FINANCE
YOUTH
PEOPLE
Stone Mountain Village is celebrating the completion of exterior renovations on its historic Train Depot. 6
Southwest DeKalb High graduate Kaylin Roman captures two CIAA confer ence honors in women’s tennis at Johnson C. Smith University. 8
The Solid Soul Phase II Band will help more than 450 people mark CrossRoads News’ 20th anniversary Saturday. 9
Fresh look for landmark
Rookie of the Year
A score worthy of celebration
EAST ATLANTA • DECATUR • STONE MOUNTAIN • LITHONIA • AVONDALE ESTATES • CLARKSTON • ELLENWOOD • PINE LAKE • REDAN • SCOTTDALE • TUCKER
Copyright © 2015 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.
April 25, 2015
Volume 20, Number 52
www.crossroadsnews.com
Memorial planned for McNair teacher killed by tree Dr. Patricia Pusha, who taught science at McNair Middle School for nine years, was killed on April 20 when a tree crashed through the roof of her northwest Atlanta home.
Pusha, a 15-year DeKalb teacher, taught science at McNair Middle for nine years. She had fallen asleep in her living room recliner when the 60-foot oak in her back Beloved McNair Midyard crashed into her house. dle School teacher Dr. Atlanta Fire Rescue officials said Pusha Patricia Pusha will be died at the scene. Investigators have not remembered at an April determined what caused the oak to fall, but 25 homegoing service at saturated soil from more than a week of rain World Changers Church has caused a number of trees to fall. International in College Patricia Pusha Pusha’s death was devastating to McNair Park. Pusha, 60, was killed about 2 a.m. on students, faculty and administrators, who April 20 when a huge tree crashed through had come to love her. McNair principal Ronald Mitchell the roof of her Oakcliff Road house in northsaid news of her sudden death was met by west Atlanta. The service starts at 1 p.m. at the church where she had been a member for 25 years. Please see MCNAIR, page 3
By Ken Watts
Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews
Charging stations open for electric autos Free facilities available for public to use By Ken Watts
Electric car owners now have another charging station for their environmentally friendly vehicles with the opening of a new charging facility in Decatur. County officials cut the ribbon on the electric charging station on April 23. It is the fourth charging station DeKalb government has opened at a total cost of $37,500. The county got a $17,000 grant from the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority’s “Charge Georgia” program for the new facilities, which are compatible with any battery electric, plug-in hybrid, and extended-range vehicles. GEFA’s “Charge Georgia” program allows a 50 percent reimbursement of costs for the installation of electric car charging stations. The new charging stations, which are open to the public, are free to use. Thursday’s ceremony, attended by interim CEO Lee May; Commissioners Kathie Gannon, Larry Johnson and Sharon Barnes Sutton; and a host of business officials, included a parade of four zero emissions Nissan Leaf cars and a $70,000 Tesla S electric sedan. The newest charging facility is located at the DeKalb Sanitation Division’s Central Transfer Station at 3720 Leroy Scott Drive in Decatur. All four are located on county properties – at the Manuel Maloof County Administration Building in Decatur, the DeKalb Fleet Maintenance Department in Stone Mountain, and at DeKalb-Peachtree Airport near Chamblee. A fifth station will be installed at DeKalb’s Seminole Road Landfill within the next 60 days. May said the county is trying to keep
Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews
Charles Mason, assistant director of Public Works, Finance and Administration, demonstrates how to use DeKalb’s new electric charging stations for cars on April 23. District 4 Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton (in black and white) and District 6 Commissioner Kathie Gannon (pink) look on.
up with the growing demand for charging stations. “Atlanta ranks second in the United States for electric car ownership,” May said. “We’re proud that DeKalb helps play a leading role to encourage sustainability and reduced emissions with the installation of our four new public electric car-charging stations throughout the county.” During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Charles Mason, assistant director for Public Works, Finance, and Administration, demonstrated how drivers can easily activate the chargers with their card and connect the
power cord to their car batteries. Commissioners said the charging program may influence more drivers to switch to zero emissions cars. “It’s an opportunity to show how we can create a more sustainable environment,” Johnson said. Barnes Sutton hopes residents can take pride in the effort. “It’s an opportunity to show that we’re doing our part,” she said. “DeKalb is a leader in the effort to make the earth greener.” Gannon hopes the county can maintain its commitment to clean fuel.
“We can lead by example with our sustainability planning,” she said. “I’m hoping that we can purchase more electric cars for our county fleet.” Sanitation Director Billy Malone said the county has been committed to reducing emissions for 30 years. “We have been using propane and clean natural gas-powered trucks to create a more environmentally friendly county,” Malone said. Amber Weaver, environmental sustainPlease see STATIONS, page 2
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CrossRoadsNews
Community
April 25, 2015
“Last year, CARE operated in close to 90 countries and touched the lives of more than 72 million people.”
Nunn joining CARE’s mission platform to touch many lives Michelle Nunn, who made an unsuccessful bid for the U.S. Senate in November, will join the international humanitarian organization CARE as its new CEO on July 1. She said she’s excited about the next chapter in her life with CARE, an icon that was born with the CARE packages sent to Europe in the wake of World War II. “Last year, CARE operated in close to 90 countries and touched the lives Michelle Nunn of more than 72 million people,” she said in an April 20 email to supporters. “Its mission is bold and urgent – to alleviate and combat extreme poverty around the world. Its strategy for doing this work is to empower women and girls and to partner with communities to lift themselves out of poverty.” Nunn said she couldn’t think of “a more important mission or a more powerful
platform through which to continue to serve.” “The CARE team, led by the extraordinary Helene Gayle, is almost 6,000 employees strong, and they are characterized by dedication, integrity, intellectual vigor, and enormous courage,” she said. She has spent the past six months since the election immersing herself in family activities and conversing with people from around the nation and world about entrepreneurship and social change efforts. “I have been learning from people who are courageously tackling wide-ranging issues – from conserving our Georgia coast and boosting high school graduation rates to increasing agricultural yields for subsistence farmers in the Democratic Republic of the Congo,” she said. She said the “sabbatical” gave her time to think and to decide how she could make the biggest difference going forward. Learn about CARE at www.care.org.
Snapfinger wastewater workshop Stakeholders will get information about Phase 2 construction of the Snapfinger Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility Expansion project at an April 28 workshop at the Community Achievement Center. The DeKalb Department of Watershed Management is hosting the Rock Fracturing Workshop, which begins at 6:30 p.m. The Snapfinger Creek Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility, originally built in 1963, was constructed to treat 2 million gallons per day of flow. The present Snapfinger Creek Facility, which was completed
in 1983 to meet the requirements of the Clean Water Act, treats 36 million gallons per day of flow. The expansion is being done in three phases. Phase 2 work includes demolition of existing tankage and equipment and new construction, including new headworks, biological reactors, membrane bio-reactors, ultraviolet disinfection, and chemical storage. The center is at 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway in Decatur. For more information, call 404-684-7031.
Show Your PRIDE, South DeKalb!
Commissioner Larry Johnson (from left), interim CEO Lee May, and Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton stand next to one of the electric charging stations.
Loss of tax credit will likely slow electric car sales STATIONS,
from page
Electric charging stations
DeKalb’s four new electric charging stations are open to the public and free to use. n DeKalb Government Administration Building 1300 Commerce Drive Decatur n DeKalb Fleet Maintenance Building 5350 Memorial Drive Stone Mountain n DeKalb Sanitation Division Central Transfer Station 3720 Leroy Scott Drive Decatur n DeKalb-Peachtree Airport 2000 Airport Road Atlanta
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ability project manager, said the new facilities make it more convenient to own alternativefuel vehicles. “We want to create a better infrastructure that makes it practical for the public to operate zero emissions vehicles,” she said. Georgia has been a leader in electric car sales because of the state’s $5,000 tax credit for electric vehicles. But the 2015 General Assembly eliminated the credit and added a $200 registration fee for all alternative-fuel vehicles. May said that will hurt the march to electric vehicles. “The [tax credit] was the biggest incentive for people to convert,” he said. “Part of politics is negotiation and comLIVING WORSHIP INTERNATIONAL MINISTRIES
promise. The Legislature this year approved $1 billion to improve roads and bridges, and in the future maybe we’ll get them to restore the electric car tax credit.”
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“I am outraged. In fact, all Americans are at risk when bad actors in law enforcement use their guns instead of their heads.”
Hank wants Congress to act U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson has taken Congress to task for not addressing the mounting number of shooting deaths of unarmed residents at the hands of police. Johnson (D-Ga.) represents the 4th District that includes parts of DeKalb County. He has three bills tackling criminal justice reform, including legislation relating to the militarization of police, grand jury reform and police accountability. On April 13 on the House floor, Johnson Hank Johnson read aloud the names of 21 people who have been shot and killed by police across the country since the August 2014 death of Michael Brown, an unarmed black teenager in Ferguson, Mo. Three of men on the list are from Georgia, and two of them – Anthony Hill and Kevin Davis – were killed in DeKalb County. Hill, who was running around his Chamblee apartment community naked, was killed on March 9, 2015. Davis, who lived in Decatur, died on Dec. 29, 2014, after calling the police for help when his girlfriend was stabbed by her roommate. Nicholas Thomas was killed on March 24, 2015 in Smyrna. Reading from the list of names pulled from an April 8 New York Times article – “Fatal Police Shootings: Accounts Since Ferguson” – Johnson said it feels like open hunting season on black men. “I am outraged. In fact, all Americans are at risk when bad actors in law enforcement use their guns instead of their heads.” Johnson said Congress’ inaction is frustrating. “Despite bipartisan, nationwide calls
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CrossRoadsNews
April 25, 2015
Long list of police victims “Mr. Speaker, these are just some of the names of our colleagues, neighbors and relatives: n Walter Scott, South Carolina n Michael Brown, Missouri n Anthony Hill, Georgia n Tony Robinson, Wisconsin n Kevin Davis, Georgia n Nicholas Thomas, Georgia n Daniel Elrod, Nebraska n Antonio Zambrano-Montes, Washington n David Kassick, Pennsylvania n Jessica Hernandez, Colorado n Dennis Grigsby, Texas n Rumain Brisbon, Phoenix n Tamir Rice, Ohio n Akai Gurley, New York n Carlos M. Perez, Nevada n Kajieme Powell, Missouri n Ezell Ford, California n Dillon Taylor, Utah n John Crawford III, Ohio n Naeschylus Vinzant, Colorado n Charly Leundeu Keunang, California”
for action, and despite my bills to reform the broken grand jury process, hold police accountable, and end militarization, and despite my colleagues’ bills to encourage body cameras, this Congress does nothing – no hearings, no blue-ribbon commissions, no nothing.” He asked for unanimous consent to enter the list of people killed by police since Ferguson into the record “so my colleagues will no longer ignore this crisis.”
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Safety Jam at Gresham Rec Center An April 25 Safety Jam at Gresham Recreation Center will offer information and demos to keep adults and children safe during warm weather months. The free, noon-to-3 p.m. event, presented by DeKalb District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson, state Sen. Gail Davenport of District 44 and American Medical Response, will include games, food, give-
aways, plus DeKalb Police and Fire departments, No Text No Drive, Grady Burn Unit, Going and Growing Green, AARP, HERO, DeKalb Medical and Atlanta Medical. Fitness coaches will offer free classes, and DJ Uncle Paulie and comedian NO will provide music and entertainment. The center is at 3113 Gresham Road S.E. in Atlanta. Call 404-371-2425 for info.
Great American cleanup in Lithonia Volunteers will clean up Rockbridge and Deshon roads and surrounding neighborhoods in Lithonia on April 25 from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. The Great American Cleanup and Community Advocacy Day is sponsored by DeKalb District 4 Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton, the 100 Black Women
Stone Mountain-Lithonia Chapter, and Keep DeKalb Beautiful. Gloves, sticks, bags and T-shirts will be provided. Participants will meet at the Mountain Oaks Clubhouse, 553 Mountain Oaks Parkway in Stone Mountain. For more information, contact alesiabrooks@ymail.com.
Teacher always went the extra mile MCNAIR,
from page
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“shocked disbelief.” He said Pusha was a “wonderful and committed” teacher. “She went the extra mile,” Mitchell said. “If kids didn’t understand the material, she would call their parents and keep the students after school to make sure they learned the subject matter.” School District grief counselors were available for students and staff. Mitchell said the school wants to establish a permanent memorial in Pusha’s honor. “We’ll probably have a portrait done and make a donation to her favorite char-
ity,” he said. Pusha, who grew up in Savannah, had lived in her home for about 20 years and was well-respected in the Oakcliff neighborhood. Next-door neighbor Shirley Robinson said she and her family felt helpless in the face of tragedy. “I hate she died, that’s all,” said Robinson, who knew Pusha for about five years. “Wasn’t nothin’ I could do. I just wish she hadn’t died.” Firefighters say Pusha’s brother was with her when the tree fell but was not hurt. World Changers is at 2500 Burdett Road. Family received visitors at a wake on April 24 at Gus Thornhill’s Funeral Home in East Point.
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CrossRoadsNews
Community 2346 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007 www.crossroadsnews.com editor@crossroadsnews.com
Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Graphic Design Curtis Parker Assistant Editor Brenda Yarbrough Advertising Sales Kathy E. Warner Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Circulation Manager Jami Ffrench-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 CrossRoadsN ews 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.
April 25, 2015
“They were targeted in broad daylight while delivering mail in quiet residential neighborhoods.”
Drug dealers plead guilty to holding up postman Decatur drug dealers William James Wilkins and Michael FairnotWoods, who robbed letter carriers at gunpoint, have been sentenced to federal prison and ordered to pay $2,895 in restitution. Wilkins received 18 years and Fairnot-Woods got 15 years for their roles in an armed robbery spree that targeted U.S. Postal Service letter carriers in Decatur and Lithonia. The robberies were part of a scheme to steal a rival drug dealer’s marijuana that was being shipped illegally through the mail. The conspirators also sought to steal financial documents and blank checks that were then used for bank fraud and identity theft. Wilkins, 28, pleaded guilty to two counts of armed postal robbery, one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute it. His prison sentence is to be followed by five years of supervised release. Fairnot-Woods, 27, pleaded guilty to two counts of armed postal robbery, one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, one count of possessing marijuana with the intent to distribute it, and
William Wilkins
M. Fairnot-Woods
one count of illegally possessing a firearm after receiving a felony conviction. His prison sentence is to be followed by five years of supervised release. A co-conspirator, Joshua Ellis, 22, of Decatur, pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud and one count of possessing stolen mail. He was sentenced to three years on probation and ordered to pay $2,895 in restitution. Acting U.S. Attorney John Horn said postal workers perform an important public service and shouldn’t have their lives jeopardized simply for doing their jobs. “The fact that they were targeted in broad daylight while delivering mail in quiet residential neighborhoods is one more indication of the disregard those in the illegal drug trade have for other people’s lives,” Horn said.
The charges and other information presented in court showed that on Aug. 18, 2012, Wilkins and Fairnot-Woods approached letter carrier “K.W.” in a Decatur residential area, pointed a military-style assault rifle at her, and stole a package that she was delivering. The package contained marijuana shipped illegally by a rival drug dealer. Wilkins and Fairnot-Woods fled the area in a pickup truck. On Nov. 20, 2012, at another residence in Decatur, Wilkins approached letter carrier “A.J.,” pointed a handgun at her, and stole several packages and a tray of mail from her postal vehicle. He fled in a car driven by Fairnot-Woods. Several blank checks stolen during the robbery were later altered and deposited fraudulently by Ellis. On Nov. 23, 2012, at a residence in Lithonia, Wilkins approached a letter carrier, “D.C.,” pointed a silver handgun at him, and demanded the keys to his postal truck. D.C. resisted, and Wilkins fled the scene empty-handed with Fairnot-Woods, who was waiting in a car nearby. On Jan. 24, 2013, in a residential area in Decatur, Wilkins
approached letter carrier “C.C.,” pointed a handgun at him, and directed him to open the back door of his postal vehicle. Wilkins jumped into the truck and began riffling through packages until he located a package containing marijuana. He fled with the package in a car driven by Fairnot-Woods. After receiving a tip about 30 minutes later, DeKalb Police stopped the car they were traveling in and located the stolen marijuana package, the firearm used during the robbery, and other evidence linking the defendants to the crime. An investigation by federal agents later connected the pair to the earlier robberies and attempted robbery. Tom Noyes, postal inspector in charge of the Charlotte DivisionAtlanta Field Office, said crimes against postal employees are rare but they become a top priority. “A large part of the Postal Inspection Service mission is assuring the safety of postal employees and we want them to have confidence that they can focus on their duties,” he said. For more information, visit www.justice.gov/usao/gan.
Former DeKalb manager pleads guilty to triple dipping Patrick Jackson, a former janitorial services manager for DeKalb government and the Georgia World Congress Center, has pleaded guilty to public corruption charges. The Loganville resident, 56, took the plea on April 2 before U.S. District Judge William Duffey. He admitted to conspiracy to commit honest services fraud, admitting that he used his position as a public official to obtain benefits for himself. He was indicted by a federal grand jury on Sept. 9, 2014. Acting U.S. Attorney John Horn said the charges, the plea agree-
ment, and other information presented in court show that between 2006 and 2012, Jackson simultaneously worked for two governmental entities, DeKalb County and the Georgia World Congress Center. He served as manager of janitorial services for both entities without the knowledge of either. In court, he admitted to using his position as a public official to obtain favors from a company identified in the indictment as “Company A” that provided janitorial services to both DeKalb and GWCC. Jackson worked for Company
A before he began working for DeKalb and GWCC. While employed by both entities, Jackson lived in a luxury apartment in Atlanta that Company A furnished and paid for. In exchange, Jackson used his position to benefit Company A in its business dealings with DeKalb and GWCC. Company A obtained governmental contracts well in excess of $1 million with the entities. Jackson did not disclose to either employer that Company A paid for his apartment. By accepting the bribes, Jackson deprived
Quick Read
his employers of their right to his honest services. Horn said Jackson abused his position “by accepting a bribe in exchange for helping a company attain and maintain government contracts at both the Georgia World Congress Center and DeKalb County.” “This dishonest conduct threatens to undermine the integrity of the contracting system and the quality of the goods and services produced pursuant to those contracts,” Horn said. For more information, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/gan.
Nunn joining CARE’s mission Stone Mountain Train Depot platform to touch many lives 2 gets a face lift 6
Blue Bell pulls recalled products
Michelle Nunn, who made an unsuccessful bid for the U.S. Senate in November, will join the international humanitarian organization CARE as its new CEO on July 1.
Stone Mountain Village residents and officials celebrated the completion of exterior renovations on its historic Train Depot with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 23.
Blue Bell products have been pulled from DeKalb School District campuses because of possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes.
Hank wants Congress to act 3
Breast, cervical cancer screenings
Lou Walker troupe revisits Selma march 10
U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson has taken Congress to task for not addressing the mounting number of shooting deaths of unarmed residents at the hands of police.
Drug dealers plead guilty to holding up postman 4 Decatur drug dealers William James Wilkins and Michael Fairnot-Woods, who robbed letter carriers at gunpoint, have been sentenced to federal prison and ordered to pay $2,895 in restitution. Circulation Audited By
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Women ages 40 to 64 who have no health insurance or with limited income may be eligible to receive a breast and cervical cancer screening at no or reduced cost.
A cast of senior citizens will stage the musical drama “The March on Selma” on April 28 at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia.
New deadline for CRN Scholarships
Book by Nichols’ hostage sparked ‘Captive’ movie 11
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DeKalb high school seniors who will pursue journalism careers have until May 11 to apply for CrossRoadsNews Foundation scholarships.
Former waitress Ashley Smith’s account of the March 2005 Fulton County Courthouse shooting rampage is the basis of the film “Captive.”
index to advertisers Blue Bubble Home Services........................... 11 Chapel Hill Orthodontics................................. 7 DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court......................9 DeKalb Convention & Visitor’s Bureau............ 3 Fabric Joint, LLC............................................. 11
Gregory B.Levett & Sons Funeral Home......... 2 Johnson Hopewell Coleman LLC.................. 11 Little Tots Academy........................................ 11 Living Worship International Ministries........... 2 Office of Congressman Hank Johnson............ 3
Preferred Home Repair................................. 11 Shona Hill - Paycation Travel......................... 11 Stewart Unlimited Inc..................................... 11 The Davis Bozeman Law Firm, P.C................. 11 The Gallery at South DeKalb..........................12
Wells Fargo..................................................... 5 Wright Vision Care.......................................... 7 Walgreens...............................................Inserts Walmart .................................................Inserts Michael L. Hickman Salsa Dance........... Online
April 25, 2015
CrossRoadsNews
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Finance Georgia jobless rate unchanged at 6.3 percent Georgia’s unemployment rate for March was 6.3 percent, unchanged from February, matching its lowest level since July 2008. The rate was 7.3 percent a year ago. The national jobless rate is 5.5 percent. In DeKalb County, there were 1,894 initial claims for unemployment insurance benefits Mark Butler in March, down 3.7 percent or 72, from 1,966 in February. In March 2014, there were 2,125 initial claims, for an over-the-year decline of 10.9 percent or 231. State Labor Commissioner Mark Butler said Georgia’s over-the-year numbers still look very good despite a small job loss in March. “While the rate held steady in March, we have seen considerable improvement since it began a steady decline from November 2010, when it was 10.5 percent,” Butler said on April 16. “In fact, the jobless rate has either declined or remained steady every month since then. “Our employers added 127,100 jobs, which is the strongest March-to-March growth we’ve seen since 2000. That’s a growth rate of 3.1 percent, which is much stronger than the 2.3 percent national growth rate.” The number of seasonally adjusted jobs declined by 6,600, or 0.2 percent, to 4,239,500 in March, down from 4,246,100 in February. Statewide, the number of initial claims for UI benefits rose by 605, or 2.1 percent, to 29,896 in March, up from 29,291 in February. However, claims were down by 918, or 3 percent, from 30,814 in March 2014. The over-the-year decline came in several industries, including trade, transportation and warehousing, accommodations and food services, health care and social assistance, and manufacturing. For more information, visit www.dol. state.ga.us.
CrossRoadsNews
April 25, 2015
“It has been exciting to watch the transformation. A year ago, there were holes in the mortar and the roof was leaking.”
Stone Mountain Train Depot gets a face lift Stone Mountain Village residents and officials celebrated the completion of exterior renovations on its historic Train Depot with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on April 23. Mayor Pat Wheeler said the project shored up the depot. “It has been exciting to watch the transformation of the outside of the building,” Wheeler said. “A year ago, there were holes in the mortar and Pat Wheeler the roof was leaking.” The city received a Transportation Enhancement Grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation. The total cost of the project was $352,150. “Without the help of GDOT, this project could not have happened,” Wheeler said. “They have been a great partner to work with on the depot. We know now that the building will be standing and dry for many years to come.” The ceremony was followed by a talk led by architect David Steele of the firm of Lord Aeck and Sargent for the Stone Mountain Historical Society. The south side of the Train Depot was built in 1857 shortly after the Georgia Railroad Co. completed the line from Madison
The historic Train Depot in the Village of Stone Mountain is shown before its exterior renovation. The south side of the depot was built in 1857, and the north side was built in 1914.
to Atlanta. The north side was built in 1914 as a passenger office and waiting room. Beginning in the 1960s, the building served as City Hall and the City Jail. It remained in use until 2012 when the new Municipal Building was completed. City Council has designated the City of Stone Mountain Downtown Development
Authority as lead on the further redevelopment of the building into a Visitors Center and event space. The DDA is looking at plans for the building and will begin work this summer to secure grants and private donations for the extensive interior renovations. For more information, call 770-498-8984, Ext. 137.
Hiring funds available for employers DBE forum for business owners DeKalb has Workforce Innovation Funds available to help employers save on hiring costs and to provide work experience to workers unemployed for one year or longer. Employers work directly with a staffing agency to identify qualified candidates for open positions and receive wage subsidies to provide work experience to participants. Employers must be established businesses and demonstrate financial viability. The employers and program participants must be screened by DeKalb Workforce Development for eligibility prior to program participation. The goal is to provide recent work experience to the long-term unemployed and highlight an often overlooked pool of qualified candidates due to their length of unemployment. To date, the program has placed more than 80 candidates in industries ranging from administrative to health care. Interested employers should contact Cynthia Robinson at 404-3716217. DWD is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Program, and auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. People with hearing impairment may call 1-800-255-0135.
Small-business owners can attend a Disadvantaged Business Enterprise Forum on how to do business with the federal government on May 8 at the Georgia Piedmont Technical College Conference Center in Clarkston. U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson is holding the 1-to-4 p.m. event, which is designed for eligible socially and economically disadvantaged businesses that have been in business for at least two years and have the capacity to perform on government and nongovernment contracts. Scheduled to attend are representatives from the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Department of Defense, the General Services Administration, the Georgia Department of Transportation, the U.S. Department of Transportation, the Small Business Administration, Veterans Affairs, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and FedBid. Registration is limited to eligible DBEs. To register, visit http://hankjohnson.house.gov/dbe-registration-form. The conference center is at 495 N. Indian Creek Drive.
April 25, 2015
Wellness
“Nicotine exposure at a young age may cause lasting harm to brain development [and] promote addiction.” When pollen is visible on surfaces, it’s probably also on your outer clothing. Shower, shampoo and change your clothing after being outdoors.
Tips to manage springtime allergies For Georgians with allergies and asthma, itchy eyes and throats, sneezing, wheezing and coughing are the norm with trees in full bloom and high pollen counts. They can still enjoy spring by proactively managing their symptoms, the state Department of Public Health says. It’s important to routinely monitor pollen levels before planning outdoor activities. Get ahead of your allergies by taking over-thecounter or prescription medications early to manage or prevent severe symptoms. If needed, stay inside during the midday and afternoon hours when pollen counts are highest. When the pollen is visible on surfaces, it’s probably also on your outer clothing. Take a shower, wash your hair and change your outer clothing after being outdoors for work, school or fitness activities. Also, pay attention to how you ventilate your home or car. Keep doors and windows closed and opt for air conditioning, which will help control air quality. For people with asthma, it’s vital to have asthma control medications on hand, such as an inhaler, and stay away from triggers such as dust, outdoor air pollution, mold and tobacco smoke. Jean O’Connor, director of DPH’s Chronic Disease Prevention Section, urges asthma
patients to manage their allergy symptoms. “Allergies are one of the main triggers for asthma; thus, controlling your allergy symptoms can effectively help you mitigate the triggers of asthma,” O’Connor said. “Through the Georgia Asthma Control Program, we’re able to provide asthma suffers relief, especially during springtime, by increasing access to important resources that enable adults and children to manage this condition and enjoy a better quality of life.” DPH also is educating parents and kids with asthma to play it safe during allergy season. Asthma is a chronic disease of the lungs and is characterized by symptoms including wheezing, breathlessness, chest tightness, and nighttime or early morning coughing. In 2013, nearly two in every 16 children in Georgia had asthma, roughly 260,000 schoolaged children, according to the Georgia Asthma Prevalence Report. Fourteen percent of middle school and 13 percent of high school students in Georgia have asthma. For information on pollen levels and pollen types in your area, visit http:// www.wunderground.com/DisplayPollen. asp?Zipcode=Atlanta. Visit https://dph.georgia.gov/georgia-asthma-control-program for free resources for parents and school nurses.
Breast, cervical cancer screenings Women ages 40 to 64 who live in DeKalb and have no health insurance or only make a limited income may be eligible to receive a breast and cervical cancer screening at no cost or at reduced cost. The DeKalb Board of Health is offering the screenings through the Breast and Cervical Cancer program, which is seeking to serve 200 women by June 30. The program provides breast cancer screening and follow-up for eligible women ages 40 to 64. It provides cervical cancer screening and diagnostic evaluation for eligible women ages 21 to 64. The program is part of the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program and is funded by the state of Georgia and the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Eligible women can receive screening services at four county health department locations: Clifton Springs, East DeKalb, North DeKalb and T.O. Vinson.
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CrossRoadsNews
A clinic staff member can determine if women meet eligibility guidelines and provide clinical breast exams, Pap tests and pelvic exams. Clinic staff will schedule appointments for mammograms at local radiology facilities and make appropriate referrals for diagnostic work-ups when needed as well as provide additional case management. Participating physicians and other health care facilities provide diagnostic services. The chance of a woman having invasive breast cancer during her life is about one in eight. A disproportionate number of breast and cervical cancer deaths will be among women of minority or low-income groups. Regular breast cancer screening can reduce mortality by 20 percent to 25 percent over a 10-year period, and yearly cervical cancer screening via the Pap test can prevent most cervical cancer deaths. For more information, visit www.dekalbhealth.net or call 404-294-3700.
Student use of e-cigarettes triples Use of e-cigarettes has tripled among middle and high school students in just one year, and hookah use has almost doubled. Findings from the 2014 National Youth Tobacco Survey show that current e-cigarette use (use on at least one day in the past 30 days) among high school students increased from 4.5 percent in 2013 to 13.4 percent in 2014, rising from about 660,000 to 2 million students. Among middle school students, e-cigarette use more than tripled from 1.1 percent in 2013 to 3.9 percent in 2014 – an increase from about 120,000 to 450,000 students. This is the first time since the survey started collecting data on e-cigarettes in 2011 that e-cigarette use has surpassed use of every other tobacco product overall, including conventional cigarettes. E-cigarettes were the most used tobacco product for non-Hispanic whites, Hispanics, and non-Hispanic other race while cigars were the most commonly used product among non-Hispanic blacks. CDC Director Tom Frieden said nicotine poses health risks to kids and youth. “We want parents to know that nicotine is dangerous for kids at any age, whether
it’s an e-cigarette, hookah, cigarette or cigar,” Frieden said on April 16. “Adolescence is a critical time for brain development. Nicotine exposure at a young age may cause lasting harm to brain development, promote addiction, and lead to sustained tobacco use.” Increases in e-cigarette and hookah use offset declines in use of more traditional products. Cigarettes, rollyour-own tobacco and smokeless tobacco are subject to the Food and Drug Administration’s tobacco control authority. Mitch Zeller, director of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products, said Mitch Zeller the agency is finalizing the rule to bring additional products such as e-cigarettes, hookahs and some or all cigars under that same authority. “In today’s rapidly evolving tobacco marketplace, the surge in youth use of novel products like e-cigarettes forces us to confront the reality that the progress we have made in reducing youth cigarette smoking rates is being threatened,” Zeller said. For more information, visit www.cdc. gov.
Zumba Basic class at Clarkston Library Zumba instructor Akinya Joy will lead an hour of fun and fitness on April 25 at the Clarkston Library. Joy will teach Zumba Basic, a Latin-inspired dance fitness class, beginning at noon. The class is limited to 25 participants, who should dress comfortably. To register, call 404-508-7175. Funding is provided by the Friends of Clarkston Library. The library is at 951 N. Indian Creek Drive. For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary.org. Akinya Joy
Crime victims to share stories Nichole Villafane and Charmagne Helton will share their stories of strength and survival at “Engaging Communities, Empowering Victims” on April 25 at the Gazebo on the Square in Decatur. The ceremony, which honors and remembers victims, takes place from 12:30 to 1:15 p.m. as part of Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 19-25. DeKalb Solicitor General Sherry Boston’s office will discuss resources available to help those victimized by crimes. “We want to prosecute every crime and for every victim to get the help they need,”
Boston said on April 8. “Unfortunately, people are sometimes hesitant to report crimes, and we want them to know they should not be afraid to come forward.” Villafane’s son was killed during an attempted robbery last year. Helton and her two young children spent seven weeks in a domestic violence shelter to escape her exhusband. “With the right support, victims can become victors,” Helton said. “We can overcome, survive and thrive.” For more information, visit DeKalbSolicitorGeneral.org.
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CrossRoadsNews
Youth
April 25, 2015
“We applaud the achievements of future leaders and are honored to give them a platform of recognition.” Kaylin Roman, a member of the Johnson C. Smith University Women’s Tennis Team, is Rookie of the Year for the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association and also earned AllCIAA honors.
McDonald’s seeks nominees for teen award Residents and groups can nominate a teen who has exemplified exceptional leadership for McDonald’s second annual 365Black Community Choice Youth Award. The award honors teens who make a difference within their communities through vision, compassion and diligence. One male and one female recipient will each receive a $10,000 scholarship and will be honored alongside celebrities, philanthropists and other activists at the 12th annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards, scheduled for July 3 in New Orleans during the 21st annual Essence Festival presented by Coca-Cola. In addition to completing the entry form, nominators also must answer three questions about the nominee as well as submit a three-minute video highlighting his or her contribution to the community. All entries must be received by May 31 – visit http:// www.365Black.com. William Rhodes, McDonald’s U.S. marketing director, said the company is committed to uplifting youth and recognizing their achievements. “We take great pride in working with neighborhoods across the country to find young, shining stars in our communities,” Rhodes said on April 21. “We applaud the achievements of future leaders and are honored to give them a platform of recognition.” Last year’s winners were Gabrielle Jordan Williams and Skyler Grey, both 15. Gabrielle is a professional motivational speaker, owner of Jewelz of Jordan and a best- Gabrielle Williams selling author. Skyler is an urban artist and philanthropist who discovered art as therapy after losing his mother at an early age. He donates his work to art programs across the nation and gives 10 percent of each of Skyler Grey his sales to charities. The Community Choice Youth Award aligns with the goals of McDonald’s 365Black Awards, which salute outstanding individuals committed to making positive contributions to strengthen the African-American community. The 365Black Awards launched in 2003 as an extension of the 365Black platform that celebrates the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year-round.
SWD grad nabs two CIAA awards Southwest DeKalb alum Kaylin Roman, a freshman and a member of the Johnson C. Smith University Women’s Tennis Team, has captured two conference awards. Roman is Rookie of the Year for the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association in conjunction with its Tennis Coaches Association. The Atlanta native went undefeated at No. 6 singles with a 6-0 record. In doubles, Roman teamed with Michaela Colvin of Fayetteville, N.C., and returned a 7-2 league mark, winning her last seven doubles matches. In addition to the conference Rookie of the Year honor, Roman, along with JCSU teammate Khadijah Battle of Atlanta’s Charles Drew High, also earned All-CIAA
honors. A 2014 graduate of Southwest DeKalb, Roman completed her scholastic academic career with a 3.2 grade-point average. While at SWD, she was a four-year letterman in tennis and also president of Mu Alpha Theta math club and captain of the Varsity Football Cheerleading squad. Roman and the rest of the JCSU Women’s Tennis Team took part in the 2015 CIAA Tennis Championships on April 16-18 at Hornets Nest Park in Charlotte, N.C. The team downed Winston-Salem State 5-3 in the first round, losing out to top-seeded Chowan in the semifinals. For more information, visit www.jcsu.edu.
New deadline for CRN Scholarships DeKalb high school seniors who will pursue journalism careers have until May 11 to apply for CrossRoadsNews Foundation scholarships. The foundation is offering a $1,000 and two $500 scholarships to students graduating in May and planning a major in communications in college. Majors can include journalism, graphic or Web design, photography, and advertising. The Elizabeth Andrews Memorial Scholarship honors the late DeKalb School
Board member who served 29 years. The deadline has been extended to lure more applicants. Graduating DeKalb seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.5 are eligible. Applicants must write a 500-word essay on “Why Community Newspapers Are Still Needed in the Age of the Internet.” For application and more information, visit www.crossroadsnews.com/scholarship or email foundation President Deborah Jackson at dajassociates@att.net.
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Opportunity School District bill signed, needs voter approval Gov. Nathan Deal has signed legislation to implement an Opportunity School District to turn around failing schools. The so-called school takeover law provides the framework for how the district would work should voters approve a constitutional amendment in 2016. “By signing the Opportunity School District bill, we are promising bet- Nathan Deal ter days ahead for students trapped in failing schools,” Deal said on April 21. “The power of positive change now rests in the hands of Georgia’s voters, and I know they share my belief that every child can learn and should have access to a high-quality education that prepares them for the work force or for college.” He said there are currently 139 schools across the state that have received a failing grade from the state accountability system, the College and Career Performance Index, for at least three consecutive years. “Too few of these students go on to higher education, too few attain job skills and too few get a high school diploma,” Deal said. “Too often this leads to a life that never fulfills its potential. With this new system, we can and will do better.” The legislation requires a constitutional amendment to be enacted. The General Assembly passed the constitutional amendment resolution and the implementing legislation during the 2015 legislative session. It now requires a majority approval by Georgia voters in the 2016 general election. Deal also signed HB 372, the Utopian Academy for the Arts Act. He said the need for the law stems from efforts by Clayton County officials to obstruct the opening of a state-approved charter school, preventing children from attending class and costing the schools hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Blue Bell pulls recalled products Blue Bell products have been pulled from DeKalb School District campuses and facilities because of possible contamination with Listeria monocytogenes. The district said , none of its products will be distributed at the schools for the remainder of the school year. DeKalb Schools was notified on April 21, and Blue Bell representatives pulled the products and picked them up. School spokesman Quinn Hudson said the district will continue to monitor the situation to ensure that safe, nutritious food is available to DeKalb students. The Brenham, Texas-based company has voluntarily recalled all products currently on the market made at all of its facilities, including ice cream, frozen yogurt, sherbet and frozen snacks. The products have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, which can cause listeriosis, a life-threatening infection. People at high risk include pregnant women and their newborns, adults 65 and older, and people with weakened immune systems. As of April 21, a total of 10 people with listeriosis related to the outbreak have been confirmed from four states: Arizona (one), Kansas (five), Oklahoma (one), and Texas (three). Three deaths were reported from Kansas, according to the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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CrossRoadsNews
April 25, 2015
People
“Our community has witnessed great change over the last 20 years, and we have been here to document a lot of it.”
The 20th Anniversary Gala on April 25 at Ramada Plaza Hotel features performances by electric violinist Delores Major (above) and the Solid Soul Phase II Band (at right).
Hundreds to celebrate CrossRoadsNews and community honorees More than 450 supporters, readers, advertisers, community leaders and elected officials will help CrossRoadsNews founders Jennifer and Curtis Parker celebrate the newspaper’s 20th year of publishing on April 25 at the Ramada Plaza Hotel in Atlanta. The Parkers started the newspaper in 1995 as a monthly community newsletter focusing on news and information that impact their South DeKalb neighbors. The publication grew from 3,000 copies monthly to 28,000 copies weekly. Today, it serves an audience of more than 188,903 in print and online. The sold-out black-tie 20th Anniversary Gala kicks off at 7 p.m. Jennifer Parker, who is the newspaper’s publisher and editor, said it’s important to celebrate milestones. She said that publishing the newspaper has been an interesting ride. “Our community has witnessed great change over the last 20 years, and we have been here to document a lot of it,” she said. “Now anyone can leaf through the archives of CrossRoadsNews and read the story of South DeKalb, good
John Evans
David George
Jeff Taylor
and bad.” During the gala, the newspaper will honor longtime DeKalb civil rights advocate John Evans; community advocate David George; and Oakhurst Medical Centers, which provides access to health care for residents in DeKalb and Rockdale counties. Evans, who is on his fourth term as the DeKalb NAACP president, was the county’s first African-American county commissioner in 1983. He defends civil rights across the
address is: 2690 Hilburn Drive, Atlanta, GA 30315. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 24, 2015. Witness the Honorable Daniel M. Coursey, Jr., Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 24th day of March, 2015.
Legal Notices 04/04, 04/11, 04/18, 4/25
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV3517-7++ Eugenia A. Terrell-Bell Plaintiff Vs. Larry R. Bell, Jr. Defendant To: Larry R. Bell, Jr. 8402 Norris Lake Way Snellville, GA 30039 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 30, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Mar. 25, 2015, 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: Eugenia A. Terrell-Bell, 2902 Knollview Drive, Decatur, GA 30034. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 30, 2015. Witness the Honorable Daniel M. Coursey, Jr., Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 30th day of March, 2015 04/04, 04/11, 04/18, 4/25
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV10920-9++ William Hall Plaintiff Vs. Sharon Harris Fair
Defendant To: 5883 Poplin Ct. Lithonia, GA 30058 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 27, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Nov. 10, 2014, 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: 5883 Poplin Ct. Lithonia, GA 30058. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 27, 2015. Witness the Honorable Mark Anthony Scott, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 30th day of March, 2015. 04/04, 04/11, 04/18, 4/25
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV3379-2++ Sophia Powers Plaintiff Vs. Soubaibou Camara Defendant To: Souhaibou Camara By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 30, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Mar. 26, 2015, 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: Sophia Powers, 308 Ashley Creek Ct., Stone Mountain, GA 30083. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 30, 2015.
Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 31th day of March, 2015. 04/11, 04/18, 4/25, 05/02
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV3630-3++ Sirlina Richardson Plaintiff Vs. Rodney Richardson Defendant To: Rodney Richardson 664 Quillian Ave. Decatur, GA 30032 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Apr. 02, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Mar. 27, 2015, 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: Chiri N. Rutledge; 3915 Cascade Rd., Ste. 1138, Atlanta, GA 30334. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Apr. 02, 2015. Witness the Honorable Clarence F. Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 3rd day of April, 2015. 04/04, 04/11, 04/18, 4/25
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV3377-9++
state and is never afraid to speak truth to power. George, who has lived in Decatur for 27 years, is a past president of the South DeKalb Improvement Association. But even before he helped co-launch the group in 2013, he was picking up trash along Wesley Chapel and Kelley Chapel roads and Flat Shoals Parkway and inspiring others to take ownership. Oakhurst Medical, which grew out of a volunteer clinic that Elizabeth Wilson started in 1980 to serve the Beacon Hill community, now has three medical centers in Stone Mountain, Decatur and Conyers. It serves clients with sliding-scale fees, ensuring that everyone gets health care when they need it. Oakhurst CEO Jeff Taylor will receive the nonprofit’s award. The gala features performances by pan soloist Karyn Gibson, saxophonist Ryan Kilgore, and electric violinist Delores Major. The Solid Soul Phase II Band will provide music for dancing. Part of the proceeds will benefit the CrossRoadsNews Foundation Scholarship program, named for the late DeKalb School Board member Elizabeth Andrews.
04/11, 04/18, 4/25, 05/02
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Tashandra Labertha Sumpter Plaintiff Vs. Dwayne Lee Sumpter Defendant To: Dwayne Lee Sumpter 10970 Lem Turner Road, Apt. #809 Jacksonville, FL 32218 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 27, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Mar. 24, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Abandonment. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff Tashandra Labertha Sumpter - Pro Se an Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of the first date of publication. Witness the Honorable Mark Anthony Scott, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 30th day of March, 2015. 04/11, 04/18, 4/25, 05/02
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV3265-7++ Janetta Arnold Plaintiff Vs. Bobby Ward Defendant To: By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 24, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Mar. 16, 2015, 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
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2684-10++ Shareea Brothers Plaintiff Vs. Javon Brothers Defendant To: Javon Brothers 340 Pointer Court College Park, GA 30334 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 13, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Feb. 27, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce without minor children. 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: 993 Redan Trace, Stone Mountain, GA 30088. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 13, 2015. Witness the Honorable Tangela M. Barrie, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 27th day of February, 2015. 04/11, 04/18, 04/25, 05/02
Notice of Petition to Change Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV3915-9++ Mauri Re-Ney Walker filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Apr. 3, 2015 to change name from: Mauri Re-Ney Walker to: A’Maurie ReNay Randolph. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Mar. 18, 2015
Mauri Walker Petitioner, Pro se 4095 Pembroke Ct. Decatur, GA 30035 404-822-3935 04/18, 04/25, 05/02, 05/09
Notice of Petition to Change Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV4179-10++ Gregory Stanton filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Apr. 9, 2015 to change name from: Gregory Stanton to: Gregory Paige Stanton. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Apr. 9, 2015 Gregory Stanton Petitioner, Pro se P.O. Box 830687 Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-748-8257 04/11, 04/18, 4/25, 05/02
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2988-6++ Juana Elvia Calzada de los Santos Plaintiff Vs. Juan Miguel Camon Defendant To: By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Apr. 01, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Feb. 26, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Proof of Custody of a single mom to apply for a passport. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff whose name and address is: Juana Elvia Calzada de los Santos; 6750 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. Apt. 1407, Doraville, GA 30350. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Apr. 01, 2015. Witness the Honorable Angela Brown, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 1st day of April, 2015.
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CrossRoadsNews
Scene
April 25, 2015
“Photographs represent an untapped source of primary evidence for scholarship related to African-American history and life.”
Lou Walker troupe revisits Selma march A cast of senior citizens will stage the musical drama “The March on Selma” on April 28 at the Lou Walker Senior Center in Lithonia. The Performing Arts Group’s celebration begins at 2:30 p.m. in the Victory Room. Admission and parking are free. Narratives and musical arrangements are by Gwendolyn F. Thomas. The audience will experience historical background, components, architecture of the Edmund Pettus Bridge, and ministry involved in the Selmato-Montgomery marches. Exhibits of work by the center’s art classes will be displayed in the solarium/ lobby beginning at noon. Tracie L. Hawkins is the curator. The Tower High School ROTC of Decatur opens the event with the military “Show of the Colors,” and Rashiid Shareef will present a Martin Luther King Jr. oratorical. Highlights include diversified dance styles by the LWSC Praise Dancers and the Smooth Sophisticated Gents. Thomas, Taliah Hasan and Sharon Patterson are the choreographers. The center is at 2538 Panola Road. For more information, email dmblackwell@ dekalbcountyga.gov.
Rare photos part of Emory exhibit Genealogy class An exhibit featuring student research on a rare African-American photo collection at Emory University is now on display at the Robert W. Woodruff Library. “In Focus: Evidence of a World Unseen” highlights 15 historical photos in the Langmuir collection analyzed by students in the Introduction to African American Studies class. The collection is in the Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library. Robert Langmuir African American Photograph Collection, Emory University The fall 2014 course was taught This 1910s photo post card depicting world by Pellom McDaniels III, MARBL champion cyclist Major Taylor is one of the images faculty curator of the African- that appears in the exhibit. American collections and an assistant professor who co-curated the exhibit with corresponding photos in the exhibit, with students. which runs until Oct. 4. He said that through the exhibit, he The Langmuir collection contains more hopes to showcase the variety of research than 12,000 photos depicting African-Amerstudents can pursue in African American ican life from the 1840s to the 1970s. The Studies as well as the usefulness of MARBL images, many taken by black photographers, materials as primary evidence. include family photos, studio portraits, “I wanted to demonstrate some of the military and class photos, fashion shoots, and creative ways in which MARBL materials pictures of nursing school graduates, musican be used for undergraduate research – cians, religious leaders, and artists. MARBL in particular, how photographs represent acquired the collection in 2012 from photo an untapped source of primary evidence collector Robert Langmuir of Philadelphia. for scholarship related to African-AmeriThe exhibit is on Level 2 of Woodruff can history and life,” McDaniels said. Library at 540 Asbury Circle in Atlanta. For A portion of the research will appear more information, visit www.emory.edu.
Month of live music leads up to Atlanta Jazz Festival Music lovers can see live performances every day during the month of May as part of the 38th annual Atlanta Jazz Festival. May 1 will be the festival kickoff party at the Westside Cultural Arts Center, and on May 2, the Jazz Under the Stars Concert returns to Clark Atlanta University. The fest takes place in historic Piedmont Park with three days of music over Memorial Day Weekend from May 22 to May 24. Camille Russell Love, executive director of
the City of Atlanta Mayor’s Office of Cultural Affairs, said the festival will feature legendary artists Pharoah Sanders and Diane Schuur, the fresh sounds of the Rad Trads, and some of Atlanta’s hottest local musicians. The festival is free and open to the public. There will be multiple stages, a KidZone, shopping and food vendors. MARTA Mondays also are back. Live jazz concerts include May 4 at the College Park station, May 11 at Lindbergh, and May 18
at Midtown. Music will be presented from 3 to 5 p.m. The mission of the festival is to educate and entertain a diverse audience of jazz fans and to nurture the next generation of jazz musicians. It is partially supported by the cultural nonprofit Atlanta Jazz Festival Inc. Visit www.atlantafestivals.com for performance schedules and more information. For festival sponsorships, contact Jenevieve Purcell at jpurcell@atlantaga.gov.
for older adults
Aspiring family historians can get pointers at “Finding Your Family Tree” on May 6 at the Flat Shoals Library. The 10:30 a.m.-to-noon informational program is part of the Older Americans Month series for seniors 55 and older. Tamika Strong, an IT program manager in Information Technology Services & Support at the Georgia Public Library Service, will Tamika Strong present an introduction to genealogy. The session is open to the first 10 participants, and no registration is required. Funding is provided by the Friends of the Flat Shoals Library. GPLS is the state agency for public libraries in Georgia. The library is at 4022 Flat Shoals Parkway. For more information, visit www. dekalblibrary.org or call 404-244-4370.
Writers group at Stonecrest Library The Writers Support Group at the Stonecrest Library, which meets on April 28, is open to writers of any literary form and genre. The 90-minute meeting gets under way at 6:30 p.m. Participants can bring their work, whether completed or in progress, to read, discuss and receive group feedback. The group meets the last Tuesday of every other month (i.e., February, April, June, August, October and December) except holidays. The library is at 3123 Klondike Road in Lithonia. For more information, call 770-482-3828.
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Reader Notice As a service to you – our valued readers – we offer the following information: This newspaper will never knowingly accept any advertisement that is illegal or considered fraudulent. If you have questions or doubts about any ads on these pages, we advise that before responding or sending money ahead of time, you check with the Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Line and/or the Better Business Bureau. They may have records or documented complaints that will serve to caution you about doing business with those advertisers. Also be advised that some phone numbers published in these ads may require an extra charge. In all cases of questionable value, such as promises or guaranteed income from work-at-home programs, money to loan, etc., if it sounds too good to be true – it may in fact be exactly that. This newspaper cannot be held responsible for any negative consequences that occur as a result of you doing business with any advertisers. Thank you.
11
CrossRoadsNews
April 25, 2015
Scene
“Her story is thrilling and redemptive as God intersected the lives of two very broken people in the most dramatic way.”
Museum Week offers special deals
Book by Nichols’ hostage sparked ‘Captive’ movie Former waitress Ashley Smith’s account of the March 2005 Fulton County Courthouse shooting rampage in her book “Unlikely Angel: The Untold Story of the Atlanta Hostage Hero” is the basis of the film “Captive.” Ashley Smith Kate Mara David Oyelowo The movie tells the dramatic and spiritual true story of Smith, a single mother and recovering drug addict who was taken hostage in her own apartment by fugitive, murderer and accused rapist Brian Nichols, whose shooting spree left four dead. With her back against the wall, Smith turned to the personal spiritual journey of Rick Warren’s best-selling book “The Purpose-Driven Life” in an attempt to survive and help Nichols find a better way out. Her book was written with Stacy Mattingly. David Oyelowo of “Selma” stars as Nichols, and Kate Mara of “Fantastic Four” and “House of Cards” plays Smith. Paramount Pictures has secured worldwide distribution rights, and the studio will release the film on Sept. 18. “Captive” is directed by veteran filmmaker Jerry Jameson, and the screenplay is by Brian Bird. Oyelowo, who portrayed Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in “Selma,” said he was attracted to Smith’s account of her harrowing ordeal and miraculous redemption. “I was drawn to this story because it beautifully illustrates how a broken spirit can be healed by an unexpected source of hope,” he said. “I feel blessed to be continuing my very fruitful relationship with Paramount.” It also stars Michael K. Williams, Mimi Rogers, Jessica Oyelowo and Leonor Varela. Producer Terry Botwick said he was pleased to bring “this authentic encounter to a worldwide audience.” “In March of 2005, Ashley’s story captivated the nation on news outlets everywhere,” Botwick said. “Her story is thrilling and redemptive as God intersected the Brian Nichols held Ashley Smith hostage after the Fulton lives of two very broken people in the most dramatic way. It has been amazing get- Courthouse rampage in 2005. He received the maximum ting to know Ashley and to be working with such fine actors.” sentence for 50-plus counts, from murder to carjacking.
Marketplace
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HELP WANTED Ever-Redi Exterminating Co. has openings for:Pest Control Technician/Trainee to service commercial/residential accounts;
$8-12+/Hr.; HS Diploma; Drug Free; GA Drivers License w/clean record; Pass background check. Admin. Assist.-P/T; Phones; Data Entry; Filing; $9/Hr. Contact Mr. Warren; 770-909-7000; Fax 770-909-7094;email:info@ everredi.com Drivers, CDL-A: Home EVERY Weekend! ALL Loaded/Empty
May 9, 2015 • 10am-2pm
Place your MarketPlace line ad here – up to 20 words for $25. Additional words are $3 per block of five words (maximum 45 words). Boxed Ads (with up to 3 lines bold headline): $35 plus cost of the classified ad. Send ad copy with check or credit card information and contact phone number (if different from ad) to MarketPlace, CrossRoadsNews, 2346 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30032, or e-mail to marketplace@crossroadsnews.com. Our deadlines are at noon on the Friday one week prior to publication, unless otherwise noted.
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The Fernbank Museum of Natural History, Michael C. Carlos Museum and Callanwolde Fine Arts Center in DeKalb are among more than 30 institutions and historical sites offering two-for-one or free admission during Museum Week on April 25 to May 1. Admission is free at eight participating venues: Clark Atlanta University Art Galleries, David J. Sencer CDC Museum, Georgia Museum of Art, the King Center, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, Museum of History and Holocaust at Kennesaw State University, Robert C. Williams American Museum of Papermaking at Georgia Tech, and the Zuckerman Museum of Art at KSU. Deals and museum schedules vary – visit atlanta.net/museumweek to view the full list of museums and download a coupon. Each coupon admits two people for the price of one to participating venues. The coupon can be presented at multiple sites. For more information, visit www. atlanta.net.
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CrossRoadsNews
April 25, 2015