FORUM
SCENE
Our writer suggests that reluctance by major supermarkets to open a store at Stonecrest creates an opening for a grocery co-op like Sevananda. 4
Grins and spins will rule the day when the Mall at Stonecrest’s Spring Fair kicks off May 3 in the mall’s parking lot. 8
A unique opportunity
Fun on the midway
RIBS • TIPS • PORK • BEEF • CHICKEN • TURKEY • BRUNSWICK STEW • FISH • SPLITS
LUNCH $ SPECIAL
4
99
Monday-Friday • 11am-2pm
CHOP PORK • CHOP BEEF • PORK CHOP • 1/4 CHICKEN WITH TWO SIDES EAST ATLANTA • DECATUR • STONE MOUNTAIN • LITHONIA • AVONDALE ESTATES • CLARKSTON • ELLENWOOD • PINE LAKE • REDAN • SCOTTDALE • TUCKER
April 28, 2012
Copyright © 2012 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.
Volume 17, Number 52
Miller Grove star going to UCLA
www.crossroadsnews.com
McNair wrestlers shine
By Carla Parker
Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews
Tony Parker of Miller Grove High, a McDonald’s All-American and an ESPN top prospect, will attend UCLA in the fall.
After months of speculation, Miller Grove basketball star Tony Parker, one of the hottest prospects to come out of DeKalb Schools in years, finally picked the college where he will play ball in the fall. At a big announcement party on April 23 – attended by more than 50 family members, friends, classmates, teammates, and current and former coaches – at his Lithonia school, Parker revealed hat he will play for the University of California at Los Angeles on a full scholarship. He picked the Bruins over Duke University, Ohio State University, and the University of Georgia. Parker’s mother, Hazel, and many of his Please see PARKER, page 8
Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews
The McNair High Wrestling Mustangs, who won their first title this year, have been awarded a $10,000 grant from the Ultimate Fighting Championship. See story, page 8
New Cities Cause County Job Freeze County feeling budget squeeze Creation of new cities, annexations to affect revenues By Mary Swint
Sacked with a succession of new cities and annexations by other cities, a noticeably pared-down DeKalb County is now beginning to deal with the prospects of reduced revenues to maintain its current size. The impact of the incorporation of Brookhaven, which is on the July 31 ballot, and the proposed expansion of Chamblee are estimated to cost the county $26 million to $31 million in taxes and other revenues. If the city of Brookhaven is approved by voters, unincorporated DeKalb could have 62,000 fewer residents by next January. On April 19, DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis ordered 21 department heads to immediately stop filling vacant positions and to trim spending by 2 percent to 5 percent between now and 2013. His directive applies only to 390 of the 656 vacant positions that are tax-funded Burrell Ellis and report to him. This week, the county, which has 7,248 authorized full-time positions, had 777 that were vacant. Ellis told the department heads that the incorporation of Brookhaven and the proposed expansion of Chamblee can have substantial budgetary impact on both the 2012 and 2013 budgets. “In addition, certain other measures impact municipal boundaries that were approved by the 2012 General Assembly, including adjustments to the city limits of Doraville, Decatur and Avondale Estates,” he wrote. Burke Brennan, the county’s chief com-
n The incorporation of Brookhaven and the proposed expansion
of Chamblee are estimated to cost the county $26 million to $31 million in taxes and other revenues. n 390 vacancies frozen for now. n Unincorporated areas to have 62,000 fewer residents by next January. n 21 departments asked to trim spending between 2 and 5 percent.
munications officer, said the administration is estimating the loss of $22 million to $25 million in taxes and fees if the Brookhaven incorporation referendum passes in July and another $4 million to $6 million if the large Chamblee annexation is approved in a November referendum. The smaller annexations by the cities of Doraville, Decatur and Avondale Estates, scheduled to take effect by year’s end, will cost the county less than a million dollars. Specifically, Ellis asked the departments for a 2 percent contingency reserve in each of their budgets, a 3 percent reduction in 2012 operating budgets, and a 5 percent reduction in 2013 budgets by June 15. Ellis’ memo directed an immediate freeze on filling vacant positions “unless absolutely
essential to continued efficient operations.” The only exception was for police recruits and animal services where 10 vacant positions were filled before the memo was sent. The CEO said the Finance Department will expedite current plans for the lease/ purchase of capital assets and look at possibly expanding this program. County administration also is looking at outsourcing opportunities and reorganization of some functions. The departments also were told to recommend potential opportunities for increased revenue. District 5 Commissioner Lee May, who chairs the Board of Commissioners’ Finance Committee, said the limited job freeze is a start, but adds that he hopes there will be discussions on “some real suggestions on
how we can operate differently and new approaches to service delivery.” District 4 Commissioner Elaine Boyer said the CEO’s action was “a little bit too late.” “It is too vague and too bland,” she said Tuesday. “It looks like it was thrown Lee May together.” May said that a recent real estate study indicates that property values in Atlanta have dropped about 17 percent and that he expects DeKalb’s tax digest to decline by more than the 5 percent estimated by the CEO. Please see JOB FREEZE, page 5
Grill Masters...
We are the Bar-B-Que
6
99
Entree & 2 sides w/choice of 16 oz tea or lemonade
CHOOSE FROM RIBS, 1/4 CHICKEN, RIB TIPS, CHOP PORK OR CHOP BEEF 2504 Candler Road • Decatur GA 30032 • 404-212-4952
Teen to appear in court in cousin’s shooting death Sixteen-year-old Charlie Robert Oliver of Lithonia will be in court on April 30 for a pre-trial hearing. Oliver was indicted on Aug. 9, 2011, on murder charges in the shooting death of his 8-yearold cousin, Solomon Zellner. The rising second-grader was shot on July 6, 2011, at his Salem Glen Road home in Lithonia. He died the next morning and Charlie R. Oliver Oliver was arrested. Oliver will appear in front of Superior Court Judge Cynthia Becker at 9 a.m. Police said Solomon’s mother was in the home at the time of the shooting but not in the same room. A DeKalb County grand jury indicted Oliver on felony murder and aggravated assault charges. In a first court appearance last July, Oliver said the shooting was an accident.
Lawmakers to offer update at breakfast DeKalb residents can get legislative updates from state Sen. Jason Carter and state Rep. Howard Mosby at Commissioner Stan Watson’s May 5 community breakfast at Chapel Hill Middle School in Decatur. The Community Cabinet Breakfast takes place from 9 to 11 a.m. in the school’s cafeteria. Carter represents the 42nd District, and Mosby, the DeKalb Delegation chair, represents District 90. Gas South and Georgia Power also will be present. Watson, who represents Super District 7, says the breakfast allows residents to interact with elected officials. “Providing a platform for citizens to either talk to or hear from leaders in the community about issues that affect them is important to me,” Watson said. “I want to make sure that I am accessible, accountable and proactive in introducing resources that can stabilize and improve the lives for those who call DeKalb County home.” The school is at 3535 Dogwood Farms Road. For more information, call 404-371-3681.
Community
April 28, 2012
“Please come out and help us celebrate those who provide us with great service and products.”
A parade of business owners, public officials and community activists will be at the Mall at Stonecrest on April 28 for the CrossRoadsNews 2012 Best of East Metro Small Business Expo. During the noon-to-5 p.m. event, residents who nominated and voted for the 52 winners of the 2012 CrossRoadsNews Readers Choice Awards will get the opportunity to applaud the businesses and individuals who provided the best services and products and represented the community the best this past year. The winners will be recognized in 66 categories ranging from Best Dentist, Orthodontist, Law Firm, Day Care, Fitness Center to Large Church, Small Church and Handyman. The expo also will celebrate Best Restaurants, including winners of Best Soul Food, Best American, Best Fish Fry, Best Ribs and Best Restaurant When Someone Else Buys. The Best Activist, Best Movie Theater, Best Legislator, and Most Beloved Elected and Public Officials also will be recognized. Jennifer Parker, CrossRoadsNews editor and publisher, said plaques and certificates will be presented throughout the afternoon. “Please come out and help us celebrate those who provide us with great service and products,” Parker said. “These awards tell the people who serve us every day that we appreciate their hard work and encourage them to continue to give us their best.” In between the presentations, aspiring and existing business people can find out how to tap into the county’s Revolving Loan Fund, access SBA loans and qualify for commercial bank loans when a panel of experts discusses “Why Entrepreneurship.” That panel will feature UGA Small Business Development Center business consultant Bob Thiele, DEBCO’s director Charles Blackmon, Cornerstone Bank’s Vice President of Small Business Lending Rosemarie Drake and GCDC President Tony Christopher. At 3 p.m., expo-goers can hear about training and support offered by the DeKalb Microenterprise Institute for new and fledgling businesses. Two graduates of the program – Terri Waller and Lisa Wright – and the institute’s director Roderick Wallace will be on the panel. Both panels will take questions from the audience. The high-stepping Beulah Boys will perform at 2 p.m. and
The Beulah Boys will perform at 2 p.m. on April 28 at the 2012 Best of East Metro Small Business Expo. GreenforestMcCalep’s Julius Cawthon was a 2011 winner.
Saint Philip AME Church’s Dance Ministry, the 2012 Best Dance Ministry, will perform at 3:45 p.m. The expo will be on the mall’s lower level between Kohl’s and Macy’s. Door prizes and giveaways include gift cards for food and entertainment from many of the Best Of winners, and there will be a grand prize drawing for a $250 Mall at Stonecrest gift card. The Mall at Stonecrest is at I-20 and Turner Hill Road in Lithonia. For more information, call 404-284-1888.
DeKalb legislator recognized for volunteer service State Rep. Stephanie tive. Stuckey Benfield (left in Benfield, who had photo) thanks Jacqueline represented House DisDavis, president of the trict 85 for 14 years, is not board of directors of the seeking re-election. Her DeKalb County Board of terms ends Dec. 31. Health, after being recShe has started a new ognized for her volunteer job as executive director service. of GreenLaw, a Georgia Benfield was among environmental group dozens of volunteers who that advocates for clean were awarded plaques and air and clean water. certificates at the board’s Vickie Elisa, the Board 30th annual Volunteer of Health’s marketing and Recognition Program at the business development diCallanwolde Fine Arts Cenrector, told the volunteers Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews that they are priceless for ter on April 24. They were recognized for hundreds of hours of service to the board. giving of their time. District Health Director S. Elizabeth Ford thanked Benfield “Thank you for the amazing gift of time,” she said. “Time is for her service to the board while she was a state representa- valued, but you can’t put a value on it.”
Thanks for voting us “Best Law Firm” three years in a row! in the CrossRoadsNews Best of East Metro Readers Choice Awards
“The People’s Lawyer” The Law Offices of Boykin Edwards, Jr. PC 3735 Memorial Drive, Suite 100 Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-2888 Boykin & Jean Edwards
CrossRoadsNews
Small Business Expo to applaud the best
Meal Deal
$
2
Boykin.lawyer@boykinedwards.com
FASHION OPTIQUE EYEWEAR Come See Why We Were Voted “Best Eyewear Store”
25% OFF
Complete Pair of Eyeglasses SOUTH DEKALB MALL
2801 Candler Road, Suite 22A Decatur, GA 30034 (404) 244-8377
10% OFF Contact Lenses
DOWNTOWN
96 Mitchell St. Atlanta, GA 30303 (404) 524-1220
optieye@bellsouth.net
Your Source for Neighborhood News
Call 404-284-1888 for Advertising Rates & Information
April 28, 2012
Community
3
CrossRoadsNews
“Once you start interrupting that flow of traffic, the rearend accidents would go up.”
Chapel Hill residents push for traffic light at Flat Shoals intersection By Carla Parker
An accident-prone intersection on Flat Shoals Parkway may soon get a traffic light. DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson told residents of the Chapel Hill community that he will seek DOT’s approval for a traffic light. “We have to prove to the DOT that a light is warranted,” he said. “We all know it’s warranted but we want to make sure it’s documented because the end result is that somebody has to pay for that light, either DeKalb County or the DOT.” In the past 17 months, a total of 29 accidents have occurred at the intersection among motor vehicles entering and exiting the Chapel Hill Commons Shopping Center where Kroger is located and the Village of Flat Shoals across Flat Shoals Parkway. Business owners, consumers and residents have complained about the difficulty to see oncoming traffic when making left turns into both shopping centers.
Motorists complain about the difficulty to see oncoming traffic when making left turns into the Chapel Hill Commons Shopping Center and the Village of Flat Shoals.
Willie Candidate, who lives in the Chapel Hill community, said the intersection is very dangerous. “It’s definitely a serious engineering flaw,” she said. Neighbor Kenneth Banks said a light would help slow the traffic down. “They ought to change the speed limit [from 45 mph to 35 mph] too,” he said. “It will minimize the wrecks and promote pedestrian safety.” Mike Lobdell, district traffic engineer
of the Georgia Department of Transportation, said putting a traffic light there would increase rear-end accidents. “Once you start interrupting that flow of traffic, the rear-end accidents would go up,” he said. Watson said he will go back to the county to figure out the cost of the light. Once he gets those numbers, he’ll meet with the DOT to share those numbers. “Then we’ll try to figure out what to do, how we match [with the DOT numbers], and
how to crunch the numbers.” Watson said he expects to have the final cost in the next 30 to 45 days. The DOT has already approved HAWK pedestrian crosswalks on Flat Shoals Parkway between Clifton Springs Road and the I-285 exit. HAWKs, which feature islands in the middle of high-pedestrian areas, allow pedestrians to bring traffic to a complete stop. The crosswalk features two buttons for pedestrians to push – at the sidewalk and in the middle of the roadway. The plan to put the two HAWKs came after 7-year-old Zederick Carr was hit in January by an SUV while crossing Flat Shoals Parkway with his stepfather and two siblings. The family made it halfway across the street when a car came at them in the turn lane. The stepfather tried to jerk Zederick out of the way, but his hand came loose and the car struck him. EMTs rushed the boy to the hospital, but he later died. “We plan to have the HAWKs up in less than six months,” Watson said.
Court Watch training session offers look into criminal justice process toward improving public safety DeKalb citizens can learn how and quality of life in DeKalb. to monitor criminal cases and get “By involving the community information about court hearings in the criminal justice process, we and the criminal justice process at can give a voice to those impacted a Court Watch training session on by crime – not just the direct victim May 5 at the DeKalb Courthouse. but the indirect victim, the people The session, which is open to who are afraid to walk down streets 300 participants, will be held from because of prostitution or loitering, 9 a.m. to noon in the Jury Assembly the neighborhoods that can be Room. It is hosted by DeKalb So- Sherry Boston licitor General Sherry Boston in partnership unsafe due to drug activity, or the business owner whose business suffers from habitual with the DeKalb Police Department. Boston said the training is another step shoplifters,” she said.
The session also will encourage residents to observe court hearings; enhance the awareness of judges and prosecutors about crimes’ impact on victims’ lives; and develop better relationships among the courts, prosecutors, law enforcement and the community. Representatives from the Solicitor General’s Office, DeKalb Police, sheriff, Superior and State Court judges, probation, and an active Court Watcher will make presentations. A video about the criminal justice process also will be shown. The training is an outgrowth of Boston’s
Community Prosecution Program, modeled on a nationally proven method of using a proactive, integrated, solutions-based, and grass-roots approach to combat quality-oflife crimes through partnerships among the community, police and prosecutors. The courthouse is at 556 N. McDonough St. in Decatur. Registration opens at 8 a.m. and training begins at 9. Registration forms are available at www.dekalbsolicitorgeneral. org or the Solicitor General’s Office. For more information, contact Emily Gest at egest@ dekalbcountyga.gov or 404-371-4702.
4
Forum 2346 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007 www.crossroadsnews.com editor@crossroadsnews.com
Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Graphic Design Curtis Parker Staff Writers Carla Parker Jennifer Ffrench Parker Advertising Sales Kathy E. Warner Alison White
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.
L CA LO ODS! GO
AL ! LOC ICES RV SE
www.eastmetromarket.com
CrossRoadsNews
April 28, 2012
These friends helped me to understand China. They helped me to get a better understanding of the culture and people.
Let’s build our own cooperative grocery store “God moves in mysterious ways, his/her wonders to perform. …” The universe is presenting the residents of Lithonia and the Stonecrest mall area with a wonderful opportunity [“Stonecrest residents pushing hard for grocery store,” April 21, 2012, Cross RoadsNews] not only to provide ourselves with groceries, but to Byron Merritt create a unique business engine to take control of the economic future of our community. We should praise God that Kroger and Publix do not deign to do business in our neighborhood. The “big boys” only do business in areas where they can reap huge profits and line their pockets. The Stonecrest trading area, while having many middle- to high-income families that can easily sustain a grocery store, lacks the
The Sevananda Cooperative in Atlanta’s Little Five Points has been providing fresh produce and groceries to its members since 1974.
“density” to make it really attractive, according to Charles Whatley, DeKalb economic development director, in the April 21 story. In other words, there aren’t enough “big bucks” folks for them to make a financial killing, so they said, “No thanks.” We should say, “No problem mon.” Since its inception in 1966, many African-Americans celebrate Kwanzaa. The fourth principle of the Kwanzaa celebration is “cooperative economics – to build and
maintain our own stores, shops and other businesses and to profit from them together.” Let’s get together and build our own cooperative grocery store! There are literally hundreds of viable and successful cooperative grocery stores all across the country. The Sevananda Cooperative in Atlanta’s Little Five Points has been providing fresh produce and groceries to its members since 1974. Surely, with all the education, entrepreneurial swag, money and
political clout possessed by our community, we can build one successful cooperative grocery store. “Black Wall Street” in north Tulsa, Okla., in its heyday in the early 1900s contained more than 21 black churches, 30 grocery stores, two movie theaters, a hospital, a bank, a post office, libraries, schools, law offices and a bus system. Sadly, this thriving and robust black community was bombed and burned to the ground on June 21, 1921, by envious whites aided and abetted by the Ku Klux Klan and other interests who felt threatened by this sepia success story that was simply too hard to stomach. Rather than beg those who don’t want to, let’s pay homage to all who have sacrificed for us and build our own viable cooperative grocery store, teach our children a profound lesson, and leave a legacy that we can all be proud of for generations to come. The Rev. Byron L. Merritt lives in Decatur.
Friendship takes on a deeper meaning in a foreign land By Shakiri Murrain
My parents have often said, “Show me your friends and I’ll tell you who you are.” That saying has stuck with me over the years and shaped the type of people I accept and choose to sustain long-term relationships with. The only real criterion for me is that they be honest and passionate. Not wealthy, talented or even popular. I must say, some of these friends have very strong personalities and make it impossible to maintain other friendships, as all personalities don’t mix. When I arrived in China in November of 2006, I did not know a single person. Couldn’t say hello in the language and had virtually no experience in import/export. I’d just heard everyone from the news to fellow colleagues, friends and family talking about China. So in essence, I came on a hope and a prayer for a “unique” experience. What would happen next I would have never expected in a million years. I fell into one of the best groups of friends I’ve ever had. A group of eclectic individuals with different passions, strengths and weaknesses who embodied in some way the same enthusiasm that brought me to China. For the sake of privacy, I’ll refrain from using their names, but when we came together, it was literally like a meeting of the United Nations. Some from Spain, others from Argentina, Canada, America and various other countries. One trained as an engineer in the automotive field, another an excellent linguist with an affinity for Chinese history and culture, and yet another with a burning desire and adept ability for language coupled with a business acumen I’ve seen in very few others. And a few in China simply to “live the
Circulation Audited By
When Shakiri Murrain’s friends in China come together, it is like a meeting of the United Nations. Shakiri Murrain, shown with his father, Bill Murrain of Conyers, blogs about his adventure in China for CrossRoadsNews.
dream” and party like there was no tomorrow. These friends helped me to understand China. They helped me to get a better understanding of the culture and people. With that support system, I was able to catapult myself into the business world and eventually attend Nanjing Normal University to study the neverending Chinese language. I’m often asked how did I move to such a faraway country and become “at home.” My answer is always the same. I didn’t choose China – China chose me. The friends I met, the support system I had, there is no way I could have planned that by myself. These friends and I were/
are here to all have the same experience but in different ways. We have helped each other professionally, personally and emotionally to deal with a place that is as different from our respective home countries as one could possibly imagine. The one thing we have in common is that we were all foreigners in a foreign land. Starting from scratch. No matter how successful we were in our respective homelands or what experiences we’d had, once we stepped off that plane and landed in China, we were just “laowai” – foreigners. But through the strength of this group I have seen some move on to become successful entrepreneurs, executives of multinational orga-
nizations, language experts and family men. I’m very proud of them and even more proud to be a part of this group. We are now scattered around the country and globe as opportunities have a way of moving you where “they” want you to go, but we’ve maintained contact and this is in effect a network. With each individual success, the group grows stronger because we share our successes and failures to circumvent the mistakes made by others to make the path a little easier. We have no fraternity, no initiation or required membership. Just a group of friends with a common bond. One that I fully expect to last a lifetime. And even if it doesn’t, I’m satisfied knowing that we all came to China with nothing and at the very least, we’ll move forward with these memories. And no one can ever take that away. So I’ll conclude by coming full circle and passing on the advice that brought us together. “A friend in need is a friend indeed!” Shakiri Murrain lives in Suzhou, China, a suburb of Shanghai. His father, Bill Murrain, lives in Conyers. Read his ChinaBlog at http:// crossroadsnews.com/blog/18349617/ JLStyle.
index to advertisers BJH Attorneys & Counselors at Law.............. 10 Boss’s Bar-B-Que.............................................1 Chapel Hill Orthodontics.................................9 Creative Keystrokes........................................ 11 DeKalb County School System........................6 Dykes Desktop............................................... 11 Fashion Optique............................................. 2
Final Expense Insurance & Planning.............. 11 Gary Blair....................................................... 11 Gwinnett Federal Credit Union.......................6 Hibachi Grill.................................................... 5 MetroPCS....................................................... 11 Mini Mall........................................................ 11
Reliant Income Managers............................. 10 Smokerise Summer Day Camp.......................9 Stewart Unlimited Inc.................................... 10 Tees of Power................................................ 11 The Davis Bozeman Law Firm, P.C................ 10 The Gallery at South DeKalb........................... 7
The Law Firm of Boykin Edwards................... 2 The Mall at Stonecrest...................................12 The Samuel Group........................................ 10 Wells Fargo..................................................... 3 Best Buy Co. Inc......................................Inserts Walgreens...............................................Inserts
5
CrossRoadsNews
April 28, 2012
Community
“I still contend that the board needs to meet with appropriate support staff and prioritize services.”
Publisher to seek District 5 County Commission seat Publisher and radio talk-show host Andre White was set to announce his candidacy for the DeKalb District 5 Commission seat on April 27 at First St. Paul AME Church in Lithonia. In an April 25 press Andre White release, White says he has lived in the county for more than 15 years and believes that the key to enhancing
DeKalb is through economic opportunity and public safety. He is running as a Democrat and will challenge incumbent Commissioner Lee May, who said Thursday that he is seeking re-election. White said he has published The Sentinel, a free Atlanta weekly, for 24 years. He is also host of “Andre White Talks,” a community forum on WAEC in Atlanta. Qualifying for the July 31 Democratic and GOP primaries is May 23 to May 25.
May has represented District 5 since 2007. His current term expires Dec. 31. He said he is running for re-election to finish the things he has started. “There is a lot to be done,” he said. “We have made some positive progress with stopping liquor stores and check-cashing places, but we have work to do in the Stonecrest area and other places.” White is the first opponent to announce, but several other people have said they are considering running for the seat also.
Exchange Park session offers primer on composting Gardeners and aspiring green thumbs can attend a free compost demonstration event on May 8 at the Exchange Park Recreation Center in Decatur. During the 6:30-to-7:30 p.m. session, participants will learn the importance of organics and how composting can easily be done at home. They will learn how to obtain, manage and use an outdoor compost bin;
make their own compost bin; and grow vegetables using compost in the soil and fertilize with “compost tea.” Participants also will get tips on differentiating compost from mulch, soil sampling and vermin composting. Edible plants will be given away during the event. The DeKalb Natural Resource Management Office and Keep DeKalb Beautiful are
co-sponsoring the event as part of International Compost Awareness Week. This year’s theme, “Replenish the Earth for Generations to Come,” showcases composting, composting products, and the sustainable impact composting has on the environment. Exchange Park Recreation Center is at 2771 Columbia Drive. Visit www.keepdekalb beautiful.org or call 404-371-2654.
Workshop on rain barrels DeKalb residents can learn about water conservation at an April 28 rain barrel workshop at the Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve in Lithonia. The Department of Watershed Management is hosting the 2-to-3:30 p.m. workshop, which is open to the first 15 residents who sign up. They will make their own rain barrels with Watershed Management assistance. Collecting rainwater in rain barrels for use during dry months is an excellent way to conserve water and reduce water bills, the department says. At the workshop, residents will be instructed on rain barrel maintenance and water conservation landscaping. The cost is $30, which includes all the materials to make a rain barrel. The Arabia Mountain Nature Preserve is at 3787 Klondike Road. For more information and to register, contact Michael O’Shield at msoshield@dekalbcountyga .gov or 770-724-1456.
Boyer warns against cutting police budget JOB FREEZE,
from page
1
Brennan said the preliminary tax digest figures will come in mid- to late May. May also said commissioners were estimating about $7 million lost revenue due to the four annexations. At its April 11 Finance Committee meeting, commissioners estimated that the county could lose $15.1 million to $28.5 million in 2013 if Brookhaven becomes a city in December. To compensate for the loss, they estimate a 9.3 percent to 11.4 percent increase in property taxes or downsizing county staff by 329 employees. Under the Finance Committee’s scenario, the Police Fund would take the biggest hit, losing $16.5 million or the equivalent of 233 full-time positions. District 2 Commissioner Jeff Rader said these steps were prudent in light of the uncertainty involving revenue expectations. At the board’s April 24 meeting, Rader said he would draft legJeff Rader islation to push the administration to alter the sanitation services to cut costs. He said a reduction in garbage pickups has been discussed for months. When Chief Operating Officer Richard Stogner gave the Finance Committee a preview of the CEO’s plan on April 17, Boyer said the Police Department was not at full strength and warned against cutting the police budget. Stogner said if the police budget were increased, other budgets would have to be reduced. He also pointed out that Brookhaven incorporation and the annexations will not reduce the workload on the jail and courts. District 6 Commissioner Kathie Gannon said across-the-board cuts are not always the best way to cut. “I still contend that the board needs to meet with appropriate support staff and prioritize services,” she said. “I also hope that the constitutional officers will help our citizens out and cut back as well.” Ellis also asked heads of courts and offices, such as those run by the district attorney and tax commissioner, who are not directly under the CEO’s control, “to consider undertaking the same steps to conserve the county’s financial reserves and to prepare for potential adverse impacts of the issues facing county government.”
M IN Y O M BRING THER’S DAT! O IF ON M A FREE Gs Last) FOR e Supplie il
(Wh
New Location Coming Soon 419 Pike Blvd. Lawrenceville, GA 30046 678-985-3888
$
4
00 OFF
10
% $ OFF
2
50 $ OFF
1
00 OFF
PURCHASE OF $30 OR MORE
LUNCH OR DINNER BUFFET
PURCHASE OF $20 OR MORE
PURCHASE OF $10 OR MORE
DINE IN ONLY
DINE IN ONLY
DINE IN ONLY
DINE IN ONLY
Expires 5/31/12.
Expires 5/31/12.
Expires 5/31/12.
Expires 5/31/12.
6
CrossRoadsNews
Finance
“I applaud the progress we’re making to prevent foreclosures, but so much more needs to be done.”
HomeSafe event at Salem Bible Church Homeowners who are having difficulty paying their mortgages can get help at an April 28 HomeSafe Georgia community event at Salem Bible Church in Lithonia. Fourth District U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson is co-hosting the 9 a.m.-to-3 p.m. event with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ HomeSafe Georgia program, the D&E Hank Johnson Group, and DeKalb County. Johnson said residents struggling to keep their homes need to know about the HomeSafe Georgia program that offers mortgage payment assistance and restructuring loan payments and runs through December 2017. “I applaud the progress we’re making to prevent foreclosures, but so
much more needs to be done to save people’s homes,” said Johnson, who has fought foreclosures since he was a county commissioner in 2001. Johnson sent a letter to Gov. Nathan Deal earlier this month urging the state to take immediate action to broaden the HomeSafe eligibility requirements so “Georgians can save their homes immediately.” “It’s so important that we hold this event – to let homeowners know there’s help,” Johnson said in an April 13 statement. “If you or someone you know is unemployed or have seen a dramatic drop in income because of the economy, we might be able to help save your home.” Since 2009, Johnson’s office has assisted more than 800 residents with pending foreclosures. The free event offers homeowners a chance to meet one on one
with counselors to see if they qualify for HomeSafe Georgia and/or a loan modification. Eligibility requirements: n Currently unemployed. n Currently substantially underemployed. n Currently able to make your payment but became delinquent while unemployed or underemployed. n Must be able to work or seeking employment. n Must be six months or less delinquent. n Mortgage payments must be greater than or equal to 31 percent of household gross income. To pre-qualify and to register, visit www.depower.org or call 770-961-6900 or 1-877-790-1831. For more information, visit hankjohnson.house.gov. Salem Bible Church is at 5460 Hillandale Drive.
DeKalb to hone its customer service skills DeKalb County government is buffing its image with customer service training for all departments that serve the public. The training is part of the county’s new One DeKalb Serves initiative announced this week. DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis said the initiative will provide customer feedback, training, and performance measures to ensure transparency, accountability and operational efficiencies.
Training begins in May with 119 front-line employees in business license, water billing, sanitation, permitting, and police departments. The kickoff coincided with the inaugural Employee Recognition Program on April 23 at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center. “Our vision with One DeKalb Serves is to build strong, safe and healthy communities; provide effi-
cient and effective government services; and ensure our actions support the greater good and the public interest of our citizens,” Ellis said in an April 25 statement. The first phase focuses on employees and includes surveys; training; nonmonetary incentives; a new, interactive employee portal; quarterly employee recognitions; and an annual employee recognition event. For more information, visit dekalbcountyga.gov.
Our Panola Industrial branch is available for your convenience. 5381 Panola Industrial Boulevard Decatur, Georgia 30035 Branch & Drive-Thru Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. 678.889.GFCU (4328) | www.gwinnettfcu.org
Gwinnett Crossroads ad color.indd 1
April 28, 2012
3/7/12 2:23 PM
Carriers to collect food to ‘Stamp Out Hunger’ U.S. Postal Service patrons can participate in the 20th annual food drive on May 12 by leaving nonperishable items at their mailboxes. The Postal Service and its letter carriers conduct the annual “Stamp Out Hunger” food drive across the nation to collect food donations and provide assistance to the millions of Americans who are struggling with hunger every day. Hunger is a reality for one in six people in the United States, and nearly 49 million Americans, including 16 million children, are struggling with hunger. These are often hardworking adults, children and seniors who cannot make ends meet and are forced to go without food for several meals or even days, organizers say. Postmaster General Patrick Donahoe says the Postal Service is pleased to continue supporting the National Association of Letter Carriers in the food drive. “I am confident the 2012 campaign will be our best ever because the need continues to grow,” Donahoe said in an April 25 statement. The nation’s 210,000 letter carriers will collect food donations left at the mailboxes of generous Americans in more than 10,000 communities and deliver them to food banks and other hunger relief organizations. Stamp Out Hunger is the nation’s largest single-day food drive, having collected more than 1 billion pounds of food since its inception in 1993. In 2011, Americans donated 70.2 million pounds of food, which marked the eighth consecutive year that at least 70 million pounds were collected. To participate, leave a bag of nonperishable food where your letter carrier normally delivers your mail on May 12. Your letter carrier will then pick up and deliver the food to a local food bank. Examples of nonperishable items include canned soup, meats, fish, vegetables, fruits and juices; boxed goods (such as cereal); and pasta and rice. For more information, ask your letter carrier, contact your local post office or visit www.helpstampouthunger .com.
April 28, 2012
CrossRoadsNews
7
8
CrossRoadsNews
Scene
April 28, 2012
A panel of judges will select 20 finalists and an alternate to compete May 12 at the Gallery at South DeKalb. Families as well as thrill seekers can choose from more than 30 rides at the Spring Fair at the Mall at Stonecrest in Lithonia from May 3 to May 13.
Spring Fair at Stonecrest Kids and the young at heart can soar high in the air during the Stonecrest Spring Fair starting at 4 p.m. on May 3 at the Mall at Stonecrest. North American Midway Entertainment will present more than 30 family-oriented rides including the merry-go-round that will delight daredevils and thrill seekers through May 13 in the parking lot near Kohl’s. The annual fair features thrill rides that include the YoYo, Matterhorn (Himalaya), Cliff Hanger, Fireball, bumper cars, Sizzler, Family Swing, Raiders, Tilt, Gravitron, Inverter, Power Surge, Mini-Indy, Ferris wheel, Kiddie Land, slide, train, and merry-go-round. The gates open at 4 p.m. weekdays, 11 a.m. on Saturdays, and noon on Sundays. The Mall at Stonecrest is at I-20 at Turner Hill Road in Lithonia. For more information, visit www.mallatstonecrest.com.
Look-alike moms, kids can vie for gifts
Mothers and their offspring must register by May 5 to compete in the Gallery at South DeKalb’s annual Mother-Child Look-Alike Contest. The May 12 contest celebrates mothers on the day before Mother’s Day. Contestants must enter with photographs of themselves. Registration will take place noon to 2 p.m. in the mall’s Center Court. Applicants also can pre-register by downloading the application from www .galleryatsouthdekalb.com or picking one up from the mall’s management office. Shenita and Ebony Smith won the A panel of judges will select mall contest last year. 20 finalists and an alternate to compete May 12 at 2 p.m. at the Macy’s stage. They will be judged on physical likeness, stage presence and overall presentation. Last year’s winners, Shenita and Ebony Smith, and runners-up Kathy and Adilah Muhammed received mall gift cards. Third-place finishers LaTasha Rucker-Wiggins and Raleigh Rucker received mall merchant prize packs. The Gallery at South DeKalb is at I-20 and Candler Road. For more information, visit www.galleryatsouthdekalb.com or call 404-241-2431.
Hikers can see Sweetwater Creek mill by candlelight Outdoorsy night owls can participate in the Candle Light Hike to the Mill on April 28 at Sweetwater Creek State Park in Lithia Springs. The mile-long guided night hike, from 8 to 10 p.m., is easy to moderately difficult and goes inside the Civil War-era textile mill ruins of New Manchester Manufacturing Co. Candle lanterns will be provided. The mill, which stood five stories high, the tallest in Atlanta at the time, was one of the largest factories in Georgia. It was built by enslaved Africans more than 150 years ago. Slaves also made the bricks that were used in its construction. The mill was destroyed in 1864 by Union Gen. William T. Sherman’s troops. No children under 6 years old or dogs will be permitted on the hike. Space is limited and is on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will meet and register at the Interpretive Center, and there is a $5 fee plus $5 for parking. For more information, call 770-732-5871. Additional information, including accommodations and facilities, is available at www.GeorgiaStateParks.org or by calling 1-800- The mile-long guided Candle Light Hike to the Mill at Sweetwater Creek on April 28 will go inside the Civil War-era textile mill. 864-7275.
Book fair sales to benefit library Bookworms and others can shop for graduation gifts at the Barnes & Noble Bookfair on May 5 and support the Friends of the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library. The 10 a.m.-to-3 p.m. fair at Edgewood Retail in Atlanta includes story time and special events. A percentage of the purchase of gift cards, memberships, textbooks, magazine subscriptions, video games, and Café items will benefit the Friends group, which hosts a number of children and community programs at the Wesley Chapel Library. Purchases also can be made online at http://bn.com/bookfairs from May 5 to May 10 – use code 10743557 at time of purchase. The Edgewood Retail center is off Moreland Avenue at 1217 Caroline St. For more information, call 404-286-6980.
‘Ponce de Leon’ author to speak Sharon Foster Jones, author of “Atlanta’s Ponce de Leon Avenue,” will sign copies of her book and give a lecture on the famous street May 1 at the historic DeKalb Courthouse. Jones will discuss how Ponce de Leon Avenue got its name and highlights of the portion of the street that runs through DeKalb County. Her talk includes a vivid tour of Ponce from picnics by the springs in hoop skirts and Atlanta Sharon Jones Crackers baseball to the Fox Theatre and the days when Vivien Leigh, Clark Gable and Al Capone lodged in the esteemed hotels lining the magnificent avenue. She also will sign copies of “Atlanta’s Ponce de Leon Avenue,” and her other books that include “Inman Park” and “The Atlanta Exposition” will be available for purchase from Eagle Eye Book Shop. The book signing and lecture begin at 5 p.m. The courthouse at 101 E. Court Square. For more information, call Melissa Forgey at 404-373-1088.
Mustangs rustle up UFC grant Center to join 3 other standouts By Carla Parker
PARKER,
After years of slugging it out in obscurity, McNair High School Wrestling Mustangs are on top. Students won their first title this year, and now the program has a $10,000 grant from the Ultimate Fighting Championship. More than 10 students and coaches Brad Clark and Ramon Tillery were presented with the check and UFC’s “Octagon of Excellence” award by UFC fighters at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta on April 20. The award, which was created this year, is given to a school or program that has “risen to the challenge” and excelled at its sport. McNair came to the attention of the UFC after a Jan. 21 CrossRoadsNews article on its wrestling team that grew from 12 members in 2007 to 42 this year. Reed Harris, the Las Vegas-based UFC’s community relations vice president, said he also was impressed with the school’s graduation rate, which had risen from 30 percent in 2002 to 70 percent in 2009. “That’s amazing,” he said. “It shows the type of leadership they have at the school.” Harris said the UFC is happy to donate to McNair’s up-and-coming program. “We all know that wrestling programs need money because it’s not a popular sport,” he said. “We really wanted to do this and bring good things to this program.”
fans and supporters had hoped the 270-pound center would stay home and join high school teammates Brandon Morris and former Miller Grove star Donte Williams at UGA, but Parker said it was time to broaden his horizons. “I just thought I done a lot in Georgia and I thought Georgia has done a lot for me,” he said Monday. “I thought UCLA was the perfect place for me to get better and be successful.” At UCLA, Parker will join three other ESPN 150 top prospects – No. 2 overall player Shabazz Muhammad from Las Vegas; No. 5 Kyle Anderson from Fairview, N.J.; and a fellow Georgian, No. 41 Jordan Adams from Lawrenceville, who is currently at Oak Hill Academy, a Baptist-affiliated boarding school in Mouth of Wilson, Va. “I just thought I would go somewhere where I really thought I could succeed with the freshmen that came in with me,” he said. “With me, Shabazz, Kyle and Jordan, we can come in and turn it out.” As a senior, 6-foot-9 Parker led Miller Grove to four straight class AAAA state titles and averaged 16.6 points and 11 rebounds per game and was named a McDonald’s AllAmerican and No. 26 overall prospect in the ESPN 100 and No. 7 center. After his announcement, his mother said she is going to miss him. “There will be lonesome days,” she said. “But if he was an hour away at Georgia, I would miss him, also.” Parker, who will graduate from Miller Grove on May 23, plans to major in business management and minor in journalism at UCLA. At Miller Grove, he had a 109-16 record in four years, including four straight state titles, 1,723 points (13.8 ppg), 1,349 rebounds (10.8 ppg) and 327 blocks (2.6 ppg). Along with participating in the 2012 McDonald’s All-American game, he was a member of the USA Basketball Men’s U16 and U17 World Championship Team in 2009 and 2010, and he also played in the Jordan Brand All-American game on April 14 in Charlotte, N.C. Parker said he is looking forward to the all-around education he’ll receive from UCLA and the atmosphere of Los Angeles. “UCLA has great history,” he said. “It’s a great atmosphere and I’ll probably have fun getting my education there.”
Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews
McNair coach Brad Clark and the UFC’s Reed Harris hold the “Octagon of Excellence” award.
Clark said receiving the award was an honor and pleasure. “It’s well-deserving for the student athletes and coaches,” he said. The team will buy new equipment and uniforms, refurbish the practice mat, and travel to tournaments out of state. The McNair wrestlers also got a chance to attend the April 21 UFC’s No. 145 payper-view grudge match between light-heavyweight champ Jon Jones and former training partner Rashad Evans and co-headliner fastrising welterweight contender Rory MacDonald and Che Mills at Philips Arena. Clark said being in attendance was inspirational. “It’s really exciting for the kids to be exposed to something like this.”
from page
1
9
CrossRoadsNews
April 28, 2012
Youth
“We need to focus on the root causes and seeds of our community challenges.”
DeKalb students rack up $19.2 million in music scholarships By Carla Parker
After a turbulent year with the marching band suspension, DeKalb high school music students have a lot to celebrate. One hundred and fifty senior band and orchestra students, who raked in more than $19.2 million in scholarships, were recognized by the school district at the annual Senior Music Scholarship Signing Day on April 19. Fourteen South DeKalb-based high schools dominated the scholarship recipients. Redan High School in Stone Mountain led the pack with 20 students who got $3.8 million in scholarships. Lakeside High School in Atlanta came in second with 12 students earning a total of $2,035,400 in scholarships. Columbia High School in Decatur was a close third with 13 students nabbing $2,034,556 in band scholarships. Chamblee Charter, Druid Hills, Lithonia, M.L. King, Miller Grove and Southwest DeKalb high schools each had more than $1 million in music scholarships. Students and parents had worried that
On the annual Senior Music Scholarship Signing Day on April 19, Redan High School in Stone Mountain led the pack with 20 students who got $3.8 million in scholarships.
the temporary system-wide suspension of band activities that came in the wake of the alleged hazing death of FAMU student and Southwest DeKalb alumnus Robert Champion would have cost students scholarships. The school district banned all marching band activities on Dec. 14, 2011, to investigate
‘Be Someone Day’ honors Fla. teen Families can play chess, win prizes, and get free food and refreshments on May 5 at the “Be Someone Day” in Stone Mountain. The 1-to-4 p.m. event at 949 Stephenson Road will be dedicated to Trayvon Martin, the unarmed Florida teen who was shot to death by neighborhood watch captain George Zimmerman in February. Be Someone Inc. founder Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson said the day will highlight issues affecting young African-American males. “We need to focus on the root causes and seeds of our community challenges,” he said. The free event also will include entertainment from Lil Jimmy, “the New Millennium
Fat Albert,” who will address bullying and violence issues through his program “You’re a Bully.” Lil Jimmy is a 12-year-old character created to help youth make the right choices. Other performers at the event include Joe M. Turner with Turner Magic Entertainment, international gospel recording artist Arthur Reed, and James “the Piano Man” Lawrence. Be Someone, a nonprofit crime prevention program, teaches self-esteem, responsibility and analytical thinking skills through the game of chess. For more information, visit www.be someone.org or call Orrin Hudson at 404578-5278.
reports of inappropriate behavior in some band programs. Superintendent Cheryl Atkinson lifted the ban on Jan. 18, but the investigation is still “ongoing,” according to DeKalb Schools spokesman Walter Woods. Keven Shepherd, Miller Grove High band
Young men focus of symposium More than 200 teen and adult males are expected to convene at Miller Grove Middle School in Decatur on May 5 for the “Brother 2 Brother Symposium.” Organizers say the 9 a.m.-to-4:30 p.m. symposium, which is free, will empower, inspire and increase the success of young men by encouraging collaboration between the school and community. It is hosted by Epic Empowerment, an organization that offers diversified educational and professional services aimed at maximizing human potential. It will
include group discussions, break-out sessions and recreational activities. Business and public leaders and other men of purpose will explore the importance of academic excellence, positive peer relations, and the significance of manhood. Participants must be in fifth grade or higher and should be accompanied by a male adult. Miller Grove Middle School is at 2215 Miller Road. Advance registration is mandatory and can be done by contacting Kevin Mason at kmason@epicempowerment.com or 678-592-5036.
SMOKERISE SUMMER DAY CAMP Camp Available 7 am - 6:30 pm • Ages 6 to 12 Activities are carefully selected, age-appropriate, constantly supervised, and completely enjoyable. Three field trips a week, swimming, crafts, recreation, CRCT studies, daily chapel and “Faith Weaver” lessons, 1-to-6 ratio and an amazing staff join in a nondenominational Christian setting for an active and challenging summer.
‘Exploring College Options’ sessions High school students who are still deciding on college can attend the May 9 and 10 “Exploring College Options” student/parent information sessions at two Atlanta hotels, Admissions representatives from Duke University, Georgetown University, Harvard University, University of Pennsylvania, and Stanford University will be in attendance.
director, said it was gratifying to see his students earn scholarships to college. “We put in a lot of work with these students,” Shepherd said. “It’s very rewarding to see the students’ hard work pay off.” That hard work also earned the district’s music department the National Association of Music Merchants’ “One of the Top Communities in America for Music Education” title for the 2011-2012 school year. It was the third time in nine years that the district had earned that national honor. Kevaughn Burney, an M.L. King Jr. High drum major, will attend the Marine Corps on a $27,500 scholarship. He said that band not only built his musicianship but also discipline and maturity. “Band helped prepare me for life after school,” he said. “It helped me make better decisions when it comes to life.” Failus Washington, who plays French horn at Miller Grove High, will be attending Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte on a $12,000-a-year scholarship. He said band also impacted his life. “It’s helped me become a more outgoing person,” he said.
The May 9 event will be at the Marriott Atlanta Buckhead Hotel, 3405 Lenox Road N.E.. On May 10, it will be at the Renaissance Concourse-Atlanta Airport Hotel, 1 Hartsfield Centre Parkway. Both sessions begin at 7:30 p.m. To register, visit www.exploringcollege options.org.
TEEN CAMP FOR AGES 13-16
Located in Stone Mountain www.smokeriseministries.org
Chapel Hill Orthodontics Beautiful Smiles for Children, Teens & Adults Cel 20 Ye ebrating ar Comm s in the unity
We Value Your Time So We Run On Time • 50% Off Clear Braces and 24K Gold Braces • Treatment for Children, Teens & Adults
We Offer No Interest Low Payment Plans
Special Discounts For All of Our Heroes:
Isn't it time for your beautiful smile?
Including Educators, EMTs, Firefighters, Health Care Workers, Law Enforcement, Military, and Parcel Workers
Call Today To Schedule Your Free Consultation! Dr. Allise M. Calloway 4919 Flat Shoals Parkway, Suite 210
(678) 418-3000
Please Visit our Website for More Information: chapelhillortho.com
www.drcraigwilliamsortho.com
10
CrossRoadsNews
April 28, 2012
financial
OPEN YEAR ROUND
Marketplace
The Samuel Group, Inc.
Professional Income Tax, Referrals and Connections Yolanda Faye Stewart
Stewart Unlimited Inc
Reach More of the People Who Matter Most – Local Customers! Call 404-284-1888 to Advertise in the CrossRoadsNews Marketplace attorneys
financial
5300 Memorial Drive, Suite 224-F Stone Mountain, GA 30083
Office: 404-549-2501 Cell: 404-934-5639 www.stewartunlimitedtaxes.com
attorneys
Loans for Churches, Restaurants, Day Care Centers, Multi Family Properties, Office Buildings and other commercial properties. Purchases or refinancing. All credit considered. Closings as quick as 7 days.
404-870-9070
www.thesamuelgroupinc.com
financial
Burroughs Johnson Hopewell Coleman, LLC “EXPERIENCED LAWYERS, EXPERIENCED MINDS”
Bankruptcy • Personal Injury & Workers Comp • Family Law/Divorce/Custody Wills/Probate/Trusts • Criminal Defense • Corporate & Business Law
4262 Clausell Court | Suite A | Decatur, GA 30035 P:404.289.2244 F:404.289.2888 www.bjhlawyers.com
new callers, SO CALL NOW. 1-800-699-7159
One-order, one-invoice, multi-newspaper placement service!
AT&T U-Verse for just $29.99/ mo! SAVE when you bundle Internet+Phone+TV and get up to $300 BACK! (Select plans). Limited Time CALL NOW! 800341-2726
Reach more than 15 million households served by over 1,020 suburban and community newspapers around North America and Canada. 25-word ad starts at $240 weekly. Discount Contact Rates Available. For more information, call 404-284-1888 Adoption Are you pregnant? A young married couple seeks to adopt. Financial security. Let’s help each other. Expenses paid. Holly & Max. Ask for Adam 1-800-7905260.
Autos DONATE YOUR VEHICLE Receive $1000 GROCERY COUPONS. UNITED BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION. Free Mammograms, Breast Cancer Info www.ubcf.info FREE Towing, Tax Deductible, Non-Runners Accepted. 1- 800-728-0801 CASH FOR CARS! Any Make, Model or Year. We Pay MORE! Running or Not. Sell Your Car or Truck TODAY. Free Towing! Instant Offer: 1-888-545-8647
Business Opportunity Make Up To $2,000.00+ Per Week! New Credit Card Ready Drink-Snack Vending Machines. Minimum $4K to $40K+ Investment Required. Locations Available. BBB Accredited Business. (800) 962-9189
Employment Opportunities Earn up to $150 per day Undercover Shoppers Needed to Judge Retail & Dining Establishments Experience Not Required Call Now 1-888-891-4244
placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 800-488-0386 www.CenturaOnline.com AIRLINES ARE HIRING- Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified- Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (877)818-0783 Get Your Degree ONLINE - Call 1-800-291-8693
Financial SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. WIN or Pay Nothing! Start Your Application In Under 60 Seconds. Call Today! Contact Disability Group, Inc. Licensed Attorneys & BBB Accredited. Call 877-865-0180 Ever Consider a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 866-967-9407 CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY HAVE IT REMOVED! Need a Minimum $7,000 in debt to qualify. Utilize Consumer Protection Attorneys. Call now 1-866652-7630 for help.
Health & Fitness
Education & Training
Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call Today 888-459-9961 for $25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping.
ATTEND COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job
ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get FREE CPAP Replacement Sup-
Help Wanted **Able to Travel** Hiring 10 people, Work-travel all states, resort areas. No exp. Paid training/ Transportation provided. 18+ 1-888-853-8411 www.protekchemical.com
plies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 866-993-5043 ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-903-6658 Diabetes/Cholesterol/Weight Loss. Bergamonte, a Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with amazing results. Call today and save 15% off your first bottle! 888-470-5390 Attention Joint & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven allnatural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 888-474-8936 to try Hydraflexin RISK-FREE for 90 days. Low Energy? Increase Power, Performance and Passion... Naturally! Boost your testosterone with a FREE 30 Day Supply of PROGENE!! Pay only S&P 800-330-9743
Misc. For Sale 100 Percent Guaranteed Omaha Steaks - SAVE 65 percent on the Family Value Collection. NOW ONLY $49.99 Plus 3 FREE GIFTS & right-to-the-door delivery in a reusable cooler. ORDER TODAY at 1-888-697-3965 or www. OmahaSteaks.com/family02, use code 45069NVJ. DISH Network. Starting at $19.99/ month PLUS 30 Premium Movie Channels FREE for 3 Months! SAVE! & Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL - 877-992-1237
SAVE on Cable TV-InternetDigital Phone. Packages start at $89.99/mo (for 12 months.) Options from ALL major service providers. Call Acceller today to learn more! CALL 1-877-7367087 *REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! * Get a 4-Room All Digital Satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting at $24.99/ mo. FREE HD/DVR upgrade for
Low Testosterone? Free 30 Day Supply! Try PROGENE and Restore power, performance, and confidence... naturally. Progene Daily Complex CALL FOR FREE SUPPLY Pay only S&P 800-5165011
Wanted to Buy WANTED UNEXPIRED DIABETIC TEST STRIPS UP TO $26/BOX. PRE PAID SHIPPING LABELS. HABLAMOS ESPANOL! 1-800-267-9895 www. SellDiabeticStrips.com
surveys
MANTIS Deluxe Tiller. NEW! FastStart engine. Ships FREE. One-Year Money-Back Guarantee when you buy DIRECT. Call for the DVD and FREE Good Soil book! 866-969-1041
Miscellaneous Advertise your product or service nationwide or by region in up to 12 million households in North America’s best suburbs! Place your classified ad in over 750 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466 or go to www. classifiedavenue.net
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.
Your Source for Neighborhood News
Call 404-284-1888 for Advertising Rates & Information
11
CrossRoadsNews
April 28, 2012
Marketplace Computers & Electronics IN-HOME Computer Service & training Repairs, Upgrades, New or used systems. FREE PC Tune Up with Virus Removal. 404-9105608. cheapcomputerrepairatl. com
HOME BASED BUSINESS Work From Home - $600 plus
weekly. Consistent weekly income. Work your own schedule. No upfront fees --Legitimate jobs. Call 678-927-0111
graphic design
insurance
FINAL EXPENSE
Homes for Rent
INSURANCE & PLANNING
Section 8 Homes For Rent 2,3,4 &5 bedrooms. We have properties available Now. Please call 678-705-7877 or visit www. irentatl.com
Protecting your wishes... peace of mind for loved ones.
MARKETPLACE RATES
financial
for rent
DENIED A CHECKING ACCOUNT?
Don’t Go Out of Business!
fundraising
rant Restau ent For R
$500 MOVES YOU IN
Hair Sa lo For Ren n t
BANQUET HALL for Rent Hour
$2000–$12500 Per
MINI MALL
7173 COVINGTON HWY • 678-755-5955
Signs/Banners Class Rings Announcements Letterman Jackets
For your School, Church or Community Groups
Visit www.teesofpower.com Call 404-941-8744
Don’t Miss An Issue.
RATES TO FIT ANY BUDGET
hair care / salons
Beautiful Babes Ms. Felecia
• PRESS & CURL • BRAIDS • QUICK WEAVES • HEALTHY HAIRCARE Call for Monthly Specials
678-887-6203
beautifulbabeshaircare.vpweb.com ADULTS ACCEPTED
■ Get CrossRoadsNews
every week.
thly Mong Now Billinailable! Av
■ End the inconvenience of
empty newspaper stands.
■ Support CrossRoadsNews,
we’re always working for you.
Yes, I want CrossRoadsNews in the mail.
Choose your desired subscription length and Save up to 30% : * All prices plus tax.
❑ 13 weeks - $25 - $1.92/week* ❑ 26 weeks - $45 - $1.73/week* ❑ 52 weeks - $70 - $1.34/week* Name ____________________________________________________________ Address __________________________________________________________ City _________________________State _________________Zip ____________ Phone ________________________ E-mail ______________________________ I prefer to pay by credit card: ❍ Visa ❍ MC ❍ AmEx ❍ Discover
Card no. ______________________________ Expiration date ____________
VISIT US IN OUR NEW LOCATION 4118 Snapfinger Woods Drive • Decatur, GA 30035 (Off Wesley Chapel, Near I-20)
Billing Address (if different from above)
Steet _____________________________________________________________________
City _________________________State _________________Zip ____________ Please mail to CrossRoadsNews, 2346 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30032. (PHOTOCOPIES OK )
graduation
Graduation
Make $500 - $5,000
subscription
insurewithgreg.com
Hair Care for Children
We Have Vacancies
*Sales tax not included. Limited time offer, ends 6/30/12, while supplies last. Restrictions apply. Offer only valid with new activation of MetroPCS Samsung Freeform III, Huawei Pinnacle, or Kyocera Presto phones. $10 Promotion fee on acceptance of offer. $25 per month service plan offer includes unlimited talk and text, voicemail, long distance calling, nationwide coverage, 3-way calling, caller ID and call waiting. MMS and other data services not included. Offer not available with other add-on features. Nationwide long distance only available to continental US and Puerto Rico. Nationwide coverage of over 280 million population based on 2011 Target Pro data. Any change in phone will forfeit this promotional service plan, and service will be charged at then available rates. Offer cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer not available for Family Plan discount or participation in Family Plan. No rain checks. Coverage and services not available everywhere. Rates, services and fees subject to change. See store or metropcs.com for details and Terms and Conditions of Service. MetroPCS services for personal use only. MetroPCS-related brands and trademarks are the exclusive properties of MetroPCS Wireless, Inc. All other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.
678-458-2924
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.
Open a NetSpend Account today & receive a free $20 bonus. Get a Netspend pre-paid Visa card with direct deposit. Save $$$. No more check cashing fees. Call 877-789-5220 or visit www.refer2netspend.com. Referral Code: 8089298255.
Personal Communications Center 4919 Flat Shoals Pkwy, Suite 208 (Inside Kroger Plaza) Decatur, GA 30034 678-418-0977
Present coupon at time of purchase. Offer valid only at listed MetroPCS Authorized Dealer. New phone purchase and MetroPCS activation required. No cash value and some restrictions apply. Limited time only.
Get $5.00 off any accessory. New phone purchase & new activation required.
mobile
www.creativekeystrokes.net 770.469.4543 • Stone Mtn
When You Miss CrossRoadsNews, You Miss News You Can Use! Call 404-284-1888 for Advertising Rates & Information
12
CrossRoadsNews
April 28, 2012