CrossRoadsNews, December 12, 2015 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

Kudos ...

Come on now ...

... to the Friends of the Wesley Chapel Library, who raised money to commission a portrait of longtime librarian Doris Wells, whose impact is still being felt there. See story, page 8

Surely something can be done about these tires and other debris dumped beside the MARTA bus stop across the street from 6698 Chupp Road in Lithonia.

Litter Makes Us All Look Bad JOIN US IN THE EFFORT TO KEEP OUR STREETS CLEAN A PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE FROM CROSSROADSNEWS

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

December 12, 2015

Volume 21, Number 33

www.crossroadsnews.com

Best Buy, Macy’s closing stores in DeKalb By Ken Watts

to a 30,000-square-foot former Circuit City building in the Conyers Crossroads Plaza at 1540 Dogwood Drive. Schumann said the company has not yet set an exact date but expects the move will happen in late spring 2016. She said the store’s 60 to 70 employees will not be laid off. “Employees will simply be working at a different site, which is consistent with our standard relocation plans,” Schumann said on Dec. 9. She said the relocation is part of Best Buy’s ongoing review process aimed at im-

Best Buy is leaving Turner Hill Marketplace in Lithonia for Conyers Crossroads Plaza in 2016 for “a better retail mix.” It has anchored the plaza near the Mall at Stonecrest since 2001.

Best Buy at Stonecrest and Macy’s at North DeKalb Mall are leaving DeKalb County soon. The 40,000-square-foot Best Buy store is leaving Turner Hill Road for Conyers by mid-2016 for “a better retail mix,” and Macy’s is closing its North DeKalb Mall store by Jan. 30. Best Buy has anchored the Turner Hill Marketplace plaza across the street from 1.3 million-square-foot Mall at Stonecrest in Lithonia since 2001. Best Buy spokeswoman Danielle Schumann said on Dec. 7 that the store will move Please see STORES, page 2

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

Kids play in the cold at Lucious Sanders Center Parks director vows temporary heaters, new unit

When the temperature drops, basketball players must resort to long sleeves and sweat pants while practicing at the Lucious Sanders Recreation Center gym.

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

When Gina Brown walked into the Lucious Sanders Recreation Center gym with her sons Joshua, Jeremiah and Isaiah on Dec. 8, it was so cold she told them to keep their sweat pants and long-sleeved shirts on, and she headed back outside to sit in her car until basketball practice was over. Her plan was to watch them practice, but it was freezing inside the gym. “It was colder in the gym than outside,” she said. “I had my long johns on, hat, coat and boots and I was still cold.” Brown, whose six sons ages 12 to 21 have been using the gym since she moved to Lithonia in 1990, called the situation Gina Brown at the center at 2484 Bruce St. in the city of Lithonia “ridiculous.” “This started last year and here we are again, no heat,” she said. “You have children there. You can’t put them in that condition.” Parents, coaches and community supporters say the heat went out in December 2014 at the aging center that opened in the early 1960s. A year later – despite their best efforts to get DeKalb Parks and Recreation to help them – there is still no heat. Beverley Pyne, secretary of the Rotary Club of South DeKalb, which began supporting the center this fall after learning about the conditions there, said she was shocked at how cold it was when she visited on Dec. 7. Beverley Pyne “I saw a small boy

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

shivering in shorts and a tank top,” she said. “It must have been 40 degrees inside the building. If that was a day care center, the state would close it down. Our children should not be housed in a substandard facility.” Each week, the center located in Lithonia’s historic black community serves up to 150 children with after-school, cheerleading and basketball programs. It is named for Lucious Sanders, a teacher, World War II vet and pioneer of African-American activism in the county. Sanders fought for civil rights, registered African-Americans to vote, and founded the Lithonia Civic League and the nonprofit Ann Sanders Education Fund (named for his mother) that provided college scholarships and loans to low-income students in Lithonia. The Rotary Club has launched a crowdfunding site at http://southdekalbrotary.com

to help buy uniforms and pay dues for kids participating in the Winter Basketball League kicking off on Dec. 12 at the center. Despite practicing in frigid temperatures in January and February, all the center’s basketball teams – 8 years and under to 18 years and under – walked away with the 2015 county championship in all age groups. But because the center had no heat, the center could not host any of the championship playoff games. Coach Dorrie Hood said that there were a few days last January and February they had to practice at N.H. Scott Recreation Center in Decatur because it was too cold to practice in their own gym. “We feel like the county’s stepchild,” said Hood, who grew up in Lithonia and played ball at the center when he was growing up. When the county balked at providing temporary heaters last winter, the parents

and coaches chipped in $1,000 to rent mobile heaters from Home Depot. Starting last January, Brown made so many calls to the county, she now knows the Parks and Rec Department phone number by heart. She said she had extensive conversations with the department’s director, Roy Wilson, and his deputy director, Marvin Billups. “All we got was excuses,” Brown said. “Mr. Billups told me it would cost too much to even bring in temporary heaters, something about the wiring in the building being too old. Why bring up cost to me.” Brown said the county does not treat Lucious Sanders Center “right.” “I am sure if the heat went out in their warm offices, there would be no limit on the cost to fix it. Why put a tab on the heat when Please see GYM, page 2

CrossRoadsNews

Community

December 12, 2015

“It’s a very, very old facility, one of the oldest that we have. We have done repairs as needed.”

Temporary solution sought while HVAC is being replaced GYM,

from page

The heating system at Lucious Sanders Rec Center, which has been out since December 2014, is so old that parts are no longer being made for it.

children are involved?” Wilson said replacing the HVAC unit is not something they “would take from the general operating budget.” “Lucious Sanders Center is not neglected,” he said. “We don’t neglect Roy Wilson any of our centers. It was just a matter of identifying the funds.” At the Nov. 17 Board of Commissioners meeting, districts 5 and 7 Commissioners Mereda Davis Johnson and Stan Watson allocated $220,000 from their 2001 Parks Bond Funds to replace the heating system that is so old, parts are no longer being manufactured for it. Johnson, who has represented the district since July, gave $120,000, and Watson, $100,000. Even though it has taken nearly a year to resolve the situation, Wilson said Thursday that installing a new HVAC unit at the center is a top priority for the county. “A purchase order was issued today to replace the system,” he said. Asked if there were any plans to offer a temporary solution, Wilson said he has plans. “We are putting in temporary heaters today or tomorrow,” he said. Hari Karikaran, the county’s facilities

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

director who will oversee the replacement of the HVAC unit, said Thursday that Galgon HVAC & Mechanical Services will replace two Air Handler units at the center. “They are ordering the parts now,” he said. “We don’t have a start time yet, Mereda Johnson but as soon as the parts arrive we are going to start. We are going to get it done.” Johnson, who learned of the conditions at the center shortly after she took office, said they understand the urgency.

“We know winter is here,” she said. “Over the last two weeks we have been talking constantly about the lack of heat at the center.” She said she knew first about the lack of air conditioning at the center and found out three weeks ago that they do not have heat. “Bruce Street Senior Center and Lucious Sanders Recreation Center need many things,” she said. “There is only so much more you can pour into that building. A new center needs to be built.” Right now, Johnson said they have to look at options until the heater is put in. “We don’t want a fire there,” she said. “We may have to look at where they can play until

the HVAC unit is in it.” Parents and volunteers say the county opened a new Redan Recreation Center in July 2010 and a new Exchange Park Recreation Center in July 2011 and renovated the Browns Mill Center, but Lucious Sanders has never been upgraded or renovated. Wilson said that is incorrect. “It’s a very, very old facility, one of the oldest that we have,” he said. “We have done repairs as needed.” Lithonia Mayor Deborah Jackson said she has had conversations with the county about conditions at the center. “In summer, it’s very hot. Now the temperature has been dropping,” she said. “The situation definitely needs to be resolved.” Brown, the parent, said she continues to take her kids to the center because of the relationship they have with the people there. “We love the people,” she said. “The kids love the coaches. It’s like family there. It’s convenient to my home. This is my community gym. I shouldn’t have to drive across town to use another center.” Brown worries that if the condition drives away families, the center might be closed permanently. “We are not complaining about something that is not important. Are they trying to sabotage the center so it closes down? I do believe in my heart that they are trying to run the numbers down. All they have to show is that there aren’t enough children using the center so they can close it down.”

Macy’s at North DeKalb Mall closing by Jan. 30 Tree of Love kids need gift givers The departure of Best Buy will leave a Macy’s spokesman Jim Sluzewski called it STORES,

from page

proving business and shareholder value. She declined to say whether the move was motivated by declining sales at the location. “This move is an isolated decision around one location,” she said. “We will continue to review our real estate portfolio as any responsible business would do.” While the Conyers location will be 10,000 square feet smaller, Schumann said it will be surrounded by a “strong collection of retailers” that could generate more customer traffic. Conyers Crossroads tenants include T.J. Maxx, Old Navy, Michael’s Arts and Crafts, Coldstone Creamery and Crossroads 16 Cinema. The remaining tenants in the Turner Hill Marketplace plaza, operated by Diversified Real Estate, are Bed, Bath and Beyond and Toys “R” Us.

void and a longer drive for customers hunting for high-end electronics and appliances, though a small Best Buy shop will remain inside Stonecrest. The loss of Best Buy comes after the closure of Target in February 2014. The 124,717-square-foot property remains vacant. But all is not bleak. A new $3.8 million Nalley Hyundai dealership opened in August on Mall Parkway, joining a Kia and a Toyota dealership, also owned by Nalley, on the same street. However, it’s been a challenging recovery for retailers near Stonecrest.

Macy’s The Macy’s at North DeKalb Mall, which has been on North Decatur Road since 1965, began liquidation sales on Dec. 10. It opened as Rich’s and was converted to Macy’s in 2005 when the two retailers merged. Macy’s, which said in September that it is closing 40 stores nationwide by the end of January, announced the North DeKalb Mall closure on Dec. 4.

“an under-performing location” on Dec. 8. He said the company does not release sales figures for individual stores. The 190,000-square-foot store building, which is the mall’s oldest and largest tenant, has been sold to the Sterling Organization, which owns the mall. Macy’s 123 employees were notified on Nov. 30. Sluzewski said some may find jobs at Macy’s 17 remaining metro Atlanta stores, including stores at the Gallery at South DeKalb, Stonecrest, Northlake Mall, Perimeter and Lenox Square. Sluzewski said placement is not guaranteed but that Macy’s is committed to treating its affected North DeKalb associates with respect and openness. “Associates displaced by the closing may be offered positions in nearby stores where possible,” he said. “Eligible full-time and part-time associates who are laid off due to the store closing will be offered severance benefits.” After the closing of North DeKalb, Macy’s will operate 22 stores in Georgia.

Greene’s Fine Foods Squash Blossom

sweeten the season!

with seasonal specials at local shops and restaurants – and a free marshmallow (or four) at our bonﬁre on the square, Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. visitdecaturgeorgia.com visitdecaturgeorgia.com decaturga downtowndecatur holidaydecaturga visitdecaturga.com

Decatur-crossroads-dec12-2015.indd 1

12/9/15 12:23 PM

More than 200 DeKalb children could go without Christmas gifts this year if residents don’t support the annual Tree of Love campaign that provides presents for kids in foster care, singleparent households and low-income families. The Tree of Love, started by District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson 17 years ago, is laden with the names and wishes of children who want to be “adopted” for the holidays. Individuals, families, business owners, churches and community groups can select one or more names, purchase the requested items, gift wrap them and return them Dec. 19 at the Tree of Love Christmas program at the Gallery at South DeKalb. Children generally ask for clothes, shoes, toys and books. The campaign kicked off at the mall on Nov. 21. Yvette Stevenson, who coordinates the program, said Wednesday that more than 200 names are still available. On Dec. 12, the Tree of Love will be at the Decatur Walmart at 3580 Memorial Drive from noon to 2 p.m. For more information, call 404371-2988.

CrossRoadsNews

December 12, 2015

Community

“With these salary adjustments we are making an investment in the quality of teaching and learning in our schools.”

Pay raises for school employees Hank Johnson seeking a sixth term By Ken Watts

More than 14,700 DeKalb teachers, principals and certified School District employees will get pay raises totaling $21.5 million effective with their Jan. 15 paycheck. The pay hike covers 6,000 teachers and more than 8,700 school social workers, academic coaches, media specialists, counselors, psychologists, lead teacher for special education, tutors and instructional specialists. Non-certified employees are excluded. The DeKalb School Board approved Superintendent Stephen Green’s salary proposal with a 5-0 vote on Dec. 7. District 5 board member Vickie Turner abstained, and Jim McMahan, who represents District 4, was Stephen Green absent for the vote. Green thinks the increase will make the district more competitive and improve student performance. “Our primary focus is improving the aca-

demic performance of students,” he said in a statement on Dec. 7. “With these salary adjustments we are making an investment in the quality of teaching and learning in our schools.” A School Board analysis of the five metro districts showed DeKalb lagging behind other metro districts on average pay for teachers with seven to 17 years of experience, which account for the most attrition. Teachers in that experience level will be brought up to the metro area’s average. Teachers with less experience will get a 2 percent pay hike. High school principals will get a 5 percent increase; middle school principals, 3 percent; and elementary principals, 2 percent raises. Under Green’s plan, salaries for certified pre-k teachers will be based on levels of experience and certification. Paraprofessionals on Tier 6 and above will get a 2 percent raise. Paraprofessionals below Tier 6 will see a 1 percent bump in pay.

DeKalb moves utility payment center DeKalb water and sewer customers will now make walk-in payments at the DeKalb Workforce Development building at 774 Jordan Lane in Decatur. That is where the county’s Utility Customer Operations Center has been relocated. The drive-through and drop box payment options will no longer be available at the new site, and the 1300 Commerce Drive office will be closed. Hours of operation for the new location,

which took effect Dec. 7, are 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. The county says the move allows the center to combine multiple divisions at one location. The county also is encouraging residents to take advantage of more than 70 walk-in sites, including Kroger and Walmart stores, throughout the county that are authorized to process payments. For more information, including payment sites and options, visit www.dekalbwatershed.com or call 404-378-4475.

U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson is running for a sixth term. Johnson, a Democrat who represents the 4th District that includes portions of DeKalb, Rockdale, Newton and Gwinnett, said on Dec. 10 that he Hank Johnson will seek re-election. He said Congress needs to work harder for the middle class – “for those who want and deserve more time and resources to feel secure and comfortable in their lives.” “I look forward to continuing my work for the people of Georgia’s Fourth Congres-

sional District,” he said. Since his election in 2007, Johnson has brought more than $300 million to the district for foreclosure prevention, health care, education, infrastructure and public safety. He said he also has brought $50 million for constituent services. He serves on the House Armed Services and Judiciary committees and the Judiciary Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, Commercial and Antitrust Law, which has jurisdiction over competition, consumer welfare and workers’ rights. Qualifying for the 2016 primary takes place May 24. The general election is set for Nov. 8.

Carter hosting listening sessions

The Dec. 17 meeting starts at State Rep. Doreen Carter is 6:30 p.m. at the Nancy Guinn Mehosting two community listening morial Library, 864 Green St. S.W. sessions for House District 92 resiin Conyers. dents on Dec. 14 and 17 in Lithonia House District 92 includes and Conyers. portions of DeKalb and Rockdale Carter, who was elected in the counties. Nov. 3 special election, said the Carter replaces Tonya Andermeetings are an opportunity for son, who resigned the seat for an constituents to highlight their conDoreen Carter unsuccessful run for the Senate cerns ahead of the 2016 General District 43 seat. Assembly session that begins Jan. 11. For more information, call DeUndre The Dec. 14 meeting starts at 7 p.m. at Lithonia City Hall, 6290 Main St. in Lithonia. Eberhart at 404-981-6585.

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DeKalb County’s Department of Watershed Management Reminds Residents of the Best Practices for Proper Disposal of FOG What are Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG)? FOG is composed of the animal and vegetable fats and oils that are used to cook and prepare food. Where does FOG come from? • Baking goods • Food scraps • Sauces • Meat fat • Shortening

• Dairy products • Lard

• Butter and margarine • Cooking oil

What happens when FOG is not properly disposed of? FOG should be properly disposed of or recycled. It enters the plumbing system through home garbage disposals, kitchen sinks and toilets, coats the interior of pipes, and empties into the County's sewer system. Excessive accumulation of FOG in the sewer system will result in sanitary sewer overflows and sewage backup in homes and businesses. Sewage overflow repairs are costly for the County and its citizens, and can result in increased costs for water and sewer services. Here are three simple practices to help keep FOG out of our pipes and sewers: 1. POUR cooled fats, oils or grease into a sealable container and throw it in the trash. Do not pour down the sink or toilet. 2. SCRAPE plates and cookware before washing. Do not throw scraps of any kind down the sink. Instead, place them in waste containers or garbage bags. 3. WIPE excess grease from all plates, pots, pans, utensils and surfaces with a paper towel before washing. Throw the greasy paper towels away.

Remember, you can make a difference! Visit the DeKalb County Department of Watershed Management's FOG Program Online! www.dekalbwatershed.com/FOG 1580 Roadhaven Drive • Stone Mountain, GA 30083 • (770) 621-7200

Finance

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Assistant Editor Brenda Yarbrough Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Graphic Design Curtis Parker

CrossRoadsNews is published every Saturday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsNews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Advertisements are published upon the representation that the advertiser is authorized to publish the submitted material. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless from and against any loss or expenses resulting from any disputes or legal claims based upon the contents or subject matter of such advertisments, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.

CrossRoadsNews

December 12, 2015

“We are enthusiastic about the growing pipeline of highwage jobs merging in DeKalb.”

Election offices urged to hire vets as poll workers

Election officials across the state are being encouraged to hire veterans to prepare for next year’s election cycle that kicks off with the “SEC Primary” on March 1. Secretary of State Brian Kemp announced the “Recruit a Veteran Poll Worker” initiative for Georgia veterans on Dec. 7. “The right to cast one’s vote has been defended for years by the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces,” Kemp

said. “Now, voters in Georgia will have our nation’s heroes helping staff polling locations where voters exercise this right.” 2016 is a big year for elections. The U.S. presidency is on the ballot, and officials are expecting recordbreaking turnout. Among the more desired traits in poll workers are respect for others, efficiency in presenting the voter to the voting system, and understanding the importance of

following proper procedures in stressful situations. With such high traffic expected at the polling place next year, there is no one better equipped to serve as a poll worker than a veteran, the Secretary of State’s Office says. In preparation for the 2016 election cycle, Kemp recently launched a website with training videos and materials for poll workers serving across the state. At https://georgiapollworkers.

sos.ga.gov, a veteran interested in becoming a poll worker can electronically submit his or her information, including name, address, contact information, and branch of service, to election officials in his or her community. Once hired, veterans will receive a letter and lapel pin from Kemp to thank them for their continued service to Georgia. Call 404-656-2871 for more information.

Genetic testing lab brings 50 new jobs East Metro CID of academic institutions in A joint genetic testing lab hosts briefing the state. being formed by Emory University and Eurofins Scientific will create more than 50 new jobs and generate $16.9 million investment in DeKalb County. Eurofins, an international group that provides analytical test services to the pharma- Chris Carr ceutical, food, environmental and consumer products industries, will acquire Emory’s test center and increase its capabilities at an offcampus location. The new lab will be called EGL Genetic Diagnostics LLC. Emory is home to one of the top genetic testing labs in the United States. Chris Carr, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, said the joint venture “speaks volumes” to the capability

“It also exemplifies the culture of collaboration that we have created for doing business in Georgia,” Carr said in a Nov. 16 statement. Decide DeKalb Development Authority President Ray Ray Gilley Gilley called it “another business win” for DeKalb and for the region in the realm of life sciences and innovation. “We are enthusiastic about the growing pipeline of high-wage jobs emerging in DeKalb,” Gilley said. “More than 40 percent of DeKalb residents hold bachelor’s degrees or higher, so EGL will benefit greatly from the broad and diverse array of knowledge workers who live and work in DeKalb.” The new facility will be located in Tucker.

The East Metro DeKalb Community Improvement District is hosting a briefing on Dec. 14 at the Stonecrest Library to update commercial and industrial property owners on projects and initiatives it has accomplished in 2015 and plans for 2016. The meeting takes place from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the auditorium. There also will be a discussion on ways to strengthen the partnership between the CID and DeKalb legislators. The East Metro DeKalb CID, located along the I-20 corridor, formed in May 2014. The library is at 3123 Klondike Road in Lithonia. For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/east-metrodekalb-cid-state-of-the-cid-briefing-tickets-19381208717 and http://eastmetrocid. com.

SOS offers free identity protection for voters The 6.2 million Georgia voters whose personal information was released by the Secretary of State office is being offerd free identity protection services. Secretary of State Brian Kemp said that his Office will contract with CSID to provide free credit monitoring and identity-theft restoration services for one year to all Georgia voters affected by the release of data files with the addresses, dates of birth, social security numbers, gender, race, voter precinct and other information. The information was mistakenly released on a statewide voter disc

sent on Oct. 13 to a dozen groups that included Georgia political parties and the news media. The error was not discovered until Nov. 13. Kemp fired the employee responsible for the error, and instituted additional safeguards. He said the discs were retreived or destroyed by the Brian Kemp recipients. “I am confident that all personal information is safe and secure,”

Kemp said in a Dec. 3 statement. “However, I believe Georgia voters deserve peace of mind regarding this incident.” CSID has handled many of the largest releases of data in the United States and around the world, including state and federal data incidents. Kemp said that his office is continuing its internal investigation and have hired Deloitte to conduct an independent audit of all of our IT operations. “Georgians have my word this will not happen again,” Kemp said.

Voters whose information was contained on the discs will be eligible for identity theft restoration services if their identity is compromised over the next year. There is no need to enroll in that service. Eligible voters can also choose to enroll for one year of free identity- theft monitoring. The services will be available on the Secretary of State’s website within 10-14 business days. For information on how to access the services or for more assistance, visit www.sos.ga.gov or call the office’s voter data hotline at 404-654-6045.

IRS lists requirements for tax-deductible gifts to charity Individuals and businesses making year-end gifts to charity should keep in mind tax law provisions that have taken effect in recent years. The Internal Revenue Service cites changes for monetary and non-monetary contributions. n Clothing and household items, including furniture, furnishings, electronics, appliances and linens. Donated items must be in good used condition or better to be tax-deductible. An item for which a taxpayer claims a deduction of more than $500 does not have to meet this standard if the taxpayer includes a qualified appraisal with the return. Donors must get a

Circulation Audited By

written acknowledgment from the charity for all gifts worth $250 or more. n Monetary donations: A taxpayer must have a bank record or a written statement from the charity to deduct any donation of money, regardless of amount. Donations include those made in cash or by check, electronic funds transfer, credit card and payroll deduction. For payroll deductions, retain a pay stub, a Form W-2 wage statement or other document furnished by the employer showing the total amount withheld for charity. n Qualified charities: Only donations to eligible organizations are

tax-deductible. Select Check, a searchable online tool available on IRS.gov, lists most organizations that are eligible to receive deductible contributions. In addition, churches, synagogues, temples, mosques and government agencies are eligible to receive deductible donations. n Year-end gifts: Contributions are deductible in the year made. n Itemize deductions: Only taxpayers who itemize their deductions on Form 1040 Schedule A can claim deductions for charitable contributions. n Record donations: For all donations, get a receipt that includes the name of the charity, date of the con-

tribution, and a reasonably detailed description of the donated property if possible. If a donation is left at a charity’s unattended drop site, keep a written record of the donation. n Special rules: The deduction for a donated car, boat or plane is usually limited to the gross proceeds from its sale if the claimed value is more than $500. Form 1098-C or a similar statement must be provided to the donor and attached to the donor’s tax return. If the amount of a taxpayer’s deduction for all noncash contributions is over $500, Form 8283 must be submitted with the return. For more information, visit www.irs.gov.

index to advertisers Art Awakening............................................... 11 Avon.............................................................. 11 Braids By Theresa.......................................... 11 Chapel Hill Orthodontics.................................6 DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court......................9 DeKalb County Watershed Mgmt.................... 3

DeKalb County Watershed Mgmt.................... 5 Georgia Military College.................................6 Henry Mitchell, CPA, PC................................. 11 JenCare Medical Centers................................. 5 LawnMax, Inc................................................. 11 Macy’s............................................................12

Mini Mall........................................................ 11 Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center.......... 8 Soul Discount Fabrics..................................... 11 The Mall at Stonecrest.................................... 7 The Samuel Group......................................... 11 Best Buy..................................................Inserts

Walgreen’s..............................................Inserts Walmart..................................................Inserts Allstate - Rochelle Bridges Johnson....... Online Decatur Business Association................. Online Georgia Military College........................ Online

CrossRoadsNews

December 12, 2015

Scene

“We must give our young people hope. When they lose hope, we all lose.”

Toy drives, family holiday treat swap help sweeten season Holiday celebrations are moving into high gear throughout DeKalb with a Live Nativity, toy drives and dessert swaps. Here’s a sampling:

Healing Stream toy drive Families who need help with Christmas toys can secure a voucher from Healing Stream Ministries for its fifth annual toy drive on Dec. 19. The giveaway takes place from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Lithonia church. Toys will be available for children ages 3 to 13. Interested parties must secure a voucher by calling 770-728-5372 to receive toys. There will be one voucher per household. The church is at 2470 Bruce St. Visit www. thestreamflows.org. Cookie & Dessert Exchange See how your family’s favorite holiday treat stacks up at Tasty Traditions: Cookie & Dessert Exchange on Dec. 19 at the RedanTrotti Library in Lithonia. The special program, part of the Doris K. Wells Heritage Festival, takes place from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and is limited to 20 participants. Registration is required. Share your family’s traditional cookie or dessert, along with the recipe, and sample everyone else’s. A prize will be given for the tastiest family tradition. The library is at 1569 Wellborn Road. For more information, call 770-482-3821. Kwanzaa and Kids Children will learn the history of Kwanzaa through songs, stories and crafts at Kwanzaa and Kids on Dec. 16 at the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library. The 3-to-4 p.m. program, part of the Heritage Festival, is open to kids 2 to 12. Kwanzaa, a seven-day celebration based on African festivals, is observed Dec. 26 to Jan. 1. The name is Swahili for “first fruits.” Funding is provided by the Friends. The library is at 2861 Wesley Chapel Road

Free chess event for kids, teens Tweens and teens can attend the nonprofit Be Someone’s “Get in the Game of Life” free chess training and personal empowerment event on Dec. 19 at Fairfield Inn & Suites in Lithonia. The 1-to-4 p.m. event is presented by chess champion Orrin “Checkmate” Hudson and Dr. Erik Fisher, a media consultant, psychologist and author of “The Art of Managing Everyday Conflict: Understanding Orrin Hudson Emotions and Power Struggles” and “The Art of Empowered Parenting: The Manual You Wish Your Kids Came With.” Seating is limited – R.S.V.P. by Dec. 12 to info@besomeone.org. Hudson and Fisher Erik Fisher will offer tips to help participants feel empowered and more successful in the game of life. “We must give our young people hope,” said Hudson, founder of Be Someone. “When they lose hope, we all lose.” He said many young people don’t know what it means to believe in themselves. “They have never been taught that they can achieve or succeed. I know firsthand what it’s like,” said Hudson, a former gang member from Birmingham housing projects. “Now it’s my turn to help.” The hotel is at 7850 Stonecrest Square. Visit www.besomeone.org or call 770-4656445 for more information.

Healing Stream Ministries in Lithonia is hosting its fifth annual toy drive on Dec. 19. Families must secure a voucher.

in Decatur. Call 404-286-6980.

It is sponsored by Stone Mountain First Methodist, Stone Mountain First Baptist, Stone Mountain Christmas Pageant Mount Carmel Christian Church, Church The third annual Stone Mountain Christ- of Christ and Corpus Christi Catholic mas Pageant begins at 5 p.m. Dec. 19 at the Church. First Baptist Church Pavilion. There will be a Live Nativity, and church

choirs will sing Christmas carols. First Baptist is at 5306 Mimosa Drive. For more information, call Mechel McKinley at 770-498-8984, Ext. 137.

Red and White Christmas Party District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson presents the 16th annual Red and White Christmas Party and Toy Drive on Dec. 18 at the Community Achievement Center. Attire is “festive fabulous” for the 8 p.m.to-midnight event. Participants are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy or donation. Toys benefit the YMCA Snapfinger/Lithonia Early Learning Academies. The center is at 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway in Decatur. Call 404-371-3681.

North DeKalb Mall presents

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Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

December 12, 2015

“Making the decision to stop driving … or changing the way one drives does not have to mean losing independence.”

ACA deadline for Jan. 1 coverage Consumers can shop for and enroll in a 2016 health plan that meets their needs and fits their budget at HealthCare.gov. Most people who sign up through the site will qualify for financial help to make their monthly premiums more affordable. Many can find plans with premiums for $75 or less a month after tax credits. Open enrollment runs through Jan. 31.

Five facts for consumers: 1. Sign up by Dec. 15 for coverage starting on New Year’s Day. 2. About eight in 10 of the uninsured who are eligible for Marketplace coverage qualify for financial assistance to lower the cost of their monthly premiums. 3. If you had coverage through HealthCare.gov for 2015, you should come back to update your information and compare options for 2016. There may be plans available that offer the services you need, include more

doctors, or save you money. More than eight in 10 returning Marketplace consumers could save an average of $50 per month and $610 annually in premiums before tax credits for the same level of coverage by returning to shop. 4. Every year HealthCare.gov finds new ways to make signing up simpler. You can apply on your smartphone. A new Out of Pocket Cost estimator will help you estimate your total costs for the year including premiums, deductibles, and co-pays. NewDoctor Lookup and Prescription Drug Lookup features are available to help consumers know which of their doctors and prescriptions may be covered before they sign up. 5. Free help is available. If you have questions about signing up or want to talk through your options with a trained professional, call 1-800-318-2596 or visit localhelp.healthcare.gov.

Ga. promotes older driver safety Older drivers and their families are being urged to take time to talk about their individual challenges and limitations to maintain mobility and safety. The goal is to help older drivers live life to the fullest by keeping them active, healthy and safe in their communities, the state Department of Public Health says. Despite being more likely to wear a seat belt, drivers ages 65 and older in Georgia have the highest fatality crash rate of any age group. Vision, memory, strength, flexibility and reaction time tend to decline, contributing to a higher risk of crash. Medications and health conditions can affect driving ability. Physical frailty creates

a greater risk of death in a crash. The Older Driver Safety Program promotes awareness of the importance of older adults’ safe driving, mobility and transportation and ways to remain active in the community, said Elizabeth Head, DPH older driver program coordinator. “Making the decision to stop driving, limiting the amount of driving, or changing the way one drives does not have to mean losing independence,” Head said. “There are transportation options to help older adults maintain independence and mobility while keeping them safe.” Visit https://dph.georgia.gov/olderdrivers-safety-program.

A woman receives a mammogram at Oakhurst Medical. The DeKalb Board of Health offers free breast and cervical cancer screenings to eligible women.

Free cancer screening available Free breast and cervical cancer screenings are available to low-income women who are DeKalb residents and are uninsured or underinsured. Women 40 to 64 and those under 40 with breast problems or a family history of breast cancer can obtain free early detection screenings for breast cancer. The free cervical cancer screenings under the DeKalb Breast and Cervical Cancer Program are for women 21 to 65. Eligibility requirements include having an income less than 200 percent of the poverty level. Breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths for women in the United States. Cervical cancer is preventable. Catherine Palmer, clinical nurse coordinator and BCCP coordinator for the DeKalb County Board of Health, and public health adviser Lula A. Green say early detection helps save lives.They are reaching out to community stakeholders for help in raising awareness about the program and encouraging women who are eligible to access the life-saving services.

Congress passed the Breast and Cervical Cancer Mortality Prevention Act of 1990 that directed the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to establish the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (www.cdc.gov/cancer/ nbccedp). Currently, the program funds all 50 states, the District of Columbia, five U.S. territories, and 11 American Indian/Alaska Native tribes or tribal organizations. Through this public health program, the DeKalb Breast and Cervical Cancer Program provides low-cost or free breast and cervical cancer screenings, diagnostic services, and referral to treatment to uninsured or underinsured women. For an appointment, call the following health centers: Clifton Springs, 3110 Clifton Springs Road, Suite D, in Decatur, 404-2442200; East DeKalb, 2277 S. Stone MountainLithonia Road in Lithonia, 770-484-2600; North DeKalb, 3807 Clairmont Road N.E. in Chamblee, 770-454-1144; or T.O. Vinson, 440 Winn Way in Decatur, 404-294-3762. Visit www.dekalbhealth.net.

DeKalb CSB seeks college interns College students can apply for community relations/public relations internships at the DeKalb Community Service Board to serve during the upcoming spring semester. Interns will gain experience in a number of areas including public, community and employee relations. The ideal candidates should be pursuing a degree (graduate or undergraduate) in one of the following programs: public relations, graphic design, marketing, communication, English or journalism. Interested candidates should email a re-

sumé, cover letter and two writing samples to info@dekcsb.org. The nonprofit also offers internships to students pursuing careers in nursing, pharmacy, social work, professional counseling and health information technology. The DeKalb CSB provides mental health services, developmental disabilities programs and substance abuse treatment to more than 10,000 citizens annually who are uninsured and underinsured. For more information, visit http://dekcsb. org or call 404-294-3834.

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CrossRoadsNews

December 12, 2015

Youth

“We just thought it important to acknowledge the fact that our children are achieving notwithstanding their circumstance.”

DeKalb Schools honor vets on Pearl Harbor’s 74th anniversary By Ken Watts

The DeKalb School District paid tribute to veterans on Dec. 7, Pearl Harbor Day, at its first-ever flag-raising ceremony outside the district’s Administrative and Instructional Complex in Stone Mountain. The program marked the 74th anniversary of the Japanese surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. That attack on Dec. 7, 1941, killed more than 2,000 sailors, injured 710 others and nearly destroyed America’s Pacific Fleet. The bombing drew the United States into the Second World War that raged on for four more years before America and its allies defeated Nazi Germany and fascist Italy in Europe and Japan in the Pacific. With that powerful legacy of sacrifice in mind, Navy JROTC cadets from Stone Mountain High and an Army JROTC unit from Miller Grove High joined the Southwest DeKalb High Wind Symphony and the Lakeside High Viking Band for the heartfelt remembrance in front of about 50 people. The flag-raising was DeKalb Superinten-

Junior ROTC cadets from Stone Mountain and Miller Grove high schools prepare to raise flag on Dec. 7 at a Pearl Harbor Day tribute at DeKalb Schools headquarters.

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

dent R. Stephen Green’s idea as a way to say thanks to veterans of World War II and all who have served in the military. “This ceremony reminds us of what it means to be an American,” Green said. “We remember that freedom is not free and that freedom came with a cost.” The symphony played “America the Beautiful” as cadets unfurled the Stars and

Stripes, attached it to a flagpole next to the administrative complex, and raised the flag to half-staff in memory of the San Bernardino, Calif., shooting victims. Attending the ceremony were six members of the DeKalb School Board – Stan Jester, District 1; Marshall Orson, District 2; Dr. Michael Erwin, District 3; Jim McMahan, District 4; Dr. Melvin Johnson, District 6;

and Dr. Joyce Morley, District 7. District 5 member Vickie Turner did not attend. Green acknowledged three of the board members for their military service – Erwin in the Navy, McMahan in the Marines and Morley in the Army. Green also recognized National Guard Tech. Sgt. David Fairchild, band director at Lakeside High, and Army veteran Henry Anderson, the School District’s director of orchestras. Honored guests from the community included Navy veteran William Kelch and Army veteran Samuel Stephens, both of Lithonia. Anderson, whose daughter, Capt. Cheryl Anderson, served two tours in the Iraq War, said he hopes the ceremony helped instill a sense of pride in today’s young people. “As a veteran and educator, it made me feel good that the students who came out know what happened in the past and how it relates to today in terms of the meaning of the flag, patriotism and the veterans who really need their appreciation,” Anderson said.

At-risk DeKalb students recognized for academic achievements By Ken Watts

Fifteen DeKalb students were honored at Southwest DeKalb High on Dec. 5 for maintaining high academic standards while overcoming personal struggles. The elementary and middle school students are earning top grades despite challenging life situations. They received academic achievement certificates and $100 gift cards an awards ceremony at District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson’s monthly Community Cabinet breakfast meeting. The awards sponsored by the Community Achievement Center, American Red Cross, Watson’s office and the DeKalb School System have been given out for six years, said

with the community.” Oshun Tinker, a seventh-grader at Henderson Middle, rushed to hug her mother, Andrea Tinker, after the ceremony. “Her work ethic at school is just really focused,” Tinker said. “She plays cello. She’s an overachiever to be so young.” Tinker said a social worker at her daughter’s school nominated Oshun. Patterson said organizers raised funds for Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews the awards from local businesses. “We don’t make too big a deal out of it, Elementary and middle school students received academic achievement certificates and $100 but we think it’s so important to the children,” gift cards on Dec. 5 at Commissioner Stan Watson’s community breakfast. he said. “We think it inspires and encourages Sam Patterson, chairman of the CAC board edge the fact that our children are achieving them and gives them an opportunity to be notwithstanding their circumstance,” he said. acknowledged by their parents, extended of directors. “We just thought it important to acknowl- “We wanted to make sure that we shared that families and their friends.”

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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.

CrossRoadsNews

People

December 12, 2015

Both officials go above and beyond to support the organization founded by business and civic leaders to support the work of DeKalb’s sworn police officers.

Doris Wells’ portrait unveiled at library

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

DeKalb Clerk of Court Debra DeBerry and Demetra Abraham.

A portrait of the late DeKalb librarian Doris K. Wells now hangs in the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library. The portrait, which depicts a smiling Wells dressed in her AKA shirt, was unveiled Dec. 5 before nearly 200 family members, friends and conference attendees during the 15th Annual Jubilee of Reading Book Club Conference at the Doris K. Wells Heritage Festival at the library. Wells, who was the first African-American librarian hired by the library system in 1974, retired after 32 years in March 2006. She opened the new Wesley Chapel Library in 1990, managed it for 17 years, and left her stamp with programs like the annual Kwanzaa Awareness Festival and the book club conference, which she co-founded in 2000 with her daughter Tami Wells Thomas. Wells died in February after a brief battle with cancer. The Friends of the Wesley Chapel Library coordinated the fundraising for the portrait, which was painted by Mi-

Nearly 200 people, including family members at left, along with friends and conference participants witnessed the Dec. 5 unveiling of the portrait of Doris K. Wells, DeKalb Public Library’s first African-American librarian. Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

chael Angelo Chester. It also renamed the Kwanzaa Awareness Festival the Doris K. Wells Heritage Festival in her honor. Wells’ portrait joins that of the late William C. Brown, former DeKalb commissioner and library board of trustees chairman after whom the branch is named. In 2006, the library system honored Wells by naming the street that connects the branch to Kelley Chapel Road “Wells Way.”

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Commissioner Stan Watson poses with Demetra Abraham and Chief Deputy Marshal Richard Berkowitz (from left) and DeKalb Marshal Steve Mann and his plaque.

Police Alliance honors Watson, DeBerry DeKalb Super District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson and DeKalb Clerk of Court Debra DeBerry were recognized at two separate events on Dec. 5 by the DeKalb Police Alliance with plaques for their support of the nonprofit that provides insurance for police officers killed in the line of duty. Demetra Abraham, the alliance president, recognized Watson during his monthly DeKalb Community Cabinet breakfast meeting in the Southwest DeKalb High School Auditorium. She presented a plaque to DeBerry at her office’s annual Employee Recognition Banquet at the Decatur Marriott Hotel. Abraham said that both officials go above and beyond to support the organization founded by business and civic leaders to support the work of DeKalb’s sworn police officers. The alliance provides a $100,000 life insurance policy for all full-time sworn officers.

Legal Notices 12/05, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++15CV11091-6++ Melinda Young Plaintiff Vs. Jerome B. Young, Sr. Defendant To: 3475 Andrew Jackson Drive Clarkston, GA 30021 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Nov. 06, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Oct. 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: Melinda Young, 125 Meadowood Terrace, Lithonia, GA 30038. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Nov. 06, 2015. Witness the Honorable J.P. Boulee,

Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 06th day of Nov., 2015 12/05, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++15CV8991-10++ Jennet White Haynes Plaintiff Vs. William L. Haynes Defendant To: By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Oct. 20, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Aug. 28, 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: Jannet White Haynes, 3911 Wood Path Lane, Stone Mountain, GA

30083. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Oct. 20, 2015. Witness the Honorable Tangela M. Barrie, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 23rd day of Nov., 2015

Chamblee, GA 30341 678-691-8507 12/05, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26

Notice of Petition to Change Name of MINOR CHILD(REN

12/05, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26

in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV11761-1++ Velmon Louise Benton filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Nov. 20, 2015 to change name from: Velmon Louise Benton to Vivian Louise Benton. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Nov. 17, 2015 Name: Vivian Louise Benton 3381 Malone Dr., #104

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV11527-10++ Tblets Gebremedhin filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Nov. 16, 2015 to change the name(s) of the following minor child(ren) from: Yonathan Melaku Mersha to: Yonathan Melaku Assefa. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within the time prescribed In OCGA 19-12-1(f)(2) and (3). Dated: Sept. 14, 2015 Name: Tblets Gebremedhin 726 Windchase Lane Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-717-3395

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