CrossRoadsNews, July 1, 2017

WELLNESS

YOUTH

Inside the Ebola outbreak

Celebration for a cause

An exhibit at the Centers for Disease Control looks at the 2014 epidemic in West Africa that sent shock waves throughout the world. 5

Canby Lane Elementary students were exuberant when they learned the school had landed a $75,000 commitment for upgrades. 6

Let’s Keep DeKalb Peachy Clean Please Don’t Litter Our Streets and Highways

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

Copyright © 2017 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

July 1, 2017

Volume 23, Number 9

www.crossroadsnews.com

Emory files petition to be annexed into Atlanta

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Emory University filed its petition on June 27 to be annexed into the city of Atlanta.

The university, one of the nation’s most prestigious institutionsand which is based in DeKalb County, announced last August that it intended to ask Atlanta to annex all of its 630 acres – including its world-famous hospital that successfully treated patients for ebola, and its museums and libraries along the Clifton Road corridor – because it is already heavily identified with Atlanta.

The university said this week that

it has built affiliations and community engagements that span DeKalb County and the city of Atlanta.

Claire E. Sterk, Emory’s president, said annexation into Atlanta will complement the university’s commitment to local, and thereby global, engagement, while continuing to contribute to both jurisdictions.

“We are enriched by our relationships with the county and the city as well as the larger region and the state and look forward to building upon our commitment to community involvement, academic excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship,” she said.

Emory’s holdings include several hospitals and clinics in DeKalb County and one – Emory University Hospital Midtown – in the city of Atlanta.

It pointed out in a statement this week that in addition to its longstanding civic and community engagement in DeKalb County, it has strong partnerships with Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia State University, the Morehouse School of Medicine and Grady Memorial Hospital, as well as its investments in arts, culture and scholarship in Atlanta which “continue Please see ANNEX, page 2

Emory relocated to DeKalb County from Oxford, Ga., in 1914.

$25m senior housing for Candler Road 170 apartments for people 62 years and older

DeKalb officials joined developer, The Benoit Group, at a June 29 groundbreaking for the senior apartments going up next to the South DeKalb Senior Center and Scott Candler Library in Decatur.

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Ten years after it was first proposed, officals finally broke ground on a $25.1 million senior apartment complex on Candler Road on June 29.

The 170-unit Sterling at Candler Village complex, next door to the Candler Road Senior Center and the Scott Candler Library, will have one- and two-bedroom apartments for seniors ages 62 and older.

Sharon Guest, senior vice president of The Benoit Group, which is developing the project at 1955 Candler Road, said it completes the master plan for the 13-acre site.

“Sterling at Candler Village will be a development that will help de- Sharon Guest crease the gap of affordable housing in South DeKalb County,” she said.

To qualify for the apartments, eligible seniors must make up to 60 percent of the area’s median income.

The project, being built in partnership with DeKalb Housing Authority, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and DeKalb County Community Development Department, took longer than anyone anticipated.

Guest said affordable multifamily housing development is not meant for the faint at heart.

“It is hard. It is tedious. It is stressful,” she said. “It is detailed, but it is also soulquenching, moral and deserving, and it is desperately needed.”

Over the years, Guest, who was formerly with the DeKalb Housing Authority, said she saw the project resuscitated every year – only to fall back in a coma shortly after.

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

“The plan was good and The Benoit Group worked diligently with the Housing Authority and Community Development to figure out how to make the numbers work,” she said. “The market downturn and a few bumps in the road just made it impossible.

But when there is a will, there’s a way.”

The DeKalb Housing Authority provided tax-exempt bonds, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs provided $14 million in low-income housing tax credits, and DeKalb County Community Development Department provided a $300,000 home loan to plug the final financing gap.

Guest said the community, which is scheduled for completion in July 2018, will have upgraded finishes and Energy Star appliances, and its state-of-the-art amenities

will include a community room, computer center, exercise/fitness center, outdoor gathering and seating area, picnic shelter and grills and community gardens.

This week crews were grading the site, and Guest said “sticks and bricks” will start rising from the groud in the fall.

Now that the project is moving, Guest said the buildings are just one facet of the development.

“The care of our seniors is the most important facet,” she said, adding her company’s property management and nonprofit arms will help facilitate and promote residents’ health and wellness, social interaction, education and independence.

Laurel Hart, director of housing finance and development at the state Department of

Community Affairs, said that the tax credits they provide are not really about real estate.

“It’s about people,” she said. “We are here about our parents, grandparents and the people who live in our community. This project is going to make a difference in the lives of a lot of people, real people.”

Officials also hailed the groundbreaking as exciting and a testament to collaboration, partnership and tenacity.

DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond called it “a great day for humanity.”

“It’s a great day for Michael Thurmond Please see SENIORS, page 2

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Community

“Now we are at this point because we wanted to do something nice for Candler Road.”

Hydrick appointed to new JQC investigative panel

Morris reappointed to State Bar’s Board of Governors

DeKalb State Court Judge Stacey K. Hydrick has been appointed to a 4-year term of the Investigative Panel of the Judicial Qualifications Commission.

She is one of four judges and attorneys, and the only one from DeKalb County, appointed by Chief Justice P. Harris Hines to the reconstituted JQC effective July 1.

The Judicial Qualifications Commission is the constitutional body that educates Georgia judges about their ethical duties, and conducts investigations regarding judges’ misconduct.

Georgia citizens approved a constitutional Stacey Hydrick amendment in November 2016, to abolish the existing JQC and to authorize the General Assembly to replace it. Legislators passed House Bill 126 in April to reform and reconstitute the JQC. Hydrick, who has been a judge since April 2011 was appointed to the bench by Gov. Nathan Deal. Since then, and she has been elected to two full terms of office.

Hydrick began her legal career as an Assistant District Attorney in Augusta, and has worked as an Assistant Attorney General in the Georgia Attorney General’s Special Prosecution Division, where she focused on public corruption cases.

DeKalb State Court Judge Shondeana Morris has been re-appointed to the Board of Governors of the State Bar of Georgia.

She was installed June 10 during the organization’s annual meeting on Jekyll Island.

The Board of Governors, which meets four times per year, is the 160-member policymaking authority of the State Bar. It has representation from each of Georgia’s judicial circuits.

Morris, who lives in Decatur, was re-appointed by State Bar President-Elect Kenneth B. Hodges III. She will continue to serve as Post 2 Member-at-Large. She earned her law degree S. Morris from the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University and was admitted to the State Bar of Georgia in 1997.

The State Bar of Georgia, with 49,000 members, was established in 1964 by the Georgia Supreme Court as the successor to the voluntary Georgia Bar Association, founded in 1884.

All lawyers licensed to practice in Georgia belong to the State Bar. Its members work together to strengthen the constitutional promise of justice for all, promote principles of duty and public service among Georgia’s lawyers, and administer a strict code of legal ethics.

Emory cites its longstanding connection to Atlanta ANNEX,

from page

1

to grow.”

Now that the petition has been filed, the university said next steps include the city of Atlanta’s public meetings about the annexation.

“It is expected that the annexation will be effective in the fall of this year,” the statement said.

Emory, which was chartered Dec. 10, 1836, in Oxford, Ga., relocated to DeKalb County in 1914 after Asa Griggs Candler,

July 1, 2017

Coca-Cola Co. founder and brother to former Emory President Warren Candler, persuaded the Methodist Episcopal Church to build the new university here. Candler sweetened the deal with a $1 million endowment and the gift of 75 acres in the newly emerging Druid Hills community, less than a mile from the Atlanta city limits.

While it is located in DeKalb County, its address has always said Atlanta.

The university has 30,000 employees and more than 15,000 students.

The annexation will not affect Druid Hills

High School or any of the older established neighborhoods that surround the campus.

The county has said the financial impact will be minimal because the university doesn’t pay taxes on its properties or its educational buildings.

Because Emory is petitioning the city to annex it, Title 36 of the Official Code of Georgia says it will not need the approval of the state legislature.

Last August, Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed said he welcomed Emory’s interest in joining his city.

Connectivity with center, library touted SENIORS,

from page

1

senior citizens, “the people who deserve it most and on whose shoulders we stand,” he said.

Allen Mitchell, DeKalb Community Development director, said construction of the senior center is “the final step” in a longtime dream for the site.

“There will be complete connectivity between the senior housing, the senior center and the library,” he said.

Brenda Pace, president of East Lake Terrace Association, recalled attending one of the first community meetings on the senior housing project a decade ago.

She is full of pride to see the project finally underway.

“We are so proud to have this here,” she said. “We are so happy for our seniors.”

DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson, who represents District 3 where the project is located, said there wouldn’t be a project if not for the people who kept advocating for it.

“This project started four CEOs ago,” John- Larry Johnson son reminded the audience. “Now we are at this point because we wanted to do something nice for Candler Road.”

Johnson said that close to $50 million have been spent in the area.

“The renaissance is continuing,” he said.

July 1, 2017

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Community Former top officials plead guilty, indicted “The case is over in a favorable manner for him and he is now able to move on.”

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Two former top DeKalb County officials connected – in separate cases – with the mishandling of county funds saw movement in criminal cases against them this week.

Morris Williams, who was the county’s former deputy chief operating officer for infrastructure, pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor obstruction charge for his role in a $4,000 check reimburse- Morris Williams ment scheme.

Former Super District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson was indicted June 28 on a charge of theft by conversion for misappropriating $3,000 intended for business travel.

DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Stan Watson Boston announced the completion of the Morris-Cotter case on June 22, and the beginning of Watson’s case on June 28.

Check for home repair Williams, 52, was implicated along with county contractor and businessman Doug Cotter in a scheme connected to Water Removal Services’ repair of the home of former DeKalb Interim CEO Lee May, when he was District 5 county commissioner in 2010.

Williams was overseeing the county’s Watershed Management Department and the county’s $1.3 billion Comprehensive Infrastructure Plan when he abruptly retired in March 2015 after 17 years with the county.

“We believe the restitution paid by defendant Cotter, the acknowledgement of criminal wrongdoing by both defendants, who are no longer employed by or engaged in business dealings with our county, along with the other terms of the plea agreement, is a just result.”

Sherry Boston, DeKalb County District Attorney

He and Cotter were indicted on theft and fraud charges in July 2016.

Cotter, 54, entered a guilty plea to a misdemeanor charge of theft by taking and was ordered to immediately pay $4,000 in restitution.

Doug Cotter Under the terms of the plea agreement, both Cotter and Williams were sentenced under the First Offender Act to 12 months’ probation, and ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and perform 80 hours of community service.

The charges against Cotter and Williams date back to 2011 when Williams served as chief of staff for the DeKalb Board of Commissioners. The DA said its investigation showed that Williams intercepted a $4,000 check from Water Removal Services to then-Commissioner Lee May. The check, commissioned by Cotter, “was touted” as a reimbursement for overpayment for services at May’s Lithonia home following damage caused by a broken county pipe.

May’s house was damaged in December 2009 by a sewage pipe overflow, and was repaired by Water Removal Services in January 2010.

The district attorney said the $4,000

check was given to Williams, endorsed by an unknown signatory, and cashed at an establishment owned by Cotter’s family.

May has denied knowing anything about the check and was never criminally implicated.

The check scheme came to light after a tip from an anonymous source.

Though originally indicted as a felony case, the district attorney says the state agreed to a plea agreement involving misdemeanor charges in an effort to protect the identity of the source, along with other prosecution factors.

Boston said the anonymous key witness provided information that was integral to the prosecution.

“After balancing all factors, we chose to proceed in this manner, in part, to avoid exposing this person’s identity and jeopardizing their livelihood, in addition to potentially dissuading future whistleblowers from coming forward with information in high-stake cases for fear of public exposure,” Boston said. “We believe the restitution paid by defendant Cotter, the acknowledgement of criminal wrongdoing by both defendants, who are no longer employed by or engaged in business dealings with our county, along with the other terms of the plea agreement, is a just result.”

Williams said June 28 that he will begin his community service on July 11.

“I plan to do 80 hours of what I have been doing for the last 18 years, which is community service,” he said.

Keith Adams, Williams’ attorney, said he pleaded to obstruction for not being forthcoming during the investigation.

“The case is over in a favorable manner for him and he is now able to move on,” Adams said.

The case was prosecuted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Christopher Timmons, assigned to the DA’s Anti-Corruption Unit.

He was assisted by Senior Assistant District Attorney Bernard Ussery and Deputy Chief Investigator Tracey Enderson. DeKalb Superior Court Judge Daniel Coursey presided over the case.

Misuse of travel funds alleged A DeKalb grand jury returned the singlecount indictment against Watson, who was a popular county commissioner and former state representative, on June 27.

Watson, 63, is accused of misappropriating funds intended for business travel and was indicted on a single charge of theft by conversion.

District Attorney Sherry Boston said the charge against Watson dates back to January 2016. At the time Watson requested and received advance checks in January and February totally $4,000 for travel expenses to conferences in Chicago and Savannah in April 2016.

Prior to attending the conferences, he resigned his commissioner seat in March 2016 to run for DeKalb tax commissioner.

County records show that in March 2017, Watson repaid the county $3,586.

4

Fourth

CrossRoadsNews

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July

July 1, 2017

“We can celebrate our nation’s birthday with family and friends, not in the emergency room.”

Gates open at 6 p.m. for Centennial Olympic Park’s fireworks show, which begins at 9:45 p.m.

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Angelina T. Velasquez Editorial Intern Tekia Parks Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Multimedia Editor Sharif Williams

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.

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Fireworks, parades mark nation’s birthday The United States is turning 241 years old on July 4 and Americans will be donning their red, white and blue to celebrate.

There will be parades, barbecues, concerts, laser shows and fireworks, of course.

Independence Day festivities kick off with the city of Avondale’s July 4 Parade at 10 a.m. at DeKalb School of Arts and culminate with fireworks at Stone Mountain and Centennial parks.

In between, families and friends will be grilling hot dogs, flying flags and taking dips in pools.

July Fourth Events include:

Stone Mountain Park Patriotic fireworks will light the sky at Stone Mountain Park on July 4, immediately following the Lasershow Spectacular at 9:30 p.m. This year’s show, in front of the 825-foot granite mountain, has updated animation, water effects, an immersive laser canopy and a fleet of robotic drones synced with new music.

For more information, includ- at 2620 Highway 155 S.W. in ing fees, visit www.stonemountain- Stockbridge. For more information, visit www.gastateparks.org/ park.com or call 770-498-5690.

PanolaMountain.

Centennial Olympic Park Musicians J-Fly and others Independence parades will entertain people awaiting the Paraders should begin lining Centennial Olympic Park fireworks up at DeKalb School of Arts, show that begins at 9:45 p.m.

1192 Clarendon Ave., at 9:15 The festivities will be broadcast a.m. for Avondale’s annual Inlive on WSB-TV. Gates open at 6 dependence Parade, which kicks p.m. The park is at 265 Park Ave. off at 10.

Visit www.gwcca.org.

Activities will wrap up with a concert at 7:30 and fireworks Fireworks hike at dusk. For more information, Families and individuals can visit http://bit.ly/2tN4oqd. take a sunset leisure stroll to the top of Panola Mountain with a ranger Pied Piper Parade on July 4.

The city of Decatur is celHikers can view Stone Moun- ebrating July 4 with its annual tain and Atlanta’s Independence Pied Piper Parade, concert and Day celebrations during the 8 p.m. fireworks. to 10:30 p.m. walk. Participants Vehicles participating in should bring water, insect repel- the parade must register by lent, and a flashlight. There will be contacting Shirley.baylis@dea campfire and s’mores. caturga.com or 678-553-6573.

Advance registration is re- Visit www.visitdecaturgeorgia. quired. Call 770-389-7801. com/see-do-play/special-events/ Panola Mountain State Park is fourth-of-july.

The Callanwolde Concert Band has been performing for more than 45 years.

Free ‘Pops’ concert celebrates America

Vocalists Sophia Decker and Joyce Benton will join guest conductor Stan Kramer at the Callanwolde Concert Band’s free July 4th summer “Pops” concert at the Decatur bandstand on the square.

The Celebrate America Independence Day Concert and Fireworks On the Square starts at Sophia Decker 7 p.m.

The concert will feature light classics and popular favorites including patriotic songs, marches, and musi-

cal comedy selections.

Glenn Moore, conductor and music director, leads the concert band, which has been performing for more than 45 years.

It will play Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” during the fireworks.

Concert-goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. Food will also be available from booths and restaurants in the square.

The bandstand is at 101 E. Court Square. For more information, visit www.calcb.org.

By the numbers

155 million

The number of hotdogs Americans will eat over the July 4 holiday – that’s enough to stretch from D.C. to L.A. more than five times.

56

Number of people who signed the Declaration of Independence, even though not all of them signed it on July 4, 1776.

3

The number of countries – Rwanda, the Philippines and the United States – that celebrate July 4 as their liberation holiday.

42 percent

Decrease in air quality on July 4 because of fireworks, as measured by the level of fine particulate matter in the air.

27

The number of official flags the United States has used.

The last change was made on July 4, 1960, with the addition of the 50th star.

The current version is the longest-running flag.

86

Age of the official national anthem. Even though “The Star-Spangled Banner” was written more than a century earlier, it was not officially designated as the anthem until 1931.

Before that, there was no official anthem.

241

Years since July 4, 1776.

Happy Birthday, America!

Safe use of fireworks can prevent trips to emergency room When it is time to celebrate the nation’s birthday, many people turn to fireworks.

They are spectacular and oh-so-pretty.

But each year, fireworks injure more than 8,000 people, sending many to hospital emergency rooms. Some people even experience permanent injury or lose their sight.

In Georgia, people as young as 18 years can purchase and use fireworks all year, which increases the opportunity for injuries.

Firecrackers and sparklers account for 39 percent or the bulk of the injuries.

Burns comprise the vast majority of injuries, primarily to the hands, fingers, head, face, eyes and ears.

Fireworks mishaps can also turn deadly such

as in 2014, when nine people died in fireworksrelated accidents.

The nonprofit Prevent Blindness Georgia, the nation’s leading volunteer eye health and safety organization, says it’s possible to celebrate July 4 and emerge with your eyesight intact if we follow these tips: n Attend community fireworks displays put on by professionals. n Make 4th of July rockets with paper towel rolls, paint, streamers and paper cement. n Make pinwheels or windsocks with an Independence Day theme. n After the sun goes down, wrap flashlights in colored cellophane to provide fun shades of light.

n Purchase non-toxic glow sticks, ropes and jewelry that can safely light the night for kids. n Make a U.S. flag from yarn craft sticks, paint and construction paper. n Have children design and decorate their own t-shirts and hats using glow-in-the-dark paints.

Add glitter to make them sparkle.

Hugh R. Parry, Prevent Blindness president and CEO, said attending shows run by licensed professionals is the safest way to enjoy fireworks.

“We can celebrate our nation’s birthday with family and friends, not in the emergency room,” Parry said.

Visit preventbindness.org/prevent-eyeinjuries-fireworks for more information.

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Wellness

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Extreme heat affects everyone, but it can be especially hard on the elderly, infants and small children, and people with chronic illnesses.

Donors can give blood at Scott Candler, Decatur and Covington Libraries July 5, 14 and 18.

Red Cross blood drives at libraries Adults can give blood on July 5 at Scott Candler Library in Decatur.

The American Red Cross will be at the library from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Red Cross needs 14,000 units of blood daily for patients at about 2,600 hospitals and transfusion centers nationwide.

Eligible donors must be 17 years old, or 16 with parental consent, weigh at least 110 pounds, and be in good health.

The library is at 1917 Candler Road.

The Red Cross will also collect blood at the Decatur Library on July 14 from 11:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and at the Covington Library on July 18 from 2 to 7 p.m.

Donors will get juice and cookies after their donation.

The Decatur Library is at 215 Sycamore St. in Decatur. The Covington Library is at 3500 Covington Highway in Decatur. For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary. org.

Beat summer’s heat with smarts It’s summer and the mercury is going to rise, but hot temperatures do not have to cause distress if we take precaution.

Extreme heat affects everyone, but it can be especially hard on the elderly, infants and small children, and people with chronic illnesses such as heart disease and high blood pressure.

Health officials say everyone should avoid prolonged exposure to the heat and sun, limit strenuous outdoor activity, and check on neighbors, friends or family members at risk at least once a day.

To beat the heat, follow these tips n Stay hydrated. Drink more water than usual; don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. n Notice the time of day. If you have an activity planned, especially one with heavy sun exposure, schedule it accordingly.

The hottest times of the day are between

12 to 4 p.m. n Dress appropriately and seek shade. Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing. n Watch the temperature. Avoid outdoor activities when temperatures and humidity levels are high. n Take it easy. Plan your activities with all family members and their needs in mind. n Stay cool. Use air conditioning at home, and take advantage of public places such as the library, movie theatres and shopping centers. Other options include ice packs, cool cloths and cool shower or baths. n Know the signs of heat stresses: Sudden redness in the face, dizziness or nausea are red flags. n Chest pain, erratic breathing, rapid heartbeat or sudden headaches should be taken seriously.

For more information, visit www.cdc. gov.

Mobile Market on Candler Road Residents can shop for sweet potatoes, cabbage, squash and more at the DeKalb Mobile Market on July 6 at the Scott Candler Library.

The farmers market on wheels will stop at the library from noon to 2 p.m.

The retrofitted school bus is a program of DeKalb County Cooperative Extension with funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Laden with fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, it makes

10 weekly stops on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursday and Fridays through the last week in September in neighborhoods where access to fresh fruits and vegetables may be limited.

Shoppers can pay with cash, credit card, and EBT (SNAP benefits).

The library is located at 1917 Candler Road.

For more information, visit www.dekalbmobilemarket.com or call 404-298-4080.

Between 2014 and 2016, more than 11,000 people died from the Ebola virus outbreak in West Africa. An exhibit gives an insider’s look at the global fight to stop the virus.

CDC museum hosting Ebola exhibit The 2014 Ebola outbreak, which sent shock waves throughout the world, is now the subject of an exhibit at the Centers for Disease and Control and Prevention’s museum.

“Ebola: People + Public Health + Political Will” is on display through May 25, 2018, at the David J. Sencer CDC Museum in Atlanta. It examines the 2014-2016 outbreak in West Africa and the global response to the health and humanitarian crisis.

When it became clear that Ebola could potentially spread exponentially, threatening global health security, there was a coordinated, massive response. The CDC and the U.S. government, the United Nations, the World Health Organization (WHO), other governments, philanthropic donors to organizations such as the CDC Foundation, and many international non-governmental organizations mobilized massive resources in fall 2014.

The exhibit explores the early days of the outbreak, the heroic work of West African and international health workers, contact tracing, safe burial procedures, how America responded when Ebola reached the U.S., and issues facing Ebola survivors,

including stigma.

The epidemic killed more than 11,000 people between 2014 and 2016 in West Africa.

Dr. Anne Schuchat, CDC acting director, says she hopes the idea of everyone working together for the greater goodwill resonates with visitors to the exhibit.

“I hope people will leave the museum recognizing that, with commitment and will, working together, we can change the world and make it a safer, healthier place for everyone,” she said.

Along the museum’s wall, large dramatic photographs vividly illustrate the severity of the outbreak.

Artifacts on display include crosses marking graves of victims, shipping canisters dusted with West African clay, and helmets worn by drivers who delivered samples through the streets of Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone.

The David J. Sencer CDC Museum is at 1600 Clifton Road in Atlanta. It is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except Thursday when it opens until 7 p.m.

For more information, visit www.cdc. gov or call 404-639-0830.

South River cleanup on July 8 Outdoor enthusiasts can help clean portions of the South River on July 8.

Participants 18 years and older can join Keep DeKalb Beautiful, the South River Watershed Alliance and the Nature Conservancy, DeKalb Parks and Recreation, and Water Matters at the 125-acre Constitution Lakes Park from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Closed-toe shoes, long pants, long-sleeved shirts and insect repellent are a must.

The preserve features a boardwalk, Doll’s Head Park trail, attractive vistas, and wildlife-filled wetlands.

Volunteers can also view beautiful birds at popular lookout points as they clean debris from the banks of the river.

Constitution Lakes Park is 1305 South River Industrial Blvd. in Atlanta.

For more information, visit www.keepdekalbbeautiful.org.

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Youth

July 1, 2017

“Canby Lane’s makeover will improve the overall look and feel of the school and distinguish the learning environment as a safe and happy place for students.”

Chess session targets novices and experts Children ages 5 and older can put their critical thinking skills to the test while playing chess at the Wesley ChapelWilliam C. Brown Library on July 5.

The mind-stimulating hour is free and takes place noon to 1 p.m.

Children with no chess experience to advanced chess competitors are welcome to attend. No registration is required.

The event is presented by Chess Adventures, a program designed to teach children how to play chess and to find fun in learning.

The library is at 2861 Wesley Chapel Road. For more information call 404286-6980.

Canby Lane Elementary wins $75,000 makeover Canby Lane Elementary School in Decatur will get $75,000 worth of improvements for winning the grand prize in the fourth annual Georgia United Credit Union School Crashers program.

Built in 1960, the school located at 4150 Green Hawk Trail has an enrollment of 740 students. Photos of the school on the credit union’s website show the grounds overgrown with weeds, grass and bushes, and worn basketball courts and old bathroom stalls.

The school will get multiple facility improvements and new carpet July 21-22.

Shawn Turpin, a Georgia United Credit Union spokesman, said Canby Lane’s makeover will “improve the overall look and feel of the school and distinguish the learning environment as a safe and happy place for students.”

It is one of seven schools, including two others in DeKalb, that won improvements to their grounds, playgrounds and classrooms, and technology upgrades in the credit union’s outreach effort that helps to beautify schools across Georgia.

The other winners are Fairington Elementary and Eagle Woods Academy in Lithonia, Shiloh Middle School in Snellville, Colbert Elementary in Colbert, East Laurens Primary in East Dublin, and Pleasant Grove Elementary in Dalton.

Fairington students will find an updated media center filled with vibrant colors and new carpet in reading areas. Eagle Woods Academy will get a therapeutic garden.

Since its launch in 2014, the School Crashers program has awarded 20 schools with makeovers and at least $50,000 in runner-up grants for facility improvements.

Eligible elementary, middle and high schools had to submit a photo and a 250-word statement explaining why their school should receive a makeover.

For more information, visit www.gucu. org.

Parents and guardians of students new to DeKalb School District can register online at www.dekalbschoolsga.org starting July 10.

The school district’s new online registration portal, which is open only to students new to the district, will prompt them to enter the student’s information.

Once all forms are completed online, parents will be informed of the school assignment and available support services.

Students transfering within the district must withdraw from their current school and register in person at their new school.

Superintendent Dr. R. Stephen Green said modern times require modern solutions.

“The online registration system increases our ability to provide first-class service that leads to a very important end – ensuring students are in school and ready to learn on day one,” he said.

Online registration requires proof of residency, including: n Current utility bill (gas, electric, or water only – no phone bills); n Signed lease of residence; or n Signed home mortgage contract.

If a dispute arise over proof of residency, or for other information, parents and guardians are encouraged to contact the Office of Student Assignment at 678-676-0035.

Canby Lane Elementary in Decatur will get $75,000 worth of improvements in Georgia United Credit Union’s School Crashers program.

DeKalb recreation centers registering for soccer lessons DeKalb opens online registration for new students only Parents can register their children now through Aug. 5 to take soccer lessons at DeKalb recreation centers, Children ages of 5-14 will learn skill development and team training drills.

A birth certificate is needed for registration.

For more information, visit www. dekalbcountyga.gov/parks or call 770414-2111.

in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Legal Notices 06/10, 06/17, 06/24, 07/01

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

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM5570-6 Joyce Wilson PLAINTIFF VS Kohem Wilson DEFENDANT To:

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated May 30, 2017. You are hereby notified that on May 18, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Joyce Wilson; 707 Fair Harbor, Lithonia, GA 30058. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of May 30, 2017.

Witness the Honorable J.P. Boulee; Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 30th day of May, 2017 06/10, 06/17, 06/24, 07/01

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

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM5660 Fannie Rufai PLAINTIFF VS Adams Baguian DEFENDANT To:

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated May 24, 2017. You are hereby notified that on May 08, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce with no children. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Fannie Rufai, 4107 Durhamshire Pl., Stone Mountain, GA

30083. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of May 24, 2017.

Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 31st day of May, 2017 06/10, 06/17, 06/24, 07/01

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

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM5720-1 Najad Haji PLAINTIFF VS Taufiq Abdurahman DEFENDANT To:

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated May 26, 2017. You are hereby notified that on May 22, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Najad Haji, 3813 Chalmers Court, Clarkston, GA 30021. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of May 31, 2017.

Witness the Honorable Courtney L. Johnson.; Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 31st day of May, 2017 06/24, 07/01, 07/08, 07/15

Notice of Petition to CHANGE Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM6285 Rhakesha Monique Hunter filed a petition on May 15, 2017 in the DeKalb County Superior Court to

change name from: Rhakesha Monique Hunter to Rhakesha Monique Grayson. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed.

Dated: May 25, 2017 06/24, 07/01, 07/08, 07/15

Notice of Petition to CHANGE Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM6524-2 Nivea Darlene Burkett filed a petition on Jun. 01, 2017 in the DeKalb County Superior Court to change name from: Nivea Darlene Burkett to A’vea Sky Ellis. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed.

Dated: Jun. 01, 2017 06/24, 07/01, 07/08, 07/15

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

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM6291-3 Michelle L. Chaney Smith PLAINTIFF VS Johnny W. Smith, Jr. DEFENDANT To: Johnny W. Smith, Jr. Sumter S.C. Jail; 1250 Winkles Rd. Sumter, SC 29153

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Jun. 12, 2017. You are hereby notified that on Jun. 07, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce without minor children. You

are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Pro Se, Michelle L Chaney Smith, 622 South Hairston Rd., Stone Mountain, GA 30088.

Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 12, 2017.

Witness the Honorable Clarence F. Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 12th day of Jun., 2017 06/24, 07/01, 07/08, 07/15

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

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM11467-10 Japheth Garrett PLAINTIFF VS Myed Robinson DEFENDANT To: Myed Robinson 112 Lester Woods Court Lawrenceville, GA 30044

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Apr. 11, 2017. You are hereby notified that on Oct. 28, 2016, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Legitimation and Custody. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Donald M. Coleman, Attorney at Law, 246 Sycamore Street, Suite 120, Decatur, GA 30030. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 12, 2017.

Witness the Honorable Tangela M. Barrie, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 12th day of Jun., 2017 06/24, 07/01, 07/08, 07/15

Notice of PUBLICATION

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM5923-3 Ernesto Mendoza PLAINTIFF VS Diana de la Cruz DEFENDANT To: Diana de la Cruz 3415 Clairview Dr., Apt. A Chamblee, GA 30341

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Apr. 11, 2017. You are hereby notified that on Oct. 28, 2016, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: modification of Custody/Custody Change.

You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Ernesto Mendoza, 2889 Shallowford Rd., Atlanta, GA 30341. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 12, 2017.

Witness the Honorable Clarence F. Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 12th day of Jun., 2017 06/24, 07/01, 07/08, 07/15

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

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM2742-1 Jennie Shantiloo PLAINTIFF VS Albert G. Jones DEFENDANT To: Albert G. Jones 2837 Pebble Drive Decatur, GA 30034

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated 5th day of Jun., 2017. You are hereby notified that on Feb. 28, 2017, the abovenamed Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Abandonment. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Jennie Shantiloo – Pro Se an Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of first date of publication.

Witness the Honorable Courtney L. Johnson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 13th day of Jun., 2017 06/24, 07/01, 07/08, 07/15

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

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM5909-7 Jamikka Wood-Rosser PLAINTIFF VS Moreo Rosser, Sr. DEFENDANT To: 2704 Eastwood Dr. Decatur, GA 30032

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Jun. 07, 2017. You are hereby notified that on May 26, 2017, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: 3823 Radcliffe Blvd., Decatur, GA 30034.

Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 07, 2017.

Witness the Honorable Daniel M. Coursey, Jr., Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 07th day of Jun., 2017 07/01, 07/08, 07/15, 07/22

Notice of Petition to CHANGE Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM6756-8 Tapha Lynetha Jefferson filed a petition on Jun. 01, 2017 in the DeKalb County Superior Court to change name from: Tapha Lynetha Jefferson to Tabitha Lynette Jefferson. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed.

Dated: Jun. 13, 2017 07/01, 07/08, 07/15, 07/22

Notice of Petition to CHANGE Name of ADULT in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: 17FM6629-8 Celeste Shonte Grady filed a petition on Mar. 30, 2017 in the DeKalb County Superior Court to change name from: Celeste Shonte Grady to Celeste Shonte Duggan`. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed.

Dated: Mar. 30, 2017

CrossRoadsNews

July 1, 2017

People

7

“She’s always open to bettering herself. She came in ready to work, ready to listen.”

Stephenson grad fulfills dream to become Hawks cheerleader

By Tekia Parks

McCargo danced with the Dazzling Diamonds, the Marching Jaguars dance team, Christie Smith-McCargo has dreamed of and was able to strut her stuff in front of being an Atlanta Hawks cheerleader since sometimes thousands of people at James R. 2006, when she was 12 years old Hallford Stadium. and a student at Stephenson By 2011, she was the dance Middle School. squad’s captain.

She adores her homeAt the University of Florida, town basketball team, loves she tried out for the Dazzlers the noisy fans who turn out dance team for three consecutive for games, and has always years – unsuccessfully. yearned to perform during “I wanted to dance so bad,” she the game and at halftime to recalled June 21. keep the fans excited.

While Smith-McCargo was waiting It took 11 years, but on for her big dance break, she started June 15, her dream came Struttin’ N Stilettos, a dance class true. where women danced in high heels An Instagram post inand learned to enhance their selfformed her, and the world, that confidence. she had made the 2017-2018 Smith-McCargo was bitten by the Atlanta Hawks Cheerleaders dancing bug early. She was only 3 years squad. old. Her parents enrolled her in ballet, “I am so blessed and givjazz, hip-hop, modern, and lyrical ing God all of the glory,” said dance. She never looked back.

Smith-McCargo, now 23.

In 2016, she finally got the courHer passion for Hawks age to try out for the Hawks cheercheerleading dates back to leading squad. She made it to the her Jr. Hawks cheerleader finals, but not onto the squad. days in the sixth grade. The Though disappointed, she junior cheerleading program didn’t give up. offers young cheerleaders This year she came back even and dancers ages 5 to 13 the more determined. The prelimiopportunity to experience nary auditions were set for June cheering at Philips Arena like 10 and she needed help. the professionals.

Smith-Cargo turned to her She loved it so much, she junior cheerleading coach, Zakstayed with the program in iya Alta Lee, a former Atlanta seventh and eighth grades too.

Hawks Cheerleader who At Stephenson High, Smithnow runs a prep program

Christie SmithMcCargo realized her decade-long dream of being an Atlanta Hawks cheerleader when she was named to the 20172018 squad on June 15.

for professional cheerleading teams.

For five months, Lee took her through her paces. Smith-McCargo took numerous dance classes focused on technique, etiquette, pro team hair and make-up, and fitness workshops.

Because she was highly motivated, Lee said Smith-McCargo was easy to train.

“She’s always open to bettering herself,” Lee said. “She came in ready to work, ready to listen.”

Outside the rehearsal studio, SmithMcCargo began eating healthier, working out extensively, and building her faith.

“I fasted for 21 days,” she said.

To stay on her healthier-eating routine, she planned, cooked and packed her lunches and dinners of lean meats and veggies for the week.

Hawks Cheerleaders are required to have

more than pretty faces and awesome dance skills. They are also team ambassadors, making appearances at community events throughout the season.

To qualify for the team, applicants must have a part-time or full-time job, or be a college student and go through an extensive interview process.

Smith-McCargo, who is a property manager with an Atlanta real estate company, has tutored middle schoolers and is a former Big Brothers Big Sisters program volunteer.

Smith-McCargo will be donning the Hawks Cheerleaders red, black and yellow uniform for the first home game of the 20172018 season in October.

Until then, she will be making community appearances with the squad.

“I am so excited and ready for the season,” she said.

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July 1, 2017