Warned in advance: take care in identifying this mystery
Sometimes things are not what they see. Perhaps you can identify this Mystery Photo, but we warn you, be careful. Once you make identification, send your answer to a new email: click here. And be sure to list your hometown.
A computer problem may have slowed responses to the recent mystery, as GwinnettForum received only four responses, that from Stew Ogilvie of Lawrenceville; George Graf of Palmyra, Va.; Susan McBrayer of Sugar Hill; and Allan Peel of San Antonio, Tex. The photo came from Carol Bachrach of Milton, Ga.
Ogilvie wrote: “The Triumphal Arch of Orange is a triumphal arch located in the town of Orange, southeast France. There is debate about when the arch was built, but current research that accepts the inscription as evidence favors a date during the reign of emperor Augustus.”
Peel wrote: “Today’s mystery photo is of the Triumphal Arch of Orange, located in the town of Orange, France, approximately 13-miles north of Avignon in the Rhône Valley of southeastern France. It is an ancient Roman monumental gate that was positioned at the northern entrance to the walled city. Historians believe it was built during the reign of Emperor Augustus (born Gaius Octavius, 63 BC – AD 14), the founder and first Roman emperor who reigned between 27 BC – AD 14).
“The original arch was constructed using large unmortared limestone blocks and decorated with low reliefs commemorating the establishment of the PAX ROMANA (“Roman Peace”), a term used to describe the period between 27-BC and AD-180 during which Roman rule was relatively stable and war less frequent as a result of many reforms enacted by Augustus and his successors. It is the oldest surviving triple-arched Roman triumphal and in AD-27, an inscription was added to dedicate the arch to the victories of Tiberius (42 BC – AD 37), the 2nd Roman emperor who reigned from AD 14 – 37. Despite the fact that the arch was first erected to commemorate Pax Romana, it is nevertheless decorated with Corinthian columns, and embellished with reliefs depicting military scenes of battle, including a Roman battle against the Germanics and Gauls.”
- SHARE A MYSTERY PHOTO: If you have a photo that you believe will stump readers, send it along (but make sure to tell us what it is because it may stump us too!) Send it to ebrack2@gmail.com and mark it as a photo submission. Thanks.
Drug Take Back Program to be held April 27
Drug Take Back: Gwinnett Police will partner with the Drug Enforcement Agency for the National Prescription Drug Take Back Initiative on Saturday, April 27 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Residents are invited to drop off tablets, capsules, patches, and other forms of prescription medications at eight locations around the county, including West Precinct in Norcross and Central Precinct in Duluth. Find a location or email PDCommunityAffairs@GwinnettCounty.com for more information.
Earth Day Recycling: Rain or shine, drop off your goods to be recycled at Coolray Field in Lawrenceville on Saturday, April 27 from 9 a.m. until noon. Gwinnett Solid Waste Management and Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful join the global community to celebrate Earth Day. Drop off items that are typically more difficult to recycle, such as electronics, latex and oil-based paints, tires, paper, and clothing. Volunteers will remove items from disposable containers in your vehicle’s trunk or back seat.
District Attorney Candidate Debate will be April 29 at 6:30 p.m. at South Gwinnett High School’s Theatre. All three candidates have been invited. The debate is sponsored by Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority and Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity. The public is invited.
Interested in learning more about Braselton history? Join us for a stroll through the historic district of downtown during National Historic Preservation Month the first four Wednesdays in May. While the tours are free, please make sure you get a ticket. To help us provide an amazing experience, each tour is limited to 30 attendees. The tour will start on the front porch of Braselton Town Hall, former home of W.H. Braselton. The address is 4982 Georgia Highway 53. To reserve your spot, contact Jessica Payne at jpayne@braselton.net or 706-654-5552.
Premium seating: The Gwinnett Stripers will hold a ribbon on Coolray Field’s new premium hospitality space, the Coca-Cola Front Porch, on Thursday, May 2 at 5 p.m. Speakers will include Erin McCormick, Stripers general manager; Alton Rutledge of Coca-Cola Bottling Co.; and Tom Larimer, principal architect of Larimer Design Architecture. That night the Stripers will play the Durham Bulls at 7 p.m.
The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra will present the finale of the 2023-24 season on May 4 at the Jones Creek United Methodist Church. The concert will honor Maestro J. Wayne Baugham’s legacy while celebrating the future of the Orchestra. Featured will be solo performances from Katie Edelman and Adelaide Federici, Baugham’s daughters.
Downtown Braselton will have a clean-up on Saturday, May 4, from 8:30 until 11 a.m. Volunteers wanting to participate should check in at the Gazebo at the Town Green, 9924 Davis Street. Teams will be assigned areas of the historic district to pick up trash. Come help make a difference and keep downtown Braselton looking great.
Breaking Barriers Creating Your Best Self, an interactive workshop, will be presented on May 4 at 11 a.m. at the Norcross Branch of Gwinnett County Public Library. It will include a quiz and coaching session, to determine what barriers carry the most weight for them and how breaking barriers leads to healing and transformation.
Next Mulberry Town Hall Meeting will be May 8 at 7 p.m. at the Hamilton Mill Clubhouse soccer field, located at Hog Mountain Road and Hamilton Mill Parkway. An additional meeting will be May 14 at a location TBD.
Author appearance: Stephanie Evans will discuss her book, Africana Tea: A Global History of Tea and Black Women’s Health on Thursday, May 9, at 7 p.m. at the Norcross Branch of Gwinnett County Public Library. Books will be available for sale and signing.
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