CrossRoadsNews, February 21, 2015 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

COMMUNITY

WELLNESS

Defending disabilities

Ode to cultural icon

Now that the plan for a scaled-down City of Stonecrest has passed the viability test, questions linger over whether it’s a good thing. 3

Advocates for Georgians with disabilities will converge on the State Capitol for the 17th annual observance of Disability Day on March 5. 6

“Get on Up,” the movie that tells the story of ground-breaking superstar James Brown, will be screened at the Salem-Panola Library. 8

Debate in high gear

BLACK HISTORY

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

February 21, 2015

Volume 20, Number 43

www.crossroadsnews.com

Jump up and dance, Carnival is coming to Decatur By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Thousands of costumed natives of Trinidad and other Caribbean islands and masquerade bands will parade on May 23 in the first adult Carniva in DeKalb County.

The 1.4-mile parade will take place 1 to 3:30 p.m. on May 23 featuring masquerade bands like Bacchanalist, Classi Wave, Dynamic Images, Inferno and Island Fuzion. It will dance off from the parking lot of the vacant Mama’s PrimeTime building on Covington Highway near the intersection with Redan Road and terminate at the Kensington MARTA station where a Festival Village will be located. Groups have sponsored children carnivals in Stone Mountain, Lithonia and Decatur in the past, but this is the first time that adults will parade in the county.

Big, colorful, bodacious costumes and pulsating soca music will have people jumping along Covington Highway in Decatur in May with the first production of Carnival in DeKalb County. DeKalb Police approved the parade permit on Feb. 13 for Atlanta Carnival Bandleaders Council’s parade of thousands of costumed natives of Trinidad and other islands of the Caribbean. Charles Baker, ACBC president, said Tuesday that the council is happy to finally get the permit it had applied for in October 2014. Please see CARNIVAL, page 2

Ross makes history on Atlanta federal bench U.S. District Judge Eleanor Ross is helped into her new federal district court robe on Feb. 13 by her husband, Brian Ross, and daughters Briana and Leeann.

She is first African American woman judge seated By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

The Northern District of Georgia’s first African-American female judge got her robe on Feb. 13. U.S. District Judge Eleanor Ross, who lives in Lithonia, was helped into her new robe by her husband, attorney Brian Ross, and her daughters Briana and Leeann at her investiture ceremony at the Richard B. Russell Federal Building in Atlanta. The poignant ceremony included music from the Chapel Hill Middle School Symphonic Band and tears of joy from Ross. Ross, who was a DeKalb State Court judge for five years, was nominated for the lifetime position by President Barack Obama in December 2013. Before joining the DeKalb bench, she spent 15 years as a prosecutor at both the federal and state levels. She was an assistant district attorney with the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office, an assistant U.S. attorney in the Northern District of Georgia, and a DeKalb County assistant solicitor general. The U.S. Senate unanimously confirmed her nomination on Nov. 18 with a 100-0 vote. When U.S. District Chief Judge Thomas Thrash Jr. administered the oath to her, he said it was the same oath that judges have taken since 1700. Ross fills one of three seats that have been vacant in the Northern District since January 2013. She joins a 16-member bench of active and senior judges that includes three other female judges and two African-American male judges. There are 10 active judges, including Ross, and six senior judges. Of the active judges, including Ross, three are women and three are African-

Americans. In her remarks after the oath and robing, Ross said that her appointment as the first African-American woman and her nomination by the nation’s first African-American president are of great significance to her, but that those factors do not define her. “I am not a judge just for African-Americans,” she said. “Nor am I judge just for women, nor am I judge just for Democrats or Republicans. I am a judge for all people. But if my making history serves as a source of inspiration or a beacon of honor for anyone, that is a badge of honor that I proudly carry.” Ross said it was important to her to include the Chapel Hill Symphonic Band in her investiture ceremony because she sees herself in the students in the band.

“I wonder what it is they see when they look at themselves in the mirror,” she said. “I hope that you see, like I saw when I was your age, a world of limitless possibilities and endless opportunities just waiting to be pursued by you. And I hope that you see a world in which you are encouraged, despite the often discouraging depictions and stereotypes of young people that we often see. “And I hope you all see the need to get to know different people who don’t look like you or come from where you are from, and I hope that you see the need to let people get to know you and your full potential and all you can do.” Ross said she hopes the students see more than a federal judge when they look at her. “I hope they see someone who is a concerned mother, community worker,” she said.

“I hope they see someone who does not come from a wealthy family and never attended prestigious or private schools, but someone who worked hard, strived to treat everyone with respect, and endeavored to act with integrity. That’s what I hope they see.” Ross told the audience that included her mother, who raised her and her two siblings when her father died of cancer when she was 8 years old; former colleagues from DeKalb and Fulton counties; and a host of judges that she will pour her heart, soul, mind and body into being the very best district judge that she can be. “I will not be perfect,” she said. “I will not know it all, but I will not stop striving to be the best judge that I can be. On that you have my word. On that you have my firm commitment.”

CrossRoadsNews

Community

February 21, 2015

“She was a smart and attractive young lady that many people loved and looked up to.”

2014 SWD grad dies unexpectedly at University of Oregon By Ken Watts

Lauren Jones, who graduated from Southwest DeKalb in 2014 and was a freshman at the University of Oregon, has died. Jones, a popular member of Oregon’s acrobatics and tumbling team, passed away “unexpectedly” on Feb. 17 after seeking medical attention on the Eugene, Ore., campus, said a letter from the university’s athletics department to students. Health officials are investigating whether Jones died of a bacterial meningococcemia infection. Athletics director Rob Mullens said it “is a heartbreaking situation for our community.” “We have identified that one of the potential causes for her death – which has not been confirmed – may be meningococcemia,” he said. Acrobatics and tumbling head coach Chelsea Shaw called Jones’ death a terrible and sudden loss for the whole Oregon community as well as the team family. “Lauren was such a positive and bright spirit every day, and her smile was contagious,” Shaw said. “She will be greatly missed and our prayers and deepest condolences go out to her whole family, friends, previous teammates and anyone else who had the opportunity to know Lauren.” At Southwest DeKalb, Jones was an honor roll student, member of the band, and captain of competitive cheer squad and the varsity gymnastics team, and she was named the most valuable player her senior season. Jones was the daughter of Dorian Sanders and Fred Jones, a SWD alum who played wide receiver for the Kansas City Chiefs. In April 2014, she signed a four-year, $97,000 scholarship to Oregon, a three-time national gymnastic champion. She and her mother were very excited. Wearing an Oregon baseball cap, she and her mother gave thumbs up in a photo published in CrossRoadsNews.

In April 2014, Lauren Jones wearing an Oregon baseball cap joins her mother, Dorian Sanders, in a thumbs up after inking a fouryear, $97,000 scholarship. She died Tuesday on the Eugene, Ore., campus.

Southwest DeKalb gymnastics coach Kathleen Walton, who knew Jones since she was a child, said Wednesday that she was a leader in the gym and the class. “She was the teammate that would push you, even if you didn’t want to do anymore,” Walton told WSB-TV. “She’d be the type that would say, ‘Come on. One more time.’” Walton said Jones also pushed herself. She took that determined spirit to college with her. On Tuesday, the day she died, she went to practice even though she wasn’t feeling well. Walton said it’s hard to fathom a world without Jones. “It just doesn’t seem real to me,” she said. Ernest Brown, a family friend, said Jones’

mother and stepfather, Pedi Sanders, left for Eugene on Wednesday. Funeral arrangements were incomplete at press time on Thursday. Brown’s daughter, Nettie, and Jones were best friends since elementary school at Browns Mill. “They spent a lot of time over the Christmas break together at our house,” Brown said. “My daughter and Lauren kidded with one another as to who would be the maid, then matron of honor at their weddings. They were true BFFs.” He said Jones had a smile that could light up a room. “She was a smart and attractive young lady that many people loved and looked up to,” Brown said. “Her spirit will live with us

forever.” Meningococcemia is caused by the neisseria meningitides bacteria, the same bacteria that can cause meningitis, an infection of the brain and spinal cord. It remains in the blood causing minor symptoms at first, including fever, headache and nausea. More serious symptoms include blood clots, bleeding under the skin and shock. The disease is spread from person to person when someone infected with the bacteria sneezes or coughs. Lane County, Ore., Health and Human Services is working to establish cause of death. Initial autopsy results were inconclusive. A representative said if the cause turns out to be meningitis or meningococcemia, public health will work with the university to identify and notify additional contacts.

Carnival in Decatur offers exposure, and cultural and tourism benefits CARNIVAL,

from page

Baker said it is fitting that an adult Carnival is finally coming to DeKalb County after 27 years of Carnival in the city of Atlanta. “Most of us live in DeKalb County,” he said. “We work here. We have businesses here. We go to church here. We are part and parcel of this community.” DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson, who represents Super District 7 where the Carnival will take place, said it is a good thing for DeKalb. “It’s a great thing to embrace all the cultures in the county,” said Watson, who hosts an annual international festival. “There are 142 different languages that are spoken in DeKalb County. There is a huge Caribbean population in the county. Once established,

the Carnival could bring thousands of tourists to the county.” Clarence Boone, a DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau sales manager, said the bureau plans to include the Carnival as an attraction on its Discover DeKalb calendar of things to do in the county. “It will be a tremendous help in giving us exposure,” said Boone, who works with corporations, associations and religious and government markets on meetings and conferences. “It will be of great benefit to businesses, restaurants and the cultural aspects of the county.” Baker’s bandleaders group broke off two years ago from the Atlanta Caribbean Carnival Bandleaders Association that has hosted a West Indian-style Carnival in downtown Atlanta since 1988. That group bills its 27th

annual Carnival, also taking place on May 23, as “the official Atlanta Caribbean Carnival.” Baker said his group chose Covington Highway in Decatur for its parade so that band members and spectators could use MARTA to get to the event. Caribbean Carnival traces its roots to Italy when several hundred years ago Catholics there began a costume festival before the first day of Lent when they were forbidden to eat meat. They called their festival carnevale – which means “to put away the meat.” From Italy, carnevale spread to France, Spain and other Catholic countries in Europe and was brought to the Caribbean when Europeans discovered “the New World.” By the early 19th century, the 6 million slaves brought to the Caribbean had put their stamp on the festival with their tradition of

parading through villages in costumes and masks and decorating their costumes and masks with items like bones, grasses, beads, feathers, shells and fabric. In DeKalb, Baker said the 13 to 15 bands have more than 2,000 participants. Hundreds more will line the street to watch. The Festival Village, which opens 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., features food and arts and crafts vendors and calypso and reggae artists. Baker said some performers will come straight from Trinidad where they vied in calypso competition. Trinidad’s Carnival got under way Feb. 15. The parade is free to attend, but there will be a cover charge for entering the Festival Village. For vending and more information, visit http://atlantacarnivalbc.com.

Show Your PRIDE, South DeKalb! R Don’t Litter R Mow, Trim & Paint R Clean to the Curb A PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE FROM CROSSROADSNEWS

February 21, 2015

Community

CrossRoadsNews

“Do you think they’re going to let us have those services for the same price if we become a city? They will charge us more for them.”

Smaller city of Stonecrest gets nod from Vinson Institute By Ken Watts

A smaller proposed City of Stonecrest is feasible, a study by the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government finds. The study released last week said the proposed 29-square-mile city of 50,000 people would have enough revenue to support itself. Based on 2013 revenues, the CVI estimates that the proposed Stonecrest City would have annual revenues of $9,848,152 and annual operating expenses of $7,910,218. The news re-energized the Stonecrest City Alliance that has been organizing a new city for the area in unincorporated Lithonia. Its first proposal for a 60-square-mile city of 82,000 people did not make the cut in 2013. That city would have generated $31 million annually, but its operations would have cost $45.4 million. Jason Lary, the group’s president, said Monday that they will seek approval from the Georgia Legislature for a referendum on the proposed city. “We’re one step closer to self-governance,” he said. Lawmakers require a positive feasibility report before moving forward with cityhood legislation in the House and Senate. If legislators approve, Jason Lary the referendum could take place in November 2015. Questions posed by residents at a Feb. 17 community meeting at the Stonecrest Library suggest that organizers may have a bit more work to do to win the hearts and minds of people living in the targeted area. Many of the 60 residents who attended had pointed questions for Lary and the alliance’s finance manager, Joel Thibodeaux, about how the proposed city would avoid a property tax increase. Beth Abbott, who said she has lived in unincorporated Lithonia since 1960, was concerned about the impact on seniors. “How is this change [from unincorporated DeKalb to a city] going to affect our property taxes?” she asked. “We have homestead exemptions on our property. Will you continue that?”

Dr. Barbara Lee was one of the residents speaking at a Feb. 17 community meeting on the proposed city.

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

Thibodeaux said seniors would keep their exemptions. “Exemptions don’t change,” he said. “Exemptions are a state law. A county or a city cannot take that away.” Abbott wanted to Joel Thibodeaux know whether there would be a spike in the cost of services currently delivered by DeKalb. “We have water, sewerage, police, 911, and fire from the county. Do you think they’re going to let us have those services for the same price if we become a city?” Abbott asked. “They will charge us more for them.” Lary said the same line items with the same prices will remain on residents’ tax bill. Abbott shook her head in disbelief. Thibodeaux quoted the Vinson Institute study, which said “police special district tax, the fire service district tax, assessments for Grady Hospital, and any existing unincorporated or countywide bonded indebtedness will remain just as they are now.” The smaller city would provide code en-

forcement, parks, and planning and zoning. It would purchase police and other emergency services from the county. Lary and Thibodeaux believe a small government would succeed in rebranding the area and attract more economic development. Charles Peagler, president of the Kings Ridge Homeowners Association, wanted to know why new businesses would locate in the area. Lary said it would have an abundance of available land and commercial real estate. “All along the Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road corridor, for example, is space for manufacturing and distribution facilities within easy access of I-20,” he said. “That’s a mostly untapped resource.” Robert Dotson III of Lithonia said attracting substantial business to the area would be a tough sell. “Businesses say they can’t find a readily available work force here that has the skills needed to fill the kind of jobs that they would create,” he said. Thibodeaux said job growth is a matter of branding. “We need to let investors know that we

have an educated work force here,” he said. “They work in other parts of the metro. They work in Alpharetta, Marietta or North Gwinnett, but they live here and have a higher per capita education level than some other parts of DeKalb.” DeKalb NAACP President John Evans said he supports the cityhood effort because if it succeeds, it could help dispel the air of futility that hangs over South DeKalb. Stonecrest is one of four proposed cities seeking to form in the county this year. The others are Greenhaven in South DeKalb and LaVista Hills and Tucker in Central DeKalb. Michelle Harrington, an alliance board member, asked residents to reserve judgment. “Let the process run its course and don’t make up your mind about this until you’ve considered all the facts,” she said. Rep. Dar’shun Kendrick (D-Lithonia) and Sen. Ron Ramsey (D-Lithonia) are sponsoring the Stonecrest legislation in the House and Senate. Ramsey, who attended the meeting, said they were finalizing the language and hoped to file the bills by Feb. 20 or Feb. 23.

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Graphic Design Curtis Parker Assistant Editor Brenda Yarbrough Advertising Sales Kathy E. Warner Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Circulation Manager Jami Ffrench-Parker CrossRoadsNews is published every Saturday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsN ews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Advertisements are published upon the representation that the advertiser is authorized to publish the submitted material. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless from and against any loss or expenses resulting from any disputes or legal claims based upon the contents or subject matter of such advertisments, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.

CrossRoadsNews

February 21, 2015

“Incidentally, all people are African – anthropologically speaking, all humans alive today are progeny of that one motherland.”

Sadly, domestic violence is an epidemic By Sherry Boston

In a world full of headlines about adult domestic violence, it is no wonder that dating violence impacts our teenagers. If our kids do not see it at home or experience it firsthand among their peers, they hear about cases like NFL player Ray Rice knocking his future wife unconscious on an elevator. Despite all the outrage we express about such situations, many teens get the idea that this type of behavior is normal. Sadly, domestic violence is an epidemic in our culture. In its most recent domestic violence report, the Washington-based Violence Policy Center ranked Georgia ninth in the nation for the number of women killed by men. According to loveisrespect.org, one in three teens will experience some type of dating violence – whether it is physical, sexual, verbal or emotional. As your DeKalb County solicitor general and the mother of two young daughters, I find this

“It is also important to be aware that the most dangerous time in these relationships often comes when a victim tries to break up with the offender.” Sherry Boston

unacceptable. We must do more to protect our teens. Last year, my office prosecuted 27 cases of misdemeanor teenage dating violence. Two of those involved strangulation, one involved statutory rape and two involved knives. We believe there were many more cases that were not reported and that too many teens and parents make the mistake of believing “it can’t happen to me.” Unless we intervene, tragic consequences are often the outcome. So, what can you do to help? Watch for the warning signs, speak up if you see someone being abused and never hesitate to seek assistance. Warning signs for teens

may include a partner’s extreme jealousy, constant criticism, telling them what to do, efforts to isolate them, pressuring them to send inappropriate photos or engage in sexual activity, monitoring their cell phones or email without permission, an explosive temper and/ or any physical harm. Since teens may not speak up, parents should watch out for changes in their teens’ behavior, avoiding friends and family, falling grades and/or dropping out of activities. Violence tends to escalate in abusive relationships, no matter what apologies and promises are made to the victim. It is also important to be aware that the most

dangerous time in these relationships often comes when a victim tries to break up with the offender. If you are in danger, our Special Victims Unit can connect you with community resources and help you develop a safety plan for leaving an abusive relationship. This February during National Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, please help us spread the word about preventing dating violence. My goal is to stop abuse at the misdemeanor level before our teens become the victims of more serious felony abuse and before they choose to stay with their abusers long term. Unfortunately, we see many cases of domestic violence where the couples started their relationships as teenagers. If someone you know is a victim, always call 911 if there is immediate danger. If there is not immediate danger, please call the Love Is Respect Helpline at 1-866331-9474 (8453 TTY) or text “love is” to 77054. Sherry Boston is DeKalb solicitor general.

African-American moniker does not describe who I am By Lawrence D. House

Whenever I hear the phrase “African-American” used, I feel a minor irritation, and I am not alone – many friends and associates have also expressed similar annoyance. This didn’t happen when first I heard it used, but since then it’s been applied ad nauseam as an identifier to Americans who are traditionally known as “blacks.” I cannot watch any TV news program whereby that reference is not applied to a non-white American exceptionally. I see its use as divisive and exclusive. Indeed, one could argue that the same could be said for any of the other terms used to reference black Americans, but at least the identifier as “black” stands clearly in contrast for who and what we have had to deal with for most our history as Americans. Indeed, we have been tagged before (excluding disparaging epithets), but unlike the label AfricanAmerican, “Black American” connects us directly with our history uninterrupted since this country was founded – even before slavery. Incidentally, all people are African – anthropologically speaking, all humans alive today are progeny of that one motherland. Fact, there is not one human being living in any part of this world who does not carry the gene of African: There are no “hybrid humans” – our species are one and has been for hundreds of thousands of millennia. This fact alone undermines the significance of race and points out an ambiguity: How might you de-

“ I see it as a type of cultural revisionism – Black Americans lived and died out over a hundred years ago back during 1960s, and have since been replaced by a modern model, the ‘American-African.’” Lawrence D. House

scribe a born African of European parentage who becomes a nationalized citizen of America? However, while we are still living in an era – at least in America where race matters, I prefer to be described by a term that clearly connects me with my history and contrasts me with those other Americans, albeit a minority, who haven’t yet abandoned their cultural reference or history. The term African-American was probably lifted from a poem, although its use has historical traces in other media forms. Nevertheless, it does not describe who I am or who the people are before me that fought for civil rights and who suffered social indignities and established civil balances that we live today. Describing ourselves as AfricanAmerican is as if black Americans somehow evolved into something else overnight. I feel being designated AfricanAmerican hints at a virtual disconnection with who I am and who I have always been. Indeed, at about the time when the term African-American was perfused into our vernacular so did the expression of being “colorblind”: people claiming not to see

a person’s race before his or her faults or attributes. In my opinion, that was at least naive at the worst self-delusion. This I believe was an attempt at virtual separating of black people from their non-white history. One might even argue that the African-American term is intent on fostering optimism or progress, or invent a non-confrontational euphemism meant to defang what some think of as dark or threatening. I see it as a type of cultural revisionism – black Americans lived and died out over a hundred years ago back during 1960s, and have since been replaced by a modern model, the “American-African.” Indeed, there are those who believe that we have within a generation evolved into a culturally equal America whereby none of the old adjustments for balancing are needed or are relevant. The evidence of this mind-set might be in the recent Supreme Court decisions against civil rights laws or the neo-conservatism or Southern politicians boldly calling for the return of “state’s rights” as if their removal was an arbitrary act of indifference. I am a “baby boomer,” which is a more definitive term than African-

American. It denotes a time period when America had its greatest child birthing since its founding – 1946 to 1964. This is indeed current history, which includes Dr. Martin Luther King, Malcolm X, the Black Panthers, Andrew Young, Maynard Jackson, Joseph Lowery, and many other Black-Americans, who live and died during my own lifetime. This is also recent history that includes Lester Maddox, George C. Wallace, John F. Kennedy, Jesse Helms, Strom Thurmond, and the marches for civil rights, the civil riots, the barbaric lynching, and social integration, and discrimination. There isn’t one American person alive who is not living as a contemporary of my Black-American history, but somehow by embracing African-American cuts me off from all that made us what we are today. When I see and hear talking heads in the news media referring to us as “blacks,” it seems they use it within a pejorative fogginess. In contrast, when they use the term African-American, it is usually inside a more docile mistiness. Nevertheless, African is applicable to anyone no matter the color of skin or country of origin. AfricanAmerican does not describe who I am or my history as an American. Thus, I don’t much care for becoming African-American, as much as I do about being an American who happens to be black. Lawrence D. House, a retired photojournalist from the U.S. Coast Guard and the Gwinnett Fire Department, lives in Lithonia.

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CrossRoadsNews

February 21, 2015

Fly three and a friend flies free. (free of carrier charges)

Have a friend ﬂy with you—anywhere you go—for the rest of the year. No, seriously. It’s true. We were going to call it “The Insane Deal of the Century,” but we went with the “Southwest® Companion Pass” instead. Just buy and ﬂy three roundtrips from Atlanta before May 17, and it’s all yours (and your friend’s) for the taking. Enroll now to earn your Companion Pass at Southwest.com/atlanta.

Only Rapid Rewards® Members with a valid Atlanta-area address in their Rapid Rewards accounts are eligible for this promotion. New Members must enroll in Rapid Rewards at Southwest.com/atlanta to be eligible for the promotion and have a valid Atlanta-area address. Existing Members must have a valid Atlanta-area address as of February 5, 2015, to be eligible. Member must enroll or register for this promotion between February 13, 2015, and May 17, 2015, and registration must be completed prior to commencement of travel. Member must complete three qualifying roundtrip revenue flights originating from and returning to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport between February 13, 2015, and May 17, 2015. Three qualifying roundtrips must be booked and travel completed between February 13, 2015, and May 17, 2015. A Member who flies three qualifying roundtrip revenue flights booked through Southwest Airlines® with travel completed between February 13, 2015, and May 17, 2015, will qualify for Companion Pass status, which entitles a designated traveling Companion to fly with the Member through December 31, 2015, on flights booked through Southwest Airlines. A qualifying roundtrip for Companion Pass status is a roundtrip revenue flight on Southwest Airlines from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to a destination city, including any intermediate stops and/or connections on Southwest Airlines, and back to Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport within the same reservation. Companion Pass travel is subject to the government-imposed September 11th Security Fee of $5.60 per one-way trip and any foreign government taxes/fees if traveling international, all of which must be paid by credit card when the reservation is made. Visit Southwest.com® to review the full Companion Pass status program rules and regulations. All Rapid Rewards rules and regulations apply.

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2/12/15 4:08 PM

CrossRoadsNews

Wellness

February 21, 2015

“Our shared vision is to design one of the best health systems in the nation to serve local communities, the state of Georgia, and beyond.”

Emory, WellStar discuss forming new unified health system Emory University and WellStar Health System are formally discussing the creation of a new, unified health system formed by combining Emory Healthcare and WellStar. The Executive Committee of the Emory University board of trustees and the WellStar Health System’s trustees have each approved a resolution to continue discussions for 45 days, commencing on Feb. 9. The discussions serve as an opportunity to educate constituents, have dialogue, and answer questions in preparation for committing to a multistep design process for the new health system that would take about a year to complete. The nonprofit Georgia Health News said the merger would create a giant in metro Atlanta health care and would face regulatory and logistical challenges as well as trigger other hospital consolidations and combinations. The news service said it’s unclear how a merger would affect consumers. The consolidation push reflects fundamental changes revolutionizing health care

and has been accelerated by the Affordable Care Act, GHN said. John Morgan, chair of Emory’s board of trustees, called the talks “a tremendous opportunity to create an unparalleled new health care system.” “Combining the significant resources, talent, and expertise of Emory John Morgan Healthcare and WellStar Health System would bring together two highly respected institutions that together are well-known for their commitment to patient care, education, discovery, and innovation,” Morgan said in a Feb. 9 statement. Gary Miller, chair of WellStar’s trustees, said its not-for-profit system was built to serve its communities. “The same focus on our patients and our team members as an employer of choice that has led to our system’s continued growth will

DeKalb shares child safety grant DeKalb is among 137 Georgia counties sharing the 2015 Child Passenger Safety MiniGrant. The mini-grant program of the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Injury Prevention Program helps county health departments and their community partners reduce the number of injuries and deaths among children in the state. This year’s $161,000 award will be used to support the purchase of child safety seats to This year’s $161,000 mini-grant award will be used to be distributed in 137 Georgia support the purchase of child safety seats. counties. Funding is provided cause of death for children, and it’s by the Governor’s Office of up to all of us to do everything we Highway Safety. can to protect our children on the Since 2007, at least 283 road,” Fitzgerald said. “Buckling up children in Georgia who were our children is the best way to save involved in crashes were saved lives and reduce injuries.” from serious injury or death by DPH and county health departchild safety car seats, booster ments work with community partseats, and education provided ners to educate parents and caregivers through the mini-grant. Brenda Fitzgerald on how to properly install and use Public Health Commissioner Brenda Fitzgerald said using child child safety seats, offer inspections, and safety seats and booster seats helps reduce provide child car seats and booster seats to financially eligible families. For more fatalities. “Motor vehicle crashes are a leading information, call 404-679-0500.

still permeate everything we do,” Miller said. “This move is an affirmation of our commitment to providing world-class care to our communities long term.” Emor y University President James W. Wagner and WellStar CEO James Wagner Reynold J. Jennings said the intent is to combine health care resources to create a new, innovative health care environment with the best of community-based care and the best of academic medicine. “During discussions among trustees and executives at both Emory and WellStar, it quickly became evident that we share a vision, commitment and enthusiasm to create a new organization that strengthens and advances our mission of exceptional patient care, health sciences and medical education, and research,” Wagner said. “We have an ex-

traordinary opportunity to create a health system that is second to none.” Jennings said the new system will be “one of the most innovative and transformational health care systems in the industry.” Reynold Jennings “Our shared vision is to design one of the best health systems in the nation to serve local communities, the state of Georgia, and beyond,” Jennings said. Emory Healthcare has six hospitals and 200 provider locations. WellStar Health System has five hospitals and seven urgent care centers; 16 satellite diagnostic imaging centers; and an adult congregate living facility, a skilled nursing facility, and two inpatient hospices. For more information, visit www. emoryhealthcare.org, www.wellstar.org and georgiahealthnews.com.

‘Heart Health’ at Stonecrest Dr. Tawainna Houston will facilitate an in-depth discussion of heart disease on Feb. 23 at the Stonecrest Library in Lithonia. “Heart Health and Why It Matters” begins at 6:30 p.m. Houston, a clinically trained naturopathic physician, will talk about the various factors that contribute to heart disease and a holistic approach to improving those conditions. Tawainna Houston The library is at 3123 Klondike Road. Call 770-482-3828.

Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities

Disability Day activists will mark the 25th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act at the March 5 rally at the State Capitol. In 2014, more than 2,500 rallied for more job opportunities.

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Disability Day to celebrate ADA

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Advocates for Georgians with disabilities will converge on the State Capitol on March 5 for Disability Day 2015. The registration deadline is Feb. 27 – visit www.gcdd. org/2015DisabilityDay. The DeKalb Community Service Board will join the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities for the 17th an- Keith Ricketson nual observance from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Liberty Plaza at Capitol Avenue and MLK Jr. Drive. This year’s theme, Fulfilling the Promise of the ADA, celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act. The advocacy event promotes access, opportunity and meaningful community living for all Georgians. Keith Ricketson, director of Developmental Disability Services at the DeKalb CSB, said advocacy is critical. “It’s important to attend this year’s Disability Day so that key legislators can put a face with a name and the important issues

surrounding developmental disability services,” Ricketson said on Feb. 17. “It is especially important for family members whose loved ones are on waiting lists and whose family members fear for the worst should service options not be available.” He said the DeKalb CSB “envisions a community in which disabilities no longer limit potential.” “This event brings us one step closer to realizing that vision,” Ricketson said. The DeKalb CSB offers a number of programs and services to developmentally disabled individuals both insured and underinsured, serving more than 10,000 clients annually. In 2014, more than 2,500 gathered at the Capitol to advocate for more job opportunities and employment support for residents with disabilities. The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities seeks to bring about social and policy changes that promote opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and their families to live, learn, work, play and worship in Georgia communities. For more information, visit www.gcdd.org.

Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

February 21, 2015

“Even with milder winters, there are important safety measures to consider when allowing kids to enjoy the outdoors.”

Keep kids safe, warm outdoors in winter

Plan for prevention Try out these strategies for better heart health. Many may become lifelong habits. n Work with your health care team. Get a checkup at least once each year. n Monitor your blood pressure. n Get your cholesterol checked. n Eat a healthy diet. Limit sodium and eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables – visit ChooseMyPlate.gov. n Maintain a healthy weight. If you know your weight and height, you can calculate your body mass index at www.cdc.gov/ healthyweight/assessing/index.html. n Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and lower cholesterol and blood pressure. n Don’t smoke. If you smoke, quit as soon as possible – visit Smokefree.gov. n Limit alcohol use. Men should stick to no more than two drinks per day, and women to no more than one. n Manage your diabetes. Monitor your blood sugar levels closely. n Take your medicine. Follow the instructions carefully. If you have side effects, talk with your health care team about your options. The “28 Days to a Healthier Heart” tips at www.cdc.gov/salt/healthy_heart_tips.htm can inspire you throughout February and all year long. For more information, visit www. cdc.gov.

all year, even during winter weather when temperatures are lower.” Staying warm is also vital to ensure kids’ bodies continue to function properly, O’Neal said. Dressing properly with layers and outerwear that can stave off moisture from snow is the best way to ensure children enjoy their winter playtime while avoiding illnesses or other health challenges such as frostbite. With milder winter weather, the opportunities to see frozen lakes are rare and can become a local attraction for kids. “Lakes and ponds that appear to be frozen are often unsuspecting safety risks,” O’Neal said. “If temperatures have not been cold enough for an ample amount of time, the

surface layer of ice may not be thick enough to support a child’s weight. In this event, it is always best to use extreme caution and avoid playing in areas where kids may be tempted to walk or skate across frozen surfaces.” Proper clothing and safety equipment are key to minimizing chances of injury while engaging in any physical activity no matter the season. “Our leading advice to families is to always gear up,” O’Neal said. “Whether you’re enjoying a skiing trip, snowboarding or playing an ice hockey game, you should always have the appropriate equipment before participating in winter sports.” For tips, visit http://dph.georgia.gov.

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February is American Heart Month, a time to show yourself the love. Learn about your risks for heart disease and stroke and stay “heart healthy” for yourself and your loved ones, the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says. Cardiovascular disease, including heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure, is the No. 1 killer of women and men in the United States and disproportionately affects African-Americans. It is a leading cause of disability, preventing Americans from working and enjoying family activities. It costs the United States more than $300 billion each year, including the cost of health care services, medication and lost productivity. CVD does not affect all groups of people in the same way. Although the number of preventable deaths has declined in people 65 to 74, it has remained unchanged in people under 65. Men are more than twice as likely as women to die from preventable CVD. Having a close relative who has heart disease puts you at higher risk for CVD. Health disparities based on geography also exist. During 2007–2009, death rates due to heart disease were the highest in the South and lowest in the West. Race and ethnicity also affect your risk. Nearly 44 percent of black men and 48 percent of black women have some form of CVD. And African-Americans are more likely than any other racial or ethnic group to have high blood pressure and to develop the condition earlier in life. Two in five black adults have high blood pressure; fewer than half of them have the condition under control. The CDC says you can control many risk factors for CVD, including diet, physical activity, tobacco use, obesity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and diabetes.

Dressing properly with layers and outerwear that can stave off moisture from snow is the best way to ensure that kids enjoy their winter play while avoiding health challenges.

Time to take health to heart

Kids can have a fun and healthy winter when properly prepared for cold weather and the season’s unique environmental changes, state injury prevention experts say. Children need to stay active all year round, and the Georgia Department of Public Health is reminding Georgians of important precautions they can take to keep kids safe in winter. Patrick O’Neal, director of Health Protection at DPH, said people often underestimate the importance of winter sports safety because Georgia doesn’t experience as much snow as other parts of the United States. “Even with milder winters, there are still important injury prevention and safety measures to consider when allowing kids to enjoy the outdoors in colder weather,” O’Neal said. He said one of the most surprising areas of concern is skin health. Similar to the summertime, sunlight can greatly impact the health of growing kids’ skin if left unprotected during cold weather, particularly when snow is on the ground. “During the winter, sunlight hits the snow’s surface and reflects back onto exposed skin,” O’Neal said. “This exposure can be combated simply by wearing sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15. This may feel like you’re taking a page out of your summertime beach routine, but skin can be damaged by environmental factors

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CrossRoadsNews

Black History

February 21, 2015

“This month, let us continue that unending journey toward a more just, more equal, and more perfect Union.”

Monthlong observances recognize giants of the movement Historian Carter G. Woodson established Black History Week to commemorate and celebrate the contributions made by people of African descent to the United States, and it was first observed on Feb. 12, 1926. For many years, the second week of February was set aside for the observance to coincide with the birthdays of abolitionist/ Carter G. Woodson editor Frederick Douglass and President Abraham Lincoln, who issued the Emancipation Proclamation. In 1976, as part of the nation’s bicentennial, the week was expanded into Black History Month. Each year, U.S. presidents proclaim February as National African-American History

Month. In his proclamation for 2015, President Barack Obama, said the observance recognizes “giants of the civil rights movement and countless other men and women whose names are etched in the hearts of their loved ones and the cornerstones of the country they helped to change.” He said ancestors – “some of whom were brought to this land in chains” – have woven dignity into the fabric of the nation. “We pause to reflect on our progress and our history – not only to remember, but also to acknowledge our unfinished work,” he said. “We reject the false notion that our challenges lie only in the past, and we recommit to advancing what has been left undone.” Obama, the nation’s first African-American president, said foot soldiers and Freedom

Riders “sat in and stood up, marched and agitated for justice and equality.” “This audacious movement gave birth to a new era of civil and voting rights, and slowly, we renewed our commitment to an ideal at the heart of our founding: No matter who you are, what you look like, how modest your beginnings, or the circumstances of your birth, you deserve every opportunity to achieve your God-given potential.” Obama said division and poverty still rack the nation. “Too many children live in crumbling neighborhoods, cycling through substandard schools and being affected by daily violence in their communities. And Americans of all races have seen their wages and incomes stagnate while inequality continues to hold back hardworking families and entire com-

munities.” The trajectory of history offers hope. “Today, we stand on the shoulders of courageous individuals who endured the thumps of billy clubs, the blasts of fire hoses, and the pain of watching dreams be deferred and denied. We honor them by investing in those around us and doing all we can to ensure every American can reach their full potential.” “Our country is at its best when everyone is treated fairly and has the chance to build the future they seek for themselves and their family,” he said, citing access to a world-class education, safe and affordable housing, and job training. “This month, let us continue that unending journey toward a more just, more equal, and more perfect Union.” Chadwick Boseman stars as James Brown in “Get on Up” on Feb. 24 at Salem-Panola Library.

Readers to discuss memoir, novel The memoir “12 Years a Slave” by Solomon Northup and the novel “The Tempest Tales” by Walter Mosley are up for discussion at the Salem-Panola and Wesley Chapel library branches next week. On Feb. 23, parent and teen pairs are invited to join an exploration of Northup’s unforgettable memoir at Salem-Panola. The book was the basis for the Academy Award-winning 2013 film “12 Years a Slave” starring Chiwetel Ejiofor. It is the true story of Northup, who was born and raised as a freeman in New York. He lived the American dream with a house and a loving family until he was drugged, kidnapped and sold into slavery in the Deep South. The 6-to-7 p.m. book discussion is open to the first seven pairs – register at the branch. Funding is provided by the Friends of the Salem-Panola Library. The library is at 5137 Salem Road in Lithonia. For more information, call 770987-6900.

On Feb. 24, Wesley Chapel patrons will examine Mosley’s mystery novel from 6 to 8 p.m. Tempest Landry, an average man trying to survive, is “accidentally” killed by a cop and is denied access to Walter Mosley heaven for his sins. He brazenly refuses St. Peter’s command to proceed to Hades – he would just as soon settle for his old life in Harlem. Mosley is the author of the acclaimed Easy Rawlins series of mysteries, the Fearless Jones series, the novels “Blue Light” and “RL’s Dream,” and two collections of stories featuring Socrates Fortlow. Funding is provided by the Friends of the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library. The library is at 2861 Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur. For more information, call 404-286-6980.

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Salem-Panola screens ‘Get on Up’ The film “Get on Up,” which chronicles James Brown’s rise from extreme poverty in Jim Crow Georgia to musical icon, screens at Salem-Panola Library on Feb. 24. Show time is 4:30 p.m. for the 2014 drama starring Chadwick Boseman as the Godfather of Soul. It is rated PG-13 and open to the first 24 patrons. On route to the stage, the singer recalls a life with a turbulent childhood where music was his only constructive release for his passions. A chance demonstration of that in prison led to a new friend who helped get him out and into a musical career. With his fire and creative daring, Brown became a star

who created new possibilities in show business both on and behind the stage in the face of racism and conventional thinking. Along the way, Brown also would become a peacemaker who redefined and raised the African-American community’s feeling of self-worth when it was needed most. However, his self-destructive appetites would lead him to alienate friends and family until he hits rock bottom. Co-stars include Nelsan Ellis, Viola Davis, Octavia Spencer, Lennie James and Dan Aykroyd with Tate Taylor as director. The library is at 5137 Salem Road. For more information, call 770-987-6900.

5479 Memorial Dr. • Stn Mtn, GA 30083 • (404) 610-2819 (678) 898-0714

Artist to talk Afro-Cuban culture Narrative artist, educator and quilter Linda Asbury is leading a Feb. 21 discussion of Afro-Cuban culture at the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library in Decatur. “Havana, Cuba: Art and Culture” takes place Linda Asbury from noon to 1:30 p.m. with a class limit of 15. Participants will learn about the vibrant Cuban art scene and see and discuss videos,

photos and artifacts about Afro-Cuban filmmakers and writers. While listening to Cuban music, they will create a Cuban collage post card. Asbury’s paintings and quilts have been exhibited in New York City, ART Station and the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center. To register, call 404-508-7190, Ext. 2257. The library is at 2861 Wesley Chapel Road. For more information, call 404-2866980.

“Come on and be a part of the vision” First Afrikan Church is an Afrocentric Christian Ministry that empowers women, men, youth and children to move from membership to leadership in the church, community and the world. Praise & Devotion Worship Service Sundays at 10 a.m. Join us for Bible Study Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

5197 Salem Road Lithonia, GA 30038

770-981-2601 “We are building far beyond our years.”

Rev. Dr. Mark A. Lomax

CrossRoadsNews

February 21, 2015

Scene

“I have found the Korean American community to be a great ally. I look forward to this lasting partnership.” Uncha Yi Shreve, president of the Korean American Foundation of Atlanta, presents District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson with an award for his commitment to service.

Children’s writer at Wesley Chapel Award-winning children’s author Sharon Draper promotes her latest book, “Stella by Starlight,” on Feb. 21 at the Wesley ChapelWilliam C. Brown Library in Decatur. Draper will appear at 10 a.m. “Stella by Starlight” is for ages 9 and up. An excerpt: “Stella lives in the segregated South – in Bumblebee, North Carolina, to be exact about it. Sharon Draper Some stores she can go into. Some stores she can’t. Some folks are right pleasant. Others are a lot less so. To Stella, it sort of evens out, and heck, the Klan hasn’t bothered them for years. But one late night, later than she should ever be up, much less wandering around outside, Stella and her little brother see something they’re never supposed to see, something that is the first flicker of change to come, unwelcome change by any stretch of the imagination. As Stella’s community – her world – is upended, she decides to fight fire with fire. And she learns that ashes don’t necessarily signify an end.” Books will be available to purchase and all purchased books will be signed. Her other books include the “Ziggy” and

“Sassy” series, “Panic,” “We Beat the Street,” “The Battle of Jericho” and “Double Dutch.” Draper has been honored as the National Teacher of the Year and is a five-time winner of the Coretta Scott King Literary Awards. The New York Times best-selling author also is a Milken Family Foundation National Educator Award winner and a YWCA Career Woman of Achievement as well as the recipient of the Dean’s Award from Howard University School of Education, the Pepperdine University Distinguished Alumnus Award, the Marva Collins Education Excellence Award, and the Governor’s Educational Leadership Award. In 2011, she received the Lifetime Achievement Award for contributions to the field of adolescent literature by the Assembly on Literature for Adolescents of the National Council of Teachers of English as well as the 33rd Annual Jeremiah Luddington Award by the Educational Book and Media Association, also for lifetime achievement. The library is at 2861 Wesley Chapel Road. For more information, visit www. dekalblibrary.org or call 404-286-6980.

Johnson commended for service District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson has been honored by the Korean American Association of Greater Atlanta for his support of DeKalb’s Korean American community. Uncha Yi Shreve, president of the Korean American Foundation of Atlanta, presented Johnson with an award on Jan. 17 commending him for his commitment to service. Johnson said he didn’t take the honor lightly. “I have found the Korean American com-

munity to be a great ally,” he said in a Jan. 23 statement. “I look forward to this lasting partnership.” Members of the Korean American Association have worked with Johnson to provide unique cultural programming and present academic scholarships to DeKalb high school students. They also have partnered to facilitate community service projects in an effort to give back to residents in need.

Thrive Youth Development fundraiser offers dinner, live entertainment Dinner, live entertainment and a silent auction are on tap at Thrive Youth Development Inc.’s fourth annual fundraiser on Feb. 21 in Clarkston. Essential 2015 begins at 7 p.m. at the Conference Center of Georgia Piedmont Technical College. S. Renee Smith, a motivational speaker, image consultant and branding expert, is the featured guest speaker. Her clients include Cigna, Walmart, Bank of America, Alabama

State University and the National Black MBA Association. Smith is author of “There Is More Inside,” “The Bridge to Your Brand: Likability, Marketability, Credibility” and “Our Hearts Wonder: Prayers to Heal Your Heart and Calm Your Soul.” The celebration recognizes supporters and raises funds for Thrive Youth’s mission of transforming the lives of young people in metro Atlanta. The nonprofit works with more than 100 students a year through

coaching and mentoring in local school systems, group homes, and youth detention centers. Thrive Youth recently kicked off Phase II of its No Limits No Boundaries Program held on Saturdays at Georgia Perimeter CollegeClarkston. Phase I was held in October 2014 at Emory University. The six-week program focuses on character and skill set development through coaching and mentoring, peer/ adult interaction, assets building, and com-

munity involvement in a safe environment. It includes employment readiness training, leadership development, financial literacy, public speaking, conflict resolution and family engagement. Georgia Piedmont Technical College is at 495 N. Indian Creek Drive. For tickets and more information, visit https://www. eventbrite.com/e/essentials-2015-tickets-15049201567, email info@ithriveyouth. org or call 1-877-581-3440.

Atlanta, GA 30317 678-851-5309

Petitioner, Pro se 305 Summerwood Drive Clarkston, GA 30021 706-659-5955

02/21, 02/28, 03/07, 03/14

Notice of Petition to Change Name of Adult

Legal Notices 01/31, 02/07, 02/14, 02/21

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV1235-2++ Anne Marie Tobias Plaintiff Vs. Eugene McCallallen Defendant To: Eugene McCallallen By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Jan. 21, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Jan. 16, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Anne Marie Tobias, 822 Moon Houry Court, Clarkston, GA 30021. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jan. 21, 2015. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 23rd day of January 2015 01/31, 02/07, 02/14, 02/21

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV1565-2++ Rolanda J. Faison Plaintiff Vs. Lester A. Faison, Jr. Defendant

To: Lester A. Faison, Jr. 9 Rocket Lane Palm Coast, FL 32164 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Jan. 23, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Jan. 22, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Rolanda J. Faison, 2206 Lake Point Drive, Stone Mountain, GA 30088. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jan. 23, 2015. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 26th day of January 2015 01/31, 02/07, 02/14, 02/21

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV11990-3++ Myra Adyekum Plaintiff Vs. Alexander Adyekum Defendant To: Alexander Adyekum 2769 Leota Lane Cincinnati, OH 45231 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Dec. 18, 2014 you are hereby notified that on Dec. 18, 2014, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Myra

Adyekum 877 Plumbridge Ct., Lithonia, GA 30058. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jan. 06, 2015. Witness the Honorable Clarence Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 22nd day of January 2015 02/07, 02/14, 02/21, 02/28

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV1599-9++ Tracie R. Marte Plaintiff Vs. Jose L. Marte Defendant To: Jose L. Marte By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Jan. 28, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Jan. 22, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Tracie Marte, 1217 Friendly Heights Blvd., Decatur, GA 30035. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jan. 28, 2015. Witness the Honorable Mark Anthony Scott, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 28th day of January 2015 02/07, 02/14, 02/21, 02/28

Notice of Petition to Change Name of Adult

in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV1687-3++ Cemetra Chantrell Brooks-Torregano filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Jan. 20, 2015 to change the name from: Cemetra Chantrell Brooks-Torregano to Cemetra Chantrell Brooks. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Jan. 20, 2015 Cemetra Brooks Torregano Petitioner, Pro se 1123 Princeton Park Drive Lithonia, GA 30058 404-975-8082

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2223-4++ Henry Lee Harrison filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Feb. 12, 2015 to change the name from: Henry Lee Harrison to Henry Lee Bonner. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Feb. 12, 2015 Henry Lee Harrison Petitioner, Pro se 2035 Memorial Drive, Apt. 604

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2192-8++ Marcus Alexander Cooper filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Dec. 17, 2014 to change the name from: Marcus Alexander Cooper to Lamar Leslie Brown. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Dec. 17, 2014 Marcus A. Cooper Petitioner, Pro se 3765 Wetherburn Dr. Clarkston, GA 30021 404-860-1105

DeKalb County Sheriff Office

Jeffrey L. Mann, Sheriff 4415 Memorial Drive • Decatur, GA 30032

02/07, 02/14, 02/21, 02/28

Notice of Petition to Change Name of MINOR CHILD(REN) in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV1666-3++ Tiffany McKay filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Jan. 21, 2015 to change the name of the following minor child(ren) from Corkney Michale Partridge, Jr. to: Christain Micah Partridge. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within the time prescribed in OCGA 19-12-1(f)(2) and (3). Dated: Jan. 21, 2015 Tiffany McKay

Sex Offender

Timothy Sterling Kevin Gerald 1585 Folkstone Road NE 2171 Boulder Forest Dr. Ellenwood, GA 30294 Atlanta, GA 30329 Charge of Child Charge of Statutory Rape. Molestation. Convicted on 3/3/1997 Convicted on 8/1/2003

Sex Offender

Kalandra Wallace 3900 Memorial Drive Apt D-21 Decatur, GA 30032 Charge of Federal Sex Crime Conviction. Convicted on 5/10/2011

The DeKalb Sex Offenders List is published by the DeKalb County Sheriff Office. For more information call the Sex Offender Unit at 404-298-8130.

CrossRoadsNews

Youth

February 21, 2015

“We cannot imagine a better choice than Dr. Black to lead Greenforest at this important time in the academy’s history.”

State takes control of failing schools under Deal proposal Gov. Nathan Deal’s plan to create an Opportunity School District that allows the state to take control of chronically failing schools faces mounting opposition, including from the state Senate’s top Democrats. Nathan Deal Deal’s Senate floor leader Butch Miller (R-Gainesville) introduced the legislation on Feb. 11. Creating the district requires a constitutional amendment, which would need two-thirds support in the House and Senate. The governor said the plan gives students

and parents hope for a better future. “While Georgia boasts many schools that achieve academic excellence every year, we still have too many schools where students have little hope of attaining the skills they need to succeed in the work force or in higher education,” Deal said. “We have a moral duty to do everything we can to help these children. “Failing schools keep the cycle of poverty spinning from one generation to the next. Education provides the only chance for breaking that cycle. When we talk about helping failing schools, we’re talking about rescuing children. I stand firm on the principle that every child can learn, and I stand

equally firm in the belief that the status quo isn’t working.” In the governor’s proposal, persistently failing schools are defined as those scoring below 60 on the Georgia Department of Education’s accountability measure, the College and Career Performance Index, for three consecutive years. The CCPI is the state’s annual report card for school performance. The district would take in no more than 20 schools per year, meaning it would govern no more than 100 at any given time. Schools would stay in the district for no less than five years but no more than 10 years. Senate Minority Leader Steve Henson (D-Tucker) called the proposal “an educa-

tional mirage.” He said privatizing the public school system is not the answer to correct the problem of failing schools. Henson said the state education system has been shortchanged for the past 12 years, according to the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Other Democrats and some conservatives also have reservations. Senate Democrats plan to offer a counterproposal. In the House, Minority Leader Stacey Abrams is taking a wait-and-see approach, the AJC said. Deal said he will work with legislators to put the amendment on the 2016 ballot and to pass enabling legislation on governance. For the resolution, visit www.crossroadsnews.com.

Druid Hills charter cluster group dissolving Greenforest McCalep Druid Hills Charter Cluster Inc. is disbanding after a meeting with DeKalb School Superintendent Michael Thurmond and the director of the District Charter Office. Thurmond met on Feb. 4 with its leaders for two hours “to establish a foundation of mutual respect and understanding between the administration of the DeKalb School Michael Thurmond District and petitioners.” He said the session was “respectful, open and honest.” “In addition, we wanted to clarify the district’s official charter petition process, a process that has been in place for more than a decade,” Thurmond said in a Feb. 10 statement. “It is important to note that the superintendent has no authority to ‘grant’ a charter petition application. The DeKalb County Board of Education has the sole power and authority to approve or reject petitions.” He said the superintendent recommends action to the School Board based on analysis and evaluation by the

charter staff. “The Druid Hills charter cluster petitioners were encouraged to resubmit a petition that addresses the specific concerns raised by the District Charter Office and a majority of the members of the Board of Education,” Thurmond said. “Moving forward, I am hopeful that the petitioners and the DCSD will be able to work in a collaborative manner that will ultimately benefit all of our students, parents, employees and stakeholders.” Charter cluster proponents were seeking to take five elementary schools, a middle school and a high school in Central DeKalb out of county control and put them under a private board of directors. On Nov. 11, 2013, the School Board rejected the petition in a 5-4 vote. The group’s dissolution was announced on Feb. 11, 2015, on its Facebook page. The announcement said the cluster’s board met on Feb. 10 and agreed by unanimous vote of members present to dissolve Druid Hills Charter Cluster Inc. The group’s Web and Facebook pages would remain up for two more

weeks and all records, research, drafts and other tools used during the charter petition process would be preserved and made available to other groups, clusters or systems that were interested in them. The board asked that any remaining funds in the account be donated to the Druid Hills High School PTA. The statement included comments by DHCC board Chair Matt Lewis. “While our efforts to provide meaningful reform, including local autonomy, innovative educational programs, and the state’s first charter cluster open to any student in the attendance area failed, the attention to needed reform will continue,” Lewis said. “We are grateful for the chance to have worked with our friends, neighbors, parents, teachers and other professionals to boldly try something different in the interest of improving k-12 public education for all students. We hope that the increase in school-based parental involvement this effort helped create will continue.” For more information, visit http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us.

names new headmaster Dr. Millicent Black has been named the new headmaster of Greenforest McCalep Christian Academic Center in Decatur. The appointment becomes effective July 1. Black will become the academy’s third headmaster, succeeding Dr. M.O. Clarke, who has led Greenforest McCalep since 2009. Black, the academy’s assistant headmaster since July 2014, has an extensive background in school leadership and Millicent Black administration. Rita Wyatt, chair of Greenforest’s Board of Regents, said the board was pleased with the appointment. “We cannot imagine a better choice than Dr. Black to lead Greenforest at this important time in the academy’s history,” Wyatt said in a Jan. 20 statement. “She is an accomplished educator and a proven leader who understands the opportunities and complexities of leading a school like Greenforest. Our academic center has rich traditions and a 25-year history of delivering academic excellence God’s way.” Greenforest McCalep was founded in 1989 by Dr. George O. McCalep Jr., the late pastor of Greenforest Community Baptist Church. The academic center’s mission is to educate students spiritually, morally and academically through cultivating Christian values and promoting Christian service. For more information, call 404-486-1125.

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Reader Notice As a service to you – our valued readers – we offer the following information: This newspaper will never knowingly accept any advertisement that is illegal or considered fraudulent. If you have questions or doubts about any ads on these pages, we advise that before responding or sending money ahead of time, you check with the Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Line and/or the Better Business Bureau. They may have records or documented complaints that will serve to caution you about doing business with those advertisers. Also be advised that some phone numbers published in these ads may require an extra charge. In all cases of questionable value, such as promises or guaranteed income from work-at-home programs, money to loan, etc., if it sounds too good to be true – it may in fact be exactly that. This newspaper cannot be held responsible for any negative consequences that occur as a result of you doing business with any advertisers. Thank you.

CrossRoadsNews

February 21, 2015

Finance

The new selection includes a vast array of natural colored diamond jewelry and features LeVian’s exclusive Chocolate Diamonds.

Berean hosts career expo Veterans have priority admittance at the Berean Christian Church Career Expo on Feb. 25 in Stone Mountain. The 10 a.m.-to-2 p.m. expo takes place at the Kerwin B. Lee Family Life Center in association with the Georgia Department of Labor, DeKalb/North Metro Career Center Veterans Units and the South DeKalb Career Center of Goodwill. It is free and open to the public. Participants should wear business casual attire and bring resumes, paper and pens. Employers, agencies and institutions scheduled to attend include Georgia Department of Public Safety, DeKalbFire Rescue, U.S. General Services Administration, AARP Foundation Senior Employment, Avon, DeKalb Workforce Development, Emory Temporary Services, and Brenau University. The church is at 2197 Young Road. For more information, call Kenneth Dinkins at 404-298-5248 or the Goodwill South DeKalb Career Center at 404-728-8605.

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Free tax filing help available Low and middle income taxpayers and seniors can get free tax assistance from AARP Tax-Aide and VITA at select library branches and other sites in DeKalb. The volunteer-run tax service, is offered on a first-come, firstserved basis. Seniors who are 60 years and older get special attention. The service is available for people earning up to $53,000 a year, people with disabilities, senior citizens, and those who speak limited English. Sites for AARP assistance include: n Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road in Lithonia. n Fairfield Baptist Church, 6133 Redan Road in Lithonia. VITA assistance is available at Saint Philip AME Church, 240 Candler Road in Atlanta. Call 404-371-0749 for an appointment. For more sites, visit www.dekalblibrary.org and www.aarp.org/ applications/VMISLocator/searchTaxAideLocations.action.

Fans of LeVian’s diamond jewelry collection can attend its “Colors of Diamonds” trunk show on March 3 at Macy’s Fine Jewelry at the Gallery at South DeKalb in Decatur. The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. For an appointment, call 404243-2680. The new selection includes an array of natural colored diamond jewelry, Couture and Time. It will also features LeVian’s exclusive Chocolate Diamonds. Macy’s Fine Jewelry South DeKalb is at 2731 Candler Road.

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February 21, 2015

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2/9/15 11:01 AM