COMMUNITY
WELLNESS
Pencils for Senegal
Game time for seniors
The South DeKalb Rotary Club is spearheading a pencil collection drive for schoolchildren in villages in Senegal. 5
Residents 50 and older can register through April 30 for the 30th Annual DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games on May 2-26. 6
Don’t Trash DeKalb
A PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE FROM CROSSROADSNEWS
EAST ATLANTA • DECATUR • STONE MOUNTAIN • LITHONIA • AVONDALE ESTATES • CLARKSTON • ELLENWOOD • PINE LAKE • REDAN • SCOTTDALE • TUCKER
Copyright © 2016 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.
April 9, 2016
Volume 21, Number 50
www.crossroadsnews.com
Qualifying for Commission District 7 seat begins April 18 By Jennifer Ffrench Parker
Potential candidates eyeing the newly vacant DeKalb Board of Commissioners Super District 7 seat can qualify to run for it beginning April 18. The DeKalb Board of Registration and Elections said this week that qualifying will run through April 20 for the Nov. 8 special election to finish the two years left in Stan Watson’s term. He resigned March 11 to seek the tax commissioner’s office. Qualifying starts at 9 a.m. on April 18 and ends at noon on April 20 at the DeKalb Elections Office at 4380 Memorial Drive in Decatur.
By the numbers
$40,000 annual salary of a commissioner
18-20 April qualifying dates
Eligible candidates must be at least 21 years old, be a registered voter, and must have lived in the district for at least 12 consecutive months. Candidates must not have ever been convicted and sentenced in any
10
number of years that must have elapsed in wake of any convictions
court for fraudulent violation of primary or election laws, malfeasance in office, or felony involving moral turpitude or conviction of domestic violence under the laws of this state, any other state, or of the United States,
or if so, their civil rights must have been restored and at least 10 years have elapsed from the date of completion of the sentence without subsequent conviction of another felony involving moral turpitude. Candidates also must not owe any taxes or have defaulted on any federal, state, county, municipal, or school system taxes. The part-time office pays $40,000 a year plus expenses. The qualifying fee is $1,151.24. The special election will take place alongside the Nov. 8 general and presidential elections in all regular polling locations within Commission District 7. If a runoff is required, it will be held on Dec. 6.
Greenhaven backers not giving up on cityhood Meeting explores organizers’ next steps, concerns
South DeKalb businessman and resident Lloyd Nurse and others lined up to question CCCSD board members about the proposed city of Greenhaven at an April 5 community meeting.
By Ken Watts
Organizers of the proposed city of Greenhaven that covers a wide swath of south DeKalb County are not giving up even though a two-year effort to get approval from the state Legislature died with the end of the 2016 session on March 24. Senate Bill 221 and House Bill 613 died in committee because legislators took issue with the proposed city’s 126-square-mile boundaries choking off any prospect for existing cities – Lithonia, Clarkston, Stone Mountain and Avondale Estates – to grow. Dr. Kathr yn Rice, chairwoman and founder of the Concerned Citizens for Cityhood of South DeKalb, told 60 residents at an April 5 meeting at the Ray of Hope Christian Church that organizers will have to start over in the 2017 legislative ses- Kathryn Rice sion because the Legislature operates on a two-year cycle for bills and any bill that did not succeed this year will have to be refiled. “That means that next year we’ll have to find sponsors, introduce a new bill and go through the same process that we’ve already been through for two years,” she said. The proposed city was one of two new cities proposed for unincorporated South DeKalb. The city of Stonecrest that was first proposed in 2013 was approved and is awaiting Gov. Nathan Deal’s signature so the initiative can be placed on a ballot for residents to vote it up or down. Greenhaven, which would have nearly 300,000 residents, would become Georgia’s second-largest city behind the city of Atlanta.
Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews
Members of the House Governmental Affairs Committee objected to Greenhaven’s boundaries abutting or surrounding Clarkston, Stone Mountain and Lithonia, which they say would prevent them from growing by annexation. Georgia law allows cities to annex county land but not land in cities. Rice said the CCCSD is willing to “tweak” the map if members can get a clear understanding with lawmakers that the group can adjust the boundaries without incurring more expense. City organizers are required by state law to pay for a new $35,000 feasibility study if their boundaries change, Rice said. “We’d like to work with the cities and hopefully there will be legislators that work with us by not asking us to do another feasibility study,” she said. Greenhaven’s 2015 feasibility study done by the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute found that the proposed
city would be able to support itself based on its current boundaries, generating revenues of $45,611,418 and expenses of only $18,434,437. The city planned to provide three services: zoning, planning, and parks and recreation. It would pay DeKalb County for police and fire. Tuesday’s 90-minute community meeting explored organizers’ next steps and discussed the advantages and disadvantages of cityhood. Rice and board members Sandy Johnson, Isaac Finley and Tom Walton took questions from the audience on property taxes, public safety and new business development. Answering a question about economic development, Walton said South DeKalb continues to fall behind. “There will be 55 major developments in metro Atlanta in the next two years and not one of them is slated for South DeKalb,” he
said. “That’s why we want to start a city.” Noelle Baldwin of Gresham Park said her neighborhood doesn’t see the point of being part of Greenhaven or any city. “There’s a huge lack of public safety in our area and you’re not going to be providing police services,” Baldwin said. “Which means nothing’s going to Noelle Baldwin change.” Some of the residents doubted that Greenhaven would have any better luck attracting business to South DeKalb than the county has had. Johnson said the central issue is the right to vote on the matter. “It is OK to be opposed to cityhood,” she said. “It is OK to be opposed to the name Please see GREENHAVEN, page 3
CrossRoadsNews
2
Elections Clarence Seeliger
Stephone Johnson
Residents who are not registered to vote must do so by April 26 to cast ballots in the May 24 elections.
Gail Flake
Angela Brown
Dax Lopez
Roderick Bridges
Robert James
Sherry Boston
Nicole M. Golden
Donna C. Stribling
Judicial, court candidates to face journalists at political forum Candidates for the DeKalb County bench and the offices of district attorney and solicitor general will be facing the press at an April 12 judicial forum at Agnes Scott College in Decatur. The invited candidates are incumbent DeKalb Superior Court Judges Clarence Seeliger and Gail Flake and their challeng-
ers, attorneys Stephone Johnson and Angela Brown; incumbent State Court Judge Dax Lopez and his challenger, attorney Roderick Bridges; incumbent District Attorney Robert James and his challenger, Solicitor General Sherry Boston; and DeKalb solicitor general candidates Nicole Marchand Golden and Donna Coleman Stribling.
Voter registration deadline looms DeKalb residents who are not registered to vote must do so by April 26 to cast ballots in the May 24 primary and nonpartisan elections. To register to vote, residents must be at least 17 1/2, and they must be 18 to cast a ballot; be a U.S. citizen; be a legal resident of DeKalb County; be mentally competent; and must not be serving a sentence for a felony conviction involving moral turpitude. Voter registration forms are available by visiting www.sos.state.ga.us/elections, by downloading the “GA Votes” smartphone app, or by completing a postage-paid voter registration application and mailing it to the DeKalb Elections Office. Registration forms and absentee ballots also are available at local libraries and at http://web.co.dekalb.ga.us/ Voter/applicationForms.html.
Georgia law requires voters to show photo identification when voting in person. If you do not have some form of photo ID, the state offers a Voter Identification Card free of charge at the DeKalb Elections Office, 4380 Memorial Drive in Decatur, or at Department of Driver Services offices. To receive a Voter Identification Card, residents must provide a photo identity document or approved non-photo identity document that includes full legal name and date of birth; documentation showing date of birth; evidence that the applicant is a registered voter; and documentation showing the applicant’s name and residential address. Completed applications can be mailed or faxed. For more information, visit www.sos. state.ga.us/elections or call 404-298-4020.
WSB-TV reporter Tom Jones will moderate the event, and a panel of journalists will ask questions. The forum takes place from 6:15 to 9 p.m. in Rebekah Scott Hall. It is co-hosted by the DeKalb Lawyers Association, the DeKalb and Gate City Bar associations, 100 Black Men of DeKalb
County, and the League of Women Voters of Atlanta-Fulton County. Agnes Scott College is at 141 E. College Ave. Free parking is available in the visitors deck, 137 S. McDonough St. For more information, email Cheryl Turner at cherylfturner@hotmail.com.
Absentee ballots now available Absentee ballots are now available to be mailed to voters for the May 24 primary and nonpartisan elections. Secretary of State Brian Kemp said April 5 that voters can request an absentee ballot by submitting a written application to their local county election registrar or by logging onto the “My Voter Page (MVP)” to print the application and mail the completed form to their registrar. He said that requesting an absentee ballot has never been easier in Georgia. “I was proud to bring this new innovation to our state along with other helpful Web-based platforms, such as the online voter registration system and the ‘GA Votes’ smartphone app,” he said. To vote in the May 24 elections, absentee ballots must be requested before
May 20. Under federal law, uniformed military voters are only required to submit one absentee ballot application to receive absentee ballots for an entire election cycle. Advance in-person voting begins on May 2. The only weekend voting for these elections is Saturday, May 14. Kemp said the May 24 primary provides Georgia voters the opportunity to decide which candidates will best represent their interests in local, state and federal elections. In DeKalb, 60 candidates are vying in 22 contested races, including for DeKalb CEO, sheriff, district attorney, solicitor general, state senator and representatives. For more information, visit www.dekalbvotes.com.
SUNDAY APRIL 17
2016
OTE 2016
Nationally Recognized, Award-Winning* Election Coverage Special Election Sections Coming in May
5PM-7PM
CELEBRATING JAZZ APPRECIATION MONTH
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ormative 2016 Election Sections,“International Songbird” Myrna Clayton returns to the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center the May 24 Primary.
offer excellent opportunities ’s most informed voters.2
olor
April 9, 2016
Guest Conductor Jody Mayfield
.................. $950 .............. $1,400
n CrossRoadsNews.com. • Call for Rates Executive Director of West Side Winds Asa Walker
e lly h t t e g Tar can actua o you! h w e l peop OTE for V
to celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month. Myrna brings to her dynamic on-stage presence and the music of 24-piece West Side Winds Jazz Orchestra with Guest Conductor Jody Mayfield to highlight America’s musical contribution to the world. Music from the Big Band Era to R&B will fill the theater for this elegant one-night-only classy affair.
Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center 3181 Rainbow Drive • Decatur, GA 30034 Contact# (404) 687-2731 AN Tickets $22.00 ASA MUSIC
Tickets Available NOW @ www.eventbrite.com
PRODUCTION EVENT
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Book your space today Call 404-284-1888, ask for Jennifer Source: The Media Audit, Atlanta Market Surveys CrossRoadsNews distributes 28,000 copies every week, 95% of them in South DeKalb County. * Suburban Newspapers of America – 2008 Editorial Contest, 16,001-36,000 Non-Daily Circulation 1 2
CrossRoadsNews
April 9, 2016
Community
3
“The workshops are designed to identify, qualify, and increase the participation of local contractors in the project.�
DA’s ‘Jobs Not Jail’ program seeking jobs for first-time offenders began in 2011, will describe their experiences before and during the program. and their new life choices. James is asking businesses to help graduates find jobs or apprenticeships. “I could not be more
Community and business leaders can join District Attorney Robert James on April 13 for his Jobs Not Jail: A Call to Action event at the Historic DeKalb Courthouse. The event, which kicks off at 10 a.m., will highlight the DA’s Anti-Recidivism Diversion Court and his efforts to help youth graduating from the program to find jobs and a pathway to meaningful careers. Several graduates of program, which Robert James
proud of the success of our young people and our program,� he said. The Anti-Recidivism Diversion Court seeks to prevent young, nonviolent offenders from committing more crimes after their first arrest. Its creation was based upon research that shows that young offenders benefit from being held accountable for their actions and being given the tools to shift to a productive
mind-set. James is offering jobs in the DA’s office to several graduates, and he is partnering with DeKalb Workforce Development to help promote graduates as potential employees. The Jobs Not Jail: A Call to Action event is free and open to the public. Employers and those interested in attending should contact Ebony Phillips at eaphillips@dekalbcountyga.gov.
District 5 Cleanup April 16
Contractor workshop for $10 million project
Community volunteers are needed for the District 5 Spring Cleanup along the Wesley Chapel Road corridor on April 16. DeKalb Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson is host for the cleanup, which takes place 10 a.m. to noon. Homeowners associations, neighborhoods, churches, schools and organizations are urged to participate. To register as a volunteer or for more information, call 404-371-2412. Mereda Johnson
Contractors interested in working on the city of Lithonia’s $10 million Granite Crossing multifamily project should attend an April 16 contractor workshop. Bid opportunities include demolition, site preparation, general contracting services, and interior/exterior services including general labor. The April 16 workshop, which begins at 10 a.m. at City Hall, is the second in a series of contractor workshops being hosted by the city. City Councilman Fred Reynolds said the workshops
are designed to identify, qualify, and increase the participation of local contractors in the project. The 75-unit Granite Crossing Apartment complex, being built by Wendover Housing Partners LLC, will be constructed on the portion of Lithonia Plaza owned by the city of Lithonia. Crews began demolishing the old 80,000-square-foot building on March 15 to make way for the apartments. Lithonia City Hall is at 6920 Main St. To attend, R.S.V.P. to reynoldsfred1@gmail.com.
Internships for teens, young adults
Residents complain about being ignored
Teens and young adults who are not enrolled in school and are seeking employment can apply for short-term internship opportunities from DeKalb Workforce Development. Registration ends at 5 p.m. on April 15. The internship, funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act 2014, pays $8 an hour. Interns ages 16-24 will work up to 16 weeks, with a maximum of 32 hours per week. Eligible applicants must have a Social Security card, birth certificate, Georgia ID,
GREENHAVEN,
utility bill or lease, and proof of income and school status. They also must have a valid email address and contact number and must submit an essay explaining why the internship is desired and how it will be of benefit. Applications are available at http:// workdev.dekalbcountyga.gov – click on I am a Youth, then Youth Services Program Internship. For more information, email dwdyouth@dekalbcountyga.gov or call 404687-3428. Individuals with hearing impairment may call 1-800-255-0135.
from page
1
Greenhaven. But it’s not OK for us not to have the same rights as all the other folks who have come before us, looking to selfdetermine.� Michael Howard, who lives in Decatur, said people in some neighborhoods weren’t aware that they had been included within the proposed boundaries of Greenhaven and might have wanted to opt out. “You never asked them,� Howard told the board.
Other residents wanted to know what would be different on the group’s next attempt to get lawmakers to approve a Greenhaven referendum. Rice said the CCCSD will work to get broader grass-roots participation. It also will meet with the cities affected by Greenhaven’s boundaries. “We’ve been to every section of Greenhaven and we will continue to go to every section because it’s our desire to reach out to as many people as possible,� Rice said. “Everyone has to get involved in the process.�
“We are rolling forward together as one� -Interim CEO Lee May
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*VTPUN (WYPS *OHUNLZ [V NHYIHNL HUK YLJ`JSPUN JVU[HPULY YLX\PYLTLU[Z HUK JVSSLJ[PVU WYVJLK\YLZ 6US` JV\U[` WYV]PKLK NHYIHNL HUK YLJ`JSPUN JVU[HPULYZ HYL HWWYV]LK MVY \ZL County-provided single-stream recycling options
Approved 18-gallon bin
65-gallon roll cart
40-gallon bag
County-provided garbage roll cart options
Not Approved Customer-provided garbage container
County-provided recycling bin, bag and roll cart
County-provided garbage roll cart Secure, durable plastic bags for excess garbage 35-gallon roll cart
45-gallon 65-gallon roll cart roll cart
95-gallon roll cart
For more information, please call or visit: ŕ Ž ^^^ YVSSPUNMVY^HYK[VVUL JVT ŕ Ž -VSSV^ '0[Z0U+L2HSI VU ;^P[[LY
Customer-provided recycling container or bag
4
Scene
2346 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007 www.crossroadsnews.com editor@crossroadsnews.com
Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Assistant Editor Brenda Yarbrough Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Graphic Design Curtis Parker 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 advertisments, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.
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April 9, 2016
“The book is testament to a line of black protest … that stretches from Walker to Du Bois to #blacklivesmatter.”
1st edition of landmark abolition book at Emory A rare first edition of David Walker’s 19th-century anti-slavery book “Appeal” has been obtained by Emory University’s Stuart A. Rose Manuscript, Archives and Rare Book Library. The book is also signed by civil rights leader and educator W.E.B. Du Bois. “Appeal,” written and published in 1829 in Boston by Walker, a self-educated black merchant, is considered one of the most important documents in Black History. Its full title is “Walker’s Appeal, in Four Articles, Together With A Preamble to the Colored Citizens of the World, But in Particular, and Very Expressly to Those of the United States of America.” Only half a dozen copies of early editions are known to exist, and only two known first editions can be found in libraries, said Randall Burkett, Rose Library curator of research. It acquired the copy with a B.H. Breslauer Foundation grant and additional support. The first edition at Emory is stamped with Du Bois’ ownership
Emory
David Walker’s “Appeal” is among the earliest African American-written books in the Rose Library’s holdings and the oldest example in its collection of material published by African Americans, an area Emory has pioneered.
signature on the title page, and his holograph signature is on the front fly. The book also contains Du Bois’ extensive marginal markings. Rosemary Magee, Rose Library director, said the work “addresses some of the questions that continue to challenge us today.”
Kevin Young, curator of literary collections and the Danowski Poetry Library, echoed that sentiment to The New York Times. “The book is testament to a line of black protest and prophecy that stretches from Walker to Du Bois to #blacklivesmatter. Seeing it and the
markings it’s almost as if Du Bois’ lines in the text make that literal.” In Du Bois’ “Dusk of Dawn,” he called “Appeal” “that tremendous indictment of slavery,” recognizing its importance as the first “program of organized opposition to the action and attitude of the dominant white group.” The late American historian Herbert Aptheker said Walker’s work “is the first sustained written assault upon slavery and racism to come from a black man in the United States.” It was considered so radical and revolutionary in its call to arms that even abolitionists condemned it as inflammatory. Pellom McDaniels III, curator of African American Collections in the Rose Library, called it “a landmark of political protest and eloquent articulation of the demand for freedom for people of African descent in the United States.” “It is as important for African American political and social history as Thomas Paine’s ‘Rights of Man’; it is a demand for freedom and a call to arms,” he said.
Taste of AGlanta celebrates Earth Week, farming Sample farm-to-table dishes and celebrate Earth Week at Taste of AGlanta on April 18 at the Westside Cultural Arts Center. Atlanta first lady Sarah-Elizabeth Reed and Captain Planet Foundation board Chair Laura Turner Seydel are co-hosts for the 7-to-9 p.m. event. A VIP reception takes place at 6:30 p.m. There will be tastings from Westside farm-to-table restaurants including JCT Kitchen, the Optimist, 5 Seasons, Bocado, Miller
seasonal elixirs; modeled fashions by eco-designers; and remarks from the co-hosts, Mayor Kasim Reed, and Atlanta Urban Agriculture Director Mario Cambardella. Proceeds benefit urban agriculture and enhance community gardens and school gardens in the Westside in association with the Atlanta first lady Sarah-Elizabeth Reed (from left), Laura Turner Seydel of Captain Planet Foundation. the Captain Planet Foundation, Atlanta Urban Agriculture Director Mario The arts center is at 760 10th Cambardella, and Mayor Kasim Reed will speak April 18 at Taste of AGlanta. St. N.W. in Atlanta. Visit www. Union, and Souper Jenny; desserts by Octane Coffee; beer by Sweet- eventbrite.com/e/taste-of-aglantaby Amelie’s French Bakery; coffee water; a cocktail competition with tickets-21779862154.
Developer Vaughn Irons awarded Riordan Scholarship He is the first from Real estate developGeorgia since 2009. er Vaughn D. Irons has The 2016 recipients been awarded the John will be recognized at T. Riordan International the May 23 Global Real Scholarship to attend the Estate Convention in Las ttend the Riordan School Vegas. in either Scottsdale, Ariz., Irons, who is the CEO or Miami. of APD Solutions, a comIrons is one of 15 munity and economic global leaders to receive Vaughn Irons the award from the International development firm, said he recogCouncil of Shopping Centers nizes the importance of the retail real estate industry in enhancing Foundation.
the value of a community. “I am certain the program will augment my understanding of how to navigate the completion of retail real estate projects and make me a more accomplished development professional,” he said. The all-expense-paid scholarship includes a week of rigorous study at John T. Riordan International School in either Scottsdale, Ariz., or Miami. Riordan Scholars get to deepen
Historian examines LBJ’s ‘Great Society’ Prize-winning historian Randall Woods will discuss President Lyndon B. Johnson and “the Great Society” on April 12 at the Carter Randall Woods Presidential Library & Museum in Atlanta. The reading and book signing, which is free and open to the pub-
lic, begins at 7 p.m. in the theater. Woods, a distinguished professor of history at the University of Arkansas, will read from “Prisoners of Hope: Lyndon B. Johnson, the Great Society, and the Limits of Liberalism,” a comprehensive history of LBJ’s ambitious social agenda, exploring the possibilities of visionary politics and its limits. Johnson’s domestic agenda in the mid-1960s included aid to education, attack on disease,
Medicare, urban renewal, beautification, conservation, development of depressed regions, a wide-scale fight against poverty, control and prevention of crime and delinquency, and removal of obstacles to the right to vote. Woods’ books include “Fulbright: A Biography,” winner of the Ferrell and Ledbetter prizes. The center is at 441 Freedom Parkway. Visit www.jimmycarterlibrary.gov or call 404-865-7100.
their knowledge of retail property and shopping centers, learn from experts, share ideas, and identify successful strategies alongside colleagues from around the world. Irons, who lives in Lithonia, is past chairman of the DeKalb Development Authority. He serves on the DeKalb Chamber board and is a member of Leadership Atlanta’s 2016 class. For more information, visit www.icsc. org and www.APDSolutions.com.
New book club at Stonecrest The Friends of Stonecrest Library is starting a book club at the Lithonia branch. Interested parties can attend the first meeting on April 11 at 6 p.m. The library is at 3123 Klondike Road. For questions or more information, call 770668-3060.
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National Ltd. Services...................................... 7 Richard H. Davis, ND....................................... 7 Stewart Unlimited Inc...................................... 7 Wright Vision Care..........................................6
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CrossRoadsNews
April 9, 2016
Community
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“In Africa, it’s all about sharing. Education is very important to them. They make do with the little they have.”
Pencil drive to benefit students in Senegal Pencils that U.S. students take for granted are a major luxury in Senegal, West Africa, so the South DeKalb Rotary Club is spearheading a pencil collection drive to help kids in the Dakar region do their class work and homework. The club is partnering with interim DeKalb Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson and DeKalb Clerk of Court Debra DeBerry to collect and send pencils to children in Dakar and the village of Tatene. Ceasar Gaiters, the Rotary Club’s presidentelect, said they are hoping to send at least 5,000 pencils to children in time for the start of their new school year in September. “We hope the community will help us by Ceasar Gaiters donating No. 2 or other pencils,” Gaiters said. “We will take all that we get.” Pencils can be donated now at all three DeKalb tax commissioner offices: n South Office – 2801 Candler Road, Suite 66, the Gallery at South DeKalb in Decatur. n Central Office – 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 100, in Decatur. n North Office – 1358 Dresden Drive N.E. in Atlanta. Donations also are being accepted at: n DeKalb Clerk of Court Office, 556 N. McDonough St. in downtown Decatur. n Suite 20 Day Spa, 4635 Flat Shoals Parkway in Decatur. The pencils will be taken to Senegal by Audrey Gardner, a goodwill ambassador for the Senegalese Croix Rouge or Red Cross. Gardner, who lives in Atlanta, said the villages that will benefit from the donations are located far from the city and stores and
New rules for trash collection
The South DeKalb Rotary Club, in partnership with interim DeKalb Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson and DeKalb Clerk of Court Debra DeBerry, is hoping to collect at least 5,000 pencils to send to children in Dakar and the village of Tatene in Senegal.
many people lack the resources to buy pencils, which are very expensive there. “The children often don’t have enough pencils to go around,” Gardner said. “They are just so happy to get pencils. They Audrey Gardner are very, very grateful. I don’t have the words to describe their joy. It’s unbelievable.” When pencils are in short supply, Gardner said the kids share. “In Africa, it’s all about sharing,” said Gardner, who has been a Senegal goodwill
ambassador since 2012. “Education is very important to them. They make do with the little they have. They take turns writing or they break their pencils in two and share.” From the collection being spearheaded by the Rotary Club, nine schools with about 3,000 students ages 5 to 20 will benefit. Gardner says she visits the Frenchspeaking country six times a year. “I take medical supplies, seeds for them to plant, furniture, notebooks, backpacks, crayons,” she said. “They are always so excited to get gifts. Everyone says thank you.” For more information or to donate, contact Ceasar Gaiters at gaiter3@yahoo.com or 678-472-4412.
Starting April 18, DeKalb Sanitation will only pick up trash from county-provided garbage and recycling containers. Eligible containers are county-provided green garbage roll carts, blue 65-gallon recycling roll carts, blue 18-gallon recycling bins, and blue 40-gallon recycling bags. It said that durable plastic bags are approved for excess garbage disposal and can be placed next to customers’ garbage roll carts on their scheduled collection day. Customer-provided yard trimmings containers with a 20- to 40-gallon capacity are currently approved for use and will remain in effect after April 18. Customers who don’t use countyissued containers will be issued a notice. The use of county-provided containers is an integral part of the county’s mission to minimize injuries to employees and prevent damage to customer-provided containers. For requirements, procedures, subscription and more information, email sanitation@dekalbcountyga.gov; visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov, www.dekalbsanitation.com, www.rollingforwardtoone. com or www.keepdekalbbeautiful.org; or call 404-294-2900.
District Attorney Robert James hosts
Jobs Not Jail: A Call To Action April 13, 2016 Historic DeKalb Courthouse 101 East Court Square Decatur, GA 30030 10:00am-1:00pm Complimentary Breakfast
• Two-thirds of every offender will be re-arrested within 3 years • The DA’s diversion program holds youthful, non-violent offenders accountable • Come learn more about our Anti-Recidivism Diversion Court • Hear from our Anti-Recidivism Diversion Court graduates as they share their experiences
How You Can Help? Provide employment to our graduates. OR Encourage others to employ our graduates. For information about our programs kathomas@dekalbcountyga.gov
www.DeKalbDA.org
RSVP for the event by 4/5/2016 eaphillips@dekalbcountyga.gov
6
Wellness
CrossRoadsNews
“For the past decade, the DeKalb Health District has had the highest or second-highest rate of active TB cases.”
Woman scarred in acid attack to keynote Victims’ Rights rally Christy Sims, who survived a horrific domestic violence attack, will speak at DeKalb Solicitor General Sherry Boston’s Crime Victims’ Rights Week ceremony on April 14 at the Gazebo on the Decatur Square. The program, which begins at 12:30 p.m., is being held in conjunction with observances nationally commemorating National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April Christy Sims 10-16. Sims, who suffered third- and fourth-degree burns at the hands of a boyfriend who doused her with sulfuric acid in 2013, will detail her inspiring journey of turning “pain into purpose.” After the attack, she remained in a coma for Sherry Boston two months and endured numerous lifesaving surgeries. She emerged from the coma with a resolve to survive, to return to her two children, and to pursue the prosecution of her abuser. Since then, she has carried her message of survival locally, nationally and internationally and founded the Christy Sims Foundation to assist other domestic violence survivors. The program also will feature remarks from Michael Lash, a metro Atlanta hus-
April 9, 2016
band and father who was thrust into the national spotlight when he was shot and critically wounded while protecting his family during a violent home invasion in 2015. Lash survived the near-death experience and later witnessed the prosecution and subsequent conviction of his attackers. Sims and Lash will be honored for their courage and resilience by Boston. “It is a privilege to have this unique opportunity to recognize these amazing individuals,” Boston said. “I am inspired by their strength and willingness to publicly share their stories for the benefit of other victims of crime. They are true survivors.” National Crime Victims’ Rights Week promotes crime victims’ rights and honors victims of crime and their advocates. The April 14 program, which is free and open to the public, is partly funded by a U.S. Department of Justice grant. Boston also will be recognized for her efforts championing victims’ rights. DeKalb District 5 Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson will present her with a special proclamation honoring her work at the Board of Commissioners’ April 12 meeting. The Gazebo is at 101 E. Court Square. For more information, visit dekalbsolicitorgeneral.org or call 404-371-2201.
Register for Senior Olympics The 30th Annual DeKalb Senior Olympic Games for residents 50 and older will take place May 2-26 at venues throughout the county.
DeKalb residents 50 and older can register through April 30 for the 30th Annual DeKalb County Senior Olympic Games. The May 2-26 Olympic-style sports festival takes place at venues throughout the county with the Department of Recreation, Parks & Cultural Affairs as host. Interim CEO Lee May said it is a great opportunity for older DeKalb residents to showcase their talents and bond with others in the community. “To see the competitiveness of our
seniors is always exciting and entertaining,” May said in an April 4 statement. Participants compete for medals in a variety of sports, including free-throw basketball, bowling, golf, horseshoes, track and field, billiards, swimming, table tennis and water volleyball. Seniors needing special assistance regarding transportation should call MARTA Mobility at 404-848-5389. For more information, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/parks and click “register now, or call 404-371-2711.
Grant will enhance Board of Health’s capacity for tuberculosis screens The DeKalb Board of Health will soon enhance its capacity to screen for tuberculosis infection after receiving a grant of more than $77,000 to purchase a second interferon gamma release assay machine. The equipment analyzes blood samples and is more accurate and faster than screening using the traditional skin test method. The assay method also is more effective in screening individuals from countries where TB is common, who have impaired immune systems or are taking certain medications. Dr. Sentayehu Bedane, countywide services manager who oversees the TB program, said DeKalb has a high number of cases. “For the past decade, the DeKalb Health District has had the highest or second-
highest rate of active TB cases compared to Georgia’s other 17 public health districts,” Bedane said on March 24. The latest Status of Health in DeKalb shows that from 2008 through 2012, there were 384 cases Sentayehu Bedane of TB reported. For the same period, the foreign-born population accounted for the highest average percentage of cases (61), followed by HIV-positive individuals (13), people with a substance use disorder (12), homeless individuals (8), correctional inmates (2), and long-term care residents (1).
Infection is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Once an individual is found to have a TB infection, he or she is further diagnosed as having either active disease or a latent infection. The most common site of infection is the lung, but any area of the body can become infected. Active TB can include fever, a cough that lasts at least two weeks, coughing up blood, weight loss and weakness. Coughing can spread the bacteria into the air. An individual with a latent infection is not sick or contagious. Since a latent infection may develop into active disease, preven-
tive medicine is often recommended. The Board of Health purchased its first assay machine in 2010 and averages 3,000 tests per year. By doubling its assay capacity, it will be able to conduct routine screenings and outbreak investigations more efficiently. It also plans to offer screening to more employers and to individuals applying for permanent U.S. residency. The new equipment is funded by a CDC cooperative agreement through the Association of Public Health Laboratories. Visit http://dekalbhealth.net/hs/tb-program.
Psychologist discusses life phases ing and accepting change may be a Dr. Rachel Elahee will address challenge. life transitions on April 16 at the Elahee, a psychologist and auWesley Chapel-William C. Brown thor of “Choose You! Reignite Your Library in Decatur. Passion for Life,” will offer strategies The 90-minute program in the to successfully deal with life’s many Senior Savvy and Senior Advisory phases. Board series begins at 10 a.m. The library is at 2861 Wesley To register, call 404-508-7190, Chapel Road. For more informaExt. 2257. Rachel Elahee tion, visit www.dekalblibrary.org Many struggle with life transitions, which can be difficult because welcom- or call 404-286-6980.
CrossRoadsNews
April 9, 2016
Youth
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“We are seeing a growing demand for citizens who are capable of more sophisticated, critical thinking.�
GPTC, Valdosta State simplify transfer process in three fields of study Agreements between Georgia Piedmont Technical College and Valdosta State University will simplify the transfer process for GPTC students seeking to further their education at VSU. Dr. Jabari Simama, GPTC president, said the college is committed to helping its students succeed and called the transfer agreements a great opportunity for GPTC students. “Through these transfer agreements, our colleges are strengthening Georgia’s work force by preparing graduates
for 21st century careers,� Simama said in a March 29 statement. Georgia Piedmont students can pursue bachelor’s degrees at VSU in human capital performance, office administration and technology, and organizational leadership. Dr. Cecil P. Staton, interim president of VSU, said the agreements offer “three clear, seamless paths� for GPTC graduates. “Higher education has never been more important in Georgia and across the United States. We are seeing a grow-
to change name from: Justine Rebekah Pruitt to Juntina Rebekah Pruitt. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: August 18, 2015 Name: Justine Pruitt 4522 Snapfinger Woods Dr., Apt. #6211 Decatur, GA 30035 770 771-4187
Legal Notices 03/19, 03/26, 04/02, 04/09
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV2990-4++ Devona Stevens Plaintiff Vs. Malcolm Stevens Defendant To: Malcolm Stevens 1787 Whitehall Forest Ct. Atlanta, GA 30316 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 07, 2016 you are hereby notified that on Mar. 01, 2016, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Devona Stevens, 2051 Flat Shoals Rd., #0-10, Atlanta, GA 30316.
Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 07, 2016. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flakes, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 8th day of Mar., 2016 03/19, 03/26, 04/02, 04/09
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV2848-3++ Chitaka Weekly Plaintiff Vs. Terry Ross Defendant To: Terry Ross 1249 Fisk Rd. Grand Rapids, MI 49505 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 08, 2016 you are hereby notified that on Feb. 29, 2016, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against
you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Chitaka Weekly, 3531 Clubhouse Cir., E., #E, Decatur, GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 08, 2016. Witness the Honorable Clarence F. Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 8th day of Mar., 2016 04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 04/30
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV3353-2++ Elizabeth Ebunoluwa Adeyemi filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Mar. 08, 2016 to change name from: Elizabeth Ebunoluwa Adeyemi to Elizabeth Ebunowua Ade. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Mar. 08, 2016 Name: Elizabeth Ebunoluwa Adeyemi 2884 Snapfinger Manor Decatur, GA 30035 (937) 838-1253
03/19, 03/26, 04/02, 04/09
By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 22, 2016 you are hereby notified that on Feb. 29, 2016, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Eugene Cross, 740 Panola Rd., Ellenwood, GA 30294. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 22, 2016. Witness the Honorable J.P. Boulee, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 23rd day of Mar., 2016 03/19, 03/26, 04/02, 04/09
Notice of Petition to Change Name of ADULT
Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV3228-6++ Eugene Cross Plaintiff Vs. Clara Evon Lee Cross Defendant To: Clara Evon Lee Cross
ing demand for citizens who are capable of more sophisticated, critical thinking and who possess problem-solving and interpersonal skills,� Staton said. “Our faculty and staff are in the business of nurturing the next generation of thinkers, innovators, communicators, leaders, and more, and we look forward to welcoming our Georgia Piedmont friends into our Blazer Nation family for many years to come.� Administrators will work to expand the number of programs that will transfer seamlessly between the institutions.
in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV2915-2++ Justine Pruitt filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on 2015
Notice of Petition to Change Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV3146-7++ Michael James Charlston Magee filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Mar. 04, 2016 to change name from: Michael James Charleston Magee to Michael James Charleston. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Feb. 29, 2016 Name: Michael J. Charleston Magee 6136 Hillandale Dr., Apt. #1312 Lithonia, GA 30058 678 499-3874
04/09, 04/16, 04/23, 4/30
Notice of Petition to Change Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV3719-9++ Janice E. Clark filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Mar. 22, 2016 to change name from: Janice E. Clark to Janice E. Smith. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Mar. 15, 2016 Name: Janice E. Clark (Smith) 1315 Mill Lake Cir. Stone Mountain, GA 30088 404 454-0011
04/02, 04/09, 04/16, 04/23
Notice of Petition to Change Name of ADULT in the Superior Court
legal
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Educating & Empowering the Community
April 9, 2016
Expos
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