CrossRoadsNews, February 5, 2011

WELLNESS

WELLNESS

EXPO

Fitness trainer Elgin Key holds aloft his trophy after he was named winner of the Fitness FaceOff at the 2011 Health & Wellness Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest.

More photos from the event, page 10

For years grapefruit has been touted as a weight-loss staple, but other studies continue to find other benefits from the juicy citrus fruit. 11

The nominations are in and it’s time to determine who offers the best goods and services in East Metro Atlanta. The ballot is online and on pages 8&9.

Champion fitness guru

Copyright © 2010 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

Sweet results

February 5, 2011

Time to cast your vote

Volume 16, Number 41

www.crossroadsnews.com

New Family Dollar irks commissioners

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

A Family Dollar store that is under construction in the parking lot of the Wesley Chapel post office is not sitting well with the two DeKalb County commissioners who represent the area.

In a Feb. 1 letter to Family Dollar President and COO James Kelly, Commissioners Larry Johnson and Stan Watson said the area already has nine Family Dollar stores and a Dollar General store within a five-mile radius and that the Wesley Chapel area with its middle to high-income demographics would not be well-served with an-

other Family Dollar store.

“There is a saturation of dollar stores in this area,” they wrote. “Our Economic Development Department will be more than happy to work with Larry Johnson you to identify other properties that meet your store location criteria.”

The project’s development permit shows that the county’s development department approved it in October last year.

Bob Casteel, president of Canton, Ga.-based Casteel Construction, said they began laying the foundation for the 9,180-square-foot store in December and had planned to Stan Watson be finished by April.

With the delays caused by the January snow and ice storm and other bad weather, he said they are now looking at early summer.

Please see FAMILY DOLLAR, page 6

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

DeKalb Commissioners Stan Watson and Larry Johnson oppose the site of the new Family Dollar going up on Snapfinger Road.

Players Ink College Choices

Demarco Robinson (far left) and Kevin Byard of Martin Luther King Jr. High School accept scholarship offers on Feb. 2, National Signing Day. Robinson is going to the University of Kentucky, while Byard is headed to Middle Tennessee State.

Stephenson leads South DeKalb high schools with 20 on National Signing Day

By Carla Parker

On Wednesday, 104 DeKalb high school football players, including 89 from South DeKalb-based high schools, signed college scholarships to play ball at dozens of colleges from Morehouse in Atlanta to Stanford in California.

The mass signing of the county’s talented football players, known as National Signing Day, took place at 16 high schools across the county and at high schools across the country.

In front of parents, coaches, students and teachers, the football players donned hats and announced their school of choice before inking their scholarship acceptance offers at long tables in school gyms, media centers and auditoriums.

Forty-nine colleges from across the country snagged South DeKalb’s talented players from Arabia Mountain, Cedar Grove, Columbia, Lithonia, M.L. King, McNair, Miller Grove, Redan, Southwest DeKalb, Stephenson, Stone Mountain, and Tucker high schools.

S teph en son Hi g h School led the county with 20 signees. It was followed by Columbia High School with 15, and Martin Luther King Jr. High School and Tucker High School each had 13 signees.

Kadetrix Marcus The day’s standout was Stephenson defensive back Kadetrix Marcus, who received more than 17 offers.

Considered as one of Georgia’s top senior

defensive players, Marcus, 18, committed to play at the University of South Carolina.

He said that he is looking forward to playing for South Carolina and coach Steve Spurrier.

“As a student, I want to go there for academics,” he said. “As a football player, my talent works well with their scheme.”

Marcus, who has a 3.4 GPA, plans to major in business management. The University of South Carolina has the top international Please see SIGNING DAY, page 7

2

CrossRoadsNews

February 5, 2011

February 5, 2011

Community

3

CrossRoadsNews

“He tried to get on her good side but she wasn;t having it. And he knew he didn’t have Jameelah’s approval to see her daughter..”

Accused killer is not guilty, lawyer says

By Carla Parker

The man accused of gunning down Jameelah Qureshi in the driveway of her Lithonia home in August 2009, finally had his day in court Feb. 3.

Luis Alberto Porras pled not guilty before Superior Court Judge Clarence Seeliger and jury of 12 men and women.

His lawyer Max Hirsh, said Porras, 25, was never at the scene of the murLuis Porras der.

He said no one saw his client at the Qureshi’s home and that his DNA was not at the crime scene.

“Witnesses said they saw a black female running from Qureshi’s home,” Hirsh said.

“There is no forensic evidence that proves Porras was there.”

Qureshi, 40, a mother of four, was engaged to DeKalb County Police sergeant D.A. Thomas. She was shot multiple times in the driveway of her Lithonia home on Aug. 15, 2009.

She had just arrived home from work and was killed before she could alight from her car.

Porras of Roswell and Amanda Dove of Social Circle were arrested on Aug. 22.

Porras is charged with malice murder, two counts of felony murder, aggravated assault, pos- Amanda Dove session of a fire arm and possession of a fire arm by someone on probation.

Dove, who is to be tried separately, told police that Porras killed Qureshi, and that

Porras tried to apologize to Qureshi.

“He tried to get on her good side, but she wasn’t having it,” Andrews said.

“And he knew he didn’t have Jameelah’s approval to see her daughter, so he got Jameelah out of the way.”

Andrews said Porras shot at Qureshi 13 times with two different guns, a 9 mm and a 40 glock, after she pulled into the driveway of her home in the 700 block of Kilkenny Circle.

Andrews said she Jameelah Quereshi was gunned down in her Lithonia driveway on never made it out of her way home from work on Aug. 15, 2010. her car. she drove the getaway car, Porras’ green “Twelve shots went through the windpickup truck. She is scheduled to testify shield of her Volkswagen vehicle,” Andrews against Porras. said. “And one shot directly in her left upper Assistant District Attorney Mirna An- back, through her left lung, and piercing her drews told jurors that Porras kill Qureshi right lung.” because she forbade Porras from seeing her Andrews said neighbors said they saw daughter, Amanda Qureshi. a thin female with a ponytail, wearing a In 2005, Amanda, then 14 years-old, pink shirt with black pants, running from began a sexual relationship with then Qureshi’s home and that at the same time 20-year-old Porras after meeting him on the they saw a green truck – Porras’ truck – Internet. When Qureshi found out about the speeding out of the neighborhood. relationship, she filed a complaint against Andrews said what appeared to be a fePorras, who was charged with statutory rape male was not a female. in Fulton County. He pleaded guilty in 2008 “It was a disguise,” she said. “It was the and was placed on eight years probation. defendant in disguise.”

But Porras and Amanda continued to see Hirsh also told jurors not to believe each other.

Dove’s confession to police because she lied On May 23, 2009, Qureshi picked up her to police two times before she confessed in a daughter from Porras’ home and told him to third statement that Porras was the killer. stay away from her.

“You can’t trust what she says because you Andrews told the court Thursday that can’t trust a liar,” he said.

A hand like this.

It took a skillful hand like this to draft the plans of our nation’s capital city. It was a visionary hand like this which pointed out the moral superiority of a way based on character and not color. It was a thorough, good hand like this that championed our rights before the U.S. Supreme Court. It took millions of laboring hands like this to build the wealth and infrastructure of this mighty country. And it was a raised hand like this that was sworn in and gave kids of all complexions and cultures the legitimacy to believe they can achieve anything.

During Black History Month, Georgia Power takes pride in celebrating the countless hands like this which have worked to uplift us all. We’ve got to hand it to you.

GEORGIAPOWER.COM

Rapist gets two life sentences for four assaults Michael Chester will spend the rest of his life in prison for kidnapping and sexually assaulting four women in 2008.

Chester, 20, will spend two consecutive life sentences in prison.

DeKalb County Superior Court Judge Mark Scott handed down the sentence on Jan. 31.

Chester was found guilty on 18 counts of Michael Chester kidnapping and sexual assault in four separate incidents beginning August 2008.

District Attorney Robert James said Chester lured or forced the female victims at gunpoint into his car.

Two of his four victims escaped the attack by jumping out of the vehicle but the other two young women were sexually assaulted by Chester.

“Michael Chester is a menace to our community,” James said. “Now, he is behind bars for the heinous and senseless crimes he committed.”

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 General Manager Curtis Parker Staff Writer Carla Parker Advertising Sales Patricia Walthour

CrossRoadsNews is published every Thursday 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

February 5, 2011

STAND Inc. and Jenarations Community Services offer free testing on Feb. 7, National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.

Action is greater than apathy in HIV/AIDS fight

By Phill Wilson Special to the NNPA

Monday, Feb. 7, marks the 11th anniversary of Black AIDS Awareness Day, an annual commemoration that calls upon black people to take action against HIV and AIDS. Nobel Prize winner Andre Gide once said, “Everything that needs to be said has already been said. But, since no one was listening, everything must be said again.” The fact that 30 years into America’s AIDS epidemic, HIV/AIDS continues to rage in black communities and families, suggests that this thought could apply here.

According to a 2009 Kaiser Family Foundation study, 58 percent of black Americans know someone with HIV/AIDS, and for 38 percent of us, that “someone” is a close personal friend or family member.

But rather than rehash statistics describing the magnitude of the epidemic and its disproportionate impact on black women, youth, injection drug users, and men who have sex with men, I’d like to ask you to think about the people in your life who are at risk of HIV, who are living with the virus or have already died of AIDS.

Activist’s mission: End AIDS epidemic The fight against AIDS is personal for Phill Wilson, who is openly gay and learned in 1980 that he was HIV positive. His partner died of AIDS nine years later.

Since then, Wilson has worked extensively to “end the AIDS epidemic” by serving in a number of leadership positions throughout the ’90s, such as the AIDS coordinator for Los Angeles and co-chair of the Los Angeles County HIV Health Commission.

He’s also been involved in the founding of a variety of AIDS service organizations and community-based organizations, including the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, Phill Wilson the National Minority AIDS Council and the National Black Lesbian & Gay Leadership Forum. In 1999, Wilson founded the Black AIDS Institute, the sole national HIV/AIDS think tank that focuses exclusively on black people.

This week, I’m thinking about my friend Reggie Williams, who passed away 12 years ago on the date that now marks Black AIDS Awareness Day. I used to call Reggie my “brister” – he was both brother and sister to me.

He was the person I went to when I needed to talk about my life without having to explain myself.

He didn’t need a glossary to understand my words when I talked about the difficulty of having a partner living with HIV or the challenges of living with HIV myself because my truth was his truth.

Reggie was a remarkable leader.

We co-founded the National Task

Force on AIDS Prevention, and he was instrumental in not only raising awareness about the AIDS epidemic among black gay men, but in sounding the alarm on the AIDS epidemic in the black community at large. He was one of the first people who understood that if black gay men and intravenous drug users were dying from HIV, that even if we didn’t know it yet, black women and black children were dying as well.

Eventually he decided that the stigma and discrimination he faced in the United States was too much, so he moved to the Netherlands instead. There, he demonstrated

his skills and passion on the international stage.

Reggie died in Amsterdam in 1999, yet I miss him every day.

I use the memories and lessons I learned from him to get started in the morning and to help me stay focused and keep my eyes on the prize: the end of the AIDS pandemic. Before he died I promised him that I would not stop until this epidemic was over.

So between now and Feb. 7, think about someone that you know who has been impacted by the virus – or could be. Trust me, you have a Reggie Williams in your life. There is someone in your world who would benefit by your decision to take a stand.

On the other hand, someone in your life will suffer if you do nothing. During this coming week, think about that person and do something – action is greater than apathy.

We can end the AIDS epidemic in black America. But to do so, every day needs to be National Black AIDS Awareness Day. Phill Wilson is the president and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute, a national HIV/AIDS think tank focused exclusively on black people.

He can be reached at PhillWilson@ BlackAIDS.org.

Education, testing urged on Black HIV/AIDS Day Eleven years after black AIDS activists began observing Feb. 7 as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, the deadly disease is still wreaking havoc on the AfricanAmerican community.

While blacks represent about 13 percent of the U.S. population, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that they account for almost half of the 1.2 million Americans living with HIV/IDS. In Georgia, 38,300 people have AIDS, ranking the state sixth highest among the 50 states with reported AIDS cases.

DeKalb County accounts for 7,400 people living with HIV/AIDS. Only Fulton County has more, with 18,000 people living with the virus.

Over the past decade, blacks have come to represent: n 54 percent of the new HIV/AIDS cases in America. n 70 percent of the new cases among American youth are black. n Nearly 67 percent of the new HIV/AIDS cases among American women are black. n 43 percent of the new cases among men are black, and the majority of those still dying from AIDS in America are black. Last year, 18,000 African-Americans died from the disease.

With these high numbers, Phill Wilson, founder and CEO of the Los Angeles-based Black AIDS Institute, says AIDS in America today is a black disease.

“We are calling on anyone interested in the well-being of black

people to help build and mobilize a mass black response against this deadly disease,” Wilson said.

LaMont “Montee” Evans of Atlanta-based Healthy Black Communities Inc. says that the epidemic can be halted with immediate action.

“We have to challenge the mind-set and notion that black people are disposable based on their LaMont Evans sexual orientation, drug addiction or behavior,” he said.

On Feb. 7, organizers are urging men, women and teens to get educated, get tested, get involved and

get treated. Testing is particularly important for the sexually active, men who have sex with men, and intravenous drug users. A free OraQuick Advance Rapid HIV Test is available at: n STAND Inc., 3423 Covington Drive, Suite D, in Decatur from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Results are ready in 20 minutes with the oral swab test. For more information, visit www.standinc.com or call 404-284-9878. n Jenarations Community Services Inc., in conjunction with AID Atlanta, 778 Rays Road, Suite 109, Stone Mountain, from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m. For more information, call 404-254-4400 or visit www.jenar ations.org.

For more information, visit www.blackaidsday.org.

Quick Read Accused killer is not guilty, lawyer says 3

BBB: Don’t fall for scholarship Juicy grapefruit fights disease, scams 6 and punches up salads 11

The man accused of gunning down Jameelah Qureshi in the driveway of her Lithonia home had his day in court Feb. 3.

Students and parents on the hunt for grants and scholarships to pay for college don’t have to pay for that information.

For years the grapefruit has been rumored to help us lose weight, fight toxins and increase our life span.

Seniors to apply for exemptions

DeKalb schools in cheating scandal grows to 12 7

Living Legends to be honored

The DeKalb elementary and middle schools affected by the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test cheating investigation grew to 12 from the nine the school system announced last week.

Four civil rights era activists who are being recognized as living legends will finally get to pick up their awards at AT&T’s King Dream Living Legends Celebration on Feb. 10 in Atlanta.

5

Seniors, ages 62 years and older, can find out about senior exemptions and apply for them onsite at the Focus Upon Senior Services (FUSS) seminar on Feb. 12 at the Drew Charter School in East Lake.

Circulation Audited By

12

index to advertisers AT&T............................................................. 16 Atlanta 1st Realty............................................14 Bobby L. Scott & Associates...........................15 Browns Mill Civic Athletic Assoc.....................14 Caravan.com..................................................15 Chick-fil-A /Turner Hill Road...........................6 Comfort Suites Northlake...............................13

Cornerstone of Faith Church & Ministries......14 East Lake Crossing..........................................6 Georgia Power................................................ 3 Gibbs Garage.................................................14 Hands On Business........................................14 Henry Mitchell, CPA, PC.................................15 Kiddy Kompany.............................................15

Love McNill Production.................................14 Metro Self Storage.........................................15 Mystery Valley Golf Club................................ 11 Newburn Reynolds Photography...................15 North DeKalb Mall.........................................13 Pleasant Sound Co.........................................13 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.... 7

SCI Dignity Memorial......................................6 The Law Office of B.A. Thomas.....................14 The Resurrection Christian Church................13 The Spa at Stonecrest....................................15 Threesixty Entertainment...............................12 Wells Fargo..................................................... 5 Wright Vision Care......................................... 11

5

CrossRoadsNews

February 5, 2011

Community

There are various departments that work together that use similar information. Going paperless will create a more integrated system.

Commissioner wants county to go paperless and save DeKalb County Government may soon stop drowning in paper if a move

by Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton succeeds.

Sutton is seeking to create a “paperless” operating system in some DeKalb departments.

She said the use of digital systems can be an effective, efficient, and safer way of processing data.

“There are various departments that work together that use similar information,” she said. “Going paperless will create a more integrated system.”

Sutton, who serves as chair of the County Operations/Public Safety Committee, said she is looking at ways to have a more modern processing system and save the county money.

She said a “paperless” work envi-

ronment can present cost savings to the government and provide the best services to the citizens as it will improve public access to county records. Sutton believes it’s time to stop transporting files around, because doing so is a waste of resources.

Sutton says she has met with several county departments including the Clerk of Superior Court, the Clerk of

the Board of Commissioners, and other departments that handle a high volume of records.

She has requested that Chief Operating Officer Richard Stogner create a taskforce to examine the costs and benefits of implementing a paperless recordkeeping system. For more information call 404-371-4907 or visit www. sharonbarnessutton.com.

Sharon B. Sutton

Leadership DeKalb recruiting

Day-time budget meeting planned

Active and influential leaders interested in community awareness leadership training can attend the Leadership DeKalb Open House on Feb. 10 at DeKalb Medical at Hillandale in Lithonia.

The free event includes a 5:30 p.m. networking reception, followed by a program at 6 p.m. Attorney LaTisha Dear, a 2006 Leadership DeKalb graduate, will moderate a panel of other graduates.

Leadership DeKalb, a non-profit leadership training organization brings together diverse leaders to help move the county

Senior citizens can attend two daytime Town Hall discussions to learn more about the proposed 2011 DeKalb County Budget at the two Senior Centers.

DeKalb District 6 Commissioner Kathie Gannon is hosting the budget hearings on Feb. 10 at the South Senior Center,

forward. Participants go through a 10-month training before graduating.

Leadership DeKalb is celebrating its 25th anniversary.

Graduates include CEOs of top public and private companies, government officials, educators, judges, entrepreneurs, community volunteers and nonprofit organization leaders.

DeKalb Medical at Hillandale is at 2801 DeKalb Medical Parkway in Lithonia. To RSVP to the event, call 404-373-2491 or email info@leadershipdekalb.org.

Seniors to apply for exemptions Seniors, ages 62 years and older, can find out about senior exemptions and apply for them onsite at the Focus Upon Senior Services (FUSS) seminar on Feb. 12 at the Drew Charter School in Easr Lake.

FUSS, which is in its tenth year, is sponsored by DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson and Atlanta City Councilmember Natalyn Archibong, whose district includes Atlanta in DeKalb.

Participants should bring proof of age,

income and residence.

DeKalb and Fulton Tax Commissioners, DeKalb and Fulton Tax Assessors, District Attorney and representatives from SolicitorGeneral’s Office, and DeKalb and Atlanta’s Police departments will make presentations.

The seminar will be 10 a.m. to noon.

Drew Charter School is at 301 East Lake Boulevard in Atlanta. For more information, call Johnson’s office at 404-371-2988 or Archibong’s office at 404-330-6048.

1931 Candler Road in Decatur.

On Feb. 9, she will be at the North Senior Center in the Senior Connections building, 2248 Johnson Ferry Road, in Chamblee.

The discussions are also for anyone unable make it the evening budget meetiing.

For information, call 404-371-4909.

Budget committee hosting meeting Before the DeKalb Board of Commissioners approve the county’s proposed $563.3 million budget by the Feb. 22 deadline, the Budget & Finance Committee will hold meetings at the Maloof Building in Decatur.

The committee will meet on Feb. 8 and

Feb. 11 at 3 p.m. in the Legislative Conference Room on the fifth floor in the Maloof Administrative Building. The 2011 budget is $86 million lower than the 2009 budget and includes a proposed 2.32 mill increase The Maloof Building is at 1300 Commerce Avenue in Decatur. Call 404-371-2886.

Legislative cabinet meets Feb. 5 Presentations on the 2011 DeKalb County Budget, Severe Awareness Week, and Keep DeKalb Beautiful are on the agenda for the Feb. 5 DeKalb Legislative Cabinent Meeting hosted by Stan Watson.

The meeting, which starts at 9 a.m., takes place at Chapel Hill Middle School in Decatur and includes a hot breakfast.

Chapel Hill Middle is at 3535 Dogwood Farm Road in Decatur. For more information, call 678-492-0622 or 404-371-2988.

Black history belongs to all of us. It’s not just other people’s stories from the past. It’s how these stories are passed down, reflected upon and used to start new chapters. In our schools, in the workplace and in the community, new leaders are taking a stand and creating positive change every day. This shows us that Black History is alive and well. And this is why we celebrate. Wells Fargo honors Black History and all pioneers of progress.

wellsfargo.com

© 2011 Wells Fargo Bank N.A., All rights reserved. Member FDIC.

6

CrossRoadsNews

Finance

February 5, 2011

Scholarship information is widely available in books, from libraries and financial aid offices, and on the Internet.

A D V E R T I S E M E N T

Funeral Facts Dwayne Green Tara Garden Chapel

Q. Do you have any advice about talking to my family about funeral planning?

A: One way to make the discussion !"##$%&'()*!+$&#$+,$-../,-)0$+0"$+,.&)$ as a means of everyone being prepared in advance. Funeral planning is the responsible way to spare your family the grief of making these tough decisions for you, making the act a loving gift.

Set aside a time when your family can gather in a comfortable setting, and allow everyone to share their thoughts about your plans. Depending on your family, keeping the discussion light and casual may help, or a more formal approach may be in order.

Our funeral home even offers a free Personal Planning Guide, a helpful tool where you can record -1%$ ,/2-1&3"$ 4,*/$ (1-!$ 5&#0"#6$ +,$ help ease the discussion with your '-7&!48$ 91$ &+6$ 4,*:!!$ (1%$ 7-14$ ;*"#tions that you and your family may not have considered, prompting a real conversation about your options.

Making arrangements in advance is very important to give you and your family peace of mind. It is the best way to ensure your wishes are carried out and that your family %,"#1:+$ 0-<"$ +,$ 7-="$ +0,#"$ %&'()*!+$ decisions without you. Contact your local funeral home to get a Personal Planning Guide to help start the discussion.

Dwayne Green has over 20 years experience in the funeral industry and is a licensed funeral director associated with Tara Garden Chapel, a member of the Dignity Memorial® network serving the Atlanta South community. He frequently offers funeralrelated advice and counseling to area families. For information or to ask a question, contact Dwayne at 770-471-7171.

If This Was Your Ad, Someone Would Be Seeing It Now! Call 404-284-1888 today for rates & information.

BBB: Don’t fall for scholarship scams Students and parents on the hunt for grants and scholarships to pay for college don’t have to pay for that information.

That is the word from the Better Business Bureau.

Fred T. Elsberry Jr., the BBB president and CEO, said times are tight and many families desperately want to tap into the well of scholarships and grants to help their kids go to college.

“While some companies are trying to take advantage of struggling families looking for funding, the good news is that all of the information you need is already available for free,” he said.

During the 2009-2010 school year, the College Board said that $94 billion in grants was made available to college students to help cover education costs. The funding included federal and state government, institutions, private entities and employers.

The BBB says that every year, it receives complaints from parents who paid money upfront to a company that promised to find scholarships and grants for their children but ultimately didn’t deliver.

It said complaints have come about EdifiCollege Financial Aid and J.E.C.C. Inc.

It said Edifi-College Financial Aid sends prospective college students a letter explaining they have been selected for a personal interview.

“Students who call for their interview are scheduled for a financial aid seminar along with other students and parents,” it said. “Complainants say they attended the seminar and later paid more than $1,000 for help finding aid, but the services offered were mostly assistance in filling out financial aid forms.”

The BBB said complainants thought they were taking advantage of a free trial CD-ROM from J.E.C.C. Inc. on how to get federal grants for college.

“Some were charged as much as $69 even before receiving the information in the mail and those who did receive the information complained that it wasn’t helpful at all,” it said.

BBB recommends listening for the following red flags when receiving the sales pitch from a financial-aid finder: n “The scholarship is guaranteed or your money back.”

In reality no one can guarantee that they will get you a grant or scholarship. The re-

fund guarantees that are offered usually have so many conditions or strings attached that it is almost impossible for consumers to get their money back. n “You cannot get this information anywhere else.”

Actually, scholarship information is widely available in books, from libraries and financial aid offices and on the Internet, if you are willing to search for it. n “We will do all the work.”

Only parents and students can really determine and provide the financial information needed to complete the forms. n “You have been selected by a national foundation to receive a scholarship.”

If you have not entered a competition sponsored by the foundation, this claim is highly unlikely. n “May I have your credit card or bank account number to hold this scholarship?”

This is never a requirement for a legitimate scholarship offer. n “The scholarship will cost some money.”

Legitimate scholarship offers never require payment of any kind.

For more information on finding financial aid for school, visit www.fafsa.gov.

Project did not go before commissioners FAMILY DOLLAR,

from page

1

Because the property is already zoned commercial and the project did not have to come before the Board of Commissioners for approval, Johnson said that they did not find out about the construction until they saw workers laying the foundation.

“We didn’t realize what is going on because of the road construction work on Snapfinger Road,” said Johnson, the District 3 commissioner. “We thought it was just roadwork going on.”

Both commissioners oppose the project because they say it goes against efforts to revitalize the Wesley Chapel corridor with “commercial developments that would orient towards middle to upper-income customers.”

“We are looking for developments along the lines of ice cream parlors, top-quality clothing store or two-star or above restaurants,” they wrote in the letter to Kelly.

Josh Braverman, the Family Dollar public relations manager who returned a reporter’s telephone call to Kelly, said that they have not received the commissioners’ letter and couldn’t comment on it.

“We put a lot of effort into picking the location for our stores. We use sophisticated modeling to pick the location that will bring value and convenience to our customers.”

Josh Braverman, Family Dollar spokesman

He said that the store they are building at 2500 Snapfinger Road is one of three going up in metro Atlanta this year.

“We put a lot of effort into picking the location for our stores,” he said. “A lot of thought went into it. We use sophisticated modeling to pick the location that will bring value and convenience to our customers.”

Braverman said they have never been asked to relocate a store after construction starts.

In their letter, Johnson and Watson told Kelly they were contacting him to acquaint him and his team with the initiatives taking place in the I-20 Overlay District and the goals they are working to achieve with these initiatives.

They told him that the goal of the Overlay District, the Livable Centers Initiative, the Community Improvement District and the MARTA Concept 3 transportation plan for Bus Rapid Transit and Light Rail Lines is to create a vibrant community with a good mix

of development.

“The above are components of the Wesley Chapel Renaissance Initiative whose overarching goal is the economic revitalization of this area ensuring that the developments are community friendly and pedestrianoriented,” they wrote.

“We are working to achieve a well-balanced, mixed-use commercial community that will enhance and serve the surrounding residential areas.”

Watson, the new Super 7 District commissioner, said he only found out about the store two weeks ago while visiting Supreme Fish Delight restaurant next door to the post office.

“I saw the men digging and went over to ask what was going on,” he said.

Watson, who lives in the area and goes to church down the street from where the Family Dollar is going up, said he is not in favor of another dollar store when there are so many other businesses missing from the area.

“Where is the Applebee’s and Ruby Tuesday on Wesley Chapel Road,” he asked.

“I am tired of driving to Stonecrest when I want to go out.”

Even though Family Dollar didn’t need approval, Watson said that it would have been good for the Matthews, N.C.-based company to talk with commissioners and the community before building.

“If you want to be a good community neighbor, that is what you do,” he said.

EAST LAKE CROSSING RETAIL AND OFFICE SHOPS Two Months Free Rent

Call to Lease Your Space Today!!

404-518-8300

(Tammy Bryant, Sales Agent)

404-244-8400 Financing Available Welcomes...

• American Deli

Wings and Philly's the Way You Like It!!

• Covering Your Tracks

Sew-Ins Starting at $45, Natural Styles $50, Minx Nails at $45; call (678) 608-2570

• Mincey Eye Care Atlanta

Features Include: • Brick & Stucco Façade • Security Gate (optional) • Free Onsite Parking and More

Frame and Single Vision Lens Specials starting at $80; call (404) 241-6500

2434 Gresham Road (Across from Wal-Mart Super Center) Atlanta, Georgia 30316

Only 4 Units Remaining!! • Professional Office Space! • Great Rates!!

7

CrossRoadsNews

February 5, 2011

Youth

The goal of the proposal is to eliminate 11,000 empty seats throughout the school district and eliminate small schools.

DeKalb schools in CRCT cheating scandal grows to 12

By Carla Parker

The DeKalb elementary and middle schools affected by the Criterion-Referenced Competency Test cheating investigation grew to 12 from the nine the school system announced last week.

On Jan. 27, interim School Superintendent Ramona Tyson announced that 24 principals and teachers were reassigned in the wake of an internal investigation in the April 2009 CRCT cheating scandal.

The schools affected are nine elementary â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cedar Grove, Stoneview, Medlock, Wood-

bridge, Glen Haven, Rainbow, Shadow Rock, Avondale and Oak View â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and three middle â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Cedar Grove, Salem and Tucker.

The 24 employees removed from their positions last week were among 29 principals, assistant principals and teachers referred to the Georgia Professional Standards Commission. Five employees were terminated, retired or left the school district.

The five principals, five assistant principals and 14 teachers still employed by the district have been reassigned to non-teaching positions in transportation, IT and other central office departments pending review of

their teaching certificates by the Professional Standards Commission.

School official still have not released the names of the employees.

DeKalb schools were among hundreds of Georgia schools identified in a statewide analysis of erasure marks on student answer sheets on the 2009 spring test by testing contractor CTB/McGraw-Hill. The Governorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office of Student Achievement and CTB/ McGraw-Hill said the unusually high numbers of erasures could indicate tampering.

The DeKalb School System said its action followed an extensive investigation, includ-

ing interviews, a review of the erasure audit data and an analysis of student performance comparatives. Its investigation is ongoing and no criminal charges have been filed this year.

In 2009, two administrators, Dr. James Berry, principal of Atherton Elementary, and his assistant principal, Doretha Alexander, were arrested by the DeKalb district attorney on charges of falsifying and altering a government document. In December 2009, Berry pleaded guilty and was fined $1,000 and placed on probation for two years. Alexander was placed probation for two years.

Redistricting plan would save up to $161 million in a decade

By Carla Parker

DeKalb Schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; proposed redistricting and consolidation proposals will save $150 million to $161 million over the next 10 years, school system officials said.

The results of the cost/savings analysis released Jan. 28 estimate that the centralized plan will save the school district approximately $150 million over the next decade, while the decentralized plan will save about $161 million over the same period.

On an annual basis, the centralized plan would save some $15 million each year, while

The proposal also calls for merging and FELD ENTERTAINMENT centralizing the districtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s high achievers mag-

Consultants say the school closures will the decentralized plan would save around help the school district access maximum $16 million.

BL160639 No.: for its schools.

It said the savings will comeJob from in- state funding The proposal will consolidate schools, creased operational efficiencies Engagement as well as City: ATLANTA/DULUTH projected annual increases in the capital dramatically change attendance lines, and ADwith - COLOR students to schools enrollfacilities funding allowance fromMedia: the state reassign NEWSPAPER ment above 450 students.

The goal of the Department of Education.

Insertion Date(s): The redistricting and consolidation pro- proposal is to eliminate 11,000 empty seats posals, presented to the DeKalb School Board throughout the school district and eliminate on Jan. 3, call for 14 schools â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 elementary, small schools.

The district says its schools need to have one middle and one high school ­â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to close countywide by the start of the 2011-2012 more than 450 students to get maximum school year to compensate for shifting demo- funding from the state. graphics and declining enrollment.

net schools and programs that serve 1,605 students countywide.

Ad Size: 3.

Interim Superintendent Ramona Tyson is Section: E scheduled to make a final recommendation to the Board of Education on Feb. 7.

The Board of Education will hold public hearings into the recommendations on March 1 and March 3. It is scheduled to vote on the redistricting and consolidation plan on March 7.

MLK vs. Tiny Trotters in school fund-raiser Tiny Trotters, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s smallest basketball team, will take on the Martin Luther King Jr. High School AllStars in a fund-raising basketball game at the Lithonia school on Feb. 12.

The exhibition game will feature the Tiny Trotters, a South Carolina-based team of full-grown little people plus one large player. They will play MLK coaches, teachers, and principals to help raise money for the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s athletic program.

The game kicks off in the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s gymnasium at 6 p.m.

Tyrone Spaulding, the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s P.E. teacher and golf

coach, said the gameâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proceeds will benefit MLKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball, football and golf teams. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The funds will cover the girls and boys basketball teamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; expenses during the playoffs, the football teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s banquet, and the golf teamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s expenses,â&#x20AC;? Spaulding said.

The Tiny Trotters also will visit the school on Feb. 11 to teach the message of being drug-free in sports.

M.L. King Jr. High School is at 3991 Snapfinger Road in Lithonia.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call Tyrone Spaulding at 404-805-2660.

Star athletes remain focused on academics from page

1

business program in the nation.

M.L. Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wide receiver Demarco Robinson, who led the county in receiving yards and touchdowns, will be taking his talents to the University of Kentucky. He said Kentucky was the best choice among the numerous offers he received. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I like their program and their style of offense,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m excited about Kentucky and canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t wait to start playing.â&#x20AC;?

Michael Carson, M.L. Kingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s head football coach, said he was proud of his seniors for not only taking the next step in their football career but also staying focused on academics. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It was important to our coaching staff to get these kids to understand the importance of a high school education,â&#x20AC;? Carson said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m happy that theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll continue to further their education.â&#x20AC;?

Southwest DeKalb High Principal Angela Bethea also stressed the importance of getting an education to the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s five signees. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The purpose of going to college is to get a degree,â&#x20AC;? she told them during the signing ceremony.

Southwest DeKalbâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s punter/kicker Obio Jones always put academics first, so it was no surprise when he signed to play football at Morehouse College. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I always wanted to be a Morehouse man,â&#x20AC;? Jones said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Football was just a means to get me there.â&#x20AC;?

Š2009 Feld Entertainment

SIGNING DAY,

Above, Southwest DeKalb High School football players make their choices for college known on National Signing Day. Stephenson High (center) had 20 standout players signing on, while Martin Luther King Jr. High had 13 signees on Wednesday.

3!6%ĂŚUPĂŚTOĂŚ ĂŚONĂŚ4ICKETS ĂŚ (Valid for select performances only. Excludes Circus CelebritySM, Front Row, VIP and Club seats.)

&%" ĂŚ ĂŚ ĂŚ &%" ĂŚ ĂŚ ĂŚ Redeem this savings by logging on to 4ICKETMASTER COM ",5% and enter code BLUE1 in the advance and savings offer box For full show schedules and to buy tickets, Retail Locations, go to Ringling.com, Arena Box Offices or call 2%'5,!2ĂŚ4)#+%4ĂŚ02)#%3 ĂŚĂŚ ĂŚsĂŚĂŚ ĂŚsĂŚ ĂŚ

Limited number of Circus Celebrity, VIP, Club and Front Row seats available.

Call or go online for details. (Service charges, facility and handling fees may apply.

Photos by Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Come one hour early to meet our animals and performers at the All Access Pre-show - FREE with your ticket!

8

CrossRoadsNews

February 5, 2011

Vote for the best that East Tell Us Who’s Best!

Who gives the best haircut in East Metro Atlanta? Where is the best car repair shop or BBQ joint? Walking trail?

Most romantic restaurant?

Vote now for the Best of East Metro in our annual Reader’s Choice Awards.

Winners of these awards will be honored at our Best of East Metro / Small Business Expo on April 23 at the Mall at Stonecrest.

Please complete and return your ballot by March 31, 2011 (no photocopies, please). Or, go to www.eastmetromarket. com and vote for your favorites online.

Most Beloved Elected Official

Best Church Choir

Best Caribbean Rest

q John Lewis

q St. Philip AME Church

q Kool Runnings

q Stan Watson

q First African Presbyterian Church

q Eat Right

q Sheriff Thomas Brown

q Berean Christian Church

q Hank Johnson

q Saint Philip AME / W.N. Griffin Gospel Choir

Best Italian Restaura

q Rainbow Park Baptist Church

q Figo

q Larry Johnson q Gail Davenport Most Beloved Public Official

q Joe Bembry

q Green Pastures

Best Mexican Restau Best Dance Ministry

q Mibarrio

q Gwen Keyes Fleming

q Tamba Issa, First Afrikan Presbyterian Church

q Pesos Mexican Can

q Commissioner Lee May

q Berean Christian Church

Best Soul Food Rest

q St. Philip AME Church

q Hodge’s

q New Life

q Thelma’s

q Steen Miles

Public Affairs Best Local Activist

q Olive Garden

Most Active State Legislator q Stephanie Stuckey Benfield

q Robert's

q Coach Williams

Best Outreach Ministry

q Stacey Abrams

q John Evans

q Camp of Champions

Best Takeout

q Billy Mitchell

q Blessings on Wheels

q Las Brasas

q Karen Davenport

q Pam Stephenson

q Berean Christian Church

q Pesos Mexican Can

q Rainbow Park Baptist Church

q Chick-fil-A at Turne

q New Life Baptist Church

q Java Delight Cafe

Best Christian School

Best Pizza

q Gil Turman

Best Local Entrepreneur q AiJalon Inc. Adult Day Health Care q Victoria Attmore-Pengel q LaTasha Lewis q Brenda Jackson

Best Civic Organization q Stone Mountain-Lithonia Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority q AKA - Lambda Epsilon Omega Chapter q Dekalb Chapter of NAACP q Cedar Grove Neighborhood Association Best East Metro Landmark

q Anthony “Tony” Royal, Chick-fil-A

q Aijalon Inc.

q Greg Levett

q Arabia Mountain

q Ron Brown q Robin Smith and Paul Turner, Pesos Mexican Cantina Best School Board Member q Tom Bowen

q The Earl, Flst Shoals Ave., Atlanta q The Mall at Stonecrest

q St. Pius H. S. q St. Timothy School

q Davido’s on Coving

q Berean Christian Church

q Avallino’s

q Greenforest-McCalep CAC Dining Best Asian Restaurant q Garlic q Exotic Thai, Stonecrest

Community of Faith

Best American Restaurant

Best Large Church

q Sauced

q St. Philip AME Church

q Chick-fil-A at Turner Hill

q Ray of Hope

q Java Delight Cafe

q Berean Christian Church

q Parker’s On Ponce

q Jay Cunningham

q Beulah Baptist church,

q Sarah Copelin Woods

q New Life Baptist Church

q Eugene Walker

Best Small Church

q Robert’s

q Poplar Springs Baptist Church

q Community Q

q First African Presbyterian

q Mabels

q New Hope Christian Ministries

q Smokey Bones

Citizen of the Year q Pamela Williams Aijalon Adult Day Health q Barbara C. Campbell

q Savage Pizza

Best BBQ Restaurant q Fox Brothers

q Lilly Hill Baptist Church

Best Late Night Eats

q Pesos Mexican Can q Waffle House

Most Romantic Rest

q Parker’s On Ponce q Arizona’s Best Restaurant for

q Pesos Mexican Can

q Parker’s On Ponce q Applebee’s q Arizona’s Best Chicken Wings q Highland pub

q Pesos Mexican Can

q Davido’s on Coving q Java Delight Cafe q American Deli

q Poplar Springs Baptist church,

Best Family Dining Restaurant

q Robert James

q Rainbow Park Baptist Church

q Gladys and Ron’s Chicken & Waffles

q Gretchen Smith

q Cathedral of the Holy Spirit

q Pesos Mexican Cantina

Best Restaurant Wh Someone Else Bu

q Bethel Family Church

q Folks

q Red Lobster

q First Atlanta Wesleyan Church

q Piccadilly

q Parker’s On Ponce

q Rochelle Candeller Best County Commissioner q Kathie Gannon q Lee May q Larry Johnson q Stan Watson

q Arizona’s

You can also vote for your favorites online at www.eastmetromarket.com. Click on the “Best of East Metro” banner and follow the directions...

February 5, 2011

Best of East Metro

9

CrossRoadsNews

Metro Atlanta has to offer

taurant

ant

urant

ntinas

taurant

Best Breakfast

Services Rendered

q Ria’s Bluebird Cafe

Best Law Firm

Best Orthodontist

q IHOP

q The Secret Firm

q Craig Williams

q Chick-fil-A at Turner Hill Road

q Davis & Bozeman Law Firm

q North Georgia Orthodontics

q Gut Busters

q Boykin Edwards Jr., PC

q Java Delight Cafe

q Noreen Banks Ware

Best Health Clinic

q BJH Attorneys at Law

q Kendricj Family Practice

Best Restaurant Service q Pesos Mexican Cantina

Best Financial Institution

q IHOP

q Citizens Trust Bank

q Chick-fil-A at Turner Hill Road

q BB&T

q Java Delight Cafe

q RBC Bank

Best Bakery q Royal Caribbean Bakery

ntina

er Hill Road

gton

ntina

q Tobias A. Jackson

Best Sunday Brunch

Best Insurance Agent

q Sweet Melissa’s

q Devon Hudson, State Farm

q Carpe Diem

q Les Kemp, Allstate

Best Supermarket

Best Event Planner

q Wal-Mart Memorial Drive

q Benita Osbey

q Publix - Flat Shoals Parkway

q Kimberly Cameron

q Publix - S. Hairston

q Brenda Jackson & Associates

q Kroger - Flat Shoals Pkwy

e

Best Auto Dealer - Used q Ultimate Benz

Best Auto Repair q Service 1st Auto Care q Ultimate Benz

First Date

q Ultimate Barber Shop Best Hair Salon q The Good Hair Shop q Don Janelle Day Spa q Shamari q Dynasty Hair Salon Best HVAC Service

ntina

Best Car Wash

e

q Village Hand Car Wash

ntina

Best Barbershop q Nicks Barber Shop

q Malcolm Cunningham Auto Gallery

taurant

q Gretta Thomas

q Sweet n’ Sinful

Buy & Sell

s

Best Real Estate Agency

q California Gold q Upscale Cleaning q So Fresh And So Clean q Zoom Express Car Wash q Cartopia

q Bowman’s HVAC q Lu Woodson - Alpha Climate Control Best Dentist q Heard & Heard Dental

q Oakhurst Medical Center q South DeKalb Center for Health Living Best Health Club q Power Kicks Tae Kwon Do q Tadda’s Fitness Camp Best Running or Jogging Track q Stone Mountain Park q Arabia Mountain Best Private School q BaSix Knowledge Academy q Excell Preparatory Center q Woodward Academy q St. Timothy School Best Day Care q Excell Preparatory Center q Aijalon Inc Adult Day Care q Kingdom Kare Academy Fun for All Best Movie Theater q AMC Theater q Movie Tavern q Gallery at South DeKalb Best Place to Meet New People q Java Delight Cafe q Pesos Mexican Cantina Best Free WiFi q Chick-Fil-A At Turner Hill Road q Panera q Pesos Mexican Cantina

q Spa Dental q Dr. Diane Stephens

gton

hen uys

e

Tell Us About Yourself First Name:_ ____________________ Last Name:_________________ Address:_ ________________________________________________ City: _ ___________________________ State: _ ___ Zip: _ _________ Phone Number: _ _________________________________________ Email Address:____________________________________________ Age:

❍ 18-34 ❍ 35-49 ❍ 50-65 ❍ 65+

Sex:

❍ Male

❍ Female

Mail or deliver your completed ballot to CrossRoadsNews, 2346 Candler Road, Decatur GA 30032, or vote at www.crossroadsnews.com. Photocopies of ballots are not accepted.

10

CrossRoadsNews

Wellness

February 5, 2011

Participants whooped it up for their favorites at the Fitness FaceOff, took advantage of free screenings, and visited health care exhibits.

Fitness dominates 2011 Health & Wellness Expo

Fitness trainer Elgin Key leads a high-energy step routine that earned him the title of Fitness FaceOff Champion for 2011 at the CrossRoadsNews Health & Wellness Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest.

Audience members cheer for their favorites during judging to determine the winner of the Fitness FaceOff.

Celebrity judges (from left) Andrea Riggs, Larry Johnson and Frances Martin confer before announcing the winner of Fitness FaceOff 2011.

Marshah St. Louis (left) of Samsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leads a spinning team while competing in the Fitness FaceOff. OmniTech Institute (far left) was among exhibitors offering blood pressure screenings at the sixth annual expo. At left, Life Chef Asata Reid took to the stage for a demonstration on healthy cooking for diabetics.

Expo participant Mildred Gribble stops by the WellCare health plan exhibit to speak with representatives.

CrossRoadsNews Photos By Jennifer Ffrench Parker, Carla Parker and Curtis Parker

Far left, Dr. Jamie Noll discusses diabetes with Lavonna Williams of Stone Mountain at the Rotary Club of DeKalbâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s table.

At left, an expo participant places her entry in the box for the Grand Prize drawing.

February 5, 2011

Wellness

11

CrossRoadsNews

“I have learned that heart disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, taking the life of one in three women each year.”

Juicy grapefruit fights disease, and punches up salads For years the grapefruit has been rumored to help us lose weight, fight toxins and increase our life span. While several studies have shown that eating grapefruit is a sound practice as part of a healthy diet based on fresh fruits and vegetables, other studies continue to find amazing health properties of this juicy citrus fruit, which is in the peak of seasonal freshness from winter through early spring.

Originally an ornamental plant, the grapefruit tree is a hybrid developed in Barbados back in the 1700s. Its fruit didn’t become popular until nearly 250 years later. Nutritionally, grapefruit, like most citrus fruits, is an excellent source of vitamin C. The pink and red varieties also contain the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to lowering incidences of prostate cancer. Studies have shown the combination of green tea and foods rich in lycopene increases the effectiveness of the antioxidant’s ability to fight the free radicals that cause cellular damage attributed to causing cancer.

Limonoids are another phytonutrient found in grapefruit. They have been shown to inhibit tumor growth and support liver function by making toxic compounds more water soluble for elimination. Other compounds found in grapefruit have been reported to block the absorption of toxins

Eating Healthy Life Chef Asata Reid

Grapefruit and Arugula Salad 4 cups arugula Segments of 2 grapefruits Small red onion, thinly sliced ¼ cup feta cheese ¼ cup fresh parsley leaves 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil Salt and pepper

Combine arugula, grapefruit, onion and parsley. Season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with cheese and olive oil. Serve with grilled salmon or roasted chicken.

through the intestine. Apparently, grapefruit can increase the absorption or efficacy of certain medications, particularly statins, which are used to lower cholesterol. People taking these medications, chemotherapy drugs and other medication should consult their doctor or pharmacist.

The claim that grapefruit can extend your life may have some scientific basis. It contains the compound spermidine, which is necessary for cell growth and maturation and in studies has been found to extend the life of smaller organisms, mice and even human cells.

A diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables has been linked to the reduction of heart disease, stroke, cancer and obesity.

Chef Asata Reid teaches food education through Life Chef LLC. For more information, recipes and class schedules, visit www .lifechef.net.

Women sharing stories of heart could become speakperson for cause

By Brenda Camp Yarbrough

Women who have lost loved ones or are battling heart disease can tell their stories on camera on Feb. 5 at Macy’s Lenox Square and have the chance to become a spokeswoman for “Go Red Connect,” the American Heart Association’s marketing campaign to reduce heart disease among women.

During the four-hour event, which starts at 1 p.m., attention will be focused on heart disease, the No. 1 killer of American women.

“Go Red Connect” is a nationwide casting call offering local women affected by heart disease a platform to share the choices they make to live a heart-healthy lifestyle, empowering others by example.

The Atlanta gathering is one of hundreds that Macy’s is hosting at its stores across the country to invite women to connect for their hearts.

In the United States, more women die of heart disease than the next five causes of death combined, including all forms of cancer.

One in three American women die of heart disease, compared to one in 30 women who die of breast cancer.

Ninety percent of women have one or more risk factors for developing heart disease, but 80 percent of cardiac events in women may be prevented if they make the right choices for their hearts.

The “Go Red Connect” event follows National Wear Red Day, observed nationally on Feb. 4, to help raise awareness about heart disease.

State Sen. Gloria Butler, who repre-

sents District 55 in Stone Mountain, helped sponsor a “Go Red Day” resolution in the Senate on Feb. 3.

She has personal experience with heart disease.

In January 2007, Butler underwent heart bypass surgery after experiencing trouble breathing, walking short distances, climbing stairs and doing Gloria Butler household chores.

“I was also suffering from extreme exhaustion and had trouble staying awake,” she said.

After a stress test and further testing, But-

ler learned that she had a 70 percent blockage in her aorta.

“Since my episode with my heart, I have learned that heart disease is still the No. 1 killer of women, taking the life of one in three women each year,” she said.

“This means women just like you – mothers, sisters, friends – are dying at the rate of one per minute because they don’t know that

heart disease kills.”

Butler said that 80 percent of cardiac events in women could be prevented with proper diet, exercise, and abstinence from smoking.

“My advice to women of DeKalb County and all of Georgia is to make it your mission to stop the No. 1 killer,” she said.

Women’s risk for heart disease increases because low levels of estrogen after menopause contribute to cardiovascular disease in the smaller blood vessels.

However, lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Among those changes are 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day; maintaining a healthy weight; quitting smoking; and eating a diet low in saturated fat, cholesterol and salt.

Women who are picked for the “Go Red Connect” campaign will appear in marketing materials, at events and on GoRedFor Women.org to help empower women to take care of their hearts with proper nutrition and exercise.

During the Macy’s event, there will be free screenings, healthy cooking demonstrations, heart health information and Go Red giveaways.

Macy’s Lenox Square is at 3393 Peachtree Road N.E. in Atlanta.

12

Scene

CrossRoadsNews

February 5, 2011

Dawn-Breakers Toastmasters Club is home of the 2002 World Champion of Public Speaking, Dwayne Smith.

Toastmasters orators vie for chance in international contest Two skilled orators will be selected Feb. 5 to represent the Dawn-Breakers Toastmasters in the 2011 International Speech & Table Topics Contest.

The local competition, which features active Toastmasters members, is free and open to the public and begins at 9:30 a.m. in the Family Life Center of Beulah Baptist Church in Decatur.

The Speech & Table Topics competition is billed as the world’s largest speech contest, with more than 30,000 presenters in 113 countries vying to become the next World Champion of Public Speaking.

Dawn-Breakers Toastmasters Club is

home of the 2002 world champion, Dwayne Smith.

Nina Gray, club president, says DawnBreakers has a roster of 11 active Distinguished Toastmasters.

“Speech & Table Topic contests provide a tremendous opportunity for our members to showcase their communications skills obtained or enhanced through the Toastmasters program,” she said.

“The international contests create a wave of excitement as our mutually supportive club members rally behind the winners to represent one of the most successful clubs in the world.”

Actress Chantell D. Christopher, who has theater and film credits including “Finding Chance,” “Madea Goes to Jail” and “50 First Dates,” is the 2010 Dawn-Breakers Toastmasters Table Topics contest winner.

Chantell Christopher “It was something that seemed impossible that became possible.

And bam, I won,” Christopher said.

The competition begins at the local club level and proceeds through the area, division,

district and final levels. Eighty-two district semifinalists compete during the 2011 Toastmasters International Convention on Aug. 17-20 at Bally’s Las Vegas Hotel & Casino.

Nine contenders make it to the final round on Aug. 20, when the winner is crowned.

The nonprofit Toastmasters International teaches public speaking and leadership skills through a worldwide network of clubs. It has more than 260,000 members.

The Dawn-Breakers Toastmasters Club meets Saturdays from 9:30 to 11 a.m. at Beulah’s Family Life Center on 2340 Clifton Springs Road. For more information, visit www.dawnbreakerstm.com.

Polish martyrs remembered Living Legends to be honored “Katyn: Massacre, Moral“Katyn: Massacre, Moity, Politics,” an exhibit on rality, Politics” will be on the 1940 mass execution of the third floor of GPC’s Jim 22,000 Polish people, will be Cherry Learning Resource on display Feb. 10 through Center. The film “Katyn,” Feb. 26 at Georgia Perimeter

by Andrzej Wajda, will be College’s Clarkston campus. screened on Feb. 17 in the The exhibit of panels, center’s auditorium at 7 documents and photographs p.m. commemorates the 70th anThe exhibit will be niversary of the Katyn Forest open during library hours, Massacre, which was kept from 7:45 a.m. to 10 p.m. hushed for more than 50 Monday to Thursday and years by the Soviet governat 7:45 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. ment. on Friday. On Saturday, the It is sponsored by the opening hours are 9 a.m.

Exhibit and film chronicle the Polish Club of Atlanta and to 4 p.m. The Clarkston massacre of 22,000 people. produced by Polish historian campus is at 555 N. Indian Andrzej Przewozniak and Poland’s Council Creek Drive in Clarkston. for the Protection of the Memory of Struggle For information, call 678-891-3647 or and Martyrdom. visit www.gpc.edu.

Four civil rights era activists who are being recognized as living legends will finally get to pick up their awards at AT&T’s King Dream Living Legends Celebration on Feb. 10 in Atlanta.

The Jan. 12 ceremony honoring Dr. Christine Christine K. Farris King Farris, former U.S. Ambassador Andrew Young, broadcast pioneer Xernona Clayton, and the Rev. Dr. C.T. Vivian was rescheduled because of the snow and ice storm that shut down metro Atlanta for days.

C.T. Vivian King, a Spelman College professor, is the older sister of civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Young, a former Atlanta mayor and U.N. ambassador, was a lieutenant of King who traveled from city to city, mediating between black and white communities, registering people to vote, and helping to run the operations of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference.

Clayton, a former undercover agent, teacher, SCLC fund-raising organizer, and documentary producer, is best known for establishing the Trumpet Awards while working for Turner Broadcasting.

Vivian, a Baptist minXernona Clayton ister, used nonviolent direct action in 1947 to end Peoria’s segregated lunch counters. Later he founded the Nashville Christian Leadership Conference and organized sit-ins in 1960. He was a rider on the first “Freedom Bus” into Jackson, Miss., and Andrew Young worked alongside King on his executive staff.

The 11:30 a.m. ceremony honoring them will be at the AT&T Midtown II Auditorium, 725 W. Peachtree St. Monica Pearson of WSB-TV will emcee the program.

For more information, call Jackie Hampton at 404-927-7675.

Dads, daughters can dine together Fathers and their daughters can step out together for an evening of dinner, shopping and a movie at the Chick-fil-A’s Daddy Daughter Date Night at the Gallery at South DeKalb on Feb. 5.

The mall is cordoning off a section of the food court for the 4:30-to-7 p.m. event, and Chick-fil-A will create a full sit-down restaurant experience for fathers and their daughters to enjoy dinner together.

The BIG Cinemas movie theater will

offer free movie pass tickets to fathers and daughters who make a dinner reservation, and stores at the mall will be open for them to shop together.

Seating times vary and reservations are encouraged.

The Gallery at South DeKalb is at 2801 Candler Road in Decatur. For more information or to make reservations, call 404241-2600 or visit www.daddydaughterdate .com/atlanta.

Workshop on water damage Homeowners can get tips on preventing, detecting and resolving water damage problems on Feb. 12 at Covington Library in Decatur.

Mitch Young, a third-generation mason with more than 30 years of experience, will discuss “Preventing and Solving Water Dam-

age in Your Home” from 1 to 3 p.m. He will offer early detection strategies, advice on prevention, and economical tips to help patrons deal with water damage, a prevailing concern for homeowners.

The library is at 3500 Covington Highway.

For more information, call 404-508-7180.

BIG Black History Program J. David Reeves, national president of Blacks in Government, will be the featured speaker at the Atlanta Metropolitan Chapter’s Black History Program on Feb. 9 in Atlanta.

The free program, which is open to all federal, state, city and county employees, will start at 10 a.m. in the Conference Center of the Sam Nunn Federal Building, 66 Forsyth St. S.W. in Atlanta.

Reeves, deputy assistant secretary for the

Real Estate Assessment Center, is a life member and avid supporter of BIG. He became its 11th national president in 2008.

Founded in 1975, BIG is an employee support and advocacy group whose primary mission is to promote, provide, and enhance education and training opportunities for blacks in government.

For more information, contact Calvin Stevens, president of Atlanta Metro Chapter, at 404-288-3604 or cal.amc@juno.com.

13

CrossRoadsNews

February 5, 2011

Scene

“My marching orders are to make this center the jewel of DeKalb County, not just South DeKalb.”

New director has lots of plans for arts center

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Two years after it opened for business, the Porter Sanford Performing Arts and Community Center is getting ready to kick it up a notch.

The center’s new executive director, David Manuel, says his goal is to make the center the arts and performance hub it was built to be.

“My marching orders are to make this center the David Manuel jewel of DeKalb County, not just South DeKalb,” he said this week.

Manuel, who took the position in December, comes to the $17.2 million facility on Rainbow Drive with a wealth of experience in the arts.

He worked at the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta for 25 years and was its director of community relations when he left there in June 2009. He also served two years on the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center board of directors and is the author of “I Am a Father,” a book inspired by his relationship with sons Brandon, 16, and Blake, 13, which he selfpublished in December 2007.

In the two months he has been on the job, Manuel said that everywhere he goes, residents are asking for arts programming at the center.

“People should be seeing changes real soon,” he said. “Quality programming is coming. We are excited about some of the

To enrich the center’s offerings, Manuel said he is developing partnerships and collaborations with the Lou Walker Center, the Greenforest Baptist Church across the street, and the Gallery at South DeKalb. The center also is working with Wonderland Gardens, which shares the property and already runs nutrition and exercise classes at the center.

Residents are asking for arts programming at the Porter Sanford Center, To promote the Executive Director David Manuel says. “Quality programming is coming.” ar ts countyw ide, Manuel says he is in discussion with DCTV, things that are coming down the pike.”

Manuel said that he has developed a list the county’s cable television station, to deof programs at the 30,000-square-foot center velop a monthly program that showcases the that could be uploaded to www.co.dekalb arts, not only at the Porter Sanford Center .ga.us/PorterSanford as early as next week. but at the three other arts centers in the At the moment, the Web site only lists county – Callanwolde, ART Station and the events planned for the 500-seat theater that Spruill Center for the Arts.

Manuel said that the center has a commuis rented out for production, but the center is also home to an after-school program and nity room that is available for meetings and that he also is exploring using the grounds nutrition and stepping classes.

More classes are planned and Manuel said of the Porter Sanford Center for community that the work of local artists will soon be on festivals.

“We have a nice flat area at the back that display in the center.

“We are also looking to develop an Afro- would be great for hosting festivals,” he said. salsa class to get the blood pumping but is “People driving by would see all the fun going on and would want to stop.” still a lot fun,” he said.

Fired USDA official to share story at Fairfield Baptist Shirley Sherrod, the former USDA official whose firing over alleged racist remarks captured the nation’s attention last year, will be the keynote speaker on a Feb. 12 “Historic Program” at Fairfield Baptist Church Shirley Sherrod in Lithonia.

Sherrod is the former director of rural development in Georgia for the U.S. Department of Agriculture. She was forced to resign

in July over allegations of racism after an edited video posted online showed her saying that she had given minimal support to a white farmer who sought her help.

The video cut out Sherrod explaining that the encounter, which occurred decades earlier, had taught her that she should help everyone – regardless of their race. She was able to help the man save his farm.

Her firing last summer over the alleged racist remarks and her subsequent refusal to return to work with the USDA after formal apologies sparked much controversy.

Demo CD Express & Mastering • • • • • •

Demo CD Express, one day service Professional Demo CD, radio ready Sound Like T-Pain, auto tune effect Sound Great, even if you sing off pitch Individuals Only, no groups Full CD & Track Mastering to Red Book Standards Call or Text Tony at 706-313-2626 or visit our website at www.HotHStudio.com

ia, GA Coupon good for $100 off Demo CD service with expiration of Feb 28, 2011

Lithon

$500

Sherrod will share her story at the noon event, sponsored by the Lithonia church’s Million Dollar Committee. WXIA-TV’s Donna Lowry will facilitate the program, which also will feature Henry “Hank” Thomas, a civil rights activist and original Freedom Rider.

Tickets are $75 and benefit the church’s building fund.

For more information, visit www .fairfieldbaptistchurch.org or call 770-4827660, Ext. 127. Fairfield Baptist Church is at 6133 Redan Road in Lithonia.

Cleland to address Press Club Lithonia native son and former U.S. Sen. Max Cleland will be the featured speaker at the Atlanta Press Club on Feb. 7.

Cleland, a decorated Vietnam veteran, also will sign copies of his book, “Heart of a Patriot: How I Found the Courage to Survive Vietnam, Walter Reed and Karl Rove.”

The special pro- Max Cleland gram, “An Evening With Max Cleland,” begins at 6 p.m. and includes a questionand-answer session.

Cleland’s other books, which include “Strong at the Broken Places” and “Going for the Max! 12 Principles for Living Life to the Fullest,” also will be available at the book signing.

Now secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission, Cleland was awarded the Silver Star and the Bronze Star for valorous action in combat after losing both legs and an arm in Vietnam.

He was elected to the U.S. Senate in 1996 after serving as consultant to the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs, administrator of the U.S. Veterans Administration and Georgia secretary of state.

In 2009, President Barack Obama nominated him to serve as secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission, which operates and maintains 24 permanent American burial grounds on foreign soil.

As of May 2006, there were 124,917 U.S. war-dead interred at these cemeteries who lost their lives in combat during and after World War I. Tickets are $25 for Press Club members and $30 for non-members and may be purchased at www.atlantapressclub.org or by calling 404-577-7377. Complimentary parking is included.

The Commerce Club is at 191 Peachtree St. N.E., next door to the Ritz-Carlton Downtown, on the 49th floor.

The Resurrection Christian Church presents

The Relationship Series 2nd Sunday Feb. 13, 2011 @ 1:45 p.m.

“Why Did I Get Married?” (Marriage) 3rd Sunday Feb. 20, 2011 @ 1:45 p.m.

“Single the Second Time Around” (Divorce) 4th Sunday Feb. 27, 2011 @ 1:45 p.m.

“You’re Too Close to Me”

The Resurrection Christian Church • Pastor Anton Rowe, Senior Pastor 183 Moreland Ave. • Atlanta, GA 30315 • (404) 399-4850 Regular Worship Services – Sundays 1:45 p.m.

V ALENTINE ’ S D AY S PECIAL

GRAND PRIZE! AUDITIONS FOR AGES 16-28

Feb. 12th 10am – 5pm Idol Studio next to Burlington Coat Factory

$20 Audition Fee Call 404-235-6444 to secure audition time Idol Shows will be held on Saturdays February 19th-March 12th

$159

Brin to re g in this ce a audi ive $5 o d tion f fee! f Price is good Feb. 11 – Feb. 14, 2011 only,

North DeKalb Mall • 2050 Lawrenceville Hwy. • Decatur, GA 30033 • 404-320-7960

1ST 25 COUPLES TO RESERVE THEIR ROOM WILL RECEIVE A JACUZZI SUITE UPGRADE AND A FREE MASSAGE FOR TWO

14

CrossRoadsNews

February 5, 2011

Events/seminars

8.59 m e d $1 ro I s a v u p o n s f ws o c Ne w it h s sR o a d s o r C

Marketplace attorneys

for rent

real estate

Affordable Special Events Space

Henry County For Sale

Ideal for intimate Christian-based gatherings • Bible Studies • Baby Showers • Small Weddings • Life Celebrations Hourly, Weekly and Monthly Rental Rates Available Cornerstone of Faith Church & Ministries Pastor Maurice Dukes 6001 Pattillo Way • Lithonia, GA 30035 Call 678-521-5151 for more information

automotive

22

$

25

$

ATL 1ST REALTY

50

Call 404-284-1888 to find out how.

770-981-8111

Events / seminars

*Does not apply to Instructional and Baseball (13-14 yrs)

REGULAR REGISTRATION

2975 S. Rainbow Drive • Decatur, GA 30034

Tax

A/C CHECKUP

$

THIS SIZE AD FOR ONLY

Nov. 26 – Jan. 7, 2011 $100*

Oil, Filter, Lube, Most Vehicles With Coupon.

Includes 1 lb of Freon With Coupon.

5br, 3ba, Separate living room & dining room, over 1/2-acre lot, Hardwood floors 1st level, 5 years young.

E. Howard, 678-859-2758.

EARLY REGISTRATION (online only)

OIL CHANGE SPECIAL

59

$200,000

COME BE A PART OF THE SUCCESS AT BROWNS MILL PARK

Tax

.95 +

powered by:

www.crossroadsnews.com/pages/coupons

recreation

.95 +

$

Click. Print. Save!

Prices Good at Decatur Location Only Hours: Mon-Fri • 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

100

.00 ANY MECHANICAL $ REPAIR OFF OVER $150

Jan. 8 – Feb. 5, 2011 (Online Registration) Every Saturday (except Jan. 15), 10am - 2pm (Onsite Registration)

Instructional (ages 3-4 yrs) – $55 Baseball (5-12 yrs) – $130 Softball (5-6 yrs) – $100 Baseball (13-14 yrs) – $85 Softball (7-14 yrs) – $130

Take advantage of the $10 sibling discount for Baseball (5-12 yrs)! $20 Fee for non-DeKalb County residents

LATE REGISTRATION

Begins Feb. 6, 2011 – $25 late fee (returning players only) 5099 Browns Mill Road Lithonia, GA 30038 Phone: (678) 418-2345 www.brownsmillpark.org

.00

ANY BODY REPAIR OFF OVER $1,000

One-order, one-invoice, multi-newspaper placement service!

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 Adoptions ADOPTION- A loving alternative to unplanned pregnancy.

You choose the family for your child. Receive pictures/info of waiting/ approved couples. Living expense assistance. 1-866-2367638 Birthmother: We’ll care about you as you get to know us...openminded, married couple hoping to become ADOPTIVE PARENTS. Expenses paid. Lisa 1-888-3248934 www.mileslisa.com

Autos DONATE YOUR VEHICLE Receive $1000 GROCERY COUPON. UNITED BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION. Free Mammograms, Breast Cancer Info www.ubcf.info FREE Towing, Tax Deductible, Non-Runners Accepted. 1- 877-632-GIFT Donate Your Car Civilian Veterans & Soldiers Help Support Our U.S. Military Troops 100% Volunteer Free same Day Towing.

Tax Deductible. Call and Donate Today! 1-800-404-3413

Business Opportunities $4500+/week. Immediate Cash Flow! Get Paid What you’re worth! Expanding Company thriving in this economy. 503-3892112 WealthGroupNetwork.com DO YOU EARN $800.00 IN A DAY? YOUR OWN LOCAL CANDY ROUTE 25 MACHINES AND CANDY ALL FOR

$9995.00 ALL MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED 877-9158222 Void in CT, MD, SC, VA, ME & NH PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 Weekly Mailing Brochures from home. Income is guaranteed! No experience required.

Enroll Today! www.homemailerprogram.net ALL CASH VENDING! Incredible Income Opportunity! Drink-Snack machines. Minimum $4K-$12K+ Investment Required. Excellent Quality Machines. We Can Save You $$$. 800-962-9189 Hygienitech Mattress Cleaning &Upholstery Cleaning/ Sanitizing Business. New “Green” Dry, Chemical-Free process removes bed bugs, dust mites, and harmful allergens. Big Profits/Small Investment. 1-888-999-9030 www.Hygienitech.com

Education & Training AIRLINES ARE HIRING- Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program.Financial aid if qualified- Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (877)818-0783 Attend College Online from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Computers, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available.

Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-488-0386 www.CenturaOnline.com

Employment Opportunities Local Data Entry/Typists needed immediately. $400 PT-$800 FT weekly. flexible schedule, work from own PC. 800-920-4851 ACTORS/MOVIE EXTRAS Needed Immediatelyfor upcoming roles $150-$300 per day depending on job requirements.

No experience, All looks needed.

1-800-951-3584 A-105. For casting times /locations: EARN $1000’s WEEKLY! Receive $12 for every envelope stuffed with our sales materials.

Free 24-hr. information. 1-800682-5439 code 10 Earn $1000 a Week processing our mail! FREE Supplies! Helping Home-Workers since 2001!

Genuine Opportunity! No experience required. Start Immediately! www.national-work.com Earn up to $150 per day Undercover Shoppers Needed to Judge Retail & Dining Establishments Experience Not Required Call Now 1-877-737-7565

Health & Fitness ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking!

Call 888-449-1321

Help Wanted Between High School and College? Over 18? Drop that

entry level position. Earn what you’re worth!!! Travel w/ Young Successful Business Group. Paid Training. Transportation, Lodging Provided. 1-877-646-5050.

ABLE TO TRAVEL National Company Hiring Sharp People. Able to Start Today. Transportation & Lodging Furnished. NO EXPERIENCE Necessary. Paid Training.

Over 18+ 970-640-7343

Home Improvement Let a top qualified contractor do your job right!! Fully licensed professionals. Set up your free in-home consultation today and ask about special offers! Call 1-800 Remodel featuring Sears!!

800-917-8602

Misc. For Sale New ADT customers ADT 24/7 Monitoring starting at just $37.99/ mo. Free Security Review. Call Now! 1-866-528-5002 promo code:34933 DIRECTV DEALS! FREE Movie Channels for 3 mos - starting at $34.99 for 24 mos -210+ Channels+FREE DIRECTV CINEMA plus, Free Installation! Limited time only. New Cust only. 1-866528-5002 promo code 34933 Send Flowers to your Valentine!

Starting at just $19.99. Go to www.proflowers.com/Cherish to receive an extra 20% off your order or Call 1-888-587-0771.

100% Guaranteed Omaha Steaks - SAVE 64% on the Family

Value Collection. NOW ONLY $49.99 Plus 3 FREE GIFTS & right-to-the-door delivery in a reusable cooler, ORDER Today.

1-888-702-4489 mention code 45069SVD or www.OmahaSteaks.com/family23

Miscellaneous HELP WANTED! Make $1000 a Week mailing brochures from home! Guaranteed Income!

FREE Supplies! No experience required. Start Immediately! www. homemailerprogram.net Wine of the Month Club. Send the gift of wine all year long! 2 Bottles each month from award-winning wineries around the world. Call 888-751-6215 and get FREE SHIPPING! 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 815 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466 or go to www. classifiedavenue.net

Real Estate ARIZONA BUILDING LOTS FULL ACRES AND MORE! Guaranteed Owner Financing No credit check $0 down - 0 interest Starting @ just $99/mo. Close to Tucson’s Intl. Airport Hear free recording at 800-631-8164 Code 4001 or visit www.sunsiteslandrush.com Own 20 Acres Only $129/mo. $13,900 Near Growing El Paso, Texas (safest city in America!)

Low down, no credit checks, owner financing. Free Map/ Pictures. 866-254-7755 www. sunsetranches.com

Timeshares SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE FOR CASH!!! Our Guaranteed Services will Sell/ Rent Your Unused Timeshare for CASH! Over $95 Million Dollars offered in 2010! www.sellatimeshare.com (800)640-6886

Travel Costa Rica 10 Days from $995.

All Inclusive Vacation Packages.

Free Brochure: Call 1-800-CARAVAN See all Tours Now: Visit www.Caravan.com

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.

15

CrossRoadsNews

February 5, 2011

MARKETPLACE RATES

FOR RENT/LEASE

Marketplace $14.56 hourly, 74 year old Company. Full - Part time, Training provided, (customer relations).

Stone Mountain & Lithonia Area.

678-221-1850. Rocky Jones.

$0 Move in if Qualified! 3 Bedroom 2 bath $795/month.

HUD Welcome! 5 minutes to school, Marta, I-20 & Panola Rd. $795 voucher or $2400 month income required. 770-306-8087.

770-905-5354

Tax Services

LANDSCAPE/LAWN CARE Lawnmax & Associates Leaf removal, Bobcat work, French drainages, concrete work, Wood Fence. 770-593-1382

HAIR CARE/SALON Licensed Hairstylist and Barber needed, Must have clientel.

Please Call 404-626-2212

REAL ESTATE

HELP WANTED

I buy houses. Any Condition/Any Area. 404-246-9975.

Drivers: Stability & Peace of Mind with Cypress Truck Lines! Year Round Freight! Great working Environment. Home Weekends!

1yr Tractor/Trailer exp. Req. 800545-1351 www.cypresstruck.com

Affordable Home Repairs/ Remodeling. Interior/Exterior Painting. Basement Remodeling.

Pressure Washing. Plumbing & Tile. Licensed & Insured. Free

transportation

Travel

SERVICES

Wood deliver. Will deliver 50 pieces of wood $35. Call Tim 770-484-4436 after 10:30 a.m.

Estimates. Call Derrick 678-4690071.

Money-Saving Tax Preparation • •

Mention this ad and receive 30% discount.

Receive additional discount if you are an active-duty military family or single parent • Refer a friend and receive $25 in cash • Bring your 2008 & 2009 returns and we will review them for any errors or refund denied or omitted.

• Bring any letter you received from the IRS and we will read and advise you accordingly. We saved Chris over $10,000 for letters he had received from the IRS. Henry has 17 years under his belt in the tax preparation business. He is an adjunct instructor of accounting at Atlanta Metro College. Henry is governed by one universal principle: Treat people as you would like them to treat you.

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.

Tax Services

BOBBY L. SCOTT, CPA LLC CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT Accounting • Taxes • Business Consultation Individuals • Corporations • Non-Profits IRS Representation

1316 Rockbridge Road, Suite L Stone Mountain, Ga. 30087 Over 30 Years Experience Member: AICPA & GSCPA

For Appointment Call (770) 638-1200 Office

Call Henry Mitchell, CPA at (678) 663-6229

(770) 638-1201 Fax E-Mail bls55@aol.com Bobby L. Scott, CEO

Spa / salon

COSTA 995 RICA $

Public notice

+ tax & fees

Roundtrip transportation to school, daycare, tutorials, field trips

10 Day Guided Tour

PARTIAL SCHOOL LISTING

Notice of Public Sale of Personal Property

Available at Caravan.com.

8 to 10 day guided tours of USA, Canada, Guatemala and Panama.

All Priced between $995 - $1,295.

Free 28 Page Brochure.

Since 1952

Leadership Academy Chapel Hill Middle Redan Middle DeKalb Academy Lithonia Middle Princeton Elem.

Champion Middle Murphey Candler Stephenson Middle Wynbrooke Elem.

Arabia Mountain Pine Ridge Elem.

DeKalb School of the Arts

(770) 374-7384

Call 1-800-CARAVAN

www.kiddykab.com

wedding services

1.875x2Suburban_CostaRica.indd 1

Georgia Self Storage Act (210-215)

Metro Self Storage

Notice is hereby given that the undersigned self storage units will be sold at a public sale by competitive bidding, in their entirety to the highest bidder, on or after February 23, 2011 to satisfy the lien of the Lessor, with Metro LLC as managing agent for Lessor, for rental and other charges due from the undersigned. The said property has been stored and is located at the respective address below. The sale will be held at the first of the following addresses, listed in order, and will begin at 9:30AM or after on said date and will continue hour by hour until all units are sold at each location.

Metro Self Storage: 6231 Hillandale Dr, Lithonia Ga. 30058 D414 - Shenell Sanders H978 - Keenan White C370 - Tamekia Lampley H993 - Timia Graham C317 - Carlton Allen G829 - Tikema Thompson C315 - Shonte Dulin G825 - Laquency S. Bounds B255 - Sherri Brown G804 - Elizabeth Epps A131 - Marvin Parkman Jr. F778 - Shenneta Hinds A126 - Wetonah M.P. Parkman F757 - Tara Warren A124 - Stephanie Rice F750 - Bobbie Martin A120 - Maita Green F741 - Frank Davis A117 - Carolyn Alvin E554 - John Davis A112 - Rhonda Lasha Gleaton F739 - Yolanda Arnold A103 - Edwina Paschal G851 - Monique Offutt

com 1/12/11 12:57:32 AM

Affordable Wedding Photography Weddings Start at $500 Hourly Rate for Special Events All s graph photo tured p a c are lly digita

Find Local Goods & Services

Contact Newburn Reynolds at

www.eastmetromarket.com

770-722-6096

Newburn.reynolds@gmail.com http://newburnreynolds.smugmug.com

*

Metro Self Storage: 5951 Covington Hwy, Decatur, GA 30035 D413 - Sherian Hayward I910 - Barbara Hill E505 - Anthony Millin I911 - Kimmy J. Jones E579 - Fawn Alston I937 - Roland L. Carter E595 - Kecia Sherelle Roney I939 - Carrie Ann Mouzon E609 - Denise Richard J124 - Kenneth David Jackson F627 - Caritas Card K1101 - Zodie Green F629 - Sarah M. Lay K1110 - Paula McMath F643 - Pavaline E. Gordon K1138 - Stephen Lomax F667 - Huglon Renard Mclaurin K1144 - Antwan Scruggs G727 - Richard Wilson L1240 - Robert Brown Metro Self Storage: 1491 N Hairston Rd, Stone Mountain Ga. 30083 1007 - Dan Contracting Co 8064 - Ila Ivery 2033 - Tiffany Christopher 8065 - Marie Childress 3011 - Aisha Walker 8101 - Daleshun Grier 3064 - Newton Green 8189 - Latoya Johnson 4008 - Ashley Coleman 9026 - Willie Garrett 6034 - Marquita Hudson 9034 - Laura Edwards 8005 - Valerie Charleston-Godfrey 9092 - Nicholas Martin 8015 - Terrance Beard 9097 - Lisa Salter 8017 - Shauntique Robinson 9102 - Marie Sylla 8053 - Patrice McDonald-Lundy The undersigned self storage units will be sold at a public sale by competitive bidding, in their entirety to the highest bidder, on or after February 25, 2011.

Metro Self Storage: 4268 Winters Chapel Rd. Doraville Ga. 30360 Unit A-104 - George Lockwood Unit B-152 - Cornetta Enterprises Unit A-118 - Saidah Daniels Unit B-165 - Bryce Farris Unit A-142 - Jose Oscar Urbina Unit C-116 - Clinton Ancrum Unit A-150 - Acess Fitness, LLC Unit C-140 - Fabio Buitrago Unit A-151 - Michael Moss Unit D-110 - Cornetta Enterprises Unit A-152 - Cornetta Enterprises Unit D-113 - George Lockwood Unit A-154E - Tenishala Orr Unit E-105F - Lidia Logan Unit B-106 - Heritage Fine Floors Unit E106 - Timothy J Goodwin Unit B-129 - Russ Darrow

* * Local Deals on Zip2Save

The contents consist of general household goods, furniture, boxes, mattresses and miscellaneous items. The terms of the sale will be cash only and must be paid for at the time of sale. All goods are sold as is. Metro Self Storage reserves the right to withdraw any or all units, partial or entire, from the sale at any time. All contents must be removed completely from the property within 48 hours or sooner.

If you’re reading this ad, your customers (and competitors) are, too!

Call 404-284-1888 for Advertising Rates & Information

16

CrossRoadsNews

we shape

February 5, 2011

together. today.

history.

The AT&T 28 Days Speaker Series is coming to Atlanta — hosted by Common, and featuring a special guest speaker. It’s happening at 7 p.m. on Monday, February 7th at the Atlanta Symphony Hall. Find out how to get your free tickets to this inspiring event at att.com/thebridge.

©2011 AT&T Intellectual Property. All rights reserved. AT&T, the AT&T logo and all other AT&T marks contained herein are trademarks of AT&T Intellectual Property and/or affiliated companies.