CrossRoadsNews, January 26, 2013 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

COMMUNITY

WELLNESS

Spotting troubled teens

Tales to be told

Bands, students, political leaders and civic groups were among those stepping out in the DeKalb NAACP’s first parade on newly named Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway. 5

In the wake of the horrific shootings at a Connecticut elementary school, a psychotherapist offers tips for recognizing disturbing behavior. 7

Storyteller Akbar Imhotep will record for posterity his renditions of Joel Chandler Harris’ famed Uncle Remus stories. 9

Parading through history

SCENE

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

January 26, 2013

Volume 18, Number 39

www.crossroadsnews.com

Gas pipeline work to close Decatur street for four days By Ken Watts

lion Pipeline Replacement Program, has been under way since early October. It will pass through the county traveling northeast while “crossing several roads and highways including I-285, Moreland Avenue, I-20, Glenwood Avenue, Candler Road and Memorial Drive.” The project is part of the company’s Georgia STRIDE – strategic infrastructure development and enhancement program, a long-term system improvement plan authorized by the Georgia Public Service Commission. The 24-inch pipeline will run 28 miles from AGL’s liquefied natural gas facility in Riverdale to connect with an existing transmission system near Buford Highway and Clairmont Road. About 18 miles of the pipeline will pass through unincorporated DeKalb, Atlanta-in-DeKalb, and the city of Decatur. Statewide, AGL operates more than 55,000 miles of

A quarter-mile section of Katie Kerr Drive in Decatur will close for four days next week while Atlanta Gas Light crews install part of its Eastside Pipeline project that is replacing aging gas lines from Clayton County to North DeKalb. The road will close between Asbury Heights Court and Asbury Drive in unincorporated DeKalb from Jan. 28 to Jan. 31. AGL said crews will set up detours around the work zone and take precautions to alert motorists by erecting signs. Accommodations also will be made for pedestrians, including but not limited to flaggers stopping traffic and assisting them around the work zone or across the street. An AGL statement sent to homeowners around the affected area said drivers should exercise caution. “We appreciate residents’ patience as we work to complete these important system improvements,” it said. The Eastside Pipeline project, part of AGL’s $250 mil- Please see PIPELINE, page 6

Atlanta Gas Light is replacing aging gas lines from Clayton County to North DeKalb. Katie Kerr Drive will close Jan. 28-31.

Kids Channeling King

Young protesters re-enact scenes of civil rights era By Jessica Smith

Miniature Martins and pint-sized protesters were bent on stirring up the crowd of proud parents and guests during a reenactment of scenes from the civil rights movement on Jan. 17. The performances were part of the inaugural “A Day With Dr. King” program celebrating Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday at Greenforest-McCalep Christian Academic Center. The little King look-alikes donned the smart suits, ties and fedoras favored by the late civil rights leader and recited lines from his famous and enduring “I Have a Dream” speech, which was delivered on the Washington Mall 50 years ago. Had he lived, King would have been 84 on Jan. 15. The nation celebrated his ideals on the federal Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Jan. 21. But two days after his birthday, it was the 4-year-olds’ turn. Dr. Gail Mitchell, executive director of the Decatur school on the campus of Greenforest Community Baptist Church, organized the program of skits, songs, dances and recitations with the help of the kids’ teachers. “We wanted to showcase the talents of our early learners and introduce them to the life and trials of Dr. King,” she said. The children also recited excerpts from “The Drum Major Instinct,” a sermon given about two months before King was assassinated in 1968. Under the watchful eye of teachers, a group of early learners held up placards protesting inequality around water fountains, fashioned from cardboard boxes, and beneath Jim Crow-era “Whites Only” and “Colored Only” signs. The signs read: “De-

GreenforestMcCalep students participate in skits, songs and recitations during the inaugural “A Day With Dr. King” program on Jan. 17 on the Decatur campus.

Photos by Jessica Smith / CrossRoadsNews

Early learners protest segregated accommodations and agitate for equal rights as they celebrate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

mand Equal Rights,” “We March for Jobs for All Now,” and “Let Freedom Ring.” Their tiny shouts of “Get off the bus” and “I’m not moving” gave voice to their dramatic interpretation of the Montgomery, Ala., arrest of civil rights leader Rosa Parks,

who after a long day at work was too tired to give up her seat to a white man on a cold December day in 1955. Parks disobeyed a bus driver’s order that she give up her seat in the “colored” section to a white man after the designated white

section of the bus was filled. She was jailed on Dec. 1, 1955, leading to a protest by the city’s blacks. Their refusal to ride the bus crippled the company and lead to the desegregation of public transit in Montgomery. The Greenforest “Voices of Praise” Chorus charmed the audience with youthful renditions of civil rights anthems “We Shall Overcome” and “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me ’Round.” They also led the audience in a stirring rendition of the black national anthem “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Mitchell said she wanted to let the families and the community know that their students are aware of the work King has laid out in front of them. “They know where we come from and where we have to go,” Mitchell said. “We wanted them to grow into the history and legacy of Dr. King.”

CrossRoadsNews

January 26, 2013

Community

CrossRoadsNews

“We see so many cases of our elders and disabled adults being abused through various tactics.”

DeKalb to fight Decatur’s annexation plan By Ken Watts

DeKalb commissioners are preparing to fight plans by the city of Decatur to annex an area that includes two shopping centers and 502 residents. The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution on Jan. 22 opposing the annexation of unincorporated DeKalb County by the city of Decatur. The resolution comes on the heels of two resolutions passed by that city on Dec. 17 to ask state legislators to annex a two-tenthsmile area that includes shopping centers Suburban Plaza and North Decatur Center at the intersection of North Decatur and Clairmont roads. An assortment of apartment complexes and about 60 houses are also part of the area. The board’s resolution says that the proposed annexation “would increase the tax burden to both property owners targeted for annexation and taxpayers throughout unincorporated DeKalb County.” It also said that owners of property in the proposed area have expressed firm opposition to annexation. BOC legislative consultant Phyllis Mitchell told residents at a Jan. 24 public meeting into the county’s 2013 legislative agenda that the county’s resolution supports House Bill 22 sponsored by Rep. Mary Margaret

DeKalb County says Decatur’s plan to annex the area around Suburban Plaza will place additional tax burden on affected residents and county taxpayers as a whole.

Oliver (D-Decatur), which also calls for a moratorium. “We believe that the county needs the opportunity with the creation of Brookhaven and the creation of Dunwoody to assess what is the immediate financial impact on the county,” Mitchell said. “And we need a chance to look at the ongoing effects on unincorporated DeKalb County.” Mitchell said Georgia law once required cityhood advocates to discuss the issue with counties before moving ahead but the language was repealed. “We’re just asking that this language be put back in place,” she said. “So if there is go-

ing to be an annexation initiative, at least talk to us and at least let us have some remedies in place in case there is a citizen who wants to opt out of the annexation process.” The push for legislative intervention comes in the wake of the creation of the city of Brookhaven last year and the city of Dunwoody in 2010. The BOC’s Finance Committee estimated the loss could reduce the county’s tax revenue by $21.8 million in 2013 and become a catalyst for property tax increases of 9.3 percent and 11.3 percent. In contrast, Decatur City Manager Peggy Merriss estimates that revenue from the targeted area would be about $825,000.

Gift card giveway

at Forever 21 grand opening

Fashion retailer Forever 21 will show off its expanded digs at the Mall at Stonecrest on Jan. 26. The first 300 people in line for the grand opening, which starts at 10 a.m., will receive gift cards up to $210. Two people will win outfits valued at up to $150. Forever 21, which was in a 9,000-squarefoot space on the mall’s lower level since it opened in 2001, relocated to the 20,000-square-foot former Border’s space on Dec. 22, more than doubling its size. Linda Chang, Forever 21 global marketing director, says there has been a great deal of interest in the relocation. “We are very pleased to provide the people of Lithonia, Ga., with a larger selection of great fashion at a great price,” Chang said in a Jan. 23 statement. She said the larger space allows them to offer more brands and new concepts. Los Angeles-based Forever 21 is a specialty retailer of women’s and men’s clothing and accessories, shoes and cosmetics. The mall is at I-20 and Turner Hill Road. For more information, visit Forever21.com and www.mallatstonecrest .com.

Ellis assembles top legal team after raids on home, office DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis has hired a legal team that includes a former DeKalb district attorney and an assistant DA to represent him in the wake of Jan. 7 raids on his home and offices in connection with a yearlong grand jury probe. Investigators from the DeKalb District Attorney’s Office searched Ellis’ Stone Mountain home and his Decatur office while he was testifying for the second time before the special grand jury. Ellis introduced the Burrell Ellis team of attorneys – Craig Gillen, J. Tom Morgan, John Petrey and Anthony Lake – at a Jan. 17 news conference. Morgan is a former DeKalb DA, Petrey is a former DeKalb assistant district attorney, and Gillen was a federal prosecutor before becoming a defense lawyer and winning acquittals for high-profile clients. Lake is Gillen’s law partner. Ellis said that he is focused on the business of running DeKalb County and won’t

let the recent flurry of suspicion distract him. He said he is ready for whatever the DA’s office throws his way. Search warrants for the Jan. 7 raids said investigators were collecting evidence under the federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act, extortion, bribery, theft by taking, and influence-peddling laws. The special grand jury has been probing the county’s Watershed Management Department and county contracting for more than a year. Investigators were looking for vehicles registered or assigned to Ellis and personal and business financial records including checking accounts, savings accounts, retirement and investment accounts, tax returns, safe deposit box keys, and storage devices. They left his office and home with boxes of documents and computer hard drives. In addition to raiding Ellis’ property, investigators also searched the home and offices of Kevin Ross, Ellis’ friend and former campaign manager. They also obtained his campaign contribution records and county contracts, including firms Ross represented after Ellis was elected.

Woman convicted of elder abuse By Ken Watts

Former Cedar Grove Middle School secretary Bobbie Neil Ward is facing decades in prison after a DeKalb jury found her guilty of 21 of 25 counts of wideranging crimes against disabled and elderly victims on Jan. 16. Sentencing is scheduled for Feb. 25. Ward was on trial on a 25-count indictment of abuse and exploitation of disabled adults, identity Bobbie Neil Ward fraud, forgery, false imprisonment, and neglect and exploitation of an elderly person. A grand jury said she committed the crimes between August 2006 and November 2011 when she claimed to own a home health care service but instead fraudulently used bank accounts, pensions and Social Security numbers of her clients. During her trial, which began on Jan. 7,

DeKalb Superior Court Judge Tangela Barrie severed two of the counts – one count for aggravated assault and one count for disabled adult abuse – from the indictment. Ward will face those charges at a later date. DeKalb District Attorney Robert James applauded the guilty verdict and said justice was served. “We see so many cases of our elders and disabled adults being abused through various tactics,” James said. “Bobbie Ward actively preyed on our most vulnerable citizens.” Prosecutors told the jury that Ward took money from a disabled victim’s bank account and used the Social Security numbers of several other disabled people to set up utilities at 12 homes in DeKalb. She also used a deceased person’s information to set up utility services at two of the addresses, prosecutors said. Ward also was convicted of housing disabled and elderly victims in unsafe and unsanitary conditions and unlawfully confining an elderly man against his will.

The warrants also sought information about five companies – Sentinel Probation Services, Montgomery Watson, Rural Metro Ambulance, Massey-Bowers, and the Ferguson Group – that have done more than $4 million in business with the county since

Ellis became CEO. Ellis received about $20,000 in campaign contributions from individuals associated with the companies. Neither Ellis nor Ross has been charged with a crime. Both deny any wrongdoing.

Plan Your Next Family Reunion in Atlanta’s DeKalb County!

Free Family Reunion Planning Workshop & Showcase Saturday - February 9, 2013

DeKalb Convention & Visitors Bureau’s Reunion Specialist will teach you everything you need to know to plan the perfect Family Reunion from 9 a.m. to Noon. T-Shirts, Attractions and Tour Info will be available at the Vendor Showcase from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Holiday Inn Select Perimeter Center 4386 Chamblee Dunwoody Road Atlanta, GA 30341 Seating is Limited!

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VisitAtlantasDeKalbCounty.com

By Ken Watts

CrossRoadsNews

Forum

Not expanding Medicaid will continue to grow the gap that exists between citizens who have insurance and those who will never have that access. “I urge you, most strenuously, to expand Medicaid here in Georgia and allow the citizens of Georgia an opportunity for better health outcomes. When the legislation comes to your desk to expand Medicaid, I implore you not to veto it but to sign it immediately for the betterment of Georgia as a whole.”

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Graphic Design Curtis Parker Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Jessica Smith Ken Watts Copy Editor Brenda Yarbrough Advertising Sales Kathy E. Warner 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 CrossRoadsNews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Advertisements are published upon the representation that the advertiser is authorized to publish the submitted material. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless from and against any loss or expenses resulting from any disputes or legal claims based upon the contents or subject matter of such advertisments, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.

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January 26, 2013

Larry Johnson, District 3 commissioner

An Open Letter to Gov. Nathan Deal:

Medicaid expansion will keep Georgia healthy By Larry Johnson

The historic passage of the Affordable Care Act signaled the commitment of the federal government to improve the health outcomes for all citizens of this country. For too long, there has been a wide gulf that exists between access to health care and those who need it. What this has created is a segment of the population in this country who do not have health care; a segment of this great country who cannot afford health care and whose care then falls to public hospitals, community health centers and other safety net providers – or worse, a segment of the population who without access to affordable health care simply die. Across the country, low and middle income people find that access to health care is fraught with insurmountable obstacles. Families confronting a health crisis must rely on agencies to bridge the gaps between what they can afford to pay and what needs to be paid, or face bankruptcy. All too often, the costs of providing health care to the uninsured or underinsured are passed on to local governments – an additional obligation that local taxpayers can ill afford. Safety net hospitals bear the brunt of these uninsured costs. Grady Hospital stands as a prime example of what unfunded mandates can do to the bottom line of a health care institution that is charged with the provision of care for those who are uninsured or underinsured. In addition to its safety net mission, Grady serves as a Level I Trauma Center for any

resident of the metro Atlanta area who suffers catastrophic injury, for travelers passing through the metro Atlanta area and residents within 100 miles of the metro area. Grady’s woes need not be iterated here as we are all quite familiar with the gap that exists between the counties’ contributions, federal medical disproportional share hospital payments, low state Medicaid reimbursement rates, limited private insurance reimbursements and charitable contributions and what it actually costs to treat patients at Grady. Georgia faces a historic decision. Georgia will go down in history either as the state that cared and moved to expand the Medicaid coverage provided by the ACA or be forever known as the state that – due to partisan politics – opted to forgo an opportunity to improve the health status of all citizens. The decision to refuse to expand Medicaid will serve no one. Not expanding Medicaid will continue to grow the gap that exists between a class of citizens who have insurance and/or access to insurance and those who will never have that access and their health outcomes will continue to decline and Georgia will forever be ranked in the bottom tier of states for health and education. I do not wish to be a part of that Georgia and I am sure that you do not wish to leave that type of legacy when you leave office. Georgia hospitals in 2011 lost an estimated $1.5 billion caring for people without insurance. Citizens in Georgia pay for the cost of care provided for the uninsured through higher hospital

bills and inflated insurance premiums. This system of cost shifting cannot continue when expanding Medicaid can help to alleviate this burden on the insured population. It is estimated that 650,000 people would be added to the Medicaid rolls here in Georgia. That is 650,000 who currently have no insurance and whose medical costs are currently being covered by Georgia taxpayers. The estimated $4.5 billion this would cost the state over time would be more than offset by the $35 billion in federal funding that would be made available under the ACA. I could also go on to tell you that these numbers represent people, not abstract concept, but I am sure that you as governor have reviewed, discussed and have been shown every possible scenario. The bottom line here is simple: Expansion of Medicaid for Georgia citizens is the right thing to do – morally, ethically and fiscally. I urge you, most strenuously, to expand Medicaid here in Georgia and allow the citizens of Georgia an opportunity for better health outcomes. When the legislation comes to your desk to expand Medicaid, I implore you not to veto it but to sign it immediately for the betterment of Georgia as a whole. In the end, it all comes down to one basic and simple question: Who will pay for a person without health insurance who goes to the emergency room or goes to see a doctor? We all pay. Yours for a Healthier Georgia: Larry L. Johnson, commissioner, DeKalb District 3.

DeKalb to fight Decatur’s annexation plan

MARTA weighs fare hikes, benefit cuts as strategies 6

Amended school plan leaves Chapel Hill Middle alone 8

Fare increases, employee benefit cuts and outsourcing are on the table as MARTA prepares to tackle a $33 million deficit.

The amended school organization plan approved Jan. 23 by the DeKalb School Board abandoned the controversial idea of turning Chapel Hill Middle School into a theme school.

Quick Read 3

DeKalb commissioners are preparing to fight plans by the city of Decatur to annex an area that includes two shopping centers and 502 residents.

Woman convicted of elder abuse 3 A former Cedar Grove Middle School secretary is facing decades in prison after a jury found her guilty of wide-ranging crimes against disabled and elderly victims.

Know the signs of mental illness in teens to offer help 7 As the national gun control debate escalates in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, psychotherapist Diane Lang is urging action on a more individual level.

New parade route popular with Mall’s community garden participants, community 5 gears up for season The DeKalb NAACP’s Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade stepped into local history on Jan. 21, proudly marching down Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway for the first time.

Organizers of the North DeKalb Mall Community Garden and prospective farmers from refugee and local community groups are gearing up for the growing season.

Show off talent at extravaganza

Teens in grades seven through 12 who sing, dance, act or play an instrument can sign up now for the DeKalb Library’s Teen Talent Extravaganza in March.

Storyteller releasing Uncle Remus tales on CD 9 Storyteller Akbar Imhotep’s renditions of Uncle Remus stories will be immortalized on audio CD on Feb. 2.

index to advertisers Augustine Preparatory Academy................... 11 Aviation Institute of Maintenance.................. 11 BJH Attorneys & Counselors at Law.............. 10 Brinkley Realty Group.....................................6 Centura College............................................ 10 Comfort Suites Northlake................................9 DeKalb Convention & Visitor’s Bureau............ 3 DeKalb County Board of Health...................... 7 DeKalb County School System....................... 11

Circulation Audited By

DeKalb Dog Spa............................................. 11 Dream Big Georgia....................................... 10 First African Presbyterian Church....................9 Gresham Park Baseball Softball Organization.11 Hibachi Grill.................................................... 5 Jimmy Mickens............................................... 11 Johnny Harris CPA......................................... 11 Malcolm Cunningham Auto Gallery..............12

Mechanixx Corporation.................................. 11 Padgett Business Services...............................6 Quenon Smith.............................................. 10 Saint Philip AME Church.................................9 Soul Discount Fabrics..................................... 11 Still Waters, Inc.............................................. 11 The Davis Bozeman Law Firm, P.C................ 10 The Law Office of B.A. Thomas.................... 10

The Potter’s House........................................ 11 The Spa at Stonecrest.................................... 11 The Spa Ladies............................................... 11 Top Level Real Estate.................................... 11 Wright Vision Care.......................................... 7 Best Buy Co. Inc......................................Inserts Walmart..................................................Inserts Walgreens...............................................Inserts

CrossRoadsNews

January 26, 2013

Community

“Years down the line I’ll be able to say I was one of the first to march on this new route.”

New King parade route popular with participants, community By Ken Watts

The DeKalb NAACP’s annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade stepped into local history on Jan. 21, proudly marching down Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway for the first time. Deion Glenn, a drum major and senior at Martin Luther King Jr. High School, said it was a meaningful moment. “Years down the line I’ll be able to say I was one of the first to march on this new route,” he said. Deion’s Marching Lions high school band was one of five participating in the 11th annual parade honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. on the national holiday that celebrated his 84th birthday. Participants enjoyed sunny blue skies and mild January weather as they filed out of Ray of Hope Christian Church’s parking lot in Decatur to MLK Jr. High in Lithonia. Marching bands from Stone Mountain, Cedar Grove, McNair and Clarkston high schools also played rousing music and catchy rhythms that quickly attracted pockets of spectators from neighborhoods along the three-mile parade route. Dr. George Mosteller, president of the Georgia SCLC, and Lester “HeadKrack” Ruffin of TV One and Hot 107.9 FM served as grand marshals. Sheena Paige, who was waiting down the road from the Ray of Hope for the procession to pass, called the parade exciting. “I drove by and saw the bands getting ready and when they told me it was the MLK parade, I rushed home and said, ‘You guys wanna see the parade?’ And everybody came out.” Residents were thrilled to have such a significant King Day event close to home.

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

Cheerleaders, churches, community and civic groups, and dance troupes participated in the King Day parade on Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway along with high school marching bands.

Robin Goolsby, who lives off Browns Mills Road, liked the new route. “Seems like the route is a lot longer and there’s more space for people to get around and see the parade,” she said. For its first 10 years, the parade was held in the Village of Stone Mountain, which figured prominently in King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, delivered on the Washington Mall 50 years ago. “Let freedom ring from the curvaceous peaks of California! But not only that,” he said. “Let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia!” The parade was relocated to a 5.1-mile stretch of Snapfinger Road/Highway 155, designated in 2012 as Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway between Wesley Chapel Road and the Henry County line by the Georgia General Assembly in honor of the Nobel

Peace Prize laureate. State Sen. Ronald Ramsey sponsored the resolution. Jeffrey and Kotina Hall, who watched the parade near their home at the intersection of Flat Shoals Parkway, said the parade was especially significant because it fell on the same day as President Barack Obama’s inauguration. “So it’s kind of like a double pleasure, but not just for blacks because Dr. King fought for all people,” Jeffrey Hall said. Churches, community and civic groups, cheerleaders, and dance troupes filled the gaps between bands. Many marchers carried signs reading “Happy Birthday,” “Honor the Dream” and other sentiments reflecting King’s legacy. The parade culminated in a rally in the high school’s Coretta Scott King Auditorium

that featured speakers, the MLK Jr. High School Chorus, and interpretive dance performances. Vivian Terry, the interim principal, said a large number of students took part in the events. “To host the rally and play a vital part in the parade was exciting for us,” Terry said. “Here at MLK, we have a saying that ‘I am King.’ We try to exemplify what Dr. King stood for.” King was born in Atlanta on Jan. 15, 1929. He was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tenn. He was in the city to support a strike by sanitation workers seeking better wages and working conditions. DeKalb NAACP members voted in November to switch the parade to the newly designated parkway. The designation is only ceremonial because it does not change the name of the road. But NAACP leaders are not satisfied with that. John Evans, the group’s president, said it will launch a major effort this year to change the street’s name. Because Snapfinger is a state highway, Evans said they have to deal with the state to make the change and with property owners along the 5.1-mile stretch of the highway. “There are about 200 parcels of property so we’re going to have a ‘walking group,’” he said. The walking group will canvass residents and attempt to get their signatures on a petition to officially rename the road. The NAACP needs 51 percent of property owners to agree to the change. Recalling King’s persistence against the odds, Evans said he understands the challenge but is not deterred by it. “We’re gonna work on that,” he said.

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CrossRoadsNews

Finance

January 26, 2013

“We are looking to accept unsolicited proposals of different types of new revenue enhancement.”

MARTA weighs fare hikes, benefit cuts as survival strategies By Jessica Smith

Fare increases, employee benefit cuts and outsourcing are on the table as MARTA prepares to tackle a $33 million operating deficit. The three options top a list of 47 survival strategies in a five-year “Transformation Road Map” created for the beleaguered transit system by Big Four auditor KPMG. The draft plan, unveiled at a Jan. 18 news briefing, is designed to completely overhaul the system, which has operated for years on the brink of financial collapse. Keith Parker, MARTA general manager and CEO, said the agency has to craft a new path. “Business as usual is simply not an option,” he said. Stretched thin by a broken economic model, MARTA hired KPMG in Keith Parker late 2011 to help identify opportunities to close a projected revenue shortfall of $248 million through fiscal 2021. KPMG’s audit, which concluded that MARTA could exhaust its dwindling reserves by fiscal 2018, was released on Sept. 25, 2012. The 38-page Road Map, focusing on strategic transformation, is the second piece. The audit found that MARTA has adequate staffing levels and pays reasonable salaries but in spite of efforts to cut costs, it continues to operate in the red. The transit system’s cost-cutting measures have included eliminating 400 staff positions in fiscal 2011 and freezing salaries for the past five years. What’s worse, if the transit system doesn’t quickly get its head above water, passengers can expect an increase in fares.

A 25-cent increase would bring one-way train or bus fares to $2.75. A hike would raise an estimated $30 million.

A 25-cent increase, coming soon after reduced- and Mobility-fare hikes in November 2012, would bring one-way train or bus fares on MARTA to $2.75. If implemented, the increase would happen during the fiscal year that starts July 1. Parker said it would raise an estimated $30 million for the transit agency.

Cost savings through outsourcing KPMG’s five-year, 12-step makeover outlines an action plan for implementing auditors’ recommendations across eight areas: staffing, cost containment, sourcing, supply chain, Oracle utilization, procurement, regional transit and revenue enhancements. KPMG found that employee benefits are too costly for MARTA. Health care claims, workers compensation and pension costs surpass national averages in both the public and private sectors by $37 million. One of its “transformation initiatives” calls for a

renegotiation of these benefits, which will require cooperation from the 64 percent of MARTA’s work force that is unionized. Auditors also noted that company culture permits high levels of employee absenteeism, forcing the system to spend an additional $11 million each year on backup workers. KPMG suggests increasing workers’ base pay instead of doling out costly benefits. Parker said they want people to feel proud about coming to work again. “We want to transform an agency of 4,500 workers into 4,500 ambassadors,” he said. Auditors pointed out that many areas operate inefficiently, providing a huge opportunity for cost savings through outsourcing. Its audit found that MARTA is spending twice as much to cut paychecks in-house as it would to hire an outside company to perform the task. In addition, their cost to process an invoice is seven times higher than the cost would be to outsource. Another plan

initiative calls for hiring third-party firms to perform these duties. By privatizing just those functions alone, MARTA’s annual savings could increase by $1 million. The plan also recommends outsourcing computer support, customer service, recruiting, cleaning services and Mobility for paratransit customers, at an estimated savings of up to $27 million over a five-year period.

Advertising as source of revenue The Road Map suggests the use of advertising as a new source of revenue. Sports team-branded Breeze Cards, station naming rights and alcohol ads were on the list. Parker said MARTA is open for business. “We are looking to accept unsolicited proposals of different types of new revenue enhancement,” he said. While MARTA has not officially accepted KPMG’s recommendations, board members said the agency is committed to their plan. If adopted, five of its initiatives – enhancing the procurement policy, boosting personnel efficiency, exploring new sources of revenue, and privatizing payroll and paratransit bus service – would begin this year. Parker, who has led MARTA since December, said once its fiscal house is in order, it can start planning for the future. “My goal is to have us reach fiscal sustainability in-house without the need of additional revenue to maintain the status quo.” MARTA will not seek state funding until the agency achieves that goal, he said, adding that the system is worthy of investment. “MARTA is here to stay as a vibrant and active part of what makes Atlanta special. We can talk about expansion, and talk about how we can make a bigger, better MARTA, but first we have to get to a sustainable MARTA.”

AGL construction replacing aging pipelines that serves thousands PIPELINE,

from page

natural gas pipelines serving more than 1.5 million customers. Its Pipeline Replacement Program is a 15-year project that began in 1998 to replace more than 2,600 miles of bare, or unprotected, steel and cast-iron natural gas pipeline in the state. AGL is replacing older pipe with stateof-the-art plastic and steel pipe to ensure the line’s long-term safety and reliability. Some residents in subdivisions bordering Katie Kerr were worried that construction would tear up sidewalks and make it more difficult to get to the nearby Avondale MAR-

TA station, but so far that hasn’t happened. The back yard of William Casler’s house on Hillmont Street faces the construction corridor on Arcadia Avenue. Casler has lived in the area for more than 30 years and takes daily walks on Arcadia with his 3-year-old boxer-bulldog mix, Lizzie. The 66-year-old retired dental technician said he understands the need for the pipeline upgrade but he’s shocked by what he sees. A block-long row of stately pecan trees that had lined Arcadia for decades is gone – a casualty of the project as crews clear the way for a 4-foot-wide, 6-foot-deep trench. Casler said the area was a relaxing oasis.

“This block with its wide grassy area and heavy tree cover was like a minipark where my neighbors and I used to meet and talk after morning walks. It was beautiful.” Casler said he planted a large vegetable garden William Casler in the section behind his backyard fence last year. For now, all that’s left is churned earth, grass and fallen trees that workers will cut up and haul away. AGL began notifying residents 18 months ago with notices and community meetings.

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Company spokesman Duane Bourne said crews are working 9 to 5 Monday through Saturdays to minimize traffic problems. “We expect any disruption to be minimal and crews will restore infrastructure to its original appearance” when the work is finished by the end of 2013, he said. Bourne wasn’t sure whether any sidewalks will have to be closed. Casler said he wants to reclaim the beauty he remembers once work is complete. “I’m thinking of planting new pecans. They’re beautiful and make great shade trees.” For questions or concerns during construction, call 404-584-3130.

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Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

“We’ve found that when people are committed to a group, they are more likely to stay committed to their weight loss goals.”

Know the signs of mental illness in teens to offer help As the national gun control debate escalates in the wake of the Sandy Hook Elementary School tragedy, psychotherapist Diane Lang is urging action on a more individual level – looking for signs of possible mental illness in teens and learning what to do to help them. Twenty-year-old Adam Lanza, who has been described as mentally ill, Diane Lang killed 20 children and six adults at Newtown, Conn., elementary school on Dec. 14, after shooting his mother to death at their home. He committed suicide as first responders arrived at the school. Lang, an author, counselor and adjunct professor at Montclair State University in New Jersey, says one way to help individually is to educate ourselves on the signs of mental illness and the resources available to help those affected.

The Newtown, Conn., school tragedy claimed the lives of 20 children and six adults. Gunman Adam Lanza, 20, who killed himself, has been described as mentally ill.

(too much or too little). n Increased mood swings, anger, irritability and/or impulsiveness. n Loss of focus and concentration. n Talking about suicide. n Obsessive dieting or extreme exercising. n Destroys property and breaks the law. n Uses alcohol or drugs. n Hears voices. If you suspect a mental illness/problem in a teen or young adult: n Have someone close to that person (friend or family member) approach them and let them know they are concerned about them. Be nonjudgmental, calm, caring and empathic. n Let them know there is help available. n Give them resources of local agencies/therapists who can help (or as a parent of a teen, She offers these 14 signs that teens or n Extreme fear and/or unexplained fear. look up resources yourself to get help). young adults might possibly have a mental n Changes in school – grades/behavior. illness or problem: n Loss of interest in normal activities/hob- n Let them know mental illness is treatable. bies/leisure activities – social isolation. n Feelings of worthlessness. For more information, visit www.dl n Anxious and feelings of intense worry or n Lack of interest in family, friends, etc. sadness. n Changes in sleep patterns or eating habits counseling.com.

North DeKalb Mall Community Garden gears up for growing season Organizers of the North DeKalb Mall Community Garden and prospective farmers from refugee and local community groups are gearing up for the growing season, which kicks off on Feb. 1. The garden, which had a trial run last year, has expanded and will now offer 250-square-foot Community plots and 1,000- to 1,500-square-foot Market plots. Taylor Dozier, the mall’s general manager, said much of the plowing, cover crop seeding, and path laying to create more plots on Orion Drive in Decatur have been completed and plots are now available for productive farming. The garden’s goal is to create a seasonal farmers market that includes outside vendors from the community. Interested gardeners and organizers met in December to discuss issues, and Dozier said plot assignments and other details will be finalized this month. “We’ll be busy until then though removing clumps of grass and some rocks, adding soil amendment [per our soil report] and general organic material to help the soil, and creating compost bins and our irrigation

system using rain barrels,” he said. Individuals and families who want to support resources for the garden or to tend their own plot can contact him at taylor@ northdekalbmall.com or 404-320-7960. To prepare for the growing season that will run through Nov. 10, a Bhutanese refugee family helped to transform part of the idle flood plain as a trial run for the urban community garden. Organizers said the trial was to evaluate potential problems that might hinder a productive garden. Keep DeKalb Beautiful provided compost and mulch and the Atlanta Community Food Bank provided many of the seeds used. The Global Growers Network has been involved in planning and coordination, and the garden is supported by District 2 DeKalb Commissioner Jeff Rader. The initial plot was 100 feet long by 60 feet wide and was farmed by a Bhutanese refugee family whose members live less than a mile from the mall. The community garden will continue to have a refugee section. The grass field was plowed by A Girl and Her Tractor, then tilled into rows. The

Weight loss help at Rainbow Park Teens and adults seeking to lose weight this year can meet with kindred souls and share their trials and triumphs at Rainbow Park Baptist Church in Decatur. The Community Weight Loss Support Group, which is open to anyone 14 years and older, meets at 7 p.m. on Thursdays through mid-April. Organizer Phyllis Bennett says the program’s weight loss results are unparalleled. “We’ve found that when people are committed to a group, they are more likely to stay committed to their weight loss goals,” said

Bennett, an independent Herbalife distributor and iChange health coach. “The support structure along with the detailed handouts and information will help individuals to reach their weight loss goals safely.” Bennett said she started working with the weight loss program because of her daughter’s struggle with weight gain from age 10 until just last year. The church is at 2941 Columbia Drive. For more information, e-mail Phylbenn56@ yahoo.com or call 404-692-3454.

garden included eggplant, heirloom tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, peppers, okra, bush beans, mustard, French marigolds, African marigolds, sunflowers, zinnias, watermelon, cantaloupe and basil. North DeKalb Mall, which is owned by Hendon Properties LLC, was the primary leader in the trial effort and is seeking other interested groups like neighborhoods and churches to participate by having their own plots or volunteering to help new gardeners. Neighbor Stiver’s Subaru became the

first sponsor by donating a tool shed. Other friends and sponsors are needed to help with a tool drive; acquiring plants (heirloom varieties and blueberry bushes, for example) and fertilizers (i.e., manure, compost and worm castings). Funding for a irrigation system is also needed. Garden partners will be recognized on the mall Web site as well as other benefits. For more information, contact Taylor Dozier at taylor@northdekalbmall.com or 404-320-7960.

Youth

CrossRoadsNews

January 26, 2013

“Over the years, the Champion Theme School has been oversubscribed. There’s a waiting list to get into that school.”

Amended school plan leaves Chapel Hill Middle alone By Ken Watts

The amended school organization plan approved Jan. 23 by the DeKalb School Board abandoned the controversial idea of turning Chapel Hill Middle School into a theme school. It also leaves all middle schools that feed into Southwest DeKalb High School as they are, until officials can hold public meetings on the matter and scrapped expanding elementary schools to the sixth grade. Before the 6-3 vote, Chief Operating Officer Stephen Wilkins told the board that the district was under pressure to report the list of 130 schools it Stephen Wilkins will operate by the 2016-2017 school years to the state in a timely fashion. Wilkins said the school district has to produce the list to

become eligible for $40 million in capital outlay funds from the state for school improvements. The district plans to spend $496 million on the schools over the next five years under SPLOST IV. “It’s a budgeting tool, not redistricting,” Wilkins said of the organization plan. The brief public session was the board’s first since members faced a Jan. 17 suspension hearing before the Georgia Board of Education in the wake of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools putting the district on probation. State officials voted to delay the hearing until Feb. 21. Keith Sailor, who has a child at Chapel Hill Middle School and another at Southwest DeKalb, said he was relieved that the county will leave middle schools in the Southwest DeKalb High area as they are, for now. A large number of parents opposed the idea and had pledged to fight it. Superintendent Cheryl Atkinson pro-

posed the controversial “organization” plan in November without public input and with a speedy timetable for approval. Under the “theme” concept, parents are required to sign a contract with the school. It includes items like a uniform code of dress, behavioral expectations and parental reinforcement of the instructional program. It also requires parents to volunteer 20 hours per year in the school. Sailor said that a theme school program would block many of the neighborhood children from attending Chapel Hill. “Theme schools are a great idea because they show results in helping kids improve their grades,” Sailor said. “But in that area, at Chapel Hill Middle School, it disenfranchises that community. If they don’t make that cut, they have to be bused to another community to go to school and that eliminates all the vertical alignment with the high school.” Chapel Hill is a feeder school for Southwest DeKalb and its nationally recognized

magnet program. If the Chapel Hill neighborhood kids are bused out of their area, Sailor said they wind up in a different area’s feeder system. “What happens is that great magnet program at Southwest DeKalb bleeds out in a few years because they no longer have a direct feeder,” he said. Parents are looking forward to meeting with school officials and getting direct input on the matter. Administrators believe they had good reasons to consider the idea – there’s only one theme middle school in the county. Wilkins said Champion Theme School in Stone Mountain has been oversubscribed. “There’s a waiting list to get into that school,” he said. “So the community has expressed the need for another.” Wilkins said the district has asked planners to continue engaging the public on the theme school concept. So far, no dates have been set for public hearings.

Miah Spencer joins 1,000-point club

Meadowview Elementary Principal Norman Thomas Jr. accepts a check from South DeKalb Rotary Club President Claudia Lawson in December. Also shown are Rotarian Patricia Seals (from left), Meadowview Assistant Principal E. Jefferson and Rotarian William Murrain.

South DeKalb Rotarians support Meadowview School A $1,100 donation to Meadowview Elementary School from the South DeKalb Rotary Club will support the school’s media center and its new spelling bee contest. The club, which has been located in South DeKalb for more than 30 years, has been a partner in education with the school since 2008. Each year, it provides holiday gift cards for needy families and Rotarians have sponsored the school’s Teacher of the Year, read to the students, donated books, supported literacy programs, and participated in Career Day. Last year, members introduced the students to a live stream of the Aquarius, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and UNC-Wilmington’s undersea laboratory. The students were thrilled to watch marine scientists live while they performed research underwater in Key Largo,

Fla., right from their classroom. Rotarian William Murrain, who coordinates the club’s outreach with the school, said they are investing in the future. “But we’re not interested in just trying to donate a few dollars here and there,” he said. “We do the best we can to provide all types of support because we know that giving back is the future of our community.” Norman Thomas Jr., the principal, said the partnership with the Rotary Club has been fundamental to the school’s success. “Your generous donations to our school have allowed us to update and purchase much-needed materials,” he wrote in a Dec. 17 letter to club. “Again thank you for traveling with us on this educational journey.” Meadowview Elementary is at 1879 Wee Kirk Road in Atlanta. For more information, visit www.dekalb.k12.ga.us/meadowview.

Shooting guard Miah Spencer, a senior at Columbia High, has joined the elite 1,000-career point club of DeKalb County Schools basketball players. Miah eclipsed the 1,000-point mark in three seasons at Columbia during her team’s 65-33 win over Redan High on Jan. 11 in front of the home crowd. The North Carolina State University signee hit for a game-high 28 points (11 of 14 from the field and 3 of 3 from the free throw line) in the No. 1-ranked Lady Eagles’ win over then No. 2-ranked and undefeated Redan. She also contributed five steals and four assists in the victory. Columbia, the 2012 Class AAA state champions, is currently ranked No. 1 in Class AAAA and 13-2 overall this season in part due to Miah’s hitting for 20.4 points per game. She has a total of 285 points this Miah Spencer (with ball) has signed with North Carolina State season in 14 games to bring University. She eclipsed the 1,000-point mark on Jan. 11. her career total to 1,053 (14.0 average). percent (69/188) from 3-point distance. Miah is a career 59 percent (349/589) She has career averages of 3.7 steals (276) shooter inside the 3-point arc and 37 and 2.3 assists (172), including career-high averages of 5.9 steals (82) and 3.6 assists (51) this season. The totals are for three seasons at Columbia.

Show off talent at extravaganza Teens in grades seven through 12 who sing, dance, act or play an instrument can sign up now for the DeKalb Library’s Teen Talent Extravaganza in March. Registration closes on Feb. 8 and the application is available at dekalblibrary.org/ teens. Participants also can do stand-up comedy, magic or visual arts or showcase other talents. The extravaganza is hosted by the library’s Teen Advisory Board, which comprises teen volunteers from a variety of DeKalb County schools. It takes place 5 to 6:30 p.m. on March 23 at the Decatur Library, 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, visit dekalblibrary. org or call 404-370-3070.

Scene

CrossRoadsNews

January 26, 2013

“It is our responsibility to do our part to try to protect our young people from embracing a culture of criminality.” Akbar Imhotep has been telling Uncle Remus stories at the Wren’s Nest Museum since 1985.

DeKalb lawyers offering insights

into thug life

Storyteller releasing Uncle Remus tales on CD Storyteller Akbar Imhotep’s renditions of Uncle Remus stories will be immortalized on audio CD on Feb. 2. Imhotep is releasing “Brer Rabbit’s Laffin’ Place,” a CD that tells many of the beloved children’s stories in their original dialect as penned by noted Georgia author Joel Chandler Harris. Joel C. Harris Among the classic stories on the CD are “Brer Rabbit’s Ridin’ Hoss,” “The Wonderful Tarbaby,” and “Rabbit Deceives Brer Fox Again.” Imhotep’s “Tales From the Briar Patch” also will be available.

The CD release is part of a special program of stories at the Wren’s Nest Museum in southwest Atlanta. Regular storytelling starts at 1 p.m. The special CD release will be at 2 p.m. Admission to the CD release is free. The museum is located inside the Queen Anne Victorian house that was Harris’ home from 1881 to 1908. It became a house museum in 1913 to preserve Harris’ legacy and the heritage of African-American folklore. Harris wrote many of the Brer Rabbit tales on the front porch of the house, which got its name after wrens made a nest in the mailbox 120 years ago. Imhotep, who began his theatrical and storytelling career at Paine College in Au-

Intimate dance premieres at Callanwolde “Secret,” an intimate weekend of contemporary dance, premieres Feb. 1 at Callanwolde Fine Arts Center. It is sponsored by Callanwolde Fine Arts Center and Decatur dance troupe CORE and features original choreography by CORE’s artistic director Sue Schroeder and nationally recognized guest artist Becky Valls. Atlanta-

based new music ensemble Bent Frequency also will perform. The unique performance travels throughout the venue. It takes place Feb. 1 and 2 at 8 p.m. and Feb. 3 at 3 p.m. For tickets and other information, visit www.COREdance.org or call 404-3734154.

Friends book sale offers lots of deals Bookworms can score great deals at the Friends of the Decatur Library’s book sale on Feb. 2. The 9 a.m.-to-3 p.m. sale will feature thousands of gently used fiction, nonfiction and children’s books. Used CDs and DVDs are also up for grabs. Prices start at 50 cents

gusta, has been affiliated with the Wren’s Nest since 1985. He was introduced to professional puppetry while touring with the Vagabond Marionettes in 1979 and has traveled throughout the Southeast and other parts of the country as a puppeteer and storyteller. From 1981 to 1986, Imhotep was a resident puppeteer at the Center for Puppetry Arts and served as the storyteller-in-residence at the Wren’s Nest from 1985 to 1999. He also has been a storytelling fixture for Zoo Atlanta and in 2012 was honored with a Governor’s Arts & Humanities Award. The Wren’s Nest Museum is at 1050 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd. S.W. For more information, visit www.wrensnestonline.com or call 404-753-7735.

Youth can learn about myths and missteps at “The Consequences of Thug Life” on Jan. 26 at the Auburn Avenue Research Library in Atlanta. The Decatur-based Davis Bozeman Law Firm is co-hosting the event with the library. It begins at 6 p.m. and is facilitated by criminal defense attorney Mawuli Mel Davis Mawuli Mel Davis, who developed the multimedia presentation after seeing a growing number of teens from “good families” going to prison after buying into the glamorization of being a “thug.” “The Consequences Robert Bozeman of Thug Life” uses hip-hop music, images and clips to engage youth in a thoughtprovoking discussion about manhood, self-identity, self-worth and community responsibility. Robert Bozeman, the law firm’s managing partner, said Davis Bozeman is committed to helping the community. “It is our responsibility to do our part to try to protect our young people from embracing a culture of criminality,” Bozeman said. “We are fighting for our future.” The library is at 101 Auburn Ave. N.E. For more information, visit www.davis bozeman.com or call 404-244-2004.

“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.

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and only cash or checks will be accepted. All proceeds benefit the library’s programs and collections. Book donations are always welcome at the library front desk. The library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, e-mail Linda Lael at llael@bellsouth.net.

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CrossRoadsNews

January 26, 2013

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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

January 26, 2013

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Call 404-284-1888 to find out how.

education

AIRLINES ARE HIRING

ministry CALLING ALL SABBATH KEEPERS!

MARKETPLACE RATES Place your MarketPlace line ad here – up to 20 words for $25. Additional words are $3 per block of five words (maximum 45 words). Boxed Ads (with up to 3 lines bold headline): $35 plus cost of the classified ad. Send ad copy with check or credit card information and contact phone number (if different from ad) to MarketPlace, CrossRoadsNews, 2346 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30032, or e-mail to marketplace@crossroadsnews.com. Our deadlines are at noon on the Friday one week prior to publication, unless otherwise noted.

help wanted

home services

SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS WANTED Starting at $15.40 per hour DeKalb County School District Good driving record and drug-test required.

Call 678-676-1481 Hiring Now!

CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance

877-818-0783

We Repair Washers, Dryers, Stoves, and More ✓ Same Day Service ✓ Cash, Checks Accepted ✓ Licensed and Insured ✓ Senior Citizen Discount

678-982-2068

pet services

MICKENS REPAIR SERVICE

DeKalb Dog Spa

BUYERS:

DeKalb Bank Foreclosure, 4 br, 2.5 ba, LR, DR, Den $98,500. $1,000 down, $740 per month! Must Qualify.

Jan 26th • Feb 2nd • Feb 9th 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Age 3................. $90 Age 4: .............. $120 Ages 5-6.......... $130 Ages 7-14: ...... $140 2466 Bouldercrest Rd SE Atlanta, GA 30316

1st U Realty Call 24/7

404-244-9660

1-888-269-6795 x115

YOuth Services

Still Waters, Inc. introduces

LICENSED & INSURED

*All work and materials are guaranteed

4691 Redan Rd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083

(678) 705-8368

spas / salons

NOW OPEN ATLANTA’S QUALITY BEAUTY AND SKIN CARE

Dr. Chandra Britt Armstrong welcomes

Darren Harper, MD

Board Certiﬁed Family Practice Physician New CLIENTS Welcome Most Insurance Plans accepted For more information call

JOHNNY HARRIS, www.johnnyharriscpa.com CPA PC

Sell your house and rent it back from the owner, and get $5,000 relocation money!! Call 1-888-269-6795 ext. 110

For more info: Mr. Spencer Murray, Director 313-779-2513 5878 Covington Hwy • Decatur, Ga. 30035 • Ofﬁce: 678-570-8252

DeKalb Family Medicine

Evenings and weekends available

SELLERS:

includes Bath • Nails • Anal Glands • Ear Cleaning Teeth Brushing • Cut/ Trim

FREE 1040 EZ and Electronic Filing

(678) 518-8501

2013 Spring Baseball & Softball Registration

Sing • Play an Instrument • Act

$35.00

medical

CALL FOR APPT

youth services

R.O.Y.A.L.S. “Mentoring youth using the Arts”

finance

5211 Covington Hwy Decatur, Ga. 30035

real estate

Spa Package

770-906-7950

Taxes • IRS Representation • Debt Consolidation Consulting • Business Returns

"Learn from the burn, but forgive to live"

APPLIANCE SERVICE

home services

COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL • Additions • Basement • Decks • Roofing • Painting • Fire Damage • Tile & Hardwood Floors • Electrical • Concrete • Plumbing • Siding • HVAC Repair & Service

The Potter’s House Sabbath School Saturdays @ 11:00 a.m. Hour of Power Tuesdays @ 7:00 p.m. Divine Worship Saturdays @ 1:00 p.m.

Apostle Harold Purvis & Elect Lady Robbin Purvis

Gresham Park

with a personal touch…

Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified – Housing available

Are you looking for a wholesome spiritual home that serves God's truth, balance and love? Come on down to The Potter's House where the table is spread and the feast of the Lord is going on. We are located at 2997 South Rainbow Drive in Decatur, Ga.

CANDLER ROAD

STONECREST

1862 Candler Road Decatur, GA 30032 404-289-4556

8052 Mall Parkway, Suite 103 Lithonia, GA 30038 (678) 672-4093

Specialists in Diabetes, Hypertension, High Cholesterol, Asthma, Kidney Disease, Allergies, COPD and other healthcare

Winner of the 2012 MillerCoors Messenger Award and 8 Awards for Journalistic Excellence

2618 Max Cleland Blvd., Lithonia 30058 Lashes, Brow & Contour $25 Full Face Make-up $35 • Facials $25 WAXING, THREADING • APPOINTMENT ONLY • NO WAIT

678.914.1688 • thespaladies.com

retail

Soul Discount Fabrics & Upholstery

in the Atlanta Association of Black Journalists’ 30th Pioneer Black Journalists Awards Competition* * Print Category - Under 100,000 circulation

East Metro Atlanta’s Best Source for Local News

ALSTON DRIVE SE

Open Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 404-963-6485 404-966-8320

John Is Back!

✓ Dress Fabric ✓ Designer Fabric ✓ Upholstery Fabric ✓ Drapery Fabric

AD R RO

2346 Candler Road • Decatur, GA 30034 • 404-284-1888 • www.crossroadsnews.com • www.facebook.com/crossroadsnews

MEMORIAL DRIVE SE

DLE

Best Community / Public Affairs Reporting Best Deadline Reporting Best Non-Deadline Reporting Best News Series Best Hard Feature Story Best Soft Feature (2) -- Tie Best Photojournalism

CAN

ence xcell of E gory d r a ” te g Aw ews Ca Schools N lishin Pub reaking Going to B wers To “Cell

• • • • • • •

GLENWOOD ROAD

279 Candler Road Atlanta, GA 30317 (near Memorial Drive)

Free Fabric with Upholstery SALE ENDS FEBRUARY 28, 2013

CrossRoadsNews

January 26, 2013

The MalcolM cunninghaM auTo group it’s tHe FinaL Weekend

no Build Up, no Hype...

JUST New 2013 FOrd

FiesTA

New 2013 FOrd

12,888

FOcus

17,888

BUY FOR

MusTANg

19,379

A MONTH

New 2013 FOrd

A MONTH

STK#136072 Buy for 84 months at 2.9% APR with $2750 down plus tax, tag and title with approved credit.

F-150 TAurus New 2013 FOrd

21,585

BUY FOR

YOUR CHOICE

New 2013 FOrd

edge

23,859

258

229 A MONTH

STK#134560 Buy for 84 months at 2.9% APR with $2000 down plus tax, tag and title with approved credit.

STK#133045 Buy for 84 months at 2.9% APR with $2000 down plus tax, tag and title with approved credit.

199

156

A MONTH

escApe

STK#134006 Buy for 84 months at 2.9% APR with $2000 down plus tax, tag and title with approved credit.

New 2013 FOrd

13,888

143

DEALS!

285

$ BUY FOR

A MONTH

STK#138068 Buy for 84 months at 2.9% APR with $2000 down plus tax, tag and title with approved credit.

A MONTH

STK#131504 Buy for 84 months at 2.9% APR with $2000 down plus tax, tag and title with approved credit. STK#135534

Prices plus tax, tag, title, with approved credit. Includes all factory rebates. See dealer for complete details. Expires 1/31/2013.

770.621.0200

5675 Peachtree Industrial Blvd

w w w. Ma lc o lmC u n n i n g h am F or d. c om

Manager’s service special

You Spend $100 And We Take ................. $20 Off! You Spend $200 And We Take ................. $40 Off! You Spend $300 And We Take ................. $60 Off! You Spend $400 And We Take ................. $80 Off! You Spend $500 Or More And We Take .....$100 Off!

2004 Toyota Sequoia priced To Sell!

7995

STK#A3041

iMprOve YOur Fuel Mileage

valvoline fuel System Service cleans injectors to improve fuel delivery efficiency, removes carbon deposits from intake valves and combustion chambers and cleans the Throttle Body and Air intake System. This process reduces tip in hesitation and improves throttle response.

regularly $

169

129

Save $40

69 Free

95 Save $20

13,995

STK#A3213

Service SpeciAL

Cannot be combined with any other discounts, promotions or coupons. Must present this offer to Advisor at time of write up. Expires 1/31/2013.

tire rOtatiOn!

need credit? We cAn heLp!

YOUR FiRst, Last and OnLY stOP!

We NoW ReNt

2010 honda Accord LX Auto, Low Miles!

STK#A3204

16,995

2005 BMW 545i

2008 cadillac STS

A Must See!

nav, roof, & More!

17,995

STK#A3208

STK#A3169

17,995

2012 dodge charger Sport

2012 volkswagen cc

A Must See!

19,995

STK#A3194

Loaded, Must See!

STK#A3123

20,995

2008 Toyota 4runner Limited

2012 chevrolet camaro rS ready To ride!

Sun roof, Leather!

22,995

STK#A3130

2003 nissan FrOntier

6995 $ StK#A3189, Fun, Sporty .............................................. 11,998 2009 hOnda civic $ StK#A2041, Gas Saver, like new, low Miles .............. 12,995 2005 Mini cOOper $ StK#A3211, Convertible, Fun Fun Fun ........................ 12,995 2005 BMW X5 $ StK#A3142, luxury and Sporty................................... 13,995 2012 FOrd FOcus $ StK#A3198, Auto, new Style ...................................... 14,995 2009 nissan altiMa $ StK#A3172, like new ................................................ 14,995 2005 Mercedes-Benz c230 no purchase necessary! StK#A3162, Sunroof, leather ..................................... $14,995 2010 tOYOta caMrY $ StK#A3171, Auto, Cd, P/W, P/l ................................... 14,995 2011 FOrd FusiOn $ StK#A3197, nice ride ................................................ 15,995

Cannot be combined with any other discounts, promotions or coupons. Must present this offer to Advisor at time of write up. Expires 1/31/2013.

10,995

Automatic, Gas Saver!

Expires 1/31/2013.

2 Wheel alignMents LiMiTed TiMe Offer

LiMiTed TiMe Offer

regularly

STK#A3160

StK#A3154A, Crew Cab..................................................

2008 FOrd FusiOn sel

STK#A3195

2011 FOrd taurus

2011 FOrd escape Xlt

16,995 StK#A3174, Extra nice! .............................................. 16,995 2006 Mercedes-Benz r350 $ StK#A3175, like new ................................................. 17,995 2012 FOrd Mustang $ StK#A3200, Convertible, Auto, low Miles ................... 18,995 2007 leXus es350 $ StK#A3177, navigation, Sun roof, nice ...................... 18,995 2008 Mercedes-Benz clK500 $ StK#A3209, Sporty, luxury......................................... 19,995 2012 dOdge charger $ StK#A3194, ride In Style ........................................... 19,995 2008 Mercedes-Benz r350 $ StK#S3125, navigation, Sun roof, leather ................ 20,995 2009 Mercedes-Benz e350 $ StK#A3210, low Miles, luxury.................................. 25,995 2011 cadillac srX $ StK#A3178, new Body ............................................... 27,995 StK#A3196, Family Fun Starts Here............................

Prices plus tax, tag, title, with approved credit. offers expire 1/31/2013.

. 7 70 987.9000 I-20, Exit Wesley Chapel • To Snapfinger Woods Drive Sales Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-8pm • Closed Sunday

A Division of Malcolm Cunningham Ford

678.502.2005

22,995

www.MalcolmcunninghamAutoGallery.com

10.5” x 16” 37512-MCAQ (1-26) crossroads FC (nb)

$ special!

SAturdAy & MondAy only.

Gas Saver!

2011 Toyota corolla

Cannot be combined with any other discounts, promotions or coupons. Must present this offer to Advisor at time of write up. Expires 1/31/2013.

Oil change

2007 volkswagen Jetta