CrossRoadsNews, April 8, 2017 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

SCENE

WELLNESS

Easter eggs aplenty

Know your status event

The Easter Bunny will be busy as a bee on April 15, leaving goodies for kids at egg hunts all around South DeKalb. 4

Free rapid HIV testing will be available at the Flat Shoals Library in recognition of National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day. 5

Let’s Keep DeKalb Peachy Clean Please Don’t Litter Our Streets and Highways

EAST ATLANTA • DECATUR • STONE MOUNTAIN • LITHONIA • AVONDALE ESTATES • CLARKSTON • ELLENWOOD • PINE LAKE • REDAN • SCOTTDALE • TUCKER

April 8, 2017

Volume 22, Number 50

www.crossroadsnews.com

AMC theater at Stonecrest getting new owner, name By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

AMC, with U.S. box office revenues of $1.89 billion, has about 388 theaters with 5,295 screens in 33 states and the District of Columbia. Carmike, with U.S. box office revenues of $490 million, has 271 movie theaters with 2,917 screens in 41 states. The Justice Department required AMC to divest cinemas in 15 local markets, including Stonecrest and Conyers, where it competed head to head with Carmike. Stonecrest patrons, many of them taking kids on spring break to the movies, were caught off guard Thursday when they showed A sign announced the change from AMC up at the cinema and were met with locked Theater (above). At left, a worker scrapes

AMC Theatres, which closed at the Mall at Stonecrest on April 6, was scheduled to reopen this weekend as a New Visions Entertainment cinema. The departure of the AMC brand from Atlanta is part of a civil antitrust settlement with the U.S. Department of Justice connected to AMC Entertainment Holdings Inc. pending $1.2 billion acquisition of Carmike Cinemas. The two companies, with combined U.S. box office revenues of more than $1.9 billion, are ranked second- and fourth-largest in the $11.1 billion U.S. movie market. Please see MOVIES, page 2

the AMC logo off the doors at the sinemas at the Mall at Stonecrest.

Photos by Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Renters hankering to live in Chamblee, Tucker Average prices rising faster than wider metro area

Apartment homes like the Loft in Chamblee in DeKalb County have seen their rent rates rise highest in the metro Atlanta area within the past year.

By Terry Shropshire

Chamblee and Tucker are now home to two of metro Atlanta’s most in-demand neighborhoods with the average prices for rentals up 13.5 percent over last year, surpassing the $1,000-per-month mark. Apartment search sites RENTCafé and its sister company Yardi Matrix show that Chamblee, in north DeKalb, was metro Atlanta’s fastest-growing rental market in 2016 with apartment rent rates up 13.7 percent in just one year. In Tucker, a quaint new city in central DeKalb, rates rose by 11.6 percent. RENTCafé says that Chamblee’s surge in rent rate to an average of $1,207 a month is “more than in any other town in the metro area and more than in any of the most expensive ZIP codes of Atlanta.” In Tucker, which became a city in 2016, the median apartment rent rate of 11.6 percent is good for second place in the eastern half of metro Atlanta and the fifth-highest rate hike overall. Other DeKalb areas seeing rental rate booms include Kirkwood and adjacent areas in ZIP code 30317. They are up 9.5 percent with average rent above $1,000 a month. In 2016, more than 5,000 new apartments joined metro Atlanta’s inventory. South DeKalb, by comparison, saw slower rental increase countywide. RENTCafé data show that unincorporated Decatur, for example, saw its average rent rise 7.4 percent, while Lithonia and Clarkston rates only inched up to 2 and 2.7 percentage points, respectively. RENTCafé, which published the study in February, gets data from its sister company Yardi Matrix, an apartment research firm covering large-scale multifamily developments in 124 U.S. markets. The apartment search website attributes the brisk DeKalb

Terry Shropshire / CrossRoadsNews

apartment rental market to an influx of millennial and baby boomers attracted by two key socio-economic factors – the suddenly hip suburban lifestyle and demand outstripping supply, which triggered the higher rates. Across metro Atlanta, three other cities ¬– Fairburn (11.7 percent), Jonesboro (10.5 percent) and Lilburn (11.6 percent) – had double-digit rent increases in 2016 and their average rents surpassed $1,000 monthly. Metro-wide, Yardi Matrix apartment data show that average rent reached $1,128 per month, up 25 percent from 2013. For example, in January 2015, an average metro Atlanta apartment was renting for $1,349. In January 2017, it was $1,580. In June 2015, the average rate for a twobedroom apartment reached $1,005 per month, then a first for the metro area – and average rent was $66 higher than in May 2014.

The upward trend in rent rates continues in the wake of the housing crisis that depressed homeownership rates. Atlanta is now in the top 10 metropolitan areas for rental growth nationally with the demand for rentals also fueled by the fact that many millennials and other low- and middle-income earners either can’t afford a home, don’t have affordable housing options, or don’t want the risk. Other desirable towns like Peachtree City (8.8 percent growth), Norcross (8.2 percent) and Decatur (7.4 percent) are also in the top 20 metro markets, but none had the double-digit increases of Chamblee and Tucker in 2016. Discover DeKalb President/CEO James Tsismanakis attributes Chamblee’s appeal to its international flavor and its access to two major interstates, which makes it easy for residents to get around the city, state and region.

He said Chamblee is really taking off because of Buford Highway. “We spent a lot of time promoting the international dining opportunities on Buford Highway,” he said. “We promote very heavily in that Chamblee/ James Tsismanakis Doraville/Buford Highway corridor the international dining, the international culture, the Chinatown Mall in Chamblee, new additional Farmer’s Market on Chamblee-Tucker Road.” Tsismanakis said that Chamblee’s proximity to interstates 85 and 285 also makes it attractive to millennial movers and shakers. The city also is conveniently located near a MARTA train station with free parking, providing another option for mobility Please see TRENDY, page 2

Community

Berkowitz is DeKalb’s new marshal

Richard Berkowitz, a 24-year law enforcement officer, is DeKalb County’s new marshal. DeKalb State Court said April 3 that Berkowitz, who has been with the Marshal’s Office for eight years, has replaced Marshal R.S. Mann, who retired April 1 after 34 years in DeKalb law enRichard Berkowitz forcement. As marshal, Berkowitz will now carry out all State and Magistrate Court law enforcement duties. Berkowitz joined the county in 1994 in the DeKalb Sheriff ’s Office. He spent his last 12 years there with the Fugitive Squad. He joined the DeKalb Marshal’s Office in 2009 as chief deputy and assisted Mann in transforming the office into a highly respected law enforcement agency through technological advancements and progressive operating initiatives. Berkowitz, a 31-year veteran of the U.S. Air Force, serves in the Air Force Reserve. He is president of the DeKalb County Chiefs’ Association, a network of local law, state and federal enforcement agencies that operate within DeKalb County. Berkowitz earned an associate’s degree in criminal justice from the Community College of the Air Force, a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Georgia State and a Master of Public Administration from Columbus State University. He is a graduate of the 240th Session of the FBI National Academy and the Georgia Command College, Class 44.

CrossRoadsNews

April 8, 2017

“People will break their necks to move to an area where their kids can go to a better school.”

Sharpton headlines District 5 town hall meeting MSNBC, also will share his views Civil rights leader and Naon President Donald Trump’s tional Action Network founder “skinny budget” and his plans to the Rev. Al Sharpton will be increase military spending while leading a discussion on “The cutting domestic programs that State of America and the Future will hurt seniors, children, and of Our Youth” at an April 11 town working and poor people. hall meeting hosted by DeKalb The town hall meeting takes Commissioner Mereda Davis place at 6 p.m. at the Lou Walker Johnson. Al Sharpton Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road Sharpton, who is host of “PoliticsNation With Al Sharpton” on in Lithonia.

Davis Johnson, who represents Commission District 5, said Super District 7 Commissioner Gregory Adams, state Reps. Pam Stephenson and Doreen Carter, and Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson will participate in the discussion. Before the meeting, Sharpton will hold a news conference at 5:50 p.m. on the plaza in front of This Is It BBQ restaurant on Panola Road. For more information, call 404-3712412.

Location, good schools help draw apartment renters TRENDY,

from page

throughout metro Atlanta. Yardi Matrix data show that rent rates in Chamblee, which reached on average $1,207 a month in December 2016, haven’t yet peaked and are showing no signs of slowing down. Neighboring Brookhaven, another trendy DeKalb area, is also said to be perfectly poised to leverage the booming rental market. It has several new apartment projects in the planning stages and underdevelopment.

Tucker full of allure Tucker, unlike Chamblee, is a quaint small town whose self-identity and loyalty to its roots are very strong. Tsismanakis says Tucker’s small-town feel, just outside the Perimeter, is a draw. Because of its strong identity, Tsismanakis confessed to thinking Tucker was a city before it became a city. “It’s got a really cute downtown with restaurants and, of course, the Matthews Cafeteria, the interstates, nice shopping

and you can have dessert and ice creams at the Farmers Market and car shows,” he said. “They’ve had Tucker Days and Taste of Tucker for years and years. Tucker is trying to stay old and nostalgic.” Chamblee and Tucker also were helped by their location in DeKalb County, the Southeast’s most ethnically diverse county with more than 64 different languages spoken by students in its School District. DeKalb, which is served by four major interstates – I-20, I-85, I-285, and I-675, also is home to Georgia’s No. 1 attraction – Stone Mountain Park. The county is located in close proximity to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and owns its DeKalb Peachtree Airport, Georgia’s second-largest airport. Other county attractions include Fernbank Museum, the Michael C. Carlos Museum at Emory University, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the world-famous DeKalb Farmers Market. Tiffany Moore, co-owner of SisterToSister hair salon in Tucker and Stone Mountain, says good schools are an important factor in the demand for Tucker.

“People will break their necks to move to an area where their kids can go to a better school,” she said. “So they’ll pay more money for rent.” Moore, who rents the space inhabited by her business, has a daughter who is about to graduate from Tucker High. “Tucker and Chamblee are really diverse,” Moore said. “It’s more than just blacks and whites. There are Asians, people from India and Hispanics in Chamblee. Higher middle class. So it’s the location, close to Atlanta, more diverse, and then it’s the schools.” Paulette Harris, a real estate agent who lives in a rented Tucker apartment, shares Moore’s assessment about the schools increasing Tucker’s attractiveness to incoming renters. “I get calls all the time from people who want to be in Tucker because of the schools,” Harris said. She says the city’s central location is also a plus. “It’s close to downtown Atlanta,” Harris said. “And if I want to go to Pappadeaux [in Norcross], it doesn’t take me long to get anywhere from where I am.”

Antitrust order to prevent monopoly MOVIES,

from page

doors and signs announcing: “No longer AMC Theatres! We are closed Today. New Visions ENT Coming Soon!” Other communities where AMC will have to divest theaters include Montgomery, Ala.; Destin and Miramar Beach, Fla.; Orange Park and Fleming Island, Fla.; Cumming, Ga.; Crestwood and Lansing, Ill.; Bloomington, Ill.; Peoria, Ill.; Grove Heights and Oakdale, Minn.; Mounds View, Minn.; Rockaway and Sparta, N.J.; Westfield, N.J.; Lawton, Okla.; Allentown, Pa.; and Madison, Wis. The Mall at Stonecrest management confirmed that the theater closed at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, but it referred questions to the new management. An employee who was scraping the AMC logo from the theater’s doors on Thursday would only say that the cinema was acquired by New Visions Entertainment and would reopen soon. New Visions Entertainment did not return calls by press time Thursday. CrossRoadsNews understands that the new company, founded by former Carmike executive Chuck Goldwater, plans to reopen the cinema on April 7. In 2015, the Justice Department says more than 1.3 billion movie tickets were sold in the U. S. and Canada, with total box office revenues reaching about $11.1 billion. Through Sept. 30, 2016, AMC, based in Leawood, Kan., had $1.46 billion in U.S. box office revenues. Through Sept. 20, Carmike, with headquarters in Columbus, Ga., was the fourthlargest theater circuit in the United States. In its lawsuit filed against AMC on Dec. 20, 2016, in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., the Justice Department Antitrust Division required the theater giant to divest theaters in the 15 local markets, sell off most of its holdings and relinquish all of its governance rights in National Cinemedia LLC and transfer 24 theaters with a total of 384

screens to the network of Screenvision LLC in order to complete its $1.2 billion acquisition of Carmike Cinemas Inc. Renata Hesse, acting assistant attorney general of the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division, said that without the required divestitures and other relief, the merger of the two former competitors would result in higher prices and lower quality theater amenities for moviegoers and weakened competition in the markets for pre-show services and theater advertising, where Screenvision is NCM’s only meaningful rival. “Moviegoers across the United States have benefited from head-to-head competition between AMC and Carmike that has kept ticket prices in check and delivered a higher quality movie experience,” Hesse said, adding that the settlement will ensure that movie theater competition is preserved in 15 local markets where AMC and Carmike currently compete. “In addition, by requiring AMC to reduce its equity stake in NCM, terminate its participation in NCM’s business, and transfer screens to Screenvision, the settlement will promote continued vigorous competition between the two leading cinema advertising networks – competition that the division fought to protect when it blocked the NCMScreenvision merger,” Hesse said. In its complaint, the Justice Department said AMC and Carmike compete to attract moviegoers in local markets by providing affordable ticket prices and a superior viewing experience. Under the terms of the settlement, AMC also must divest the majority of its equity interest in NCM such that it owns no more than 4.99 percent, relinquish all of its NCM governance rights, and transfer 24 theaters comprising 384 screens to the Screenvision network. The division filed suit to block the proposed merger of NCM and Screenvision in 2014, and NCM and Screenvision subsequently abandoned their transaction.

April 8, 2017

Community

CrossRoadsNews

The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Doreen Carter, remained in committee in the state Senate. It will be taken up again in the 2018 session.

Stonecrest mayor, council members take oath of office

The city of Stonecrest’s newly elected mayor, Jason Lary, and District 1 and 3 council members Jimmy Clanton Jr. and Jazzmin Cobble took the oath of office on March 27. The three were sworn into office by DeKalb State Court Judge Ronald Ramsey, who sponsored the legislation to form the city when he was a state senator. The three officials were elected on March 21. Because council seats 2, 4 and 5 ended in runoffs, Lary, Clanton and Cobble have been unable to meet because the council lacks a quorum. The runoffs take place April 18.

Early voting for Stonecrest runoffs begins

Early voting begins April 10 for runoff elections for Stonecrest City Council districts 2, 4 and 5. For the April 18 runoffs, 24,165 voters must return to the polls to pick their council members. They can cast ballots daily 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through April 14 at the DeKalb Board of Registration and Elections main office, 4380 Memorial Drive in Decatur. The candidates in the runoff elections are Plez Joyner and Rob Turner in District 2; Mary-Pat Hector and George Turner in District 4; and Diane Adoma and Tammy Grimes in District 5. On election day, all polls in the three districts will be open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Julius C. Lee photos

Stonecrest Mayor Jason Lary and wife Debra (at left), District 1 council member Jimmy Clanton Jr. and wife Edwina, District 3 council member Jazzmin Cobble, with husband David and son, Mason take the oath of office on March 27 from DeKalb State Court Judge Ronald Ramsey.

GDOT limiting interstate lane closures

Motorists traveling the interstates over the next two weekends for spring break and Easter may find their commute a little less stressful as GDOT limits constructionrelated lane closures. The Georgia Department of Transportation is limiting lane closures on interstate highways statewide through 10 p.m. on

April 9. On Easter weekend, April 14-16, lane closures will be limited on interstates and roadways near major tourist attractions, shopping centers, malls, and shopping districts from 11 p.m. on Friday to 11 p.m. on Sunday. For more information, visit www.dot. ga.gov.

Library offers discounts for past due accounts Library patrons who have fines and fees on overdue, lost and damaged books and materials can participate in the DeKalb Public Library’s three-week Fine Forgiveness program in April. The amnesty, which runs through April 23, is an opportunity for patrons to clear their record and for the library to recover overdue materials. It includes a waiver on

the first $10 owed and a 50 percent discount on the remaining balance for patrons owing $100 or less. Patrons owing more than $100 are asked to call Library Administration at 404-508-7190 for assistance. Visit www.dekalblibrary.org.

Bill to amend Stonecrest charter stuck HB 600, which was seeking to amend the city of Stonecrest’s charter, was not approved before the Georgia General Assembly’s 2017 session ended March 30. The bill, sponsored by state Rep. Doreen Carter, remained in committee in the state Senate. It will be taken up again in the 2018 session. Carter is seeking to limit the mayor’s office to two consecutive terms and to the mayor voting only to break a tie.

Scene

2346 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007 www.crossroadsnews.com editor@crossroadsnews.com

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker General Manager Curtis Parker Assistant Editor Brenda Yarbrough Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Multimedia Editor Sharif Williams CrossRoadsNews is published every Saturday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsNews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

Advertisements are published upon the representation that the advertiser is authorized to publish the submitted material. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless from and against any loss or expenses resulting from any disputes or legal claims based upon the contents or subject matter of such advertisements, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.

CrossRoadsNews

“The leaders we’ve recognized give so much of themselves to engage, motivate and inspire communities to action.”

Rochelle Callender gets Park Pride Inspiration Award Honorees Rochelle Callender, whose Rochelle persistence and partnership with Callender ( left) DeKalb County helped transform and Barbara a wooded lot into Flat Shoals Park Marin, were and a great Decatur community honored for asset, has been recognized by Park inspiring others Pride Atlanta for her years of volto expand and unteer service. improve public Callender began advocating parks. for the park more than 10 years ago and wouldn’t take “no” for an answer. She is one of five recipients of the nonprofit group’s 2017 Inspiration Awards that honors leaders who inspire others to expand and improve public parks and greenspaces. Callender, president of the Friends of Flat Shoals Park, was recognized March 27 during the 16th annual Parks and Greenspace The other 2017 honorees are Conference, which explored how tween individuals, communities Barbara Marin, who helped cregreenspaces bridge the gaps be- and political jurisdictions.

ated greenspace in Springbrook Park in DeKalb County; Community Bucket founder Jesse Grossman; Blue Heron Nature Preserve founder Nancy Jones; and Mother Mamie Moore, for her advocacy and stewardship efforts on behalf of Lindsay Street Park,. Park Pride works with more than 100 Friends of the Park groups. Michael Halicki, Park Pride’s executive director, said the honorees engage, motivate and inspire communities to action on behalf of greenspace. “We’re so appreciative for their service,” he said. Flat Shoals Park is next to the Community Achievement Center, 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway in Decatur. For more information, visit www.parkpride.org.

Fun and games at Eggapalooza, other Easter egg hunts The Easter Bunny is making its way to the annual Eggapalooza and Vendors Market on April 15 at the Wade Walker Park Family YMCA in Stone Mountain. Eggapalooza kicks off at 11 a.m. with arts and crafts and games. No registration is required for the free community event. An egg hunt for ages 12 and under starts at 12:45 p.m. – bring baskets to collect treats. The Vendors Market takes place 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For vendor information, email steelepm@bellsouth. net or call 404-379-6779. The YMCA is at 5605 Rockbridge Road. For more information, call 678-781-9622.

It takes place 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Salvation Army Atlanta Peachcrest Corps, 3500 Sherrydale Lane. There will be food, games and prizes. For more information, call 404-486-2880.

Bring your basket for Easter egg hunts at venues across DeKalb County and at state parks.

Greenforest Eggstravaganza The Children Division of Greenforest Community Baptist Church will present its “Eggstravaganza” on April 15 at the Decatur church. The event begins at 11:45 a.m. as part of its Community Engagement Saturday for Holy Week. The church is at 3250 Rainbow Drive. For more information, visit www.greenforest.org or call 404486-1120.

painting and horseshoes. The park is at 3867 Norman Easter egg hunt at VFW Road in Clarkston. For more in- Greater Piney Grove A Children and Youth Easter There will be games and prizes formation, call 404-292-5686, Ext. Eggstravaganza takes place on April at the annual Easter egg hunt on 223. 15 at Greater Piney Grove Baptist April 15 at VFW Post 4706 in Church. The program begins at South DeKalb Precinct Decatur. An Easter egg hunt on April 15 noon and is part of the Grove’s PasThe two-hour event for ages 1 to 13 begins at noon. Kids should at Perimeter College in Decatur sion Week observance. The church is at 1879-1921 boasts a scavenger hunt and “spebring their own baskets. Glenwood Ave. S.E. in Atlanta. The post is at 5362 Covington cial” eggs containing a surprise. The South DeKalb Police Pre- For more information, visit www. Highway next to Pep Boys. For more information, email belve- cinct Community Outreach is host greaterpineygrove.com or call 404377-0561. for the noon-to-2 p.m. event. dere4706@gmail.com. Individuals or organizations Clarkston community event that would like to provide eggs or Egg-citing Hike Hunt Peter Cottontail is leaving lots of Free food, games and prizes help in hiding them can contact await participants in Clarkston Marjorie Clay, Community Out- eggs hidden on the nature trails on First Baptist’s Community Easter reach ambassador, at marjorieclay@ April 15 at Panola Mountain State Park in Stockbridge. Egg Hunt on April 15 at Milam bellsouth.net. The Egg-citing Hike Hunt gets Park. The GSU Perimeter campus is underway at 10 a.m. – register in The event takes place 10 a.m. at 3251 Panthersville Road. advance at 770-389-7801. to 1 p.m. – the egg hunt begins at Bring a basket for the hunt. 12:30 p.m. Individuals should bring Salvation Army event All ages can participate in Ages 2 and younger, 3-6, and 7-12 their own baskets. There will be volleyball, hula the Salvation Army’s Easter egg will have their own trails to search hoop, kickball, musical chairs, tug community event on April 15 in for eggs and prizes. The park is at 2620 Highway of war, sack race, jump rope, face Decatur.

Drop Everything and Read

Circulation Audited By

April 8, 2017

Book lovers of all ages can participate in D.E.A.R. – Drop Everything and Read – on April 12 at Hairston Crossing Library for National Library Week. The fun activity takes place 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is open to the first 50 participants. Patrons are challenged to take

the time to read a book for the April 9-15 annual observance. At D.E.A.R., sign in at the Front Desk before reading. Before leaving, sign out and pick out a prize. Funding is provided by the Friends group. The branch is at 4911 Redan Road in Stone Mountain. Call 404-508-7170.

155 S.W. in Henry County. For more information, including fees, visit www.gastateparks.org/PanolaMountain.

Egg hunt and dog parade Children up to 10 years old can participate in Avondale Estates’ Easter egg hunt on April 15 at Lake Avondale. The hunt starts promptly at 10 a.m. and the hunt area is divided into four sections based on age: 2 and under, 3-4, 5-7, and 8-10. The Easter Bunny also will make an appearance. The dog parade takes place during the hunt. Check in and register on-site 9:30 to 10:15 a.m. The first 50 registered participants to check in receive a free bag of goodies. The event is free and costumes are not required. Award categories include best behaved, best costume, best owner/dog duo, and most spirited/ enthusiastic. Lake Avondale is at 59 Lakeshore Drive. For more information, visit http://avondaleestates. org/2262/Easter-Egg-Hunt-andDog-Parade. Hard Labor Creek The Easter Bunny will be available for photo ops at the Easter egg hunt on April 15 at Hard Labor Creek State Park in Rutledge beginning at noon. Children will be placed in age groups – 0-2, 3-5, and 6 and older. Bring your own basket. The park is at 5 Hard Labor Creek Road in Morgan County. For more information, including fees, visit www.gastateparks.org/HardLaborCreek or call 706-557-3001.

Class offers tips for trips

Patrons who need help planning a trip can attend “Be Your Own Travel Guide” on April 12 at the Stone Mountain-Sue Kellogg Library. The informational program in the Savvy Senior series begins at 1 p.m. The library will help par-

ticipants learn the nuts and bolts of traveling before their summer vacation. Staff will walk patrons through useful resources and help them build an itinerary as they plan their international or local trip. The library is at 952 Leon St. in Stone Mountain. For more information, call 770-413-2020.

index to advertisers Brock Tours & Travel...................................... 8 Brooks & Assoc............................................... 3 Chapel Hill Orthodontics................................. 5 Committee To Elect Tammy Grimes................ 3 DeKalb County Clerk of Superior Court.......... 7 Executive Realty & Development, LLC............ 8

Fabric Joint, LLC.............................................. 8 First African Presbyterian Church.................... 7 Greenforest Community Baptist Church..........6 Johnson Hopewell Coleman LLC.................... 8 Johnson’s Antiques & Flea Market................. 8 King Safety & Security, Inc.............................. 8

LaQuintas Place, LLC...................................... 8 Partnership For Community Action................ 3 Power of Christ International Ministries.......... 7 Ray of Hope Christian Church.........................6 The Samuel Group.......................................... 8

Wright Vision Care.......................................... 5 Rite Aid...................................................Inserts Walgreens...............................................Inserts Disney On Ice......................................... Online Greenforest Community Baptist Church.Online

April 8, 2017

Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

“Knowing the warning signs can prevent unhealthy relationships from escalating to potentially dangerous levels.”

Free rapid testing for Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day Free rapid HIV testing will be available on April 10 at the Flat Shoals Library in recognition of National Youth HIV & AIDS Awareness Day. The DeKalb Board of Health is offering free and confidential Rapid HIV Oraquick testing with same-day results from 1 to 5 p.m. No registration is required. The annual observance created in 2013 by Advocates for Youth and other partners seeks to educate the public about the impact of HIV and AIDS on young people and to highlight the work young people are doing across the country to respond to the epidemic. Human immunodeficiency virus is the virus that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, known as AIDS. Once a person has HIV, they have it for life, the 2015 Status of Health in DeKalb Report says. In DeKalb from 2008 through 2012, the number of newly diagnosed HIV cases was highest among those ages 13-24. Males and black residents accounted for the highest percentages of HIV and AIDS cases. Among

An HIV test is administered at a previous event. The DeKalb Board of Health is offering free and confidential Rapid HIV Oraquick testing April 10 at Flat Shoals Library.

Among them, 82 percent were male and 71 newly diagnosed cases of HIV, 79.3 percent black, the report shows. DeKalb had 422 new HIV diagnoses percent were black. were male and 56.9 percent were black. The library is at 4022 Flat Shoals Parkway Among newly diagnosed cases of AIDS, 77.9 in 2014 in the latest figures available from percent were male and 73.2 percent were the Georgia Department of Public Health. in Decatur. Call 404-244-4370.

Love Run 5K raises $4,188 for WRC’s fight against domestic violence The nearly 350 runners and walkers who participated in the second annual “Love Run 5K” hosted by DeKalb District Attorney Sherry Boston raised $4,188 for the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence. The Feb. 25 event took place in downtown Decatur. Boston presented the check to WRC Executive Director Jean Douglas on March 28. The Love Run 5K, which raises money and awareness about domestic violence issues, also coincides with Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month observed in February.

Boston, who created the Love Run in 2016 while she was DeKalb’s solicitor-general, says the 5K event is a fun and healthy way to focus attention on a very serious issue impacting our community. National statistics show that one in three teens experiences some type of abuse in his or her dating relationships and only 33 percent of them report the abuse. Boston believes early intervention is the key to prevention. “Knowing the warning signs can prevent unhealthy relationships from escalating to potentially dangerous levels,” she said. In 2016, the Love Run raised more than DeKalb District Attorney Sherry Boston (left) presents a check on March 28 to Jean Douglas, executive director of the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence. $5,000 for WRC.

Testicular cancer screenings urged Men and boys are being urged to take a more active role in their health as the nation observes Testicular Cancer Awareness Month in April. The nonprofit Men’s Health Network and organizations and communities across the country are advocating for the health and wellness of men and their families. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among males 15 to 35 and has one of the highest survival rates if found early. That’s what makes prevention techniques and overall awareness critically important, says Ana Fadich, network vice president. “ Testicular cancer continues to be the leading cause of cancer in young men and boys but remains a very treatable cancer,” Fadich said in an April 1 statement. “That is why awareness is essential in reaching younger men who may not receive can- Ana Fadich cer prevention messages and educate them about the importance of early detection.”

TesticularCancerAwarenessMonth.com seeks to educate people about risk factors, warning signs, and treatment options for the disease. It offers videos, a social media toolkit, brochures, research articles, and awareness activities to turn a difficult-to-discuss problem into an interactive and easier-toapproach learning experience. Dr. Michael J. Rovito, founder of Men’s Health Initiative Inc., says early detection is critical. “Many years of life from too many men and boys have been lost because of this disease,” said Rovito, an assistant professor at the University Michael Rovito of Central Florida. “It’s time males became more aware of the risks and began to take action to become familiar with their bodies.” Rovito suggests that boys and men perform testicular self-exams monthly. “If something out of the ordinary is discovered, males should speak to their health care provider immediately,” he said.

Fitness class for boomers, seniors SilverSneakers instructor Apryl Wade adds fun to fitness on April 11 at Seniors First! at the Redan-Trotti Library. The special event for patrons 55 and older begins at 11:30 a.m. Wade, who operates Jym-N-Juice Fitness in Conyers with her husband, Duane, will lead participants in exercise and having fun on the road to fitness. Funding is provided by the Friends of Redan-Trotti Library. SilverSneakers Fitness, founded in 1992, provides access to fitness and

wellness facilities, proprietary and group exercise classes led by certified instructors, online resources, social events and a support network of other participants across the nation. One in five older adults is eligible for a SilverSneakers Fitness benefit through the nation’s leading Medicare Advantage health plans, Medicare Supplement carriers and group retiree plans. For more information or to check eligibility, visit silversneakers.com or call 1-888-423-4632. The library is at 1569 Wellborn Road in Lithonia. Call 770-482-3821.

Ministry

CrossRoadsNews

April 8, 2017

The Seven Last Words services feature themed sermonettes focused on the utterances of Jesus on the cross.

Seven Last Words services mark Good Friday in S. DeKalb By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Angela Moore, Clarkston First Baptist Church; missionary Colleen Ferris and Minister Hattie Washington, Rainbow Park Baptist Church; Minister Janette Cody, New Bethel AME in Lithonia; and the Rev. Wanda Holder, GreenforAngela Moore est Community Baptist Church – will preach mini sermons on each of the utterances. The ministers for the 7 p.m. service are the Rev. Jared Sawyer, Minister Milton Saffold, Bethlehem Baptist Church in Atlanta; Minister Robert Jared Sawyer Edwards and Pastor Roderick Perrymond, New Love Christian Church in Lithonia; the Rev. Rico Miller, Mount Welcome Missionary Baptist, Decatur; the Rev. Dr. Will Rogers, St. Mark Lutheran Church; and the Rev. John John H. Mason H. Mason, Providence Community Baptist Church in Marietta. Rainbow Park Baptist Church is at 2841 Columbia Drive in Decatur.

Congregations across South DeKalb will mark the crucifixion of Jesus Christ of Nazareth with Seven Last Words services on Good Friday, April 14. The world’s most famous crucifixion occurred in first century Judea between A.D. 30 and 33. The canonical gospels show that Jesus the Christ was arrested, tried, and sentenced by Pontius Pilate to be scourged and crucified by the Romans. He was stripped of his clothing, and before he was nailed to a cross, he was offered wine mixed with gall. The seven statements he uttered from the cross are recorded in Luke 23:34; Luke 23:43; John 19:25-26; Matthew 27:46; John 19:28; John 19:30; and Luke 23:46. Some churches like Rainbow Park, Saint Philip AME, and Greater Piney Grove Baptist in Decatur and Atlanta will host two services, at noon and at 7 p.m. The Seven Last Words services feature themed sermonettes focused on the utterances of Jesus while he hung on the cross for six hours between two convicted thieves: n “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they do.” n “I tell you the truth, today you will be with me in paradise.” n “Dear woman, here is your son.” n “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” n “I thirst.” Pastors at Saint Philip AME n “It is finished!” Six pastors of large South DeKalb and n “Father, into your hands, I commit my metro Atlanta congregations will join the spirit.” Rev. William Watley at noon on April 14 for Saint Philip AME’s “The Seven Last Words” Rainbow Park service. For Rainbow Park’s noon service, seven The Rev. Carl Moore, Allen Temple AME; women ministers – evangelist Pattie McGrew, the Rev. Charles Maxwell, the Breakthrough the Rev. Jay Lynn Peabody, Kingdom Fam- Fellowship; the Rev. Cynthia Hale, Ray of ily United Ministries in Lithonia; Minister Hope Christian Church; the Rev. Eric Lee,

Resurrection Weekend at Berean Berean Christian Church commemorates the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ with services on April 15 and April 16. Resurrection Weekend observances take place at noon Saturday and at 5, 7:15, and 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. Berean has campuses at 2201 Young Road in Stone Mountain (770-593-4421), 1465 Highpoint Road in Snellville (678-2402213), and 171 Collier Road in Stockbridge (678-271-2150).

Walter Kimbrough Belinda McCastle

Michael McQueen K. Sinkfield

Springfield Baptist Church; Dr. Kerwin Lee, Berean Christian Church; and Bishop Dale Bonner, Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral, will speak. The church is at 240 Candler Road at the corner of Memorial Drive in Atlanta. For more information, visit www.saintphilip.org or call 404-371-0749.

Ralph Thompson

author the Rev. Dr. Walter L Kimbrough; the Rev. Dr. Michael McQueen, St. James United Methodist Church in Alpharetta; the Rev. Sharad Creasman, chaplain, Brevard College, Brevard, S.C.; the Rev. Kimberlyn Sinkfield, Calvary United Methodist Church in Atlanta; and host pastor, Columbia Drive UMC’s the Rev. Ralph L. Thompson Jr. Columbia UMC’s Music Department, led by music minister Paul Settles, will offer musical meditations ranging from traditional to emotive contemporary songs. The church is at 2067 Columbia Drive in Decatur. For more information, visit www. cdumc.com or call 404-284-4151.

Perspectives of the Cross For its Good Friday Service, First Afrikan Presbyterian Church’s ministers will offer Perspectives of the Cross, in which they reflect on the meaning of the crucifixion in the era of mass incarceration and gross injustice. The service starts at 7 p.m. The church is Good Friday with AUC students at 5197 Salem Road in Lithonia. Greater Piney Grove Baptist Church is For more information, visit www.firstafri- hosting two Good Friday Services, one at kanchurch.org or call 770-981-2601. noon with students of Atlanta University Center and one at 7 p.m. with Associate Ministers of the Church. Both services take place Spoken word, musical meditations For its Seven Last Words of Christ service, in the Frank Jones Memorial Chapel. On April 15, it is hosting a children and Columbia Drive United Methodist Church is presenting a program of spoken and musical youth Easter Eggstravaganza at noon on the Grove campus. meditations at noon on April 14. Its Maundy Thursday Service takes place Doors open at 11:15 a.m. The preachers for the program are the on April 13 with a Seder Meal Service with Rev. Dr. Theophilus Stanford, Allgood Road Rabbi Spike Anderson at 6:30 p.m. in the United Methodist Church in Stone Moun- William E. Flippin Sr. Family Life Center tain; the Rev. Belinda McCastle, Ben Hill Gymnasium. Attendance is free but seating United Methodist Church in Atlanta; retired is limited. The church is at 1879-1921 GlenUnited Methodist preacher, lecturer and wood Ave. in Atlanta.

Holy Week at Christ Our Hope Culturally diverse Christ Our Hope Catholic Church will hold services on April 8 and April 9 for Palm Sunday. There will be a Vigil Mass at 5:30 p.m. on April 8, and Masses in the church on April 9 at 8 and 11 a.m. (English) and in the hall at 11 a.m. (Spanish). On Holy Thursday, April 13, there will be a Mass at 7 p.m. and Night Vigil through midnight. Good Friday services on April 14 are Seven Last Words at 1 p.m., Stations of the Cross at 3, Divine Mercy Novena (Day 1) at 6, and Veneration of the Cross (Communion

Service) at 7. For Holy Saturday on April 15, Divine Mercy Novena (Day 2) takes place at 10 a.m. followed by Easter Liturgy rehearsal at 11. Easter Vigil Mass is at 9 p.m. Easter Sunday services on April 16 are Masses in the church at 8 and 11 a.m. (English) and at the hall at 11 a.m. (Spanish). Divine Mercy Novena (Day 3) is at 9:45 a.m. Members hail from more than 50 countries around the world as well as from Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. The church is at 1786 Wellborn Road in Lithonia. Visit www.christourhopeatl.org.

Sunrise Service at Avondale Pattillo A Sunrise Service on April 16 at Avondale Pattillo United Methodist Church celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It takes place on the front lawn on Easter Sunday. A free pancake breakfast follows the service co-sponsored by Columbia Presbyterian Church. Avondale Pattillo UMC is at 3260 Covington Highway in Avondale Estates.

CrossRoadsNews

April 8, 2017

Ministry

“The faith, commitment and responsibility … practiced by these women are meaningful to the story of black women.”

“Come on and be a part of the vision” First Afrikan Church is an Afrocentric Christian Ministry that empowers women, men, youth and children to move from membership to leadership in the church, community and the world. Praise & Devotion Worship Service Sundays at 10 a.m. Join us for Bible Study Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

5197 Salem Road Lithonia, GA 30038

770-981-2601 “We are building far beyond our years.”

Rev. Dr. Mark A. Lomax

The collaborative Performing Arts Worship Service takes place April 12 at the Sankofa Center at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta.

‘Women at the Cross’ service to highlight black girls and women The lives black girls and women will be highlighted at the annual “Women at the Cross” service on April 12 at the Sankofa Center at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta. The collaborative Performing Arts Worship Service, which begins at 7 p.m., includes Rize Community Church, Sankofa United Church of Christ and Dream Life Fellowship Christian Church. The three churches are joining the Center for Afrikan Biblical Studies of First Afrikan Church in Lithonia and ITC’s Office of Black Women in Church and Society for the service. Itihari Toure, the Sankofa Center’s director, said the purpose of this Sacred Arts service is to contribute a responsive and relevant interpretation of the role and function of women in the ministry of Jesus while

intersecting their lives with the lives of black women. She said the presence and responsibility of Mary Magdalene, Mary, the mother of Jesus, Mary’s sister and Mary, the wife of Clophas, speaks to the contemporary presence of black women in the community, the church and Itihari Toure the world. “In this spiritual season of reflection and self-denial, the faith, commitment and responsibility for discipleship practiced by these women of the past are particularly meaningful to the story of black women in the 21st century,” she said. The ITC Chapel is at 700 Martin Luther King Dr. SW in Atlanta. Call 404-527-7729.

Put CrossRoadsNews to Work for You! Call 404-284-1888 for Advertising Rates & Information 2017. You are hereby notified that on Mar. 03, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Latochana Kelly, 280 Northern Ave., Apt. #23E, Avondale, GA 30002. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 08, 2017. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flake; Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 10th day of Mar., 2017

Legal Notices 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15

Notice of Petition to CHANGE Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM3175 Reginia Ferry filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Mar. 07, 2017 to change name from: Reginia Ferry to Nancy Ferry. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Mar. 07, 2017 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15

Notice of Petition to CHANGE Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM3346 Freddy Boyd filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Mar. 15, 2017 to change name from: Freddy Boyd to Freddie Maddox. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the

Petition was filed. Dated: Mar. 14, 2017 04/01, 04/08, 04/15, 04/22

Notice of Petition to CHANGE Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM3621-1 Joseph Evans filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Mar. 22, 2017 to change name from: Joseph Evans to Joe Evans. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Mar. 20, 2017 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15

Notice of PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 16FM11919-2 Terrance King PLAINTIFF VS Constance King DEFENDANT

To: Constance King 902 Gross Lake Parkway Covington, GA 30016 By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Feb. 28, 2017. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Terrance King, P.O. Box 206, Davisboro, GA 31018. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Feb. 28, 2017. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson; Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 8th day of Mar., 2017 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15

Notice of PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

2017. You are hereby notified that on Feb. 23, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Maria Wence Lozano Palma, 3028 Chamblee-Tucker Rd., Apt. #R7, Atlanta, GA 03041. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 08, 2017. Witness the Honorable Daniel M. Coursey, Jr.; Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 8th day of Mar., 2017 03/25, 04/01, 04/08, 04/15

Notice of PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM2826-7 Maria Wence Lozano Palma PLAINTIFF VS Luis Gabriel Benitez Soto DEFENDANT To: Unknown

Civil Action Case Number: 16FM10630-4 Latochana Kelly PLAINTIFF VS Billy Kelly DEFENDANT To: Billy Kelly 2707 Knollview Dr. Decatur, GA 30034

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Mar. 08,

04/01, 04/08, 04/15, 04/22

Notice of PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM3612-9 Tony B. Colter PLAINTIFF VS Mary J. Corbett Colter DEFENDANT To: By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Mar. 24, 2017. You are hereby notified that on Mar. 22, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Tony Colter, 2240 Creekview Trail, Decatur, GA 30035. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 24, 2017. Witness the Honorable Mark Anthony Scott; Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 24th day of Mar., 2017 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, 04/29

Notice of PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County

State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM3608-3 Jarrett Morris PLAINTIFF VS Debra Bridges DEFENDANT To: Debra Bridges 1401 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy., Apt. 006 Atlanta, GA 30318 By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Mar. 24, 2017. You are hereby notified that on Mar. 22, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Jarrett DeWitt Morris, 1986 Twin Falls Rd., Decatur, GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 24, 2017. Witness the Honorable Clarence F. Seeliger; Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 30th day of Mar., 2017 04/08, 04/15, 04/22, 04/29

Notice of Petition to CHANGE Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM3523-8 David Jr. Walker filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Mar. 22, 2017 to change name from: David Jr. Walker to David Walker. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Mar. 14, 2017

CrossRoadsNews

April 8, 2017

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