CrossRoadsNews, February 19, 2011 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

SCENE

WELLNESS

YOUTH

Ten child-size playhouses are awaiting paint and decorations as part of DeKalb Habitat for Humanity’s fundraising event. 8

The government has issued new dietary guidelines in an effort to rein in the nation’s burgeoning obesity epidemic. 10

The Stephenson Jaguars collected a $500 bonus from Comcast after the team’s game against Parkview scored the largest cable television audience. 12

Playhouses for Habitat

Battle against the bulge

February 19, 2011

Loyal fan base pays off

Volume 16, Number 43

www.crossroadsnews.com

Commissioners cut $33 million, eliminate tax increase By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Commissioners Lee May (center) and Elaine Boyer at left and Sharon Barnes Sutton speak about the budget Thursday.

“This will severely impact the level of service in this county,” he said. “These are significant cuts on top of the cuts that have already been imposed. Keep in mind that the Board of Commissioners budget has grown some 20 percent over the last three years, so while they impose the same 8.9 percent to themselves, that’s 8.9 percent after a 20 percent growth. All these other departments have already had to endure cuts along the way. We are talking about the sheriff, we are talking about the courts, we are talking about the jail system. We are talking about police. We are talking about fire. We are talking about senior services. We are talking about services that our people

Five days before it must approve the county’s 2011 budget, the DeKalb Board of Commissioners Budget Committee voted to slice $33.6 million from CEO Burrell Ellis proposed budget. Along with the six percent cut to Ellis’ proposed $563.3 million budget, the threemember Finance, Audit and Budget committee says the BOC will not raise taxes. District 5 Commissioner Lee May, who chairs the three-member committee, said Feb. 17 that the $530 million budget, which the committee is offering to the full board “We don’t want it be said that we are make some tough decisions right now.” for approval on Feb. 22, won’t disrupt the But CEO Burrell Ellis said the $33.6 milcounty and should not lead to any layoffs shutting down government, or cutting off services,” he said. “It is tough. We have to lion cuts will cost the county 800 jobs. or furloughs. Please see BUDGET, page 5

Porras Goes to Prison for Life He killed mother who didn’t want him dating daughter By Carla Parker

Luis A. Porras is going to prison for life for killing Lithonia mom Jameelah Qureshi because she would not let him date her teenage daughter. Porras shot the mother of four 13 times on Aug. 15, 2009, while she sat in her car in the driveway of her home. On Feb. 16, Superior Court Judge Clarence Seeliger sentenced him to life without parole, plus five years and restitution. After the sentencing, Erica Allen called Porras heartless for gunning down her 40-year-old cousin, who had just pulled into her driveway from work. Qureshi’s two younger daughters and her stepson discovered her nearly dead in her car. “He used two guns and shot them both at the same time,” she said. “For what? And still at the end of the day you don’t get the girl and you don’t even get life out of jail.” The sentencing followed the Feb. 15 guilty verdict handed down by a DeKalb jury. The jury, which heard 26 witnesses and viewed more than 130 exhibits, found Porras, 25, guilty of malice murder, two counts of felony murder, possession of a firearm during commission of a felony, and possession of a firearm by a first offender probationer. Qureshi was the fiancée of DeKalb County Police Sgt. D.A. Thomas. Prosecutors said Porras killed Qureshi because she forbade him from seeing her daughter, Amanda Qureshi. In 2005, Amanda, then 14 years old, began a sexual relationship with then 20-yearold Porras after meeting him on the Internet. Amanda finally ended the relationship in May 2009, three months before Porras killed

Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Luis Porras is led from the DeKalb Court after Judge Clarence Seeliger sentenced him for the 2009 murder of Jameelah Quresh in Lithonia.

Seeliger called the shooting “an execution.” “It was an execution that destroyed two families,” he said. “The Porras family, that now has a son that disgraced the entire family, and of course the Qureshi family lost a mother, a lover and a wife.” Seeliger said one of the guns used to kill Qureshi was a 40 Glock, the same type of weapon used to shoot U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Jameelah Qureshi Giffords and kill five other people, including her mother. a 9-year-old girl, on Jan. 8 in Tucson, Ariz. Amanda Dove, who is also charged in the “Thanks to the Second Amendment, the killing, testified at Porras’ trial. She goes on United States Supreme Court, the laws of the trial in March. state of Georgia, which are liberal when alBefore he handed down the sentence, lowing people to have guns, we have another

fatality,” he said. Porras did not show any emotions or remorse during the sentencing. His family did not speak after the sentencing but did express their condolences to the Qureshi family in a written letter. Allen said her heart goes out to Porras’ parents, but that she could not forgive him for killing her cousin, who was also like a sister to her. “I pray that one day I can truly forgive him,” she said. “But, today I don’t.”

Seized guns destroyed, page 3

Community

CrossRoadsNews

February 19, 2011

“We heard from the developer’s viewpoint and he painted it as rosy, but the residents have a lot of concerns.”

Community Council wants more discussion on plant By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Hold off for 60 days. That is the recommendation of the DeKalb District 5 Community Council on Green Energy Partners’ application to build a $60 million biomass gasification plant in Lithonia. George Turner, the council’s vice chairman, said it became clear during their Feb. 14 meeting at the Redan-Trotti Library that more discusGeorge Turner sion is needed. “We heard from the developer’s viewpoint and he painted it as rosy, but the residents have a lot of concerns,” Turner said. “We are recommending a full-cycle deferral to the Planning Commission and the Board of Commissioners.” The application will go to the DeKalb Planning Commission’s March 1 meeting and to the Board of Commissioners on March 22. At numerous community meetings since the summer, residents have been vocal in their opposition to the plant. They said enough is not known about the health risks and that if the plant was good for the community, the developers would not bring it their community. Lithonia resident Renee Cali said the Board of Commissioners needs to vote “no” on the project. “If it is something wonderful, don’t you think they would have one in Buckhead? We are not dummies. We don’t want it.” Turner said the Community Council is recommending a full-cycle deferral to give more opportunities for discussion. Turner said that Commissioner Lee May had a meeting on Feb. 7, but Commissioner Stan Watson has not yet scheduled a meeting and that he may want to hear from someone with a technical and scientific background. Watson said Thursday that he had not been asked to have a meeting and doesn’t plan one at this time. In its Jan. 5 application for a Special Land Use Permit and modification of the zoning condition, Green Energy Partners says the plant it is proposing on a 21.12-acre site at 1744 and 1770 Rogers Lake Road, just outside Lithonia’s city limits, will convert wood chips into green energy. This is the second location it has picked for the plant. The first, a 26-acre property on Bruce Street within the city of Lithonia, was rejected by the Lithonia City Council at its Dec. 6, 2010, meeting. The Rogers Lake Road property is zoned M-2 for heavy industrial and is across the

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Longtime Lithonia resident Barbara Lester (left) and Arlene Harper voice their opposition to Green Energy Partners’ plans to build a $60 million gasification plant in Lithonia.

“If it is something wonderful, don’t you think they would have one in Buckhead? We are not dummies. We don’t want it.” Renee Cali, Lithonia resident

street from the Rogers Lake Landfill. The Green Energy Partners, which is based in Marietta, has a 20-year contract with DeKalb County to collect and convert residential tree clippings and wood chips into electricity using a non-emission gasification technology. In its application, Green Energy says the 75-foot high, 60,000-square-foot plant will be completely enclosed and will operate round the clock seven days a week with approximately 25 employees. “We anticipate the facility to intake eight truckloads [240 tons] of wood chips per day and have the capacity to generate 10 megawatts of power,” Patrick Ejike, chief operating office of Aku-Bata Group LLC, which is managing the county application process for Green Energy, wrote in the letter to the county. Green Energy has said that it will take 100,000 tons of wood chips to generate 10 megawatts of electricity to power 7,000 homes.

It plans to sell the electricity to Georgia Power Co. and says the plant will generate $200,000 in revenues for DeKalb County government. During construction, it says the plant will create 100 jobs. Once it’s completed, the company says the plant will add $50 million to the county’s tax digest. Ejike, who is a former DeKalb County planning director who took early retirement last year, said the Rogers Lake Road site is ideal for the project. “It’s located within a heavy industrial area, located across the street from Rogers Lake Landfill, will not negatively impact traffic circulation, and has a well-defined truck route,” he said. He also said that the biomass process “is heavily regulated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.” “Operations of the proposed facility must meet the state of Georgia’s requirements in order to stay in business,” the letter said. But at a Feb. 7 meeting hosted by May, residents said the area is already overburdened with a landfill. Residents say they already battle stench from the landfill and they can’t have dogs and cats as pets. Steve Banks, who grew up near the plant’s proposed site, said his mother still

lives there. “Seems like every time something comes along, you all want to put it in Lithonia,” he said. “Why is that? My point is, do you all ever look at somewhere else to put it. We are really concerned about this. What’s so special about that area?” Banks, who is a minister at Big Miller Grove Baptist Church, said residents are at the meetings because they are really concerned about their kids, their neighbors. “We’ve been in this neighborhood all our lives,” he said. “That’s not fair to our community. Have you looked anywhere else?” Neville Anderson, Green Energy CEO, said he doesn’t understand why they should be looking elsewhere to locate the plant. “We are talking about a process that comes from your yard,” he said. “We have looked at no place else. That’s an industrial Neville Anderson site and we chose it.” Anderson said the residents are reading reports about incineration of municipal solid waste and not gasification of wood chips. He said gasification plants are being pushed by the Obama administration nationwide to generate renewable energy and that the plant will generate carbon and not ash. “I will tell you that you have not been comparing apples to apples,” he said. “You are more comparing apples to watermelon.” Longtime Lithonia resident Barbara Lester said residents have studied the proposal from one end to the other and can guarantee Anderson that they know everything about gasification plants and where they are located and what happens to them. “I told you when we started this that we had some concerns, and the more I hear your presentation the more concerns I have,” she said. Lester, a former Lithonia City Council member who has lived in Lithonia for 75 years, said that the area proposed for the plant was once owned by black farmers. “As they died out, their children inherited the land and they built homes there and they raised families and they are still out there. “So when you are talking about truck stops and landfills, these people are going through teetotal hell just to keep their heads above water. Then you are going to tell me about a plant that go burn wood, but there ain’t go be no fire. You are going to take the stuff that is already burnt and haul it off, but there ain’t go be no dust, so if nothing goes up you don’t have to expect nothing to come down. We just don’t buy into that.”

Best of East Metro / Small Business Expo April 30, 2011 at the Mall at Stonecrest Join us as we celebrate the best East Metro has to offer in the 2011 CrossRoadsNews Readers Choice Awards. Noon - 5 p.m. on the Mall’s Lower Level Marketing • Branding • Networking

Community

CrossRoadsNews

February 19, 2011

“We have entirely too many weapons in DeKalb County. With destroying these guns, we are making the streets safer,” said District Attorney Robert James.

DeKalb takes 200 seized firearms out of circulation for good By Carla Parker

daughter or a police officer.” James said some of the guns were Two hundred pistols, shotguns and purchased illegally off the streets by inassault rifles confiscated from criminals dividuals with criminal records. are now headed for the recycling bin. The AR-15, which can pierce a police DeKalb District Attorney Robert officer’s bulletproof vest, was used in a James displayed the guns for the media hostage situation in Clarkston in January on Feb. 17 before sending them to be 2008. Tajuan Gurvin fired the weapon recycled into scrap metal at the Newell outside the victims’ apartment, then enRobert James Recycling of Gwinnett in Doraville. tered it and held five people captive while He said DeKalb residents will be threatening to shoot them. He assaulted one of the “safer 200 times” with their permanent removal victims and fled from police. from circulation. Gurvin was caught a month later after a burJames said the guns were used in various felony glary and is now serving a 10-year sentence in crimes including robberies, kidnappings and as- prison. sault in DeKalb. James said he understood that criminals can Among the haul were AK-47s and AR-15s. still get other guns if they want but that these 200 “We have entirely too many weapons in DeKalb weapons would no longer be available. County,” James said. “With destroying these guns, “We believe we are lessening the opportunity we are making the streets safer. That is one less for bad people to do bad things with these guns,” weapon that could be used against a mother, a he said. Weapons confiscated from criminals will be recycled into scrap metal.

‘Black DeKalb’ summit to discuss quality of life Arts and Community Center in DeKalb elected officials, Decatur, said it’s the first time politicians, community leadthat this many key stakeholders ers and interested residents will be in one room discussing will discuss a range of issues the state of the county. that impact the county’s “We want people to really quality of life at the “State tell us what they think,” Watof Black DeKalb – How Far son said. “We are trying to get Have We Come?” summit people to talk to each other.” on Feb. 21. Stan Watson The 4-to-7 p.m. event is beBetween 100 and 150 stakeholders are expected at the ing held in recognition of Black History Month. event. It will feature a series of panels on Super District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson, who is hosting the event economic development, education, at the Porter Sanford III Performing health care, politics, religion and the

future of the county. “You will be able to listen to Gil Turman and Dr. Sandra Ford and a host of other people,” he said. He said the goal of the discussions is to inspire leaders and citizens to work together to raise awareness, generate community support, and collaborate on improving the lives of DeKalb residents. The Porter Sanford Center is at 3181 Rainbow Drive. For more information, contact Kelly LaJoie at klajoie@dekalbcountyga.gov or 404-371-3681.

Political party forum to address many issues Representatives from the Democratic, Republican, Libertarian and Tea parties are expected to gather under one roof at the Feb. 24 “Meet Your Party Forum” in Decatur. The event, hosted by the Hawks Law Firm, will discuss current issues facing the citizens locally, statewide and nationally. It takes place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Manual Maloof Auditorium, 1300 Commerce Drive in Decatur. Representatives have been invited from the Republican Party, Democratic Party, the Libertarian Party and the Tea Party. The organizations will give their positions. Organizers say it’s not a debate. Former state Sen. Steen Miles will moderate the forum. For more information, call 404-244-0538.

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

Forum

CrossRoadsNews

February 19, 2011

Will this new Family Dollar be selling different products than the others? Will they be on the cutting edge of new technology of dollar stores?

Funding plans should leave no community behind 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

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In my home state of South Carolina, Orangeburg County is home to a 5400-foot-runway airport, two Class A railroads, two interstates, eight U.S. highways, two universities, a technical college, 67 miles of shore along the state’s largest lake and more than 90,000 citizens. Orangeburg seems to have all that is necessary to be a strong and vibrant economic engine. The county, however, has a median income of $32,694 and is consistently ranked among the nation’s 10 poorest counties with a population greater than 65,000, ranking eighth based on 2008 data. When I was elected to Congress, I was told that in spite of the infrastructure enumerated above, Orangeburg and other counties along the I-26/I-95 corridor would always be drags on the state’s economy unless we solved their most pressing challenge: access to clean, safe, drinkable water. I immediately went to work to solve this problem. Today, because of good cooperation and planning by local officials and targeted congressional expenditures, in the Orangeburg town of Santee located on I-95, we have a state-of-the-art water plant with reaches into four surrounding counties. We have hope we can begin to turn the economic conditions around in these historically depressed communities, but further assistance is needed.

“This is not a partisan issue. In 2009, these counties were represented by 43 Democrats and 84 Republicans in the Congress.” U.S. Rep. James Clyburn (D-S.C.)

In the United States, there are 474 counties where 20 percent or more of the population have been living below the poverty line for the last 30 years. The counties are as diverse as our great nation; Appalachian communities in Kentucky and North Carolina, Native American communities in South Dakota and Alaska, Latino communities in Arizona and New Mexico, and African-American communities in Mississippi and South Carolina. They lack access to quality schools, affordable quality health care and adequate job opportunities. This is not a partisan issue. In 2009, these counties were represented by 43 Democrats and 84 Republicans. Democrats represented 149, with a total population of 8.8 million; Republicans 311, with a total population of 8.3 million; and 14, with a total population of 5. 3 million, were split between Republicans and Democrats. I represented seven such counties. When we drafted the Recovery Act, I fought to ensure that no communities were left behind. We all know that President Roosevelt’s

“New Deal,” which was credited with ending the Great Depression, was not a good deal for many of these persistent poverty counties. At my urging, the Recovery Act included a provision that directed at least 10 percent of Rural Development investments to communities where 20 percent or more of the population had lived below the poverty line for the last 30 years. I understand that my 10-20-30 amendment in the Recovery Act was responsible for funding 4,655 projects totaling nearly $1.7 billion in persistent poverty counties. I can speak of two counties in my district that benefited from this program. Construction began last year on 51 miles of water lines to the Brittons Neck, Centenary and Gresham communities of Marion County, S.C. These communities had tried for decades to replace their contaminated wells with a water system but could not afford the matching funds required by traditional federal programs. Through the 10-2030 program, the Marco Rural Water Co. received a $5.8 million grant and a $2 million loan to provide

clean, potable water to these communities for the first time. In Orangeburg, three water projects are being funded through the 10-20-30 program. One is a $5.6 million investment to bring potable water to a Global Logistics Triangle on I-95 at U.S. 301 that will be home to a Jafza logistics, industrial and distribution park. That public investment is leveraging an estimated $600 million to $700 million in private investments that may ultimately create up to 10,000 new jobs. I am urging Congress to include the 10-20-30 approach in future funding proposals and expand it to all federal agencies. It doesn’t require additional funding – only the stipulation that at least 10 percent of any agency’s appropriated programmatic funds be invested in 10-20-30 communities. We have been so heavily focused on easing the national unemployment rate that we have not given adequate attention to communities suffering from chronic distress and Depression-era levels of joblessness. They must be included in our efforts to get the nation on the right track. If we provide them the engines they have been lacking, they can join the rest of America to compete and “win the future.” James E. Clyburn of South Carolina is assistant Democratic leader in the House of Representatives.

South DeKalb doesn’t need more low-end retail stores With reference to the CrossRoadsNews article “Family Dollar project is unsuitable on so many levels” [Feb. 12, 2011], I absolutely agree with Ken Taylor. We do not need another Family Dollar in this area. There is a Dollar General right on the corner of I-20 and Wesley Chapel, not even one mile from the proposed site of this new Family Dollar; there is a Family Dollar in the shopping area at the intersection of Flat Shoals and Flakes Mill (where Flakes Mill turns into Wesley Chapel/Snapfinger) approximately two miles from this

proposed new Family Dollar; there is a Family Dollar on Flat Shoals by the Quik Trip Gas Station; there is a Dollar Tree in the Kroger Shopping Center on Snapfinger/Flakes Mill! My goodness! How many more “dollar stores” do we need? Will this new Family Dollar be selling different products than the others? Will they be on the cutting edge of new technology of dollar stores? The next businesses will be pawnshops and check cashing stores coupled with swap meets and package stores. Is that the only vision the officials in the development depart-

Quick Read

ment have for the African-American community? How about investing that money into the libraries that the county currently cannot open because of lack of funds, and therefore provide a learning environment where our children, young adults, adults and seniors can go? How about investing that money in some greenspace, parks, walking trails? Please, not another low-end retail store! Historically, only in the African-American communities do you find a profusion of these type businesses because we become so complacent about economic and

social issues in our communities and we are so forgiving and want to give everyone a chance. And that’s fine, but there is also a time to say “no.” Not another Wal-Mart, not another Family Dollar, not another Dollar General, and not another Dollar Tree. I, too, am willing to boycott and call upon everyone I know to boycott this venture. Thank you again, CrossRoads News, for bringing this to our attention. Hope to hear agreement from other members of the community. Rowena Cowans lives in Decatur.

Community Council wants more discussion on plant 2

Former state Labor chief joins law firm 6

Guidelines urge Americans to eat lean, green 10

Hold off for 60 days. That is the recommendation on Green Energy Partners’ application to build a $60 million biomass gasification plant in Lithonia.

Former Georgia labor commissioner and DeKalb resident Michael Thurmond is now a full-time lawyer again.

Americans’ passion for a diet high in fat, sugar and salt has come home to roost with the nation’s obesity epidemic.

Brown gets another term

Seminar offers lifestyle tips 11

DeKalb takes 200 seized firearms out of circulation 3 Two hundred confiscated weapons are headed for the recycling bin.

Economist to talk up cities 5 Renowned Harvard University economist Edward Glaeser will discuss his new book that touts city life at the Decatur Library. Circulation Audited By

Architect Robert L. Brown will serve five more years on the Georgia DOT Board.

Actors will share life of activism

Elisabeth and Afemo Omilami will speak at Clayton State University for the African American Studies Program’s “African-American Lecture Series.”

Baby boomers can get tips on staying mentally and physically healthy at a seminar at the Redan-Trotti Library in Lithonia.

School closings on Avondale’s meeting agenda 13 Residents can discuss the proposed closings of Avondale middle and high schools at a Feb. 25 town hall meeting.

index to advertisers Atlanta Oncology Associates......................... 10 ATM Constructors, Inc....................................15 Auto 285........................................................14 Bobby L. Scott & Associates...........................15 Caravan.com..................................................15 Cornerstone of Faith Church & Ministries......14 DeKalb Workforce Housing Initiative.............14 Events Effects.................................................15

Felicia V. Anderson CPA LLC...........................6 First Lithonia Medical Center, Inc...................15 Gibbs Garage.................................................14 Hands On Business........................................14 Johnny Harris CPA.........................................14 Just Decks.......................................................15 Kiddy Kompany.............................................15 Kool Smiles P.C.............................................. 11

Lakewood Property Inc...................................6 Love McNill Production.................................15 Macy’s......................................................... 7, 9 Malcolm Cunningham Auto Group............... 16 Mystery Valley Golf Club................................. 8 Newburn Reynolds Photography...................15 SCI Dignity Memorial......................................6

The Eye Care Studio....................................... 11 The Law Office of B.A. Thomas.....................14 The Samuel Group.........................................15 The Spa at Stonecrest....................................15 The Willie Gray Story.....................................14 Wells Fargo..................................................... 3 Wonderland Gardens................................... 10

CrossRoadsNews

February 19, 2011

Community

“We felt like that would be wasteful spending doing that and to turn around and close it.”

BOC to approve reduced down budget at its Feb. 22 meeting BUDGET,

from page

have said they want – libraries. All of these are going to be impacted by an additional 9 percent cuts on top of $100 million in cuts that we have already instituted.” May said the committee’s budget cuts 6 percent from Ellis proposed budget that was presented to them on Dec. 15 with a 2.32 mill increase. Among other things, the BOC is restoring $500,000 to keep open five recreation centers – Tobie Grant, Briarwood, Mason Mill, N.H. Scott and Lucious Sanders; $466,000 to keep the Cooperative Extension Service operating; and $436,000 to keep one of the Tax Commissioner’s two satellite offices open. May said the committee found it problematic to close the office at the Gallery at South DeKalb, which opened in December at an investment of more than $100,000. “We felt like that would be wasteful spending doing that and to turn around and close it,” he said. The budget committee is also proposing privatizing ambulance service at a savings of $4 million to $9 million; cutting most departments by 8.9 percent, and police, fire and sheriff departments by 4.5 percent. Police will be cut $5 million to $102 million. Last year, the Police Department spent $97 million. The Sheriff ’s Office, which is funded at $78 million in the CEO’s budget, will be cut by $3.4 million. Sheriff Thomas Brown said Thursday that he does not know where the cuts will be made but that he told the BOC that he wasn’t going to “holler Chicken Little” this year. Last month he returned $68,000 to the General Fund from his 2010 budget even after overspending his overtime budget by $1.5 million. Brown said that he also re-

turned $700,000 that was allocated to him at mid-year. “It turned out we didn’t need it,” he said. He said that he won’t know for sure what will happen until September. “I will keep the BOC informed as to how our spending patterns are trending,” he said. “But I will not be compromising employee safety or threatening the fundamental structure of the jail.” The BOC also wants to eliminate the office of the director of public safety, the CEO’s One DeKalb-Office of Neighborhood Empowerment, employee incentive programs, and the position of director of economic development. May said it costs $300,000 to operate the director of public safety’s office, which was created by Ellis in 2009 to consolidate administrative duties in the police and fire departments and get more officers on the street.

However, commissioners said they had not seen any increase in patrols and couldn’t justify keeping the position. Public Safety Director William “Wiz” Miller makes $150,000 to oversee police and fire operations and has a number of assistants. Lee said the BOC did not know the cost of operating the One DeKalb Office because it is being funded from a variety of cost centers. The committee also said it is not authorizing a director of economic development until a countywide strategy is approved. “As we are developing that strategy, it would be a bit premature to hire someone when that strategy is not in place,” he said. While the BOC is eliminating the property tax increase, the county’s small businesses will be tapped to fill some of the revenue shortfall. Its $530 million budget assumes $5 million in new revenue from business licences and package stores. Boyer said the finance

Economist to talk up cities in Decatur Glaeser is the Glimp ProfesRenowned Harvard University sor of Economics at Harvard economist Edward Glaeser will diswho studies the economics of cuss his new book that touts city life cities, segregation, crime and on Feb. 22 at the Decatur Library. innovation. He also serves as Glaeser’s “Triumph of the City: director of the Taubman Center How Our Greatest Invention Makes for State and Local Government Us Richer, Smarter, Greener, Healthand the Rappaport Institute for ier, and Happier” faces up to the bad Greater Boston. rap America’s cities get: that they’re The discussion begins at 7:15 dirty, poor, crime-ridden, expensive Edward Glaeser p.m. in the Decatur Library Auditorium, and environmentally unfriendly. He shatters these myths and demon- 215 Sycamore St. in Decatur. For information, call 404-370-8450, strates that cities are actually the healthiest, greenest and richest – in cultural and eco- Ext. 2225, or visit georgiacenterforthebook.org or dekalblibrary.org. nomic terms – places to live.

department estimates that 75 percent of the county’s small business would be called upon to pay an extra $50 more in taxes. May said the administration has the opportunity to come back at anytime with an amended budget that they see fit to move forward. The commissioners said they have had 10 budget hearings around the county and that residents have told them to sure make efficiencies are met before they bring a tax increase. Commissioner Elaine Boyer said the citizens are outraged that they would even think about a tax increase. “We just raised the water rates and to think that we would raise the property tax too is something they told us loud and clearly that they would not want us to do.” By law, the full board of commissioners must approve a balanced budget at its Feb. 22 deadline. It will set the millage rate in June.

Group collecting

blanket, warm clothes The nonprofit Dreams with Open Arms is bringing its “Warming up Atlanta” blanket collection drive to Decatur on Feb. 26. The group is collecting 500 blankets, jackets, scarves, gloves, and hats or money to assist adolescent mothers and fathers, ages 12 to 19. It will be at New Life International Family Church, 5349 Snapfinger Woods Drive in Lithonia, from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. Through Feb, 28, donors can also have donations picked up by contacting LeSean Tutt at dreamsfirstatl@gmail.com or warmingupatlanta@gmail.com or 404-981-8932.

2011 StreetBeat DanceOff Street Style • Urban • Hip

To enter, create a 3-minute dance routine choreographed to music. The contest takes place @ 1 p.m. on March 19, 2011 on the Main Stage during the Summer Camp Expo on the Lower Level at The Mall at Stonecrest. Team Registration

$50

(Summer Camp Expo Exhibitors get 1/2 Off the StreetBeat Entry Fee)

The winning team gets: • The StreetBeat Trophy • To open for the live appearance of Roshon Fagan, star of Disney Channel’s original series “Shake It Up,” on Saturday, April 2 at the Mall of Stonecrest. • The winning dance teacher will join the panel of Celebrity Judges for the 2012 competition.

Deadline to Register: March 1, 2011

(Limited Spaces Available. Enter Your Team Today!)

BRIN “A” GA G YOUR ME YOUR ! INVITE SUPPO FANS & R CHEER TERS TO YOU O N!

Name of Team: _____________________________________ Instructor’s Name: __________________________________ Instructor’s Address:_________________________________ City: _______________________ ZIP Code: _____________ Phone: ___________________________________________ Email_____________________________________________ To register, email streetbeat@crossroadsnews.com, call Jennifer at 404-284-1888, or fax this form to 404-284-5007

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

Funeral Facts Dwayne Green <*&*#J*&:-+#D3*2-)

Q. Why does one funeral home charge more than another for traditional services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®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wayne 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. *24Hour Compassion Helpline is provided by Charles Nechtem Assoc, Inc.

Finance

CrossRoadsNews

Former state Labor chief joins law firm Former Georgia labor commissioner and DeKalb resident Michael Thurmond is now a full-time lawyer again. Thurmond, who was the state’s labor commissioner for three terms, joined the Columbus-Atlanta law firm of Butler, Wooten & Fryhofer. Thurmond, who Michael Thurmond ran unsuccessfully against Saxby Chambliss for the U.S. Senate last year, is a former state legislator and university professor. Before his election to the General Assembly in 1986, Thurmond began his own law practice in 1979. At Butler, Wooten & Fryhofer, he will focus on serious personal injury cases, class-action suits, product liability and whistleblower claims. Thurmond said he is excited about his new job. “This is a great professional opportunity for me,” he said. “I’m delighted and pleased and excited about all the opportunities before me.” Noting Thurmond’s record of public service, Butler, Wooten & Fryhofer’s senior partner Jim Butler said Thurmond would be a tremendous asset to the firm. “We believe his decades of public service, legal acumen and communication skills make him uniquely qualified to advocate on behalf of our clients,” he said.

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February 19, 2011

“This is a great professional opportunity for me. I’m delighted and pleased and excited about all the opportunities before me.”

Brown gets another DOT Board term Architect Robert L. Brown will Decatur-based R.L. Brown and Asbe serving five more years on the sociates Inc., first joined the DepartGeorgia Department of Transporment of Transportation Board in tation Board. 2005 to fill the unexpired term of Brown was elected Feb. 9 to Brad Hubbert. another term as the 4th CongresHe was re-elected to his first full sional District representative. term in 2006. He said Georgia DOT is on Brown is active in the DeKalb the right track and has developed and Metro Atlanta chambers of a strategic plan that will guide the Robert Brown commerce and was honored with state for years to come. the Small Business of the Year Award by the “I am deeply honored to serve five more Metro Chamber. years as your Transportation Board member He also serves on the Agnes Scott College dealing with transportation needs in the 4th board of trustees and is the immediate past District as well as the state,” he said. chairman of the Georgia Partnership for Brown, who is president and CEO of Excellence in Education.

HOPE, state budget on agenda

Rahn Mayo

Residents of Georgia House districts 91, 92 and 93 can get more information about the state budget and the HOPE Scholarship at a Feb. 21 town hall meeting at Martin Luther King Jr. High School in Lithonia. House District 91 Rep. Rahn Mayo is hosting the 6:30-to-8 p.m. meeting. The school is at 3991 Snapfinger Road. For more information, e-mail Rep. Rahn Mayo at rahnmayo @gmail.com.

Offer advice instead of money Dear Dave, I have three stepchildren, the oldest of which is married and has a little baby. The only time we hear from him is when they want money. We don’t mind helping out once in a while, but his wife just seems lazy. She stays at home all the time and doesn’t help bring in anything. What can we do to fix this? – Cindy Dear Cindy, When your relationship with someone is based on you giving them money, then you don’t have a relationship. But there may be other reasons they aren’t calling very much. If you say things about his wife being lazy when you do talk, it probably makes them both angry. If this is the case, they may only call when they’re desperate enough to put up with your comments about her. Plus, taking care of a baby is one of the hardest full-time jobs around. The value or importance of what someone does isn’t always reflected in a paycheck. But I don’t think you should be giving them money all the time, either. You could try gently giving advice instead. Maybe they need to be on a budget or perhaps they should be spending less. Regardless, I’m always against perpetuating relationships that are based on handing out money! – Dave

Dad willing to help with debt Dear Dave, We have $21,000 in credit card debt and ongoing medical expenses for our specialneeds child. My husband works very hard but only makes about $25,000 a year, and we’re living in a 30-year-old trailer. My dad is willing to help us pay off some of the debt and get us moved into a house if we’ll get financial counseling. Is there a better way out of this situation? – Sheryl

Dear Sheryl, If you’re going to have to make payments to your dad, in other words, if the money is going to be a loan, don’t do it. The borrower is always slave to the lender.

But if you were my child and I wrote you a $21,000 check, I’d expect you to go into financial counseling and start saving money for your child’s future and for yours. That’s only reasonable. If you really want to ruin family events, have debt to your parents. It twists you up inside, and it’ll be especially hard on your husband. Now, if this is going to be a gift, and there are no expectations of repayment being made, that’s a little different. But if you were my child and I wrote you a $21,000 check, I’d expect you to go into financial counseling and start saving money for your child’s future and for yours. That’s only reasonable. You guys obviously aren’t wasteful yuppies spending money right and left, but having a family and raising kids in the Dallas-Fort Worth area on $25,000 a year is tough – even without the credit card bills you’re talking about. Another thing I’d advise is that your husband get on a five-year game plan to improve his earning potential. Sit down with him, hold hands, and let him know he can be anything he wants to be. Then, help him decide what he wants to be in five years, what he wants to be making five years down the road, and the steps he’s going to take educationally or in terms of training to achieve that goal. He’s a hard-working man, but today’s culture doesn’t reward hard work alone. You’ve got to engage the gray matter a little and boost your brain power, too. You make more money when you plan to make more money! – Dave

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February 19, 2011

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2/7/11 9:23:49 AM

Scene

CrossRoadsNews

February 19, 2011

“I believe our students will see how they can make a difference in the community and accomplish their career goals.”

Actors will share life of activism Elisabeth and Afemo Omilami will speak at Clayton State University for the African American Studies Program’s “African-American Lecture Series” on Feb. 22 in the James M. Baker University Center. Elisabeth Omilami The free event will be held in Room 272 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Elisabeth Omilami is the daughter of the late Hosea Williams, a civil rights activist and founder of the Hosea Feed the Hungry and Homeless campaign. She is also a stage and screen actress. Her husband, Afemo, who is also an actor, portrays the character Noble Ali in the film “Sankofa” and will appear in the play “Brokeology.”

Dr. LaJuan Simpson, associate professor and African American Studies coordinator, said the Omilamis will provide the Clayton State community with a view of social activism to which the students Afemo Omilami can identify. “I believe our students will see how they can make a difference in the community and accomplish their career goals,” she said. “Our students will see that community service or community outreach can affect others long past their own lifetime.” Clayton State University is at 2000 Clayton State Blvd. in Morrow. For more information, call 678-466-4463.

The female drumming and dance group Giwayen Mata will perform at the Black History Expo at Redan High in Stone Mountain on Feb. 26. There also will be soul food and a Children’s Village.

Artwork features Victorian flair Expo celebrates Black History For Corinne Workmaster, a dental knife, rag paper and glue get sher creative juices flowing. With those three things, the octogenarian creates three-dimensional sculptures she calls “Dimensional Drawings” from her studio in her apartment at Decatur Christian Towers. On Feb. 28, the work of the awardwinning artist will go on display at the Seen Gallery in Decatur. Fascinated by the ornate gingerbread details found on homes throughout the United States, Workmaster’s art includes houses, architectural details, and floral bouquets and gardens – all influenced by the Victorian period. Her artwork is already in numerous public and private collections including the Barnett Bank, Beckett Paper Co., Kettering Medical Center and Disney World. The Seen Gallery is at 415 Church St. For gallery hours and more informa- Corinne Workmaster creates sculptures tion, visit http://theseengallery.com or call of houses, architectural details, and floral bouquets and gardens from rag paper. 404-377-0733.

Writer to hold public conversation Doors will open at 4 p.m. The Salman Rushdie, author and auditorium is at 1652 N. Decatur Distinguished Writer in Residence Road. at Emory University, will particiRushdie also will introduce a pate in a public conversation on the public film series, “Great Works subject of his memoir, titled “Truth of Fiction Made Into Great and Memory,” on Feb. 27. Films.” The screenings on Feb. Rushdie will join Rosemary 21 and 28 and March 14 and 21 Magee, the university’s vice presiall start at 7:30 p.m. in Emory’s dent and secretary, for the talk in Salman Rushdie White Hall 208, 301 Dowman Emory’s Glenn Memorial AudiDrive. Admission is free. torium. For more information, visit www The free event, which begins at 5 p.m., will include a question-and-answer session. .emory.edu.

The achievements of African-American pioneers and the art and culture of people of African descent will be celebrated Feb. 26 at a Black History Expo at Redan High School in Stone Mountain. “It Takes a Whole Village to Celebrate Black History,” sponsored by AID Africa, Redan High and a host of organizations, begins at 11 a.m. and features soul food, entertainment and health information “villages.” Performers include Da Bomb Squad Dancers, I Am Motion Performing Arts

Group, the Redan High Honor Chorus, and the female drumming and dance group Giwayen Mata. There also will be a Children’s Village featuring arts and crafts and storytelling, a Health and Community Organization Village, a Historian/Cultural Village, and a Village Marketplace. Tickets are $3 per person; for advance tickets and more information, contact Connie Anam, AID Africa, at 678-357-2549 or aidafricacharity@gmail.com.

Book signing at Saint Philip AME Author LaShell Williams will sign copies of her new book, “Your Breakthrough on the Other Side,” on Feb. 20 at Saint Philip AME Church in Atlanta. The book signings will be held after the 7:45 a.m. and 11 a.m. services. “Your Breakthrough on the Other Side,” which is Williams’ second book, is a motivational and empowering book that includes a personal journal workbook and resources on career growth, family issues, education programs and more. It is available at www.amazon.com. Saint Philip AME Church is at 240 Candler Road S.E. in Atlanta. For more information, visit www.yourbreakthrough.org.

Playhouses benefit DeKalb Habitat Teams from 100 Black Women, Georgia Perimeter College, Shallowford Presbyterian Church, PepsiCo and Tucker High will customize 10 playhouses.

Ten playhouses, built Feb. 12 in DeKalb Habitat’s first-ever “Playhouse Framing Frenzy,” are now awaiting paint and decorations from their builders. The child-size houses, constructed by 40 supporters of affordable housing, are part of a fund-raising event for the nonprofit. During the construction frenzy in the parking lot at the Bargain Warehouse in Decatur, teams from the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Georgia Perimeter College, Shallowford Presbyterian Church, PepsiCo, and Tucker High School framed their playhouses. After four hours of hammering,

they took their houses to home base and are customizing and decorating them. John Shaffer, DeKalb Habitat’s executive director, says the real excitement now begins. “We look forward to seeing the imagination the teams put into their final product.” The completed houses will displayed in the Decatur Square and at Perimeter Mall for a week in April and auctioned off at the April 16 Golden Hammer Awards ceremony at the Holiday Inn in Decatur. Groups that would like to build a playhouse, purchase a finished house, or sponsor the event can visit www .dekalbhabitat.org or call 404-534-1611.

February 19, 2011

CrossRoadsNews

Macy’s Lenox Square Fashion Building Thursday, February 24th, 6pm On the 2nd Floor In honor of Black History Month, Macy’s celebrates fashion icon Eunice W. Johnson and her legendary EBONY FASHION FAIR®, the world’s largest traveling fashion show. Join in celebrating her courage, triumph and glamour, as Macy’s Lenox Square unlocks Eunice’s private archives and brings to life the spectacular couture and decades of designer looks from EBONY FASHION FAIR® in special exhibitions and fabulous FASHION FAIR® fetes. Head to the FASHION FAIR® cosmetics counter and bring your lips to life with a special collection designed for the LOVE of color. With any purchase of $50 or more of FASHION FAIR® cosmetics, you’ll receive a free fashion tote*. Visit macys.com/celebrate for details, event reservations and more information on this and other Black History Month events.

*While supplies last. Event subject to change or cancellation without notice.

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2/11/11 3:03:09 PM

Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

February 19, 2011

“The bottom line is that most Americans need to trim our waistlines to reduce the risk of developing diet-related chronic disease.”

New Dietary Guidelines urge Americans to eat lean, green Americans’ passion for a diet high in fat, sugar and salt has come home to roost with the nation’s obesity epidemic and high incidence of diabetes, heart disease and hypertension. To battle this malady, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services have revised the federal dietary guidelines to help the country make healthier eating choices. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans announced Jan. 31, the seventh edition, targets sodium and saturated fats in our diets and places stronger emphasis on reducing calorie consumption and increasing physical activity. The first edition was released in 1980, and the guidelines are updated every five years. The 2010 guidelines focus on balancing calories with physical activity and encourage Americans to consume more healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fat-free and low-fat dairy products, and seafood and to consume less sodium, saturated and trans fats, added sugars, and refined grains. They form the basis of nutrition education programs, federal nutrition assistance programs such as school meals and Meals on Wheels for seniors, and dietary advice provided by health professionals. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said that we can no longer ignore the obesity crisis in the country. “These new and improved dietary recommendations give individuals the information to make thoughtful choices of healthier foods in the right portions and to complement those choices with physical activity,” he said. “The bottom line is that most Americans need to trim our waistlines to reduce the risk of developing diet-related chronic disease. Improving our eating habits is not only good for every individual and family, but also for our country.” The guidelines recommend that adults 51 years and older, African-Americans and people with a history of hypertension, diabetes or kidney problems limit their daily salt intake to 1,500 milligrams, a little over a half a teaspoon. For everyone else, the daily recommendation remains at less than 2,300 mg, about one teaspoon. Processed, packaged and preprepared foods may have a higher sodium content. The guidelines also recommend that Americans consume less than 10 percent of their calories from saturated fatty acids by replacing them with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. They also should

Cutting salt and fat

The guidelines encourage us to eat more healthy foods like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, fatfree and low-fat dairy products, and seafood and to consume less sodium, fat and sugar.

The guidelines recommend that many adults limit daily salt intake to 1,500 milligrams, a little over a half a teaspoon.

limit their daily dietary cholesterol to 300 milligrams or less. People should reduce their intake of calories from solid fats and added sugars and cut down on foods that contain refined grains, especially refined grain foods that contain solid fats, added sugars, and sodium, according to the guidelines. Diet-related chronic diseases include car-

diovascular disease, hypertension, diabetes, cancer and osteoporosis. HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius said it is important for Americans to incorporate the guidelines into their everyday lives. “The new Dietary Guidelines provide concrete action steps to help people live healthier, more physically active and longer lives,” she said. The guidelines include 23 key recommendations for the general population and six additional key recommendations for specific population groups, such as pregnant women. To get the full benefit, officials say that all Americans should carry out the recommendations in their entirety. Differences include emphases on managing body weight through all life stages and on proper nutrition for children throughout. Also, research on eating patterns is incorporated for the first time, and the eating patterns presented now include vegetarian adaptations. The 2010 Dietary Guidelines can be found at www.dietaryguidelines.gov. For more information, visit www.health.gov /dietaryguidelines, www.healthfinder.gov /prevention and www.cdc.gov/healthy weight.

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines focus on balancing calories with physical activity. Here are some tips for balancing calories and improving nutrition: n Enjoy your food but eat less. n Avoid oversized portions. n Make half your plate fruits and vegetables. n Eat a variety of vegetables, especially dark-green and red and orange vegetables, and beans and peas. n Switch to fat-free or low-fat (1 percent) milk. Increase intake of fat-free or low-fat milk and milk products, such as yogurt and cheese, or fortified soy beverages. n Compare sodium in foods like soup, bread and frozen meals – and choose the foods with lower numbers. n Drink water instead of sugary drinks. n Consume less than 10 percent of calories from saturated fatty acids by replacing them with monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids. n Consume less than 300 mg per day of dietary cholesterol. n Limit foods containing trans fats, such as partially hydrogenated oils. Use oils to replace solid fats where possible. n Reduce solid fats and added sugars. n Eat more whole grains. n Eat more seafood, lean meat and poultry, eggs, beans and peas, soy products, and unsalted nuts and seeds. n Choose foods – vegetables, fruits, whole grains, milk and milk products – that provide more potassium, dietary fiber, calcium, and vitamin D. n For individuals 50 years and older, consume foods fortified with vitamin B12, such as fortified cereals, or dietary supplements. n If alcohol is consumed, it should be in moderation – one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men. n Adults should exercise a minimum of two hours and 30 minutes of moderateintensity aerobic activity a week, such as brisk walking, ballroom dancing or general gardening, and youth should be active for one hour each day. Sources: U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

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CrossRoadsNews

February 19, 2011

Wellness

This year the nonprofit community garden is broadening its offerings, which include exercise and nutrition programs.

Losing weight wisely program now registering Baby boomers Poor eating habits and lack of exercise are taking their toll on our community, and Wonderland Gardens in Decatur is offering a range of nutrition and exercise programs to help everyone from kids to seniors kick the fat and become more healthy. Deborah Summerville, the garden’s program coordinator, said their mission is to teach people to eat better. “We have the control,” she said. “We just need to change some things.” This year the nonprofit community garden, which is located next to the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center on Rainbow Drive, is broadening its offerings of programs. Along with its hugely popular Weight Off Wisely Factor program, it is offering a number of nutrition and exercise programs. The WOW Factor, which launched in February last year, targets adults and teens who are more than 50 pounds overweight. It educates participants to eat healthy and exercise regularly. So far it has helped 150 people lose more than 700 pounds. Beverly Robinson, the program’s biggest loser, dumped 66 pounds since last June. She said she went from a size 22 to a size 12. “I liken it to unzipping from a fat suit and stepping out,” she said Thursday. Robinson said she is not on a diet. “It’s been easy for me to lose the weigh,” she said. “They taught me the foods that are beneficial to me and the foods to avoid. I don’t eat the foods in the avoid category.” She said doctor is taking her off the high blood pressure medicine she has been on for 30 years and that her diabetes ins under control. “I feel great,” she said. Registration is now under way for the

seminar offers lifestyle tips

Wonderland Gardens’ hugely popular WOW Factor weight-loss program has helped 150 people lose more than 700 pounds.

Participant Beverly Robinson, who has lost 66 pounds in the program since last June, went from a size 22 to a size 12.

12-week WOW Factor program. It meets 6 to 8 p.m. on Mondays or Wednesdays for weigh-in, a blood pressure check, a one-hour workout with a fitness expert, a nutrition lesson and a healthy cooking demonstration. The other classes are Senior Nutrition, Nutrition 101, Nutrition 102, and a Boot Camp that condenses the Nutrition 101 class into a single six-hour session on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The nutrition classes run for six-week sessions and have weekly healthy food cokoking demonstrations. The Senior Nutrition, which meets 10 a.m. to noon on Fridays, also includes one-hour yoga class. Nutrition 101 meets on Tuesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. and Nutrition 102 meets Thursday from 6 to 8 p.m. Summerville says participants learn about the nutrients, vitamins and enzymes

Bill targets parasitic infections by the bill are spread by insects, A bipartisan bill to address such as Chagas’ disease or dengue the growing problem of parasitic fever. Others, such as toxocaridiseases – mostly in poor, minorasis and toxoplasmosis, are caused ity populations in distressed urban through contaminated animal areas, the rural South, and along feces, and still others thrive in soil, the U.S.-Mexico border and Apsuch as threadworms. palachia – is back in the U.S. House Hundreds of thousands of of Representatives through the efuninsured, mostly poor, minority forts of 4th District U.S. Rep. Hank Hank Johnson residents are infected and suffer Johnson. On Feb. 9, Johnson reintroduced the Ne- from heart disease, lung ailments, birth deglected Infections of Impoverished Ameri- fects, seizures, difficult pregnancies and child cans Act, which passed the House last year developmental problems as a result. If approved, the bill would require the but stalled in the Senate. Johnson said that it is his mission to give secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services to report to Congress annuvoice to people who have none. “I won’t stop until this bill, which deals ally on the impact of these diseases, address with a largely hidden burden of diseases that their threat and make funding recommendaburden poor – mostly minority – populations on how to eradicate them. For more information on the infections, tions, becomes law,” he said. Some of the parasitic infections targeted visit www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dpd.

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their bodies need and the best methods for preparing foods to retain those nutrients. All the sessions focus on eating foods that are grown seasonally, locally and organically. They also explore the food combinations that help or impede digestion and the roles of water, sunshine and exercise. This summer, Wonderland Gardens is offering summer nutrition boot camps for children. During the two-week camps, kids will plant vegetables, learn basic food preparation, and touch and taste food in its natural state. The camps will also include table etiquette and a sit-down dinner featuring recipes prepared by the children. Classes are limited to 25 people per session. For more information, visit www.wonder landgardens.net or call 404-680-1900.

Baby boomers can get tips on staying mentally and physically healthy at a Feb. 26 seminar at the Redan-Trotti Library in Lithonia. The 11 a.m.-to-noon event, hosted by AAboomers.com, also is offering free blood pressure screenings starting at 10:15 a.m. and presentations by Dr. Yvonne G. Hipps, CEO of Generations Connected, and Dr. LaWanda Cummings Lawson, a community psychologist focusing on African-American initiatives. Lois-Ann Clark, the publisher of AAboomers.com, said the seminar will cover topics like health and finances that are of interest to African-American baby boomers. “We will discuss remaining healthy and active, maintaining an active, vibrant lifestyle,” she said. Clark said that 9.1 million of the nation’s 78 million baby boomers – Americans born between 1946 and 1964 – are African-Americans, and that many of them are concerned about being able to stay in their homes as they grow older. “Aging in place means helping people to remain in their own homes as much as possible and remaining healthy,” she said. Seminar topics include “Health Is Wealth – Keep It,” “Believe – Receive – Achieve” and “Staying Connected – You Have the World at Your Fingertips.” The Redan-Trotti Library is at 1569 Wellborn Road. For more information, call 770-879-9954.

CrossRoadsNews

Youth

February 19, 2011

“Our core mission of education remains the same, but the people and the counties we serve have changed dramatically.”

DeKalb Tech weighs name, logo change DeKalb Technical College could have a new name before the end of the year. In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the college is launching a re-branding initiative that will likely change its name. Through Feb. 28, the Clarkston-based institution is seeking input from students, faculty and staff, and community leaders as the re-branding effort moves forward. Cory Thompson, DeKalb Technical College spokesman, said the market and the institution’s educational footprint have expanded since it opened in 1961. “It is time for that change to be reflected in our name,” he said. The re-branding of DeKalb Technical College will include a new logo and likely new school colors. Dr. Robin Hoffman, the school’s president, said that when DeKalb Area Vocational School opened in 1961, it was established to serve the occupational needs of the county at that time. “Now known as Robin Hoffman DeKalb Technical College, the community we now serve is infinitely more diverse in a myriad of ways,” Hoffman said. “Our core mission of education remains the same, but the people and the counties we serve have changed dramatically.” Hoffman said the school’s service delivery area has expanded to include not only DeKalb County, but also Rockdale, Newton and Morgan counties. The college has eight centers of learning in DeKalb, Newton, Rockdale and Morgan. The school currently has more than 4,000 students enrolled in diploma or degree programs and more than 9,000 in adult education classes. “We are exploring better ways to represent the changes that have and continue to take place in our institution and the communities we serve,” she said. “This includes a new name, a new logo and a new image that represents our everincreasing service area, communicates our commitment to educational quality and student success, and helps us build on our local reputation to one of being a progressive leader in education on a national level.” DeKalb Tech is partnering with marketing company Tillman-Allen-Greer in the college’s re-branding effort. A Web survey has been established by Tillman-AllenGreer to gather input from the community on a new name, look and logo. The public can provide input by going to www.dtcvision.com.

More than 20 DeKalb County students were among hundreds of middle and high school students participating in 4-H Day at the Georgia Capitol.

DeKalb 4-H’ers see government in action By Carla Parker

During 4-H Day at the Georgia State Capitol on Feb. 7, more than 20 DeKalb County 4-H students got to see the DeKalb legislative delegation in action. The middle and high school students sat in on a meeting of the House of Representatives, observed the DeKalb delegation working on bills that affect the county, met some of their state representatives, and toured the Capitol. The DeKalb students were among hundreds of 4-H’ers from across the state who visited the Capitol for the day. It was the third year that DeKalb had participated in 4-H Day at the Capitol, which was set up by Georgia state Sen. Emanuel Jones. When they stopped by, Joshua Drosh, a

Lithonia High School 11th-grader, said the DeKalb delegation was discussing a foreclosure bill and House Bill 277, which grants MARTA use of its capital reserves for three years. “It was an interesting meeting and I learned a lot about the bills,” he said. The DeKalb 4-H Youth Development Program services about 3,000 youth a year. Students learn life skills through hands-on experiences. They also get to participate in summer camps, judging events, community service and project achievement competitions. Lauren Thurmond, a Southwest DeKalb High senior, said the program brought her out of her shell and helped her to be more outspoken. “I used to be shy,” she said.

“Being in 4-H exposed me to larger environments and helped me not to be shy anymore.” Joshua said the DeKalb group also met with the DeKalb commissioners and DeKalb delegation. Every summer, 4-H students statewide participate in the Georgia 4-H Environmental Education Program and the Summer Camping Program at the Rock Eagle 4-H Center in Eatonton that includes competitive events, leadership conferences and rallies. “It’s a fun trip and you learn a lot,” Lauren said. There are 58 DeKalb County schools and community clubs that offer 4-H Clubs. For more information on DeKalb 4-H, call Marie Trice, 4-H coordinator, at 404298-4080.

Viewership pays off for Stephenson

Stephenson High and Parkview High shared a $1,000 prize from Comcast.

Stephenson High School was awarded $500 last month for scoring the biggest cable television audience during the 2010 high school football season. The Jaguars’ 21-14 overtime win over Gwinnett County’s Parkview High on Aug. 27 was viewed by more than 1,000 households. Comcast challenged metro Atlanta high schools featured on episodes of “GHSA On Demand” to rally their community to watch their team’s episode. The two schools featured in the episode share the $1,000 prize. Stephenson principal Brian Bolden was thrilled about the Jaguars’ Comcast win.

“It is a great pleasure to accept this prize from Comcast,” he said. “The money will be used as part of our new Hall of Fame project, which recognizes Stephenson High School students who excel in one of three categories: athletics, academics or the arts. I’d like to thank the friends and family of Stephenson High School for their continued support of our students.” “GHSA On Demand” spotlights Georgia High School Sports. The up-close and personal episodes showcase the teams, schools and fans and highlights all of the action. For more information, visit www.facebook.com /GHSAOnDemand.

Apply for Snorton scholarships

Clean Air art contest seeks entries

Graduating high school seniors and current college students have until March 3 to apply for up to $5,000 in Katherine Snorton scholarships. The scholarship fund, established in 2008 under the administration of the L.E.A.D. Foundation Inc., awards one $1,000 scholarship, two $750 scholarships, and five $500 scholarships to qualified undergraduate students who are attending a four-year college or university. Eligible applicants must live in metro Atlanta or attend an undergraduate institution within the state of Georgia. They also must plan to or are attending a four-year college

DeKalb students can use comic strips and video cameras to illustrate how pollution from vehicle emissions is harmful to the air we breathe for the “Do Your Share for Clean Air” contest. The Clean Air Campaign’s art contest, which is taking applications through April 15, is seeking entries that emphasize the positive impact that small actions, such as riding the bus to school or turning off an inactive car engine, can have on Georgia’s air quality. Elementary students compete in a comic strip contest, and middle and high school students compete in a video contest.

or university. The scholarship also is open to students enrolled in advanced degrees – master’s, doctorate, J.D., MBA, specialist, or other post-undergraduate degree at a Georgia institution. Applicants write a one-page cover letter saying why they should be considered for the scholarship and describe their course of study, community/civic activity or other related academic, professional and personal traits that qualify them to receive the scholarship. Applications can be downloaded from www.theleadfoundation.org/program news.html.

All winning entries will be featured on the Clean Air Campaign’s Web site, social media channels and printed materials. Donations will be made to the winner’s school science, environmental or art program. Submissions must be postmarked by April 15. A panel of judges will select first, second and third place along with any honorable mentions. Winners will be announced during Air Quality Awareness Week, May 2-6. The campaign works with schools to empower students and parents to take action for clean air within their school community. For more information, visit www.clean aircampaign.org.

February 19, 2011

Youth

CrossRoadsNews

“I just want to play basketball and win the biggest trophy,” said Tyreik Boyd, a Dribble, Dish & Swish national finalist.

Lithonia boy to compete before NBA AllStars in LA By Carla Parker

Seven-year-old Tyreik Boyd of Lithonia is going to L.A. to play ball. The Centennial Place Elementary School third-grader is one of 12 boys and girls who will compete Feb. 19 in the NBA Fit/WNBA Fit Dribble, Dish & Swish national finals at the Staples Center in Los Angeles. The competition, which takes place during the 2011 NBA All-Star Weekend, features the top two participants from each age/ gender for NBA divisions nationwide. More than 40,000 competed. The boys and girls who make up the 12 finalists are 7 to 12 years old. They got the best scores in the time-based obstacle course. Tyreik says he is excited about making the finals. “I just want to play basketball and win the biggest trophy,” he said. Fit participants competed on a basketball skills course between September and November. Tyreik competed in the local Dribble, Dish & Swish competition at the South DeKalb YMCA in November and the regionals at Philips Arena in December. At the finals, he will be one of two competitors in the boys ages 7-8 division. He said he can’t wait to tour Los Angeles and meet his favorite player, Utah Jazz point guard Darron Williams, who made the AllStar team. During his trip out West, Tyreik and other finalists will be recognized at an awards luncheon hosted by NBA legend Bob Lanier and during NBA All-Star Saturday Night. Winners of the competition will get a trophy and will be a ball boy or ball girl at the

Tyreik Boyd, shown at the regionals at Philips Arena in December, will compete in the NBA Fit/WNBA Fit Dribble, Dish & Swish finals in Los Angeles over the weekend.

Feb. 20 All-Star game that will be televised nationally. Tyreik’s parents, Lajaun Boyd and Tamela Brown, said their son took to the sport from the first time he held a basketball at 9 months old. “He put the ball over his head and just threw it into the little basketball goal,” his dad said. “We were looking at each like, ‘How did he know what to do with the ball?’” His mother said he just had a great handle on the ball. “He was born with this talent,” she said. At 18 months, Tyreik was taught how to dribble a basketball by his father. By age 2,

he was dribbling two balls at the same time. When he was 5, he joined J.A.B. Step Inc., a Tucker-based program that has a basketball school. J.A.B.’s co-founder and operations director Duwand Jackson said Tyreik was very talented before he joined the program but that his skills set increased in the two years he has been with them. He said he encouraged Tyreik to try out for the Dribble, Dish & Swish competition and believes he has a great chance of winning the L.A. finals. “He has been practicing a lot and working hard. We’re very proud of him.”

School closings on Avondale’s meeting agenda Parents, students and residents can discuss the proposed closings of Avondale middle and high schools at a Feb. 25 town hall meeting in the Avondale High School cafeteria in Avondale Estates. DeKalb School Board members Sarah Copelin-Wood and Donna Edler are hosting the meeting to explain the options facing the School Board as it works to meet a projected budget shortfall. The board members will listen to public comments on the redistricting and consolidation plan presented to the Board of Education by interim School Superintendent Ramona Tyson on Feb. 7. Tyson is proposing to close Avondale Middle, Avondale High and six other schools in DeKalb. Portions of the high school will remain open as the DeKalb School of the Arts. Future use of the high school would be evaluated in the school system’s 2020 plan update. Tyson also is recommending changing the attendance areas for Avondale Elementary to increase its enrollment by 132 students. The elementary school currently has 461 students. Avondale High School is at 1192 Clarendon Road in Avondale Estates. For more information, call Sarah CopelinWood at 404-371-1490 or Donna Edler at 404-394-1238.

CrossRoadsNews

February 19, 2011

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