CrossRoadsNews, Jan. 31, 2009 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

COMMUNITY

YOUTH

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As Jeremiah and ToMiko Blount celebrated Barack Obama’s election on Nov. 5, they had a novel idea. They decided to get married at his inauguration. 5

Chorus students at Southwest DeKalb High School have staged walkouts in support of their music teacher, whom they say was suspended unfairly. 10

Cedar Grove basketball coach James Martin, known for his fiery demeanor on the sideline, has joined an elite field of coaches, those with 300 career wins. 12

History made personal

Rally around the teacher

January 31, 2009

Passion for the Saints

Volume 14, Number 40

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CEO Ellis sells austerity budget to residents By McKenzie Jackson

Austerity measures have come home to DeKalb County government with deep cuts in the proposed 2009 budget. DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis, who took the budget on the road last week, told residents at a Jan. 27 meeting in Decatur that the cuts are aimed at making up a $60 million shortfall. Ellis, who is presenting his first budget since taking office Jan. 5, said that county government like any other organization is facing challenges in 2009 because of the state of our national economy. “We have to do more with less this year,” he told the 100 residents and county staff gathered in the auditorium at Chapel Hill Middle School. To balance the proposed $601.4 million budget, Ellis slashed $34.2 million in debt services, parks and libraries, public works, human services, general administration, facilities management, information systems, courts and jails, and public safety. He blamed the cuts on the national economic recession, the incorporation of the city of Dunwoody, and the state’s withholding of Homeowners Tax Relief Grant credits. In other belt-tightening measures, Ellis wants to downsize the county’s 3-1-1 operations system into the Information Systems Department and move the Arts, Culture and Entertainment department under the Parks and Recre-

Photos by McKenzie Jackson / CrossRoadsNews

DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis (left) fielded questions about his proposed $601 million budget at a hearing at Chapel Hill Middle School in Decatur. The budget is $34.2 million less than the 2008 budget. Ellis says its a tough economic year and that the county has to do more with less.

Five deepest cuts CEO Burrell Ellis proposes a 2009 budget of $601 million, down $34.2 million or 5.4 percent from the 2008 budget. Department Capitol Projects General Admin. Public Works Parks & Libraries Public Safety

Percent cut 49.3 19.8 15.2 9.6 2.5

ation department. He is also eliminating unfilled and temporary positions and suspending merit increments and sick incentives for county employees. The meeting was the third of 11 he is hosting around the county

Amount $10.7 million $10.9 million $4.6 million $3.4 million $4.8 million

on the budget, which the DeKalb Board of Commissioners must legally adopt on Feb. 24. The next South DeKalb meeting will be at 7 p.m. Feb. 3 at the East Lake YMCA, 275 Lake Blvd. S.E., Atlanta.

Ellis told the Jan. 27 attendees that he cannot justify having the 3-1-1 system as a stand-alone department because it is not operating at anticipated levels, and that he does not see enough activity within the arts department to justify it being a standalone department. After his presentation, Ellis fielded questions about how the arts would work under the parks department and when the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center would open. He said that arts would still have the same function and that programs are being put in place for the new arts center. Residents also wanted to know

whether the proposed cuts would affect county construction projects such as improvements to the Flakes Mill Road bridge. “Every year I ask about it, it is put off for the next two years,” a man said. Ted Rhinehart, the county’s deputy chief operating officer of infrastructure, said that the project would be starting soon. “The contract has already been awarded,” he said. “Construction should start in a couple of months.” Ellis said that sales tax funds are being used to give homeowners a Please see BUDGET, page 6

Owners face foreclosure, tax woes when mortgage exceeds home value By McKenzie Jackson

More than 338,000 Georgia homeowners owe more on their mortgages than their houses are currently worth and are in danger of foreclosure , a nationwide study finds. The Georgians are among 7.5 million U.S. homeowners suffering from what Sacramento, Calif.based real estate research firm First American CoreLogic calls “negative equity.” The study, conducted in November 2008 found that 338,495 or 23.2 percent of the state’s 1.4 million mortgages owe more on than their home than it is worth. John O’Callaghan, CEO of Atlanta Neighborhood Development Partnership Inc., said negative equity plays a big part in foreclosures in DeKalb and Fulton counties, which

Mortgage experts say homeowners with negative equity often face excessive taxes and risk of foreclosure because of the situation.

lead the state in foreclosures. “If you had a positive equity situation you wouldn’t likely be going into foreclosure, so really foreclosures are because of a negative equity situation.,” said O’Callaghan, whose nonprofit group is advocates

for affordable housing. “Either you are at a breakeven point or below.” First American CoreLogic, which listed Georgia among the top 10 states with negative equity mortgages, did not breakdown the statistics on a ZIP Code or county

levels. Georgia has the sixth highest foreclosure rate in the country behind Nevada, California, Florida, Arizona and Colorado. O’Callaghan said the 10-county metro area accounts for 81 percent of Georgia foreclosures. “In metro John O’Callaghan Atlanta, the five core counties have the lion’s share,” he said. “DeKalb is one of the hardest hit.” O’Callaghan points to an ANDP study released in October that showed foreclosure-ravished area’s like South DeKalb ZIP codes 30058, 30032 and 30038 will pay millions of dollars in excess taxes this year because of overvalued homes. He said that the two studies are

linked because the erosion of property values contributes to negative equity. “If you bought that home for $100,000 and the value has fallen to $80,000, you lose a job or fall behind in your mortgage someway,” he said. “But you can’t sell it to anybody because you would still have to write a $20,000 check. You have no choice but to have the home foreclosed.” O’Callaghan also said that in neighborhoods where occupied homes are surrounded by vacant houses, negative equity can hit a homeowner real hard. “Let’s just say you are at a break even point and you want to sell yours, but you’re beside two vacant homes. The price will continue to fall and you can’t sell your home. So you are even more likely to be in a negative equity situation.”

CrossRoadsNews

January 31, 2009

CrossRoadsNews

January 31, 2009

Community

“We want our constituents to know what the budget means in the simplest of terms. It’s important to show residents where their tax dollars are being allocated.”

Qualifying opens for Lithonia seats Johnson to chair antitrust committee Qualifying for the March 17 Special Election to fill two open seats on the Lithonia City Council will be Feb. 2 to 4. The candidates seeking to finish the unexpired terms of Tonya Peterson and Linda Pruett must register at the DeKalb County Voter Registration & Elections office in Decatur daily from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. They must be registered voters who live with the Lithonia city limits. The qualifying fee is $280. Peterson, who is now the city’s mayor, resigned her council seat in October to run for mayor. She was elected in the council in 2005 and had one year left on her term.

Pruett, who was also elected in 2005, resigned in December. Absentee voting begins Feb. 17 at the elections office from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Advance voting will be March 9-13. On election day, voters can cast ballots at Lithonia Middle School in Lithonia from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The winners of the seats will join Doreen Carter, Marcus Lloyd and Kathleen DeCocq on the council. The DeKalb County Voter Registration & Elections office is at 4380 Memorial Drive in Decatur. For more information, call 404298-4020.

Watson assumes role with Scouts

Former state Rep. Stan Watson is the new District Chair of the Boy Scouts of America Soapstone Ridge District, which serves Boy Scouts in south DeKalb County and the city of Decatur. Watson, who served 10 years as the represenative for House District 91, was among 25 volunteers who took the oath of service on Jan. 12 at the Boy Scouts’ annual district banquet at First Baptist Church in downtown Decatur. In his new role, Watson will serve as the “face” of the district and help bring community, school and church leaders together to support Cub and Boy Scout programs.

New laws go into effect in 2009 With the dawn of 2009, Georgians have a number of new laws to get accustomed to. Among those that went into effect this month are Senate Bills 52, 474 and 488 and House Bill 977. In DeKalb, Senate Bill 52 empowered the Board of Commissioners to set their own agenda and run their own meetings. Statewide, Senate Bill 474 requires registered sex offenders to hand over internet passwords and screen names to police. Senate Bill 488 allows foreigners who are temporarily in the United States to keep their home country driver’s license, if they obtain a Georgia license. Previously a visitor had to surrender the foreign license. It also allows refugees and other legal immigrants

who are in the country indefinitely to renew their license once every three years instead of every year. With HB 977, health insurance companies are exempt from paying taxes on premiums in the sale of the high-deductible savings account plans giving saves health insurers $146 million in tax breaks over the next five years. Supporters of the law says it will spark competition among insurers and make plans cheaper. Under HB 426, school districts must notify the Department of Transportation about rail crossings without active warning devices that are used by school buses and must reroute buses to minimize the use of such rail crossings.

Commissioner hosting budget meeting at Berean DeKalb Commissioner Lee May is hosting a budget meeting on Feb. 5 at Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain. May said the one-hour meeting, which begins at 7 p.m., will give residents a chance to ask questions Lee May and get answers about CEO Burrell Ellis’ proposed 2009 budget, which includes many cuts in staffing and services. “We want our constituents to know what the budget means in

the simplest of terms,” May said. “It’s important to show residents where their tax dollars are being allocated in 2009.” May is also encouraging taxpayers to review the budget at www.leemaydistrict5.com/Survey.asp and provide feedback to him before Feb. 24. The meeting will be in the Youth Worship Room. The church is at 2201 Young Road. For more information, call 404-371-4745.

year term this month, said he is Congressman Hank Johnson is looking forward to working with now chairman of the House Courts colleagues on both sides of the and Competition Policy Subcomaisle to explore whether mergers mittee which deals with antitrust will lead to increased choices and issues and administration of the lower prices for consumers. U.S. Courts. In this session, Johnson is Johnson’s Jan. 23 election to the also Regional Whip for the 8th post in the 111th Congress puts District, which includes Florida, him in charge of leading subcom- Hank Johnson mittee in overseeing all legislation and hear- Georgia, Mississippi, Alabama, the Virgin ings related to antitrust law, monopolies Islands and Puerto Rico. In that role, he is in charge of gathering support for legislation and restraint of trade. Johnson, who began his second two- that is on the floor for a vote.

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Forum

January 31, 2009

Obama’s achievement as the country’s first African American President means my sons no longer have an excuse for not growing up to become great men.

Woodbridge students celebrate country’s new president 2346 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007

On Jan. 20, while 1.8 million people were gathered on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., students and staff at Woodridge Elementary School in Stone Mountain held their own inauguration celebrations. They performed, created art projects and made journal entries about the historic inauguration of the nation’s first African-American president. They also paraded through the school with clothing and banners bearing photos of President Barack Obama. Teachers also prepared lessons about the office of the President and the inauguration process.

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Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker General Manager Curtis Parker Staff Writers Corey M. Edwards McKenzie Jackson Advertising Sales Cynthia Blackshear Graphic Designer Sharif Ffrench CrossRoadsNews is published every Thursday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsN ews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

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Excerpts from readers’ comments about the Obama inauguration To read the comments in full, visit www.crossroadsnews.com The hope and dreams of slaves and sharecroppers, the dreams of his father, Dr. King’s dream, and, yes, even our dreams intersected when he laid his hand on the Bible and said, “So help me God.” Kevin Oliveira, McDonough

This event – save the birth, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus the Christ – will perhaps go down as the single most amazing event in the history of man.

Andrea Berry, Toronto

Jerry Wyatt, Lithonia

Obama’s achievement as the country’s first African American President means my sons no longer have an excuse for not growing up to become great men who do great things for their country. I consider myself truly blessed to have experienced and witnessed this in my lifetime.

So thankful I am alive to see this change. Our forefathers built the White House and now their grandchildren are living in it. I’m sure that while they were building they were praying for this day.

Needless to say, it was an amazing experience being in Washington for the inauguration. Despite the overwhelming crowd of humanity that was present, it felt as though you were among family and friends.

Lanada Chanel, Lithonia

Hyacinth Smith, Kingston, Jamaica

Deborah Jackson, Lithonia

Quick Read Qualifying opens for Lithonia Energy to be discussed at seats 3 Chamber luncheon Qualifying for the March 17 Special Election to fill two open seats on the Lithonia City Council will be Feb. 2 to 4.

Johnson to chair antitrust committee

Congressman Hank Johnson is chairman of the House Courts and Competition Policy Subcommittee which deals with antitrust issues and administration of the U.S. Courts.

Couple’s story indelibly linked with inauguration 5

Unemployment at highest evel since 1983

Students sing praises for 6 teacher during walkout

Five energy experts will lead a discussion on energy alternatives, conservation and sustainability at the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce’s First Monday Lunch.

More than 200 Southwest DeKalb students and parents have been picketing and singing songs of praise in support of suspended music teacher Nathan Grigsby.

Theme school forms online 10 3 Salmonella case reported in DeKalb County 8 Applying for DeKalb County theme schools now

For personal and historical reasons, Jan. 20, 2009, will always be an important date to Jeremiah and TaMiko Blount.

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It is awesome in the true meaning of the word. I still feel as if I’m in some sort of utopian dream here. MLK must be dancing in his grave!

Georgia’s unemployment reached 8.1 percent in December, slightly above the national rate of 7. 2 percent.

The nationwide salmonella scare involving peanuts came home to DeKalb last week.

has gone cyber. With the click of a mouse, parents can apply for their children to attend the school system’s theme schools.

Study says cancer gene can be Passion for the game evident inherited 8 in coach’s 300-win career 12 The gene that causes breast cancer metastasis in an estimated 11,000 Georgia women annually can be inherited, a new study finds.

Longtime writing partners to sign new book

Seventeen years into pacing the basketball sidelines as a head coach, Cedar Grove’s James Martin is just as fiery as ever.

Fellowship dinners help keep 13 9 blessings in forefront

Writing duo Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant will read and sign copies of their new book, “What Doesn’t Kill You,” at the Mall at Stonecrest.

On the same night that the country lost 70,000 jobs and stock prices plummeted, the congregation at Rainbow Park Baptist Church was rejoicing.

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January 31, 2009

Community

“There was just flashbulbs all around us. We just had people asking to be in the pictures with us.”

Couple’s personal story indelibly linked with historic inauguration By McKenzie Jackson

For personal and historical reasons, Jan. 20, 2009 will always be an important date to Jeremiah and TaMiko Blount – and not just because Barack Obama became the first African American president of the US. In the midst of the massive crowd gathered on the National Mall in the nation’s capital to applaud Obama, the Ellenwood couple took their wedding vows in the shadow of the Washington Monument. They could not have afforded to invite 1.8 million to their nuptials, but there they were, saying “I do” in the middle of that huge crowd. “It was really cool,” the new hubby said Wednesday. “There was just flashbulbs all around us. We just had people asking to be in the pictures with us.” “I just kept getting hugs and hugs,” TaMiko Blount said. Jeremiah Blount, a 39-year-old fourth grade teacher at Walter White Elementary School in Atlanta, and his new bride, a 36-year-old full-time student at Clayton State University, said they got the idea to get hitched during the inauguration of the 44th president of the United States after Obama won the Nov. 4 election. “We were all at home jumping around and celebrating and it was like, ‘Well what’s next,’’ she said. “That’s when I said to Jeremiah let’s get married at the inauguration.” It seemed natural for them to share Obama’s day because they were volunteers during his presidential campaign. They hired Starlen Burns, a Washington D.C. minister, and was joined by Jeremiah’s mother, Florence, and his sisters Mary, Patricia and Mickey and TaMiko’s daughter, 14-year-old Akanke McKinsey. With the wedding day fast approaching, the National Park Service denied them permission to marry on the mall, but they decided to do it any way. With the frigid 18 degree temperatures in DC, their wedding attire was hidden under layers of clothing and heavy coats. Jeremiah said that when people realized what was going on, it was as if paparazzi were everywhere. “There was just flashbulbs all around us,” he said. The couple first met in 1996

“It was a great feeling being a part of something so historic. It was fabulous to couple joining our lives together with the presidential inauguration.” TaMiko Blount

TaMiko (left) and Jeremiah Blount exchanged wedding vows on the National Mall in Washington during Barack Obama’s inauguration as the 44th president of the United States.

when Jeremiah, a Chicago native, moved to New Orleans for a teaching position. He met TaMiko, a New Orleans native, when he began working with the New Orleans School System’s African and Multicultural Studies Department, where she worked in the central office. They kept in touch when Jeremiah moved to Atlanta in 2003 and when TaMiko relocated to Atlanta in the wake of Hurricane Katrina more than three years ago, they became a couple. After the wedding, they took off their top layer of clothes and revealed T-shirts with each other’s pictures and the words, “I married her/him on the National Mall at Obama’s Inauguration.” The couple said they are planning a Yoruba wedding ceremony in the summer so that their friends and more family can attend. But the ceremony on Jan. 20 will always have a special significance for them. “It was a great feeling being a part of something so historic,” TaMiko said. “It was fabulous to couple joining our lives together with the presidential inauguration.”

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Finance

“We don’t want fire and police competing, we don’t want the sheriff and police departments competing, we don’t want to have politics in public safety.”

Unemployment at highest level since 1983 Georg ia’s unemploy ment reached 8.1 percent in December, slightly above the national rate of 7. 2 percent. It was the highest rate since 1983 and an 80 percent increase in a year when Georgia lost nearly 122,000 jobs. A year ago, the state’s unemployment rate was 4.5 percent and the U.S. rate was 4.9 percent. Statewide, the Georgia Depart-

ment of Labor said 393,168 workers are job hunting, and about 40 percent of them are drawing unemployment insurance benefits. In DeKalb, 5,202 adults filed new unemployment claims in December, 1,687 more than November. Metro-wide, 42,810 people filed new claims in December, up from 27,942 people in November. The labor department says the

2008 jobs lost crossed all sectors – manufacturing, construction, trade, professional and business services, including temporary agencies. The current recession was identified in late 2007 and is not expected to hit bottom until the middle of this year. Many economists predict it will last well into 2010 with a continued rise in unemployment.

Energy to be discussed at Chamber luncheon Five energy experts will lead a panel discussion on energy alternatives, conservation and sustainability on Feb. 2 at the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce’s First Monday Lunch at the Holiday Inn Select in downtown Decatur. The luncheon, which starts at 11:30 a.m., will feature John Somerhalder, CEO of AGL Resources; Garry Harris, president of HTS Enterprise; Mike Garrett, president of Georgia Power; Eliza

January 31, 2009

Mike Garrett

John Somerhalder

Jane Whitman, sustainability director for Parsons Engineering; and Gregory Mason, assistant executive director of the Georgia Environ-

mental Facilities Authority. The panel will discuss energy conservation and energy uses. Benita Dodd, the vice president of public policy at the Georgia Public Policy Foundation, will moderate the discussion. Admission at the door is $45. The Holiday Inn Select is at 130 Clairemont Ave. in Decatur. For more information, visit www. dekalbchamberofcommerce.org or call 404-378-8000.

Business programs enrolling Teens and adults interested in starting their own business can register for the Partnership for Community Action Microenterprise Development Program and its Youth Entrepreneur’s Explorer Club. The eight-week Microenterprise Development Program, which runs Feb. 21-April 10, offers business skills training, oneon-one counseling and access to micro financing. Vonda C. Echols, PCA’s program manager, said now is a good time to learn how to start your own business. “This is the first step towards self-sufficiency,” she said. PCA, which has been holding the class for five years, graduated its most recent class of 12 on Dec. 17. The six-week Youth Explorer Club targets students from DeKalb, Gwinnett and Rockdale schools including McNair and Columbia high schools, Co-

lumbia and Terry Mill elementary schools and McNair Middle School. It also begins on Feb. 21 and will explore entrepreneurship as a career option, conduct research on a variety of business ventures and meet with business owners. PCA president and CEO Mohammed Saleem said that PCA wants to give youth a competitive edge when exploring career options. “Meeting actual business owners and learning firsthand what it takes to operate a business will give them insight into their future careers,” he said. Both programs are free to individuals meeting the federal income guidelines at or below 125 percent of poverty. Those over the guidelines pay $100 for the microenterprise program and $25 for the youth program. PCA is at 815 Park North Blvd., Clarkston. For more information, Call 404-929-2500.

Ellis: Tough choices had to be made BUDGET,

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credit on their home property taxes to keep them from increasing because of the incorporation of the city of Dunwoody. As a result, he said, those funds will not be used on county projects like sidewalks and roads. “The more we use to neutralize the effects of the city of Dunwoody, the less we have for capital projects,” he said. “We have no plans to cancel any projects though.” Harvey Agee, an employee with the county’s Watershed Management Department, questioned Ellis’ suspension of the merit increments. “All these years we’ve been having to do without a cost of living increase, now we are going to have to deal without a merit increase,” he said. “We get out there and work darn hard for the citizens of DeKalb. We feel like this is a slap in the face.” Ellis said that he has had to make tough choices. “I hated not to be able to offer merit increases, but I also had to look at what is going on around the country,” he said. With crime on the rise in DeKalb, Ellis dedicated 31 percent of the budget to public safety, which he has deemed a top priority of his administration.

He said establishing a public safety director to oversee DeKalb’s police and fire departments, the medical examiner’s office, the Juvenile and Recorders courts and act as a liaison to the court system and district attorney, sheriff and solicitor general’s offices was important. “If we were to experience another terrorist attack and it impacted the Atlanta area, there needs to be a coordinated response,” he said. “If we should have a natural disaster in DeKalb County, there needs to be a coordinated response. If we should have a sewer spill and we need to notify people and we need a boil water advisory, we need a coordinated response. If we continue what we have experienced with our Recorders Court, where we lost millions of dollars in revenue…we need someone to coordinate that system, so that we are not losing money. We can’t afford to lose money.” Ellis said he needs residents to reach out to members of the Board of Commissioners and tell them they want to reduce crime. “We don’t want fire and police competing, we don’t want the sheriff and police departments

competing, we don’t want to have politics in public safety, we don’t want crime in DeKalb County,” he said. Ellis he is also looking to continue the 18-month Master Police Officer incentive plan that is designed to retain senior officers, conduct a study on whether pay raises to officers affects attrition, and institute better utilization of county vehicles. He said the 50 DeKalb officers who were assigned to the Dunwoody area will be reassigned throughout the county. The new city has its own police force. Ellis also wants all new police officers put on the street and not behind a desk. “As your CEO we are going to enforce that,” he said. Cheryl Way of Ellenwood said she supports the idea of a public safety director. “I believe it is much needed,” she said. “It will help decrease crime.” Way said that while the proposed budget is not likable, it seems fair. “He is trying to balance the budget in tough economic times,” she said. “He is doing a good job coming into an inherited situation.”

January 31, 2009

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Wellness

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January 31, 2009

“Consumer safety is the utmost priority. We are in full compliance with the FDA recall.”

Salmonella case linked to tainted peanut butter reported in DeKalb By Corey M. Edwards

The nationwide salmonella scare involving peanuts came home to DeKalb last week. The DeKalb Board of Health said Jan. 23 that there was one con firmed case of salmonella. On Jan. 23, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration recalled more than 125 products with peanut butter manufactured at a Peanut Corporation of America plant in Blakely, Ga. The recall came in the wake of six deaths across the country attributed to the Salmonella Typh imurium found in products with peanut butter. The outbreak also sickened more than 480 people nationwide. The peanut butter and peanut paste was produced on or after July 1, 2008, and sold in bulk packaging containers ranging from five to 1,700 pounds in size. Beth Ruddiman, a Board of Health spokeswoman, said De Kalb’s confirmed case occurred in October of 2008 but the CDC is still investigating whether that case is linked to the recalled peanut

Area stores have been pulling snacks containing peanut butter in the wake of the nationwide salmonella outbreak.

butter. The FDA and Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have been collaborating with public health officials in vari ous states to investigate the multistate salmonella outbreak. Peanut Corp. processes peanut butter for companies like King Nut, which distributes peanut butter products to thousands of institutional facilities, food service industries and private label food companies in several states. Stores like Starbucks, GNC and Kroger began pulling the prod ucts from their shelves on Jan. 22. Cookies, crackers, cereal, candy, ice cream and nutrition bars have

all been affected by the recall. The FDA insists, however, that major national brands of peanut butter found in grocery stores are not af fected by the Peanut Corp. recall. Kroger spokesman Glynn Jen kins said managers have been informed about the recalls as they come in and all the products on the list were quickly removed. “Consumer safety is the utmost priority,” Jenkins said. “We are in full compliance with the FDA recall.” Peanut Corp., a family-owned and operated business based in Lynchburg, Va., issued a voluntary recall on Jan. 13, but expanded it on Jan. 18 after its bulk packaging containers also showed traces of salmonella. Stewart Parnell, the company’s owner and president, said he regrets that this has happened. “We are taking these actions with the safety of our consumers as our first priority,” he said. Peanut Corp. also operates two plants in Suffolk, Va., and Plain view, TX, but none of the peanut butter at those facilities was found to be contaminated.

The recalled peanut butter and peanut paste were distributed to institutions, food service industries, and private label food companies in 24 states, Haiti, the Saskatchewan province in Canada, and Korea. The FDA recommends that consumers read the labels on commercially-prepared or manu factured peanut butter/peanut paste-containing products (such as cookies, crackers, cereal, candy and ice cream) to see if they are subject to the recall. Products that have been recalled should be thrown away. Salmonella symptoms begin with nausea and vomiting and progress to abdominal pains and diarrhea. Fever, chills and muscle pains that last anywhere from sev eral days to two weeks are also signs of salmonella poisoning. Anyone who thinks they may have become ill from eating peanut butter is advised to consult their health care providers. The FDA has created a search able database for the Peanut Corp recalled products at www.access data.fda.gov/scripts/peanutbutter recall/index.cfm.

Cancer gene can be inherited The gene that causes breast cancer metastasis in an estimated 11,000 Georgia women annu ally can be inherited, a new study finds. The National Cancer Institute study in the Jan. 1 issue of “Cancer Research” showed that gene activi ties in tumor and immune cells can contribute to the development of gene signatures that are predictive of breast cancer progression. Dr. Kent W. Hunter, the study’s author and head of NCI’s Metasta sis Susceptibility Section, said the findings are an important step in the fight against breast cancer. “Our study provides additional evidence of the role of inherited genes in human breast cancer pro gression,” he said. During the study, the research team embedded five independent

collections of human breast tumors into mice. To determine whether mouse tumor gene expression profiles could be used to predict outcomes in human breast cancer, the investigators identified a gene signature that allowed them to distinguish between the tumors of mice that have a high or a low inherited susceptibility to tumor metastasis. They then converted the mouse gene signature to the cor responding human gene signature and analyzed five pre-existing sets of human breast tumors. The signature successfully pre dicted outcomes in four of the five sets of human breast tumors. In 2004, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control said breast cancer affected 121.5 per 100,000 Georgia women. The national average was 117.7 per 100,000.

Exams detect glaucoma early Glaucoma, which has robbed the sight of more than 3 million Americans, is the leading cause of preventable blindness. Everyone from infants to se niors is vulnerable, and the eye disease disproportionately affects African-Americans. It has virtually no symptoms and can gradually steal sight without warning. Glaucoma afflicts the optic nerve, the part of the eye that car ries the images we see to the brain. The optic nerve is made up of many nerve fibers, like an electric cable containing numerous wires. When damage occurs to optic nerve fibers, blind spots develop. These blind spots usually go undetected until the optic nerve is significantly damaged. If the entire nerve is de stroyed, blindness results. Experts estimate that half of people with glaucoma don’t know it. During January, observed as National Glaucoma Month, health care professionals have been raising awareness about the disease. The best way to protect your sight from glaucoma is to get a

comprehensive eye examination and start treatment immediately if you are diagnosed with it. People at higher risk for glau coma include people of African, Asian and Hispanic descent; people over 60; and people with diabetes or hypertension. University of Colorado Denver chancellor and ophthalmologist Dr. M. Roy Wilson said glaucoma normally progresses so slowly that there are usually no warning signs before permanent damage has oc curred to the eye. EyeCare America, a public service organization that offers free glaucoma eye exams for the uninsured, is also giving away a free 30-minute video featuring baseball legend Willie Mays and actress Diahann Carroll called “Glaucoma and You” to increase glaucoma awareness, diagnosis and treatment among African-Americans. For more information, visit www.glaucoma.org. For a copy of the free video, call 877-887-6327. To see if you’re eligible for a free eye exam, call 800-391-EYES (3937).

Scene

The book is a 304-page fictional story about Tee Hodges and how she battles back from a series of personal misfortunes.

Famous TV journalist to discuss new book locally Veteran journalist and po litical moderator Gwen Ifill will discuss her new book, “The Breakthrough: Politics in the Age of Obama” at Agnes Scott College in Decatur on Feb. 3. The 7 p.m.-8 p.m. discussion in Presser Hall will kick off thr DeKalb Library System’s celebra tion of Black History Month. Ifill, who is moderator and managing editor of PBS’s “Wash ington Week” political program, is also a senior correspondent for “The News Hour with Jim Lehrer.” During the historic 2008 presidential election, she moder ated the vice presidential debate between Democrat Joe Biden and Republican Sarah Palin. In the book, Ifill sheds new light on the impact of Barack Obama becoming U.S. president and introduces emerging AfricanAmerican politicians who are forging a new path to political power. She argues that the black political structure formed dur ing the Civil Rights Movement led to a generation of politicians who are the direct beneficiaries of the struggles of the 1960s. Among those, she lists Newark, N.J., Mayor Cory Booker, Mas sachusetts Gov. Deval Patrick, and U.S. Congressman Arthur Davis of Alabama. To back her assertions, Ifill draws on exclusive interviews

Gwen Ifill

with Obama, Gen. Colin Powell, Vernon Jordan, the Rev. Jesse Jack son, Illinois Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., and others. Before joining PBS in 1999, Ifill, a New York native, spent five years at NBC News as chief con gressional and political correspon dent. She still appears occasionally on “Meet the Press.” She has also covered political and foreign af fairs news for the New York Times, The Washington Post, Baltimore Evening Sun and Boston Herald American. Admission is free. Agnes Scott College is at 141 East College Ave. in Decatur. For more information, call 404-3708450.

Black experience movies to be screened at two libraries The movies “Ruby Bridges” and “College Road Trip” will be screened at two DeKalb libraries on Feb. 7 in honor of Black His tory Month. “Ruby Bridges,” a 1998 Dis ney movie, tells the story of a 6-year-old African American girl who integrated her New Orleans elementary school in 1960. When Ruby is sent to the allwhite school, parents pulled their children out her class leaving her the only student. The film, which stars Chaz Monet, Lela Rochon and Penelope Ann Miller, will be shown at the Wesley ChapelWilliam C. Brown Library. “College Road Trip” is about

CrossRoadsNews

January 31, 2009

an overachieving high school stu dent’s decision to travel around the country to choose the perfect college, and her overprotective father – a police officer – who ac companies her. The film, which was made in 2008, stars Martin Lawrence and Raven-Symone. It will be screened at the Redan Trotti Library. Both films will be shown at 1 p.m. and admission is free. The Wesley Chapel Library is at 2861Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur. For more information, call 404-286-6980. The Redan Trotti Library is at 1569 Wellborn Road, Stone Mountain. Call 770-482-3821.

Longtime writing partners to sign new book Writing duo and 25-year best friends Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant will read and sign copies of their new book, “What Doesn’t Kill You,” at Borders Books and Music on Feb. 1 at the Mall at Stonecrest. The book, which was released on Jan. 6, is a 304-page fictional story about Tee Hodges and how she battles back from a series of personal misfortunes, forges an entrepreneurial spirit and gets a new man. The New York natives, who have collaborated on five novels together, will be at the bookstore at 2 p.m.

Noted historian to manage MLK collection Renowned historian Dr. Clay bourne Carson is the new head the Martin Luther King Jr. Collection at Morehouse College in Atlanta. Carson, who was his tory professor at Stanford University, was named Jan. 13 to manage the 10,000-piece collection of Claybourne Carson handwritten notes and unpublished sermons of King, a 1948 Morehouse graduate and civil rights icon. The King scholar founded the Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute at Stanford and has also been a visiting profes sor at American University, the University of California, Berkeley and Emory University in Atlanta. While an undergraduate at UCLA, Carson participated in civil rights and antiwar protests and has written extensively about the subjects in his book, “In Struggle: SNCC and the Black Awakening of the 1960s.” In 1985 the late Coretta Scott King invited Carson to direct a long-term project to edit and publish the papers in the MLK Jr. collection. The project is being conducted under the auspices of the King Institute at Stanford in association with the King estate. For more information, call 404507-8648.

Virginia DeBerry

Donna Grant

The two met while working as plus-size models. They burst onto the writing scene together when they launched “Maxima,” a fashion and lifestyle magazine for plus-size women. When the magazine ceased publication in 1987, DeBerry and Grant wrote their first book, “Tryin’

to Sleep in the Bed You Made.” The book, which was on the Essence Bestseller, was a critical success. It won the Merit Award for Fiction from the Black Caucus of the American Library Asso ciation and the 1998 Book of the Year Award from the Blackboard Bestseller List/African American Booksellers Conference. Since then, DeBerry and Grant have also written “Far from the Tree,” “Better Than I Know Myself ” and “Gotta Keep on Tryin.’” The Mall at Stonecrest is off I-20 at Turner Hill Road in Litho nia. For more information, call 678-526-9880.

Petition seeks Cabinet-level advocate for the arts Advocates of dance, Radio’s John Schaefer. music and other art Jones, 75, said the forms are asking Presi “next conversation I have dent Barack Obama to with President Obama is create a Secretary of the to beg for a Secretary of Arts position in the U.S. the Arts.” government. As of Jan. 17, more They have created an than 136,322 people online petition for arts Quincy Jones had signed the petition, advocates from all across which asks art supporters the country to sign. to spread the word in order to get The grassroots petition, which as many signatures as possible. has been on the Internet since Supporters can type their December, grew from a state name onto the list of supports and ment made by legendary music can leave comments. producer and composer Quincy The petition is available at Jones during a Nov. 14, 2008, www.PetitionOnline.com/esnyc/ interview with New York Public petition.html.

CrossRoadsNews

Schools

January 31, 2009

“We as parents did not want this, but they [the students] felt that nobody was listening and no one was paying attention.”

Students sing praises for suspended chorus teacher during walkout By McKenzie Jackson

More than 200 Southwest DeKalb High School students and parents have been picketing and singing songs of praise in front of Decatur school in support of sus pended music teacher Nathan Grigsby. During the Jan. 23 and 26 protests, the students who are members of Grigsby’s cho Nathan Grigsby rus class and the school’s Inspiration Voices choir, which he led, armed themselves with handwritten signs calling for Grigsby’s reinstatement. The 22-year teacher, who has taught at Southwest DeKalb High for eight years, was suspended without pay because of a video that was made in his classroom on Dec. 11 that surfaced on Facebook. Parents who have seen the 45-second video, which has been taken off the website, says it showed students engaged in a risqué dance while Grigsby’s back was turned. It was recorded by a student on a cell phone during “Pass the Mic,” a weekly Friday event sponsored by Grigsby held in his classroom dur ing fourth period for students to show off their musical talents. Dexter Echols, a school volun teer, said Grigsby was playing the piano and couldn’t see over it what the students were doing. “When you got kids crowded around you can’t see,” said Echols, who has volunteered at the school for 11 years. “When he saw what was going on he ran over and stopped them, but the video doesn’t

Photos by McKenzie Jackson / CrossRoadsNews

Chorus students at Southwest DeKalb High School carried signs and sang songs in support of music teacher Nathan Grigsby, who was suspended over the Christmas break.

show that.” Melody Feaster, whose son sings in the choir, said the students were forced onto the picket line because no one would answer their ques tions. “They began protesting by

wearing ribbons to school that stat ed they wanted Grigsby to return,” she said. “We as parents did not want this, but they [the students] felt that nobody was listening and no one was paying attention.” DeKalb School System spokes man Dale Davis, said that he could not discuss why Grigsby was sus pended or for how long. “I can’t go into any specifics as far as this personnel issue,” he said Wednesday. A Jan. 27 DeKalb School Board hearing into Grigsby’s termina tion was cancelled after Grigsby’s attorney John Davis asked for a continuance. Grigsby referred calls to his lawyer, who did not return phone

calls left on a voice mail at his Li thonia office. Dale Davis said that a new date for the hearing has not yet been set. Feaster said Grigsby’s suspen sion and possible termination is an injustice. “The two boys who did the dance were not punished,” she said. “They are punishing him for the acts of the students.” School Board member Jay Cun ningham, who watched the Jan. 23 protest at the school, said the incident is being investigated but would not elaborate further. Cun ningham, whose District 5 includes Southwest DeKalb, said he met with the parents for three hours.

DeKalb seeks certified teachers at Feb. 3 job fair By Corey M. Edwards

Certified teachers interested in lead ing south DeKalb County students into a new environmental/technological future can attend a Feb. 3 career fair at Arabia Mountain High School in Lithonia. The 240,000 square-foot school is not scheduled to open until Aug. 10, 2009 but the school system wants to fill all its specialized slots at Georgia’s first LEED Silver Certified public high school, which will open with up to 1,076 ninth to 11th graders. Dr. Angela Pringle, who was named Arabia’s principal in December, said that for this job fair, she is looking for highly qualified and experienced teachers who can incorporate air, climate and water quality, as well as forestry, mathematics, science, engineering and energy into the curriculum. “We are seeking teachers with the pas sion and ability who are willing to work in a highly collaborative environment,” she said. Pringle said that they want certified teachers but if engineers and scientists show up for the job fair, she will have people there to walk them through how to become certified teachers. Other teaching and staff positions will be filled for the 2009-2010 school year at the school system’s annual job fair in March. The Feb. 3 job fair will be 4 p.m. at the school, at 6610 Browns Mill Road. District officials are looking for certified teachers to instruct students in a wide range of course in a rigorous curriculum.

Dr. Angela Pringle, new principal of Arabia Mountain High School, addresses the DeKalb Board of Education at the school earlier this month.

Corey M. Edwards / CrossRoadNews

Pringle was most recently principal at Stephenson High School. She is now assembling her staff. Successful candidates must be able to demonstrate organizational and time management skills, communicate ef fectively and develop lesson plans that meet Georgia Performance Standards. All staff members at Arabia Mountain will be required to undergo extensive EIC model training that will be utilized at the school. The salary range for a 10-month teacher is $41,844 to $82,536. The dead line for submitting an online application is Jan. 27. Arabia Mountain High School will

host DeKalb Schools Medical Magnet Program (grades 10-12) and the Environ mental Energy and Engineering Magnet Programs (9-12). The district has already begun accept ing applications online, but the fair will allow prospective teachers to meet faceto-face with representatives from the dis trict’s Human Resources Department. Current DeKalb County teachers must complete a transfer request to be consid ered for any of the open positions. Applications must be submitted at www.pats.dekalb.k12.ga.us. Cover let ter and resume must be e-mailed to Dr. Angela Pringle at angela_d_pringle@ fc.dekalb.k12.ga.us by Jan. 27.

School principal John Prince and area superintendent Dr. Ralph Simpson also watched the pro testers with several school system police officers. Prince tried un successfully to get the students to return to class. At Monday’s protest, the stu dents performed praise songs from 1:45 p.m. until after the end of the school day at 3:10 p.m. Caleicia Lee, an 11th-grader and chorus member, said that Grigsby is an excellent teacher. “He has turned people’s life around,” said. Caleicia, 17. “I go through a lot at home and he is supportive of me. ” Derian Barnett, a 16-year-old chorus student, called Grigsby a father figure. “People have parents that might be strung out on drugs and stuff and he’ll tell them to keep their heads up,” he said. “You can come talk to him about anything.” The two said they have not practiced since Grigsby was sus pended. “We want our teacher back,” Caleicia said. Her mother, Terry Lee, who joined the protest, said she is livid that Grigsby is not in the class room. “These kids could be out there getting in trouble, but they are singing songs of praise instead,” she said. Feaster said that Grigsby is a man of God. “We are talking about 200 stu dents, who when he says, ‘we got to sing,’ they sing powerful and represent this school well,” she said. “The other children in the school respect him, because he treats them with respect.”

Theme school applications online Applying for DeKalb County theme schools has gone cyber. With the click of a mouse, parents can now ap ply for their children to attend any of the school system’s six elementary schools and one middle theme school. The open enrollment period, which kicked off Jan. 26, continues through Feb. 12 at www.dekalb. k12.ga.us. The elementary theme schools are Edward L. Bouie and Marbut in Lithonia, Narvie J. Harris in Decatur, Robert Shaw in Scottdale, Wynbrooke in Stone Mountain and Oakcliff in Doraville. Cham pion Middle School is in Stone Mountain. To complete the online application, parents must have their child’s seven-digit student identification number that can be found on the student’s report card or progress report. Pat Copeland, the school system’s magnet/theme schools director, said Jan. 22 that the high volume of interest in the program forced the district to find other means for parents to complete the application process. “We believe it’s an absolute given that the online availability will bring about a degree of ease to the process,” she said. “We are pleased to provide this avenue and I believe our parents will also be pleased with the new feature.” Applications can still be mailed in to the Magnet and Theme Schools Office or to the child’s local elementary and middle schools. Faxed copies of the application and supporting documents will no longer be accepted. Traditional, private and home school students are eligible to apply for theme schools. For a complete description of all DeKalb Theme Schools, visit www.dekalb.k12.ga.us.

January 31, 2009

CrossRoadsNews

Sports BOYS BASKETBALL

Jan. 23

Lakeside 82, Miller Grove 71 Stone Mountain 64, Lithonia 60 Columbia 71, Cedar Grove 35 Newton 68, M.L. King 67 Redan 44, Douglass 36 SW DeKalb 54, Forsyth Central 53

GIRLS BASKETBALL Avondale 53, Buford 23 Druid Hills 43, Clarkston 27 Columbia 45, Cedar Grove 23 Lithonia 48, Stn Mtn 45 SW DeKalb 77, Forsyth Central 37

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Jershon Cobb, forward Columbia High School The 6-foot-5 senior hit four three-pointers in the first quarter en route to 22 points in the Eagles’ 71-35 victory over Cedar Grove on Jan. 23. Jershon is averaging 16 points and 4.9 assists a game this season. He is also hitting 83 percent of his free throws.

BOYS BASKETBALL

Feb. 3

Redan at Union Grove, 7:30 p.m. Stephenson at M.L. King, 7 p.m. Stn Mtn at SWD, 7 p.m. Dunwoody at Cedar Grove, 7 p.m.

Feb. 6

McNair at Columbia, 7 p.m. Lithonia at Miller Grove, 7:30 p.m.

GIRLS BASKETBALL

Feb. 3

Redan at Newton, 6 p.m. Stephenson at M.L. King, 5:30 p.m. Stn Mtn at SWD, 5:30 p.m. Lithonia at Tucker, 5:30 p.m.

GAME OF THE WEEK McNair at Columbia (boys) The Columbia Eagles have decimated their region opponents all season long. They have quick scoring offense and tough nosed defense. They only have three players on the roster not taller than 6-foot.

WORTH NOTING Redan’s Lady Raiders just continue to win. They were 13-0 as of Jan. 26 and the lone undefeated team in DeKalb County.

January 31, 2009

“I’m a stickler for details. Some say a screamer, but on the finer points of the game. And I’m a perfectionist in every aspect of the game.”

Passion for the game evident in coach’s 300-win career By McKenzie Jackson

Seventeen years into pacing the basketball sidelines as a head coach, Cedar Grove’s James Martin is just as fiery as ever. The coach wears emotion on his sleeve during contests. If he doesn’t like what he sees on the floor, he might lean back in his chair with a disgruntled look on his face. Or if a player takes a bad shot and misses, Martin will let him know it – and sometimes not in a nice way. But throughout the years, Martin’s message of building positive relationships with youth has gotten across to players and recently he was rewarded with his 300th win. “People like to label people and may say, ‘He is out of control,’” said Martin, 54, before a recent game against Columbia. “Half the time the things I’m doing is a way to try to motivate my kids.” The Saints beat the McNair Mustangs 57-53 in overtime on Jan. 16, and made Martin the third active basketball coach in DeKalb to reach the 300-win plateau, join ing M.L. King’s Eric Mance and Columbia’s Phil McCrary. Currently he has 302 wins all-time throughout a coaching career that has included head and assistant coaching stints on the middle school, high school and college level. Martin, who was on a two-year hiatus from coaching basketball, said it feels great to have 300 wins under his belt. “That was one of my goals when I came back this year,” he said. “The other was basically to try to get this

McKenzie Jackson / CrossRoadsNews

Cedar Grove’s James Martin’s intensity on the sideline has been compared to that of Bobby Knight, Indiana University’s legendary former coach.

program back established and turn it over to coach or whoever wants to come in.” Ranette Clark, whose son Kyland Clark is a guard for the Saints, said Martin has helped make phenomenal changes in her son. “For him, discipline, following orders,” she said. “He takes pride in his leadership, like he said to him one day, ‘Coach you’re just crazy man,’ Martin said ‘Yep. I agree.’ My son said from this point forward I’m just going to do what you tell me to do. If you tell me to run 150 sprints I’m going to do it.” Clark, who is averaging around 13 points a game for the Saints, said Martin is a good coach. “He has shown me aspects of the game I never knew about,” he said.

Before leaving coaching at the end of the 2006 season to focus on teaching history classes and coach ing the golf team at Cedar Grove, Martin’s head coaching career stretched back to 1984 at Griffin High School in Spaulding County. There he coached until 1994 and won two state titles including one with former NBA player Darrin Hancock as his star player. Martin first arrived at Griffin as a football coach and assistant basketball coach, but he became head basket ball coach in his second year there and began laying the groundwork for a rich basketball tradition. “The first two years were kind of frustrating,” he said. “So by my third year we got Hancock and that allowed us to build a tradition at Griffin.”

After coaching at Griffin, Mar tin went to Indiana State University as an assistant coach during the 1994-95 season. While there he got a chance to meet the legendary Bobby Knight, who was then the head coach at Indiana University. Knight is known as a great coach with a passion that shows every time he coaches. Martin said many people probably describe him as having a Knight-like persona on the sideline. “I’m a stickler for details,” he said. “Some say a screamer, but on the finer points of the game. And I’m a perfectionist in every aspect of the game.” Kyland Clark said Martin stress es work in the classroom just as hard as he stresses playing smart basketball on the court. “He is always telling us to think from the eyebrows up,” he said. After his stint in the “land of basketball,” Martin came back to Georgia, did not coach for a year, and then coached at Towers from 1996-1999 years, where he won 69 games. Then from 1999 to 2001 he coached at Sequoyah Middle School in DeKalb before coming to Cedar Grove in 2005. Martin said Cedar Grove principal JoAnn Williams-West, who called him back to coaching this year, and the parents and community support the basketball team. “If anything I think they maybe expected a little too much, but we are doing good,” he said. “We have great crowds, we have good sup port, we have great cheerleaders; they perform just tremendous. We are gaining support and that helps with building tradition.”

No wins are guaranteed in tough Region 2-AAAAA By McKenzie Jackson

Early on it was a block-a-shot party for the Redan Raiders, but late in the second half Stephenson guard Kevin Dukes hit some bigtime three-pointers to lead the Jaguars to a 66-61 comeback win on Jan. 16. That’s life in Region 2-AAAAA – especially for Redan, Stephenson and M.L. King, who sit in three of the region’s top five spots in the standings. You can never take a game for granted because there are no easy wins. The eight-team conference is also home to Newton, Union Grove, Douglass, Greenbrier and Luella. Unlike on the girls’ side, where Redan’s Lady Raiders are running away from the competition, no wins are guaranteed when the boys play. After escaping Redan’s home court with a win early this month, Stephenson head coach Lawanza Crutcher said the region has tal ented teams everywhere. “I think this region is the tough est region in the state,” he said. “This year it has been proven that anybody can beat anybody on any given night. So you have to come to play every game.” With recent region wins over Douglass, Luella and Greenbrier, Stephenson, who is on a 10 game winning streak, is third in the standings. The game against Redan, who knocked off Newton before

McKenzie Jackson / CrossRoadsNews

Stephenson’s Kevin Dukes’ lategame heroics helped the Jaguars defeat Redan on Jan. 16.

losing to Stephenson, was a confi dence-builder for the Jaguars. “We lost two region games already this year, one to Luella which was by two points and one to Newton which was a five-point game,” Crutcher said. “It proves to us anybody can beat anybody and tonight we were able to execute af ter they were coming off a big win against Newton.” Dukes, who is committed to play basketball at Bethune-Cook man College, is hitting 45 percent of his three-pointers, while guard Adrien Coleman is averaging a county-high 30 points per game.

Taking no team for granted Since the Stephenson loss, Re dan, the top team in the region,

has reeled off four straight wins as of Jan. 27, including victories over region rivals Luella, Douglass and M.L. King. Redan head coach Dalton Greene said he told his team to forget about the loss to the Jaguars, their only region loss. “We pretty much know we beat ourselves and didn’t finish the job,” he said. “We didn’t take it to heart. It wasn’t a real letdown.” With five games left in the sea son, Greene said he is emphasizing the importance of winning the region in every practice, in order to ensure a top-seed for the region and state playoffs, but he added that they don’t take any team for granted. “That’s why Arizona is in the Super Bowl, I guess,” he said. “So, we are taking one game at a time and emphasizing energy, execution and effort.” The Raiders, whose last three wins have been by 25, 16, eight and 20 points, are led by 6-foot-9 senior Kenny Hall, who is averaging over 20 points and 10 rebounds a game. Hall and 6-foot-7 center Hassani Watson give the Raiders one of the biggest frontlines in the state. The Raiders also have 6-foot-9 center Raymond Gregory. “It’s an inside-out game with us,” said Greene, who has two tal ented guards in Latarrance Carter and Hakeem Abdullah.

secutive games, the M.L. King Lions are still in the mix of things with four games left in the season. The Lions, who have only one senior on their 12-man roster, are coached by veteran Eric Mance, who guided a senior-laden Lions team to the state semifinals two seasons ago. After starting the season 1-4, the Lions turned their year around in December by winning six straight games. They have staggered some since, but are still fourth in the region standings. Mance said inexperience has hampered the team. “Those losses have been one point, two point losses,” he said. “The biggest loss was Redan, which was 14, so we were losing those close ones early; now we are start ing to win them.” After losing five starters from last year’s team, M.L. King has players who are learning how to compete on the varsity level this. Led by junior Shoniziko Williams, who is scoring 14 points a game, the Lions have had region wins over Luella, Union Grove and Douglass, and losses to Stephenson, Newton, and Greenbrier. Williams is joined in the starting lineup by sopho more center Darrius Person, who is averaging 3.2 blocks a contest, ju nior guard Ahmad Lambus, guard Chris Daniels and frontcourt player Sharief Adamu. “Whatever we are learning this Lions still in the hunt year we are taking into next year,” Despite dropping three con Mance added.

CrossRoadsNews

January 31, 2009

Ministry

Food Network’s “Naked Chef,” Jamie Oliver, filmed the church’s after-service potluck fellowship for an upcoming documentary on American food.

Rainbow Park’s fellowship dinners help keep blessings in forefront By Corey Edwards

On the same night that the country lost 70,000 jobs and stock prices plummeted so low that the media dubbed Jan. 26 “Bloody Monday,” the congregation at Rainbow Park Baptist Church was rejoicing. During a special “Hope for the Times” service, Steven Dial, pastor of the Decatur church, said they will continue to rejoice for bless ings to come because they could not allow their “hope to take a furlough.” The service was held on Mon day night so that Food Network’s “Naked Chef,” Jamie Oliver, could take part in and film the church’s after-service potluck fellowship for an upcoming documentary on American food. The Decatur church attracted Oliver’s attention because of its free dinners every second Sunday monthly. Despite the economic downturn, Rainbow Park has continued the practice of serving dinner to everyone who attends the service. It also serves dinners on the other Sundays, but members are asked to make a $5 donation. Rainbow Park member Felisha Blackwell said that coming together around the dinner table to fel lowship even in the face of tough times is a testament to the church’s perseverance and commitment to the community. “Whatever happens with the economy, we’re still going to have these meals,” she said. After the service, Oliver, whose thick British accent amazed some members, joined Dial in the church’s fellowship hall to sample

The after-service potluck at Rainbow Park Baptist Church (left) caught the attention of “Naked Chef” Jamie Oliver, who interviews pastor Steven Dial at right.

the local cuisine, which included “It’s a spinoff of the kind of straw fried pork chops, fried chicken, berry shortcake that grandmothers mac ’n’ cheese, potato salad, col used to make back in the day after lards flavored with smoked turkey Sunday dinner, so I thought it was neck bones, neckbones, black-eye a good idea to have something like peas, lima beans, green beans and that tonight.” Oliver’s visit to Rain a smorgasbord of potluck bow Park was the first dishes contributed by stop on his tour of the church members. Southeast. Shakeata Shinholster, a He will also visit Ma pastry chef at the W hotel con and Savannah before in downtown Atlanta, ending his tour at the an used the opportunity to nual Florida State Barbe show off one of her favor cue Championship, Jan. ite dishes. S. Shinholster 30-31 at the Lakeland Pig “I made a blueberry Jamie Oliver talks with parishioners during Rainbow Park’s fellowship dinner. ricotta truffle,” said Shinholster. Festival in Lakeland, Fla.

Bishops focus on leadership tough months ahead. Bishops Eddie L. Long The three-day con and T.D. Jakes are teaming ference will also feature up to bring focus to the speeches from Dr. Myles New Year with their Feb. Munroe, Bishop I.V. Hill 4-6 Focus 2009 Confer iard and pastors Matthew ence at New Birth Mis Ashimolowo, Craig Gro sionary Baptist Church. schel and others. Using the theme “Tak The cost is $500 per ing Authority,” the annual Eddie Long forum allows senior pastors and person and is open to the public. New Birth is at 6400 Woodruff church leaders to share ideas on how to lead their congregations Road in Lithonia. For more infor and get the best out of their parish mation, visit the church’s Web site ioners. Attendees will learn how to at www.newbirth.org or call 770navigate their churches through the 696-9600.

Football, food at The Ray Football fans can combine their love for God and football on Feb. 1 at Ray of Hope Church’s “Tailgate Party at the Ray.” Churchgoers can bring their own grills and show off their bar becuing skills or chow down on food prepared by the church staff at the 4 p.m. event. Representatives from Ray of Hope ministries will be serving a well-known tailgate dish and telling tailgaters about their ministry. Rev. Taft Heatley, executive pas tor of Community Life and Men’s Ministry, suggested the party as a way for members and non-mem bers to learn more about the differ ent ministries at Ray of Hope. The game between the Arizona Cardinals and Pittsburgh Steelers will be televised at 6 p.m. on a big

screen in the Family Life Center. The free event is open to the public, but alcohol is strictly prohibited. The tailgate party kicks off the church’s Spring Revival, which runs Feb. 1 to 3. Dr. Gina Stewart of Christ Mis sionary Baptist Church in Mem phis, Tenn., will be the speaker for the 7:30 a.m. and 10 a.m. services on Feb. 1. Dr. Frederick Haynes of Friendship West Baptist Church in Dallas, TX will deliver the sermon on Feb. 2 and Greater Travelers Rest pastor E. Dewey Smith will close the revival on Feb. 3. Both services begin at 7 p.m. Ray of Hope Church is at 2778 Snapfinger Road in Decatur. For more information on the Tailgate Party at the Ray, call 770-696-5100 or visit www.rayofhope.org.

CrossRoadsNews

January 31, 2009

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Education & Training

Business Opportunities

AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified -Housing Available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (888) 349-5387.

ARE YOU READY TO CONTROL YOUR OWN LIFE?! BE IN BUSINESS FOR YOURSELF! HAVE FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE FOR LIFE! ITS TIME TO ACT! www. CAREER LEASE.COM 516 932 2430 [1]

Attend College Online from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Computers, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-488-0386 www. CenturaOnline.com

COUNTER- ASSAULT TRAINING! Protect overseas subcontractors. Earn $220K/year possible! 80% Tax Exemption! Military/Police exp necessary. 1-615-885-8960 ext 773 www.InternationalExecutives. NET

Employment Opportunities EARN $1000’s Weekly. Mailing Brochures! Weekly pay + Bonus. Guaranteed Opportunity! Start Today! 1-866-960-9834 Code 701 $600 Weekly! Process HUD/FHA MIP refunds from home part time. No experience needed. 1-800-2771223 x215 www.ncisonline.com AWESOME CAREER $20/hr., Avg $57K/yr. Postal jobs, Pd Training. Vac. OT, Full Benefits, Pension Plan. call M-F, 8-4CST 1-888-3616551 Ext. 506 Government Jobs- $12-48.00/hr. Full Benefits/Paid Training. Work available In areas like Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Wildlife & more! 1-800-320-9353 Ext 2002

DATA ENTRY PROCESSORS NEEDED! Earn $3,500-$5,000 Weekly Working from Home! Guaranteed paychecks! No Experience Necessary! Positions Available Today! Register Online Now! www. DataCashNow.com

Help Wanted Earn Extra Income, assembling CD cases from home. Start immediately, No experience necessary. 1-800-405-7619 ext 1395 www.easywork-greatpay. com

$600 Weekly Potential$$$ Helping The Government PT. No Experience, No Selling. Call: 1-888-2135225 Ad Code E. Void in Maryland and South Dakota.

GET A NEW COMPUTER Brand Name laptops & desktops Bad or NO Credit - No Problem smallest weekly payments avail. its yours NOW- Call 1-800-618-3765

$384 DAILY! No experience required! Data entry positions available Now! Internet access needed! Income is Guaranteed! Apply today! www.datahomeworker.com

A NEW COMPUTER NOW!!!! Brand Name laptops & desktops Bad or NO Credit- No Problem Smallest weekly payments avail. Its yours NOW- Call 800-3177891

Financial $$$ ACCESS LAWSUIT CASH NOW!!! AS seen on TV. Injury Lawsuit Dragging? Need $500$500,000++ within 48/hrs? Low rates. APPLY NOW BY PHONE! 1-888-271-0463 www.cash-forcases.com

Health & Fitness PHENTERMINE, Xanax, Carisoprodol and more. Doctor Consultation included. Shipped FedEx 1-4 days. www.BESTBUDGETRX. COM 1-866-683-5744

Help Wanted ASSEMBLE MAGNETS & CRAFTS FROM HOME! Yearround Work! Excellent Pay! No Experience! Top US Company! Glue Gun, Painting, Jewelry & More! TOLL FREE 1-866-8445091, code 2

Misc. For Sale

* REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL!* Get a 4-Room All-Digital Satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting under $20. FREE Digital Video Recorders to new callers, SO CALL NOW. 1-800-699-7159

3bd 2ba HUD Home only $200/ mo! 4bd 2ba Home only $300/ mo! Priced to Sell! 1-4bd Foreclosures from $10k! 5%dn, 20yrs @8%apr! For Listings 800-3660142 ext. T253 NO KIDDING! 5 acres Southern California. WHILE THEY LAST! $125/down, $125/monthly, $12,495 Cash. Owner Financed. No Banks/Brokers. No Credit Checks. 1-949-340-2245

Timeshares SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE NOW!!! Maintenance fees too high? Need Cash? Sell your unused timeshare today. No commissions or Broker Fees. Free Consultation. www.sellatimeshare.com 1-866-708-3690 RedWeek.com #1 timeshare marketplace. Rent, buy,sell, revies, NEW full-service exchange! Compare prices at 5000+ resorts. B4U do anything timeshare, visit RedWeek.com, consider options.

When You Miss

You Miss News You Can Use!

Real Estate ***FREE Foreclosure Listings *** Over 200,000 properties nationwide. LOW down payment. Call NOW! 1-800-631-2193

Call 404-284-1888 for Subscription Rates & Information

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.

4 0 4 - 2 8 4 - 18 8 8 f o r Ra te s & I n f o r m a t i o n

When You Miss CrossRoadsNews, You Miss News You Can Use! Call 404-284-1888 for Subscription Rates & Information

CrossRoadsNews

January 31, 2009

MARKETPLACE RATES

Marketplace

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 Thursday one week prior to publication, unless otherwise noted.

Business Opportunities

EDUCATION/TRAINING

Help Wanted

MOVERS

Valentine Vendors Heaven Vendors of romantic products, services for Valentine Vendors Heaven February 7th. “Celebrate”. Bring children for $5 unlimited play. 770 808-7942 for more information.

Obey God with all your heart and mind in 2009. Are you called into the ministry of Christ. We train and ordain ministers. Call 404671-6158.

Be A Hero! Phoenix Homes has an urgent need for caring persons to become Foster Parents. You provide care and support to youth in need. We provide round-the-clock support, Free Training, a generous per-diem, and many other benefits. Please call: Lisa at 770-709-8336 or Penny toll free at1-866-429-6884 Or visit us at www.phoenixhomes.org

Gideon Movers, Inc Moves & Deliveries, In-house Moves; Loading & Un-loading. Free on-site Estimate. (404)241-8899. gideonmovers@comcast.net

CHILD CARE Daycare/State Registered. Owned by Licensed Teacher. Nights/Weekends 1/2 Price. Free Pick-up/Delivery. 770-4844853

COMPUTERS Computer & laptop repair. Diagnostic fee $35. We come to you. Spyware, virus removal, & wireless network. www.Jonatech. net. (678) 918-4445 Jonatec.

Contractors/Construction Need Quality Home Improvement Services? Call Rob at 404-207-2875 or 678-4101728 for a free estimate. GA Licensed & Insured. www. atmconstructors.com

EMPLOYMENT Sales Representatives Needed - Print, Graphic & Web to local small businesses. Commission Only. Camille (404) 299-2073. Serious Inquiries Only!

FOR RENT/LEASE Lease or Lease/Purchase in Decatur near Snapfinger Lake. 4 BR 2 1/2 BA. Call Owner/Agent Donna @ 770 842 3150. Conyers/Stonecrest Mall area. 3BR, possible 4th, 2 1/2 bath. Extras. Section 8 welcome. Call owner/agent @ 770-842-3150 or 770-322-3150. Roommates Wanted to Share a 3 Bedroom House Near South DeKalb Mall $350 Monthly. No Smoking. Cable and Utilities Included. 678-754-0791.

HOME SERVICES Need a New Roof? Your home might be eligible for free repairs. Call for details. Flanigan’s Home Improvement Services. 770-4841642

LOANS & MORTGAGES Loans for churches, restaurants, day care centers, multi-family properties, office buildings, and other commercial properties. Purchases or refinancing. All credit considered. Closings as quick as 7 days. www.thesamuelgroupinc. com. 404-870-9070.

PUBLIC NOTICE Contact Ms.Ellis 770-879-8181 Regarding Vehicles:1998 Ford Explorer VIN 1FMZU32X3XUA37825. MERCEDES SL VIN WDBFA61E9MF028109.0 1999 NISSAN PATHFINDER VIN

JN8AR07SXXW362236. 1999 Ford Ranger Extended Cab VIN 1FTYR10C3XPA70585

Services C&Y Laundry Wash/Dry/Fold $1 off. Free Soap Tues & Free Dry Wed both with limits. 1230 S. Hairston Road

TAX SERVICES A & J Tax Services. Efile, Fed & State Return, Free Direct Deposit. Get Your Refund Without Paying High Fees. Angela 770-808-2346.

CrossRoadsNews

Brand New 2009 MAZDA3 Auto, A/C, P/W, P/L

Brand New 2009 MAZDA6 Auto, A/C, P/W, P/L

LEASE FOR

159

January 31, 2009

LEASE FOR

199

PER MONTH

Lease for 36 months with $0 Security Deposit and $3300 due at signing plus tax, tag and title with approved credit; 12,000 miles per year and 15¢ per mile thereafter.

PER MONTH

Lease for 36 months with $0 Security Deposit and $3300 due at signing plus tax, tag and title with approved credit; 12,000 miles per year and 15¢ per mile thereafter.

Brand New 2009

Brand New 2009 Mazda

Brand New 2008 Mazda

Brand New 2009 Mazda

VIN#JM1CR293790334907

VIN#4F2CZ027X9KM04289

VIN#JM3ER293490227328

STK#83500

VIN#JM3TB28A990166733

YOU PAY

MAZDA5

TRIBUTE

CX-7

MX-5 MIATA

CX-9

HERE IS JUST A SAMPLE OF OUR GREAT PRE-OWNED SPECIALS! 2004 Chevrolet

AVEO

STK#91011A

2005

MAZDA3 STK#M8031

2007 Toyota

COROLLA STK#M8005

2005 Toyota

HIGHLANDER STK#93015A

2005 Toyota

CAMRY STK#M8004

2006 Nissan

ALTIMA STK#M8020

7995 $11,995 $11,995 $12,588 $12,995 $13,288

2008 Ford

FOCUS

LEATHER, SUNROOF, STK#M8059

2007

2006 Volkswagen

STK#M8010

STK#M8011

MAZDA6

BEETLE

2007 Toyota

2006 Volvo

2004 Infiniti

STK#M8003

STK#M8056

STK#M8044

2007 Honda

2005 Lexus

2007 Mazda

STK#M8025

LEATHER, LOADED, STK#M8024

LEATHER, LOADED, STK#M8028

CAMRY

S60

G35

13,995 $14,995 $14,995 $16,288 $16,288 $16,288

2006 Ford

EXPLORER EDDIE BAUER STK#M8027

2006 Honda

ACCORD

2005 Jaguar

X-TYPE

CIVIC SI

ES330

CX-7

STK#M8001

27K MILES, STK#M8045

2006 Ford

2006 Infiniti

2005 Cadillac

2006 Mercedes-Benz

STK#M8038

STK#M8015

LOADED, STK#M8047

STK#M8033

STK#M8057

16,288 $16,995 $17,588 $17,588 $17,888 $18,995

2007 Toyota

HIGHLANDER STK#M8041

MUSTANG GT

G35

STS

C280

E-350

19,288 $19,995 $19,995 $20,288 $20,995 $22,888

Prices plus tax, tag and title fees. All offers with approved credit. See dealer for details. Expires date of publication.

Come in and take a test drive! Hours: 7849 Mall Parkway • Lithonia Monday-Saturday

770-482-0600

SHOP ONLINE 24 HOURS A DAY! 7 DAYS A WEEK!

9am-8pm

WWW.MALCOLMCUNNINGHAMAUTO.COM • EasyCare Keycare • EasyCare Dent Repair • EasyCare Personal Assistant

• • • •

Free Loaner With Warranty Repair Interior/Exterior Protection Package Loyalty Rewards 72-Hour Exchange Policy

5c (10.5”) x 16” 14955-MCMA (1-31) crossroads FC (nb)

17,821 20,403 22,641 23,184 28,025