CrossRoadsNews, July 16, 2016

WELLNESS

BACK-TO-SCHOOL

Tips to beat the heat

Whole lotta preppin’ going on

It’s hot out there – stay cool, hydrated and informed to protect your health as temperatures continue to soar. A7

There will be dancing, singing, screening and information sharing at the 11th annual Family & Back-to-School Expo on July 23 .

Section B

Put Litter in Its Place Let’s Do Our Part to Keep DeKalb Beautiful

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

Copyright © 2016 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

July 16, 2016

Volume 22, Number 12

www.crossroadsnews.com

Justices hear Ellis’ arguments overturning his conviction

By Ken Watts

Coastal State Prison near Savannah on March 1, 2016.

In arguments before the seven justices on July 11, Ellis’ attorneys laid out ways they say the trial court erred and why his conviction should be overturned. They challenged decisions by the trial court to exclude testimonies about other vendors and said the court violated Ellis’ rights when it placed restrictions on his testimony, the presentation of his defense, and access to his lawyers and evidence regarding the special purpose grand jury’s investigation.

In the 63-page brief, Ellis’ attorneys Craig

Suspended DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis is shown with attorneys Kemay Jackson and Craig Gillen at Ellis’ sentencing in Superior Court on July 8, 2015.

Suspended DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis finally had his day in the Georgia Supreme Court this week.

Ellis, who was released from prison early for good behavior, is seeking to reverse his 2015 conviction for corruption and regain his law license.

In his second trial, a DeKalb jury found Ellis guilty of attempted theft by extortion and three counts of perjury, and DeKalb Superior Court Judge Courtney L. Johnson sentenced him on July 1, 2015, to five years in prison to serve 18 months. He served eight months before he was released from Please see APPEAL, page A2

Police shootings invoke ‘strategy for change’ Community wants loss of black lives to end

By Ken Watts

In the aftermath of a tragic week that saw two African-American men shot and killed by police in Baton Rouge, La., and in a suburb of St. Paul, Minn., and five police officers killed by a sniper in Dallas, nearly 900 people packed the House of Hope in Decatur on July 12 to discuss a “strategy for change.”

More than 400 members from Decatur

Seventh-day Adventist Church, Mount Patmos Baptist, One Accord Community Church of God in Christ and New Life Baptist marched to the Candler Road/I-20 overpass bridge in Decatur on July 14 to pray for peace and unity in the wake of the shootings.

The prayer walk was organized by DeKalb District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson “because prayer changes things.” Marchers observed a moment silence for each of the victims, and each of the pastors prayed for the country’s healing.

At the House of Hope panel discussions, nationally syndicated radio talk show host Rickey Smiley and a panel of Black Lives Matter activists, entertainers, civil rights legends, and police officials led an emotional town hall conversation on how to end the cycle of violence in which police around the country have killed so many black men.

The panelists included David Banner, rapper; Gerald Griggs, attorney; Cariol Horne, former Buffalo, N.Y., police officer; DC Young Fly, comedian; the Rev. C.T. Vivian, activist; Kwanza Hall, council member; Dr. Bernice King, King Center executive director; Cedric Alexander, DeKalb Public Safety director; ET of Durtty Boyz, Hot 107.9; Kenneth Braswell, Father’s Inc.; 2Chainz, hip-hop artist; Shawn Jones, assistant Atlanta Police chief; actor Tyrese Gibson; R&B singer Lyfe Jennings; and Young Jeezy, rapper.

The discussion, carried live on Atlanta’s

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

About 400 marchers from Decatur Seventh-day Adventist Church, Mount Patmos Baptist Church, One Accord Community Church of God in Christ and New Life Baptist Church marched to the Candler Road/I-20 overpass bridge on July 14 to pray for peace and unity in the wake of killings.

Hot 107.9, Majic 107.5, Praise 102.5, and Radio One Atlanta and covered by local television news outlets, gave panelists and citizens a broad forum for their anger.

Banner, one of the most outspoken panelists, said that he was happy to see AfricanAmericans mobilize.

“But I’m tired of seeing black men getting killed and we end up in the same place,” he said. “Nothing will really change until these killings cost the white power structure jobs, money and treasure. There must be real consequences, even physical consequences.”

R&B singer Lyfe Jennings disagreed, calling the idea of getting physical with police “crazy.”

Actor Tyrese Gibson had to separate the two men briefly but they quickly calmed down.

Audience member Bri Cole of Atlanta said her experience in Black Lives Matter demonstrations after the Louisiana and Minnesota shootings supports the need for economic pressure to force change.

“We marched through downtown Atlanta,” she said. “We blocked streets in Midtown.

We marched to the Downtown Connector and nobody got arrested. But we marched on Buckhead, where the money is, that’s when a lot of us got picked up.”

America’s latest racial flare-up was ignited by the fatal shootings of Alton Sterling by

police in Baton Rouge on July 5 and Philando Castile in a suburb of St. Paul on July 6.

In Baton Rouge, a video recording showed two white police officers pulling Sterling, 37, to the ground outside after responding to a call about an armed man. The video showed one of the officers pulling his gun and shooting Sterling, who was pinned to the ground, and after the shooting, pulling Sterling’s gun from his back pocket.

The officers – Blane Salamoni, who has been with the force for four years, and Howie Lake II, who has three years of service – are on paid leave.

Please see TOWN HALL, page A2

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Community

CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

“Our situation is bleak, but we need to take a lot of steps back before we move forward.”

Activists told to ‘organize, agree on mission, develop strategy’ TOWN HALL,

from page

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On July 6, Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards announced that the U.S. Justice Department has opened a civil rights investigation into the case.

In Minnesota, Castile was shot by Officer Jeronimo Yanez, a St. Anthony police officer who pulled him over in Falcon Heights, a suburb of St. Paul.

Castile’s girlfriend, Diamond Reynolds, live-streamed on Facebook the tense moments after he was shot in the arm.

Her 4-year-old daughter Daedae could be heard comforting her mother.

“It’s OK,” the little girl said. “I’m right here with you.”

Reynolds could be heard telling the officer that Castile, a St. Paul Public Schools cafeteria worker, was reaching for the license and registration the officer told him to get.

“He’s licensed to carry. He was trying to get out his ID and his wallet out his pocket and he let the officer know that he had a firearm and he was reaching for his wallet, and the officer just shot him in his arm. ... You shot four bullets into him, sir. He was just getting his license and registration, sir.”

Town hall host Rickey Smiley said the two incidents demonstrate how blacks and whites are treated differently in encounters

Attorney Gerald Griggs (from left), Dr. Bernice King, Public Safety Director Cedric Alexander and rapper David Banner speak at a town hall meeting on July 12.

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

with police such as white gunman Dylann Roof ’s arrest after the killings of nine church members at Emanuel AME in Charleston, S.C., in 2015.

“He was arrested, not shot,” Smiley said.

“He was given a chance to surrender. They even put a bulletproof vest on him to protect him.”

Tammy Hodges of Kennesaw, who was in the audience, got frustrated when she asked the panel whether police departments monitor officers’ mental health and social attitudes. Her question was directed at DeKalb Public Safety Director Cedric Alexander and Atlanta Assistant Chief Shawn Jones.

“I never got an answer,” Hodges told CrossRoadsNews after the meeting. “Our situation is bleak, but we need to take a lot of steps back before we move forward.”

In responding to another question, Alexander said the department tries to keep citizens and officers in a good frame of mind by engaging them in positive activities.

“Community policing is not going to work in every neighborhood, but in DeKalb we generally have good relations with the community,” Alexander said.

Casey Watson of Decatur complained that the discussion was not focusing enough on police brutality.

Former Buffalo Police Officer Cariol Horne said she was fired and lost her pension after 19 years of service for stopping a brutality incident in 2006.

“I stopped a fellow cop who put a handcuffed suspect in a chokehold,” she said.

Her case has been reopened and is under review by Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown.

Panelist Young Jeezy said the community should continue to demand justice.

“If you kill people, you need to be indicted,” Jeezy said. “A criminal is a criminal whether he’s wearing a badge or not.”

Rapper 2Chainz suggested reform efforts “start in our own backyard” by nurturing millennials who are stepping up to lead the human rights movement.

“They are fearless. They just need some direction from their elders.”

Civil rights legend the Rev. C.T. Vivian called veteran activists a priceless resource.

“They have made it known many times that they are willing to offer advice and strategy,” Vivian said.

Bernice King, daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., called for people “to organize, agree on a mission and develop a strategy.”

Smiley urged attendees to channel their anger and frustration through the ballot box in the July 26 runoff and the Nov. 8 general election.

DA disputes Ellis claims as defense presents case to Georgia high court APPEAL,

from page

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Gillen, Dwight Thomas, Kemay Jackson and Anthony Lake said he was appealing his conviction and “showing that the trial court systematically eliminated” his ability to defend against the state’s charges against him.

Restrictions on testimony cited Ellis, a real estate attorney, was disbarred when he was convicted in 2015. If his appeal is successful, he is expected to regain his law license.

Ellis’ term of office ends on Dec. 31. He lost his $153,000 annual salary upon his conviction but remains suspended from office without pay because he is appealing his conviction. If he loses his appeal, he will be removed from office.

The corruption charges against Ellis stemmed from his alleged attempts to “shake down” county contractor Power and Energy Services of Austell for a $2,500 campaign contribution to his 2012 re-election cam-

paign. He also was found guilty of making false statements to a special purpose grand jury. Ellis said he did nothing wrong.

Ellis’ attorneys argued that the trial court violated Ellis’ rights when it imposed numerous restrictions on his testimony, which were arbitrary and often for no stated purpose whatsoever.

“The trial court prohibited Mr. Ellis from testifying regarding statements in his testimony before the special purpose grand jury which were in evidence but which were not statements charged in the indictment,” the attorneys said.

The attorneys listed several other ways they believe the judge limited Ellis’ testimony.

“An accused in a criminal case possesses a due process right to present a complete defense. He or she also possesses a ‘right to present his own version of events in his own words,’” Ellis’ attorneys said, using a 1987 U.S. Supreme Court decision to bolster their argument.

“Mr. Ellis should have been permitted to explain his own statements and testify regarding statements which had already been introduced into evidence against him by the prosecution,” the attorneys said.

“These rulings severely curtailed Mr. Ellis’ defense to charges on which the jury ultimately found him guilty,” they said.

They also claim the trial court erred in ruling that Ellis could not discuss his testimony with his lawyer during an overnight recess that occurred during his testimony.

“An order preventing a defendant from consulting with his counsel during an overnight recess violates a defendant’s right to the assistance of counsel guaranteed by the Sixth Amendment,” they argued.

Special purpose grand jury Among other arguments, Ellis contends the trial court was wrong to exclude evidence regarding the special purpose grand jury’s investigation into Ellis for perjury.

“The trial court’s prohibition on Mr. Ellis from arguing (1) that the special purpose grand jury exceeded its scope, (2) that the prosecution ‘abused’ or ‘misused’ the special purpose grand jury process, or (3) that the prosecution made misrepresentations to Mr. Ellis about the nature of the special purpose grand jury proceedings severely impaired Mr. Ellis’ ability to defend against the prosecution’s perjury charges against him on essential elements of the offense,” his attorneys said.

“Here the trial court placed unwarranted restrictions on the defense’s ability to show ‘any’ bias or prejudice on the part of Procurement Director Kelvin Walton, the star prosecution witness against Ellis who said the CEO ordered him to cut Power and Energy’s contract with the county after company owner Brandon Cummings refused to make a donation.

“The trial court prohibited the defense from cross-examining or impeaching Walton regarding whether he decided that he needed to give the District Attorney’s Office ‘someone else’ after he was confronted with evidence of his own illegal conduct, including his manipulation of the contract award process. And the trial court erred by excluding evidence and testimony regarding other vendors. The defense wanted to call several representatives of vendors to testify at trial that there was no retribution from the county

or Ellis for not contributing to his campaign,” the attorneys said.

Ruling expected in fall Arguing for the state, DeKalb District Attorney Robert James said the trial court “was correct in not granting [Ellis] unfettered license to testify as to whatever he wished, and placed no unwarranted restrictions on appellant’s ability to present a defense or access to counsel.”

He said the record and Robert James the law both contradict Ellis’ complaint that the trial court prevented him from presenting “a complete defense.”

The trial court specifically granted Ellis the opportunity to explore any motive or bias on the part of Kelvin Walton.

“As to his assertion that he could not consult with his attorney during an overnight court break, the break occurred while Ellis was still on the stand as a witness being cross-examined by the state,” James said.

“Although before adjournment that day, the judge said that like any other witness, Ellis should not be discussing his testimony with anyone, the next day before Ellis’ testimony resumed, the judge offered – and his attorney accepted – the chance to talk with Ellis about his testimony before the jury came out.”

James said the trial court did not err in limiting Ellis’ evidence and argument regarding the special purpose grand jury and his perjury charges.

“A ‘complete defense’ as advocated by appellant does not include the presentation of irrelevant and inadmissible evidence at trial,” James argued.

He said the trial also placed no improper restrictions on Ellis’ cross-examination or impeachment of Walton.

James also disputed Ellis’ complaint that the trial court excluded evidence regarding other vendors.

“Testimony from vendors from whom appellant did not attempt to extort campaign contributions is not evidence that appellant did not attempt to extort the vendors the jury convicted him of attempting to extort, and it is not evidence of appellant’s honesty or truthfulness,” James said.

The Supreme Court is expected to rule on the case in the fall.

July 16, 2016

Community

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The free training workshop is recommended for anyone who is a notary public in Georgia or would like to become one.

Workshop on becoming a notary public Residents interested in becoming a notary public can attend free training on July 29 at the Maloof Auditorium in Decatur.

Interested parties should RSVP by July 22 – contact Twinnette Jones at tajones@ dekalbcountyga.gov or 404-371-2250.

Clerk of Superior Court Debra DeBerry and the Georgia Superior Court Clerks’ Cooperative Authority are hosts for the third annual event.

Session 1 takes place from 9 to 10:30 a.m., followed by Session 2 from 11 a.m.

to 12:30 p.m.

The training workshop, which is open to the public, is recommended for anyone who is a notary public in the state of Georgia or would like to become one.

Individuals commissioned as a notary public can witness or attest signature or execution of deeds and other written instruments and witness affidavits upon oath or affirmation, among other duties.

The auditorium is at 1300 Commerce Drive in Decatur.

Bridge work to close part of Clifton Road File Photo

The Georgia sales tax holiday on July 30-31 is for clothing, computers and school supplies.

Sales tax holiday to help with back-to-school shopping Back-to-school shoppers can take advantage of the Georgia sales tax holiday on July 30-31 for clothing, computers and school supplies.

During the holiday, clothing and footwear with a sales price of $100 or less per item will be exempt.

Examples of exempt items include athletic clothing and gear, caps and hats, coats and jackets, dresses, and pants and shirts.

The exemption excludes clothing accessories such as jewelry, handbags, umbrellas, eyewear, watches and watchbands.

Also exempt from sales tax are computers, computer components, and prewritten software purchased for noncommercial home or personal use with a sales price of $1,000 or less per item.

Examples of exempt items include data storage devices, hard drives, personal digital assistant devices, printers, web cameras, and modems.

Examples of taxable items are cellphones, digital cameras, game systems and consoles, surge protectors, and televisions.

School supplies purchased for noncommercial use with a sales price of $20 or less per item will be exempt from sales tax.

Examples include binders, book bags, calculators, paper, textbooks, workbooks, pencils and pens, and paints and watercolors.

Taxable items are briefcases, envelopes, janitorial supplies, medical supplies, and supplies used in a trade or business.

For the lists of tax-exempt items and exclusions, visit http://dor.georgia.gov.

A section of Clifton Road near Emory University Hospital will be closed from July 29 to Aug. 1 for bridge installation.

Clifton Road between the Fishburne Drive/Gambrell Drive Northeast intersection and Woodruff Circle/Uppergate Drive intersection will be closed to through traffic from 9 p.m. July 29 through 5 a.m.

Aug. 1 to install a pedestrian bridge across

Clifton Road.

Road closure and detour signs will be placed in the area during the road closure period to advise motorists of construction work and of local traffic restrictions.

For questions about the road closure, contact Robert Metz, operation manager of AWP Inc., at 404-350-0441 (office) or 404350-0442 (fax).

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker General Manager Curtis Parker Assistant Editor Brenda Yarbrough Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Graphic Designer 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.

Advertisements are published upon the representation that the advertiser is authorized to publish the submitted material. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless from and against any loss or expenses resulting from any disputes or legal claims based upon the contents or subject matter of such advertisements, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement.

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July 16, 2016

“I made her read the article before I admitted it. Once I found out it was all good, I said it was me.”

Our ‘trash can genie’ just had to do something “I just got tired of looking at trash. I just felt I needed to do my part.

I’m not one to sit around and do nothing.”

As I See It Jennifer Parker

I found the Rainbow Drive “Bus Stop Trash” can genie.

She is none other than Faith Reed, a 75-year-old resident of the Churchill Downs subdivision, which is across the street from the MARTA bus stop.

When I returned her call this week, she said simply: “I did it.

Guilty as charged.”

I liked her right away. But truth be told, I liked her the moment I saw that trash can with “Bus Stop Trash” scrawled in big bold yellow letters at the bus stop across from Whirlaway Drive in Decatur.

I wasn’t a fan of the rather ugly trash can, but I was a fan of the fact that she saw a problem in her neighborhood and took it upon herself to solve it.

But back to Reed.

She was in the VA hospital getting treatment for the cancer she has been battling for the last year and a half when my July 2 column seeking help to find the person I dubbed the “Bus Stop Trash” can genie was published.

A neighbor called her to say she read something about her in the newspaper. illness has slowed her down some “I made her read the article be- good, I said it was me.”

Reed, who gets around with but hasn’t stopped her from caring fore I admitted it,” Reed said with a laugh. “Once I found out it was all the assistance of a cane, said her about her neighborhood.

Anti-litter campaign gets my vote, too I read your July 2 article about litter on Rainbow Drive and all over. You hit the nail on the head when you said we need another campaign on preventing litter by educating young people and others.

When my daughter was growing up in the ’70s and ’80s, you could not pay her to throw paper from the window or walk down the street and discard whatever she

had in her hand.

During her childhood and teenage years, there were advertisements on TV telling everyone not to litter.

We badly need that again.

Thank you for your article on litter and your fantastic job of keeping us informed on what’s happening in our area.

Margaret Williams lives in Decatur.

Margaret Williams

Faith Reed

Reed spent 20 years in the Army before retiring.

She moved to South DeKalb 13 years ago because her sister lived here and she liked the area.

She said she is part of her subdivision’s “Adopt a Road” crew.

“I have been picking up trash ever since I have been out here,” she said. “I have been doing it for a very long time.”

When she first moved here, she didn’t notice litter as much.

Over the years, her neighborhood has changed.

“People moved in and people moved out,” she said. “I just got tired of looking at trash. I just felt I needed to do my part. I’m not one to sit around and do nothing.”

There used to be a trash can at the bus stop about a year or so ago but Reed said it disappeared.

The litter built up.

She put the trash can at the MARTA bus stop in June.

She painted the letters in yellow because it was the only paint she had.

“A neighbor chained it to the pole,” she said.

Reed said the trash can has helped reduce litter at the bus stop.

“Everybody doesn’t use it, but it has helped some,” she said.

On July 12 when I went to photograph her with her trash can, DeKalb County had just delivered a new wire trash basket at the bus stop.

Because hers was chained to the pole, they couldn’t remove it.

“I can take care of that,” Reed said.

The next day, only the new trash basket was beside the pole.

July 16, 2016

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Schools

July 16, 2016

“Hopefully, we can give them something to do and we know that we have so many community members who have skills.”

Community Ambassadors to mentor South DeKalb teens

By Ken Watts

A new corps of mentors called the Community Ambassadors will help 44 South DeKalb high school and middle school students develop social skills, plan for careers and build positive relations with police this summer.

The program was conceived the week of May 16 by officers with the DeKalb Police East Precinct in Lithonia a few days before the end of the 2015-2016 school year.

Officers asked principals and counselors at five high schools and four middle schools to submit the names of teens who might benefit from mentorship.

The participating high schools are Arabia Mountain, Lithonia, Miller Grove, Redan and Stephenson. The middle schools are Miller Grove, Redan, Salem and Stephenson.

The idea is based on the African adage “it takes a village to raise a child,” East Precinct commander Maj. Tonya Dedrick told CrossRoadsNews on June 14 after a community meeting with about 25 residents from area neighborhood associations at Stonecrest Library on Klondike Road.

Dedrick told the group the program will match kids with professionals who have talents in arts, science and technical fields.

“Hopefully, we can give them something to do and we know that we have so many community members who have skills,” Dedrick said.

Other East Precinct officers taking part in the meeting were assistant commander Capt.

K.D. Banks, Lt. Nicole Hines, Officer Emmett Jenkins and Sgt. Roy Peeler.

Banks told the residents the success of the Community Ambassadors program will depend on them and their creativity in giving youths exposure to occupations they may not

DeKalb Police Officer Emmett Jenkins (from left), Lt. Nicole Hines, Sgt. Roy Peeler, and Capt. K.D. Banks discuss the Community Ambassadors corps.

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

aware of, crafts and positive activities.

“If they’re riding up and down the street yelling and throwing bottles, let’s find something constructive for them to do,” said Banks. “We want your ideas on what you’d like to see the children do.”

Jenkins said organizers are hoping that word of the Community Ambassadors will attract more young participants and help the program grow.

“This is a way of serving with a true servant’s heart to influence as many lives as

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT (SSSP Shepherd Drive Decatur, LLC) D/B/A SIMPLY SELF STORAGE LOCATED AT (2804 HF Shepherd Drive) INTENDS TO SELL OR OTHERWISE DISPOSE OF THE PERSONAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED BELOW TO ENFORCE A LIEN IMPOSED ON SAID PROPERTY UNDER THE GEORGIA LAW 10-4-213.

THE PUBLIC SALE OR OTHER DISPOSITION OF THE FOLLOWING PROPERTY WILL TAKE PLACE (UNLESS OTHERWISE WITHDRAWN) VIA AN ON-LINE AUCTION AT WWW.STORAGETREASURES.COM ON (July 25, 2016) BEGINNING AT APPROXIMATELY (10:00am) AND CONCLUDING ON (July 29, 2016) AT APPROXIMATELY (10:00am). THIS PUBLIC SALE WILL RESULT IN THE GOODS BEING SOLD TO THE HIGHEST BIDDER. CERTAIN TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. Unit # Name A012 A021 A045 B130A B135 B138A C003

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possible,” said Jenkins.

His words seemed to strike a chord and several signed up to volunteer, including Tresa Smith from the Pepperwood Subdivision in Stone Mountain.

Smith, a retired AT&T worker, said she writes plays about domestic abuse, teen pregnancy and other social issues and wants to share her love of the arts and the creative process.

“I want to see what I can do instead of sitting around and talking about what they’re

not doing,” Smith said.

Tanis Goldman, a nursing instructor at Georgia State University, said she looks forward to working with the teens.

“We need to be able to save our youth any way we can,” she said.

Dedrick said 18 Ambassadors are signed up for duty but she expects the number to grow as word of the program spreads.

For more information, call Emmett Jenkins at 770-482-0330 or email ejenkins@ dekalbcountyga.gov.

Pep rally to celebrate new school year DeKalb School Superintendent at the Plaza Fiesta, 4166 Buford R. Stephen Green will share the disHighway N.E. in Brookhaven. trict’s vision for the new school year From 10 a.m. to noon, there at its third annual Back to School will be the Superintendent’s Knock, Pep Rally on Aug. 5.

Walk, and Talk with senior staff Green also will discuss key topand school leadership teams. All ics every family needs to know such schools will participate in a walk as parent involvement, transportaand talk throughout their school tion, and school nutrition. neighborhood.

Stephen Green The first day of school is Aug. From 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 8.

DeKalb School District staff will distribute The main rally takes place at Clarkston school supplies at the two mini rallies. EnterHigh with mini rallies at the Gallery at South tainment includes bands, cheerleaders, and DeKalb, 2801 Candler Road in Decatur, and local celebrity appearances. Giveaways will be distributed at each location.

From 1 to 4 p.m., the main pep rally in the Clarkston High gym begins and features a live remote with 94.5 Streetz Radio and its on-air personalities.

The School District is seeking to inspire and empower students and families to get excited about education and the new school year. In addition to backpacks/school supply giveaways, the free community event will include: n Back-to-school information. n Health screenings. n After-school education enrichment programs. n Live performances, entertainment, food and fun. n Family engagement information tables. n District experts on hand to answer questions.

Community collaborators include Sam’s Club, game truck, Wal-co Uniforms, Wells Fargo, Stars & Strikes, COIN – Community Outreach Information Network, Waffle House, Kiddie Olympics, DeKalb Board of Health, and the Georgia Stars Performing Arts Company.

Clarkston High is at 618 N. Indian Creek Drive. For more information, email marcia_a_Coward@dekalbschoolsga.org or Portia_Kirkland@dekalbschoolsga.org or visit www.dekalb.k12.ga.us.

July 16, 2016

Wellness

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“It is a testimony to the quality of patient care that has been the foundation of our practice for … 40 years.”

AGA physicians make Protect your health when temps are high It’s hot out there, and the Georgia n Protect yourself from the sun with list of ‘Top Doctors’ Department of Public Health is reminda wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses and Dr. John Suh and Dr. Norman Elliott from Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates have been named “Top Doctors” for the metro area in Atlanta magazine’s July issue.

Norman Elliott John Suh Suh practices at the office in Decatur and Elliott practices in Lithonia.

AGA doctors represent 10 of the 21 physicians honored for the gastroenterology specialty. Also honored are Drs. Girish Anand, Charles Fox, Lori Lucas, Ralph Lyons, Enrique Martínez, Kamil Obideen, Neal Osborn and David Quinn. Dr. Steven Morris, AGA’s managing partner, called it an honor for the practice to have so many of its physicians recognized with the award.

“It is a testimony to the quality of patient care that has been the foundation of our practice for the past 40 years,” Morris said in a July 11 statement.

This year’s “Top Doctors” issue honored 623 physicians. The listing is compiled annually by Castle Connolly, a health care research company based in New York City. Physicians are selected through peer nomination and an extensive screening process by Castle Connolly’s physician-directed research team.

AGA, the largest gastroenterology practice in the United States, is dedicated to the detection and treatment of digestive and liver diseases as well as colon cancer. Its board-certified gastroenterologists see patients at more than 50 offices and endoscopy centers in metro Atlanta and North Georgia. The practice offers specialized care for adult patients through several distinct groups, including the Center for Advanced GI Therapeutics and the Liver Center, and provides imaging and infusion services as well as nutrition counseling and non-surgical weight loss. In 2014, AGA opened its Pediatric and Adolescent Division, and two board-certified pediatric gastroenterologists see patients in three locations. Visit www.atlantagastro.com.

ing residents to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat and sun and to limit strenuous outdoor activity to prevent heat-related illness.

To protect your health when temperatures are high: n Drink more fluids, regardless of your activity level. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink. Don’t drink liquids that contain alcohol or large amounts of sugar – these actually cause you to lose more body fluid. n Stay in an air-conditioned place. If your home does not have air conditioning, go to the shopping mall or public library or a friend or relative’s home – even a few hours spent in air conditioning can help your body stay cooler when you go back into the heat. n Electric fans may provide comfort, but when the temperature is in the high 90s, fans will not prevent heat-related illness. Taking a cool shower or bath is a much better way to cool off.

n Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. n Never leave infants, children, adults or pets in a parked car, even if the windows are cracked open. Remember to always Look Again to be sure everyone is out. If you see anyone locked in a hot vehicle, call 911. n Limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours and cut down on outdoor exercise. If you must exercise, take short breaks and stay hydrated.

sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher. The most effective products say “broad spectrum” or “UVA/UVB protection” on the labels.

The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also recommends three key ways to protect your health in extreme heat: Stay cool, stay hydrated and stay informed.

It’s also important to know the signs of heat illnesses and how to respond.

Symptoms such as heavy sweating, cold or clammy skin, nausea and fainting are all signs of heat exhaustion.

If you see someone experiencing this symptoms, move to a cooler location, apply cool wet cloths to the body, and give them water. The more serious health effect of extreme heat is stroke, indicated by body temperatures about 103, rapid pulse and hot, red, dry or moist skin. Call 911 immediately.

Visit http://dph.georgia.gov and www.cdc.gov/extremeheat.

Healthy choices for tweens

Learn the basics of tai chi

Kids 9 to 13 can pick up tips on health and safety on July 20 at the Redan-Trotti Library in Lithonia.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices, presented by the Georgia 4-H Youth Development Department, begins at 2 p.m. Call or visit the branch to register.

The program in the On Your Mark series is designed to teach youth basic social skills through hands-on activities about making healthy lifestyle choices and developing conflict resolution skills.

Funding is provided by the library’s Friends group.

The library is at 1569 Wellborn Road. For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary.org or call 770-482-3821.

Participants will learn the basics of the ancient art of tai chi on July 23 at the Flat Shoals Library in Decatur.

The class begins at 3 p.m. and is open to the first 25 patrons.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing.

Tai chi has been described as exercise, dance, ritual, philosophy of life, and method of achieving mental peace and relaxation. It was developed in China as a system of self-defense and as an aid to meditation. Master Phoenix will teach the session.

The library is at 4022 Flat Shoals Parkway. For more information, call 404-244-4370.

A8

Scene

CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

“Library staff came to us and asked what they could do. … What they have done completely exceeded our expectations.”

Obama, Clinton Library staff transforms space for literacy group women receiving assistance and foreign policy at theRefugee Clarkston-based literacy nonprofit Veteran New York Times White House correspondent Mark Landler will discuss the relationship between Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton that has framed the nation’s great debates over war and peace for the past eight years on July 21 at the Carter Library and Museum.

The lecture and book signing takes place at 7 p.m. in the theater and is Mark Landler free and open to the public. It is sponsored by the World Affairs Council of Atlanta.

Landler, author of “Alter Egos: Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama, and the Twilight Struggle Over American Power,” offers a look at two ambitious political archrivals from very different backgrounds who became partners for a time, trailblazers who share a common sense of their historical destiny but who hold fundamentally different beliefs about how to project American power.

Landler has covered American foreign policy for The New York Times since Obama’s inauguration, first as diplomatic correspondent and since 2011 as White House correspondent. In 24 years at the Times, Landler has been its bureau chief in Hong Kong and Frankfurt, European economic correspondent, and a business reporter in New York.

The library is at 441 Freedom Parkway in Atlanta. Visit www.jimmycarterlibrary.gov or call 404-865-7100.

Cuban salsa lessons at Stonecrest Library Learn to dance the Cuban salsa on July 23 at the Stonecrest Library in Lithonia.

The 2 p.m. class is taught by the Clahvay Dance School and is open to the first 35 participants. No partner is needed.

Cuban salsa is an energizing popular social and cultural dance rooted in AfroCaribbean folklore and heritage.

Funding is provided by the library’s Friends group. The library is at 3123 Klondike Road. Call 770-482-3828.

Mommy and Me now have a dedicated space for meetings and classes and a children’s library thanks to a DeKalb Public Library community service project.

The organization helps refugee women learn to speak English while providing quality child care and education for their young children in the same building. It wanted to transform one of its multipurpose rooms into a more inviting, betterorganized space for meetings and classes.

Library staff took on the project, contributed funds and labor, and transformed it for use as a children’s library as well as a space for meetings and classes.

Mommy and Me Director Jennifer Green said the project came out of an eight-year partnership with the library in providing literacy services to refugee mothers and children in Clarkston.

“Library staff came to us and asked what they could do,” Green said. “They were so thoughtful in meeting with us over the course of a year and planning how they could best help serve the needs of our organization and clients. What they have done completely exceeded our expectations.”

Project coordinator Sara Lagree said

Mommy and Me Director Jennifer Green and daughter Lydia tour the new library/meeting space donated by the DeKalb Public Library staff. The literacy nonprofit helps refugee women.

the staff got really excited about an opportunity to help out and make a difference in the community.

“Among other things, members of the staff donated a mini fridge, books, artwork, a

lamp, babyproofing kits and more than $530 in cash,” she said.

Lagree said about 30 staffers worked on the project over two days in late June. The DeKalb Library Foundation donated $500.

Wade Walker Y screening animated movie ‘Frozen’

Families and individuals can grab their favorite snacks and a blanket or chairs for a screening of the Disney animated adventure “Frozen” on July 23 at the Wade Walker Park Family YMCA. The outdoor Frozen Family Movie Night begins at 8 p.m. and is free for Y members and the community.

There is no need to register.

There will be complimentary popcorn while supplies last, and concessions will be available for purchase.

The 2013 film, which is rated PG, follows two royal sisters. When the newly crowned Queen Elsa accidentally uses her power to turn things into ice to curse her home in infinite winter, her sister, Anna, teams up with a mountain man, his playful reindeer, and a snowman to change the weather condition.

It features the voices of Kristen Bell, Idina Menzel, Jonathan Groff and Josh Gad. The Y is at 5605 Rockbridge Road in Stone Moun- The screening of “Frozen,” which is free to attend, begins at 8 p.m. on July 23 at the Wade Walker Park Family YMCA in Stone Mountain. tain. For more information, call 678-781-9622.

Don’t Trash DeKalb

A PUBLIC SERVICE MESSAGE FROM CROSSROADSNEWS

July 16, 2016

Schools

CrossRoadsNews

A9

“President Obama’s public career and his family commitment offer inspiration to our students and staff.�

New elementary school first to be named for President Obama The DeKalb School District is the first in Georgia to name a public school for President Barack Obama.

The new elementary school for pre-k through fifth grade will be known as the Barack H. Obama Elementary Magnet School of Technology. It will be temporarily located in the former Terry Mill Elementary School at 797 Fayetteville Road in Atlanta pending completion of a new replacement school on the former Clifton Elementary site at 3132 Clifton Church Road in Decatur.

Total costs for the new school will be $23 million.

The DeKalb Board of Education voted unanimously on July 11 to name the new school in honor of the nation’s 44th chief executive.

The 900-student facility, similar to the new Fernbank and Peachcrest elementary schools, is scheduled to open in January 2017. Projected enrollment for school year 2017 is 715 students.

Superintendent R. Stephen Green said Obama’s values mesh with the district’s. “President Obama embodies the values of a strong family, hard work, and education as the means of getting ahead,� Green said. “These values are reflected in the DeKalb County School District and are the keys to college and career readiness.�

Dr. Melvin Johnson, School Board chair, said Obama has been devoted to public service and his family.

John Lewis honored in Brookhaven In another first, the DeKalb School Board has voted to name a new elementary school in honor of U.S. Rep. John Lewis.

The new school will be known as John Robert Lewis Elementary School, the first public school in the nation to bear the civil rights hero’s name. Lewis’ 5th District includes part of John Lewis DeKalb County.

The pre-k through fifth grade school will be temporarily located at 2383 N. Druid Hills Road in Atlanta in the former International Student Center. It will relocate when a new replacement school is completed on the Skyland Center property

The new Barack H. Obama Elementary Magnet School of Technology, scheduled to open in January, honors the nation’s 44th president.

“President Obama’s public career and his family commitment offer inspiration to our students and staff,� Johnson said. “The name on this school will remind us every day of the importance of these attributes in being

good citizens.�

Board member Dr. Michael Erwin, who represents the area, and Dr. Ralph Simpson, regional superintendent, co-chaired the school naming committee. The committee also included two area principals, staff, parents, students, and representatives of the local faith community. The committee identified naming options that were then voted on by students and staff at the school.

in Brookhaven. Total construction costs are estimated at $30 million for the 900student facility, similar to the new Fernbank and Peachcrest elementary schools.

With a projected 2017 enrollment of 394, it will help relieve overcrowding in the Cross Keys High cluster by receiving students from Montclair Elementary.

Superintendent R. Stephen Green called Lewis “an American icon who has dedicated his life to the highest ethical standards and moral principles.� “Each day, our students, teachers, and staff will be reminded of his leadership and sacrifice and the role public education played in his achievements,� Green said. “Lewis Elementary School will embody Congressman Lewis’ concept of a ‘Beloved Community.’�

“President Obama’s commitment to education demonstrates an understanding of the roles of parents, teachers, and students,�

Erwin said. “He knows the most dedicated teachers and most supportive parents can make a difference if students show up, pay attention, and apply themselves to the fullest extent possible.�

For more information, visit www.dekalb. k12.ga.us.

Bounds is new principal at Lakeside

Book giveaway at Flat Shoals Park

For the past six years, Bounds Former DeKalb educator Dahas served in an administrative mian Bounds is returning to the capacity either as assistant princiSchool District as the new principal pal or administrator in the Cobb of Lakeside High. His selection is and Fulton districts. Most recently, effective July 25. he served as assistant principal at Lakeside High has a projected Fulton’s Centennial High. enrollment of 2,213 students for He taught in DeKalb from July school year 2016-2017.

2007 to June 2010.

Superintendent R. Stephen Damian Bounds Bounds received a Bachelor Green announced Bounds’ new post of Science in secondary education from on July 7. “Mr. Bounds was selected for this position Edinboro University; a Master of Science in using our new principal selection process, urban teacher leadership from Georgia State; which included a leadership attributes survey and an Educational Leadership Certification by school stakeholders, a panel interview, a from Kennesaw State. He will work alongside focus group with school stakeholders, and an interim principal Robert Williams for a brief interview with the superintendent,� Green period to ensure a seamless transition. “I extend my sincere gratitude to Mr. said. “He is highly regarded as a leader who encourages a strong, positive school culture Williams for his dedication to the students with a laser focus on classroom instruction and families of DeKalb County during this interim period,� Green said. and learning.�

Kids can pick up free books for summer reading on July 23 at Flat Shoals Park in Decatur in celebration of National Parks and Recreation Month.

The Friends of Flat Shoals Park observance takes place 1 to 2 p.m. Books

are available for children ages 4-8 while supplies last.

The park is next to the Community Achievement Center, 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway. Contact Rochelle Callender, Friends president, at 678-361-7522.

“Come on and be a part of the vision�

First Afrikan Church is an Afrocentric Christian Ministry that empowers women, men, youth and children to move from membership to leadership in the church, community and the world.

Praise & Devotion Worship Service Sundays at 10 a.m.

Join us for Bible Study Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

5197 Salem Road Lithonia, GA 30038

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

Rev. Dr. Mark A. Lomax

DeKalb teacher at LOC institute Elizabeth Foreman, a third-grade teacher at Bob Mathis Elementary in Decatur, will participate in the Library of Congress Teaching With Primary Sources Summer Teacher Institute on July 18-22.

Foreman, who was selected from a pool of more than 300 applicants, said she is excited about the opportunity and all that she will learn. “I applied for the summer institute because I see the value in primary Elizabeth Foreman sources, especially in social studies and language arts,� said Foreman, who teaches in all content areas. “I used a few primary sources last year to engage the students in social studies.�

Primary sources are the raw materials of history – original documents and objects that were created at the time period under study. “For instance, we were studying Frederick Douglass so I prompted our unit by showing a picture of him found at the Library of Congress website: https://www.loc.gov/ library/libarch-digital.html. I asked students

to identify by using the picture who he was and why did they think this way,� she said in a July 12 email. “Also previously at a DeKalb workshop about document-based questions, it prompted me to try to find other primary sources for students to look at and ponder.�

Foreman said she leaves for Washington next week to learn more strategies and build more effective units using the Library of Congress primary sources. “I hope to explore and develop a unit on Paul Revere as well as expand on my lessons for Frederick Douglass,� she said.

Each year, the Library of Congress provides the opportunity for a carefully chosen group of k-12 educators like Foreman to attend one of its five teacher institutes in Washington.

During the five-day program, participants work with its education specialists and subject-matter experts to learn effective practices for using primary sources in the classroom while exploring some of the millions of digitized historical artifacts and documents available on its website. All educators may freely access classroom materials, teaching tools and strategies for teaching with primary sources at loc.gov/teachers/.

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CrossRoadsNews

A10

Community

July 16, 2016

“We have got to bridge the gap between the community and police, especially kids. Events like this make an everlasting impression.”

Police helicopter visit wows students at Green Pastures

By Ken Watts

Police officers from DeKalb’s South Precinct say the key to better relations between police and communities of color is positive interaction with children.

Precinct commander K.D. Johnson and a group of his officers on July 8 responded to an invitation from Green Pastures Christian Ministries on Flat Shoals Parkway to speak to about 25 students.

Young voices squealed with excitement at the sight of a DeKalb Police helicopter descending from the sky and circling to a landing in an empty parking lot on Flat Shoals next to Green Pastures.

The children, ages 5 to 13, are participants in Green Pastures’ summer program, which includes academic enrichment classes and opportunities to learn about new field trips.

On this day the adventure came to the Green Pastures campus at the invitation of Pastor Collette Gunby.

Police chopper pilots Charles Ings and Sgt. Darry Williams from the department’s Aerial Support Unit gave the kids an unforgettable tour of some of the department’s most valuable crime-fighting assets that help authorities track suspects and stolen vehicles.

The kids learned about the chopper’s high-tech camera equipped with night-vision lenses and the ship’s radio communications system that links them with police on the ground.

Johnson sees the encounter as a way to break the cycle of violence between police and communities of color. Johnson’s mind is on the recent fatal shootings of two black

Maj. K.D. Johnson, South Precinct commander, and pilots Charles Ings (far left) and Sgt. Darry Williams talk with students at Green Pastures on July 8.

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

men in Louisiana and Minnesota and the sniper attack in Dallas on July 7 that killed five police officers and wounded seven others.

“We have got to bridge the gap between the community and police, especially kids,” Johnson said. “Events like this make an everlasting impression on kids.”

Johnson said he wants parents to augment the positive interaction by telling their children that police are human.

“There are a few bad police officers but there are a lot of good ones, so we just want to reach out to everyone and let them know what we’re trying to do. We have an open door policy, so if they have any concerns

about the conduct of an officer I want them to contact me.”

Johnson said his heart is heavy with grief over the loss of the five Dallas officers but is encouraged by the public’s response.

“I posted a message on Facebook and we’ve gotten a lot of supportive comments from the community,” he said.

FOR MODIFICATION OF CUSTODY in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Legal Notices 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM6349-7++ Glinda L. Johnson Plaintiff Vs. Johnny W. Johnson Defendant To: Johnny W. Johnson 1088 Oakland Ave. Conyers, GA 30012

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Jun. 09, 2016. You are hereby notified that on Jun. 06, 2016 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court and to service upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Glinda Johnson, 5175 Scarbrough Lane, Stone Mountain, GA 30088.

Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 09, 2016.

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

This the 9th day of Jun., 2016 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM6040-3++ Kiah Boss Plaintiff Vs. Marcus Boss Defendant To: 1996 Bridgestone Circle Conyers, GA 30012

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Jun. 02, 2016.

You are hereby notified that on May 26, 2016 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court and to service upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Kiah Boss, 937 Main Street Lake Drive, Stone Mountain, GA 30088. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 02, 2016.

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

This the 3rd day of Jun., 2016 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM5857-6++ Victor Dallas Plaintiff Vs. Lashond Kennedy Defendant To: 4227 Kessler Cincinnati, OH 45237

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated May 31, 2016. You are hereby notified that on May 26, 2016 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court and to service upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Victor Dallas, 3230 Aberdeen Way Lithonia, GA 30038.

Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 01, 2016.

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

This the 31st day of May, 2016 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV3345-3++

Talib Sp;radley Plaintiff Vs. Angela J. Spradley Defendant To: 2936 Belvedere Lane Decatur, GA 30032

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated May 10, 2016. You are hereby notified that on May 09, 2016 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court and to service upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Talib Spradley, 3185 Robin Rd., Decatur, GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of May 10, 2016.

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

This the 26th day of May, 2016 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM5922-3++ Timiakio Holliday Plaintiff Vs. Christopher Holliday Defendant To: 2942 North DeKalb Dr., Unit D Atlanta, GA 30340

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated May 26, 2016. You are hereby notified that on May 23, 2016 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Abandoment.

You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court and to service upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Victor Dallas, 3475 Pleasantbrook Village Lane, #3516A; Doraville, GA 30340. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of May 26, 2016.

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

Court.

This the 26th day of May, 2016 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16CV4321-3++ Rickey Sherron Plaintiff Vs. Dwan Sherron Defendant To: Dwan Sherron 4315 Orchard Park Ct. Stone Mountain, GA 30083

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Apr. 11, 2016.

You are hereby notified that on Apr. 06, 2016 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court and to service upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Rickey Sherron, 4315 Orchard Park Ct., Stone Mountain, GA 30083. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 13, 2016.

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

This the 13th day of June, 2016 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM6342-4++ Imahn Shairroh Moniay Neil filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on June 03, 2016 to change name from: Imahn Shairroh Moniay Neil to Imahn Shairroh Moniay Henry. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed.

Dated: June 01, 2016 Name: Imahn Shairroh Moniay Neil 3303 Five Oaks Way Tucker, GA 30084 06/25, 07/02, 07/09, 07/16

Notice of Petition

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM6055-5++ Lee C. Elder, Jr., Plaintiff VS Traci D. Elder To: Traci D. Elder

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated June 02, 2016, you are hereby notified that on May 26, 2016, The above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Complaint For Modification of Custody And Child Support. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Deborah A. Johnson, Atlanta Legal Aid Society, DeKalb County Office, 846 Sycamore St., Suite 120, Decatur, GA 30030.

Answer In writing within sixty (60) days of June 02, 2016. Witness the Honorable Gregory A. Adams, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This is 6th day of June, 2016 07/02, 07/09, 07/16, 07/23

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM6970-3++ Alma McDowell Lewis Williams Melson filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on June 23, 2016 to change name from: Alma McDowell Lewis Williams Melson to Alma Lewis Williams. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed.

Dated: June 21, 2016 Name: Alma McDowell Lewis Williams Melson 3105 Kensington Circle Lithonia, GA 30038 07/16, 07/23, 07/30, 08/06

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM7136-2++

Sheila Palmer Sanders Plaintiff Vs. Craig Allen Longnecker Defendant To: Craig Allen Longnecker Pursuant to an Order of Publication signed by the Honorable Asha S. Jackson on June 29, 2016, you are hereby notified that a Complaint for Divorce has been filed in the Superior Court of DeKalb County, Georgia on June 28, 2016, Generally, the Complaint alleges that the Plaintiff Is seeking a divorce from you. You may obtain a copy of the Complaint for Divorce from the Clerk of Superior Court of DeKalb County, located at 556 N. McDonough Street, Decatur, Georgia 30032 or by calling (404) 371-2836.

After you review the Complaint, you must file your written answers and objections to the Complaint with the Clerk of Superior Court. You must also serve a copy of your answer upon the Plaintiff, whose address is as follows: 3212 Canary Court, Decatur, DeKalb County, Georgia 30032. You answer must be made within sixty (60) days of the date of the Order for Service by Publication. Witness the Honorable Asha S. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Courty.

This 8th day of July, 2016 07/16, 07/23, 07/30, 08/06

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++16FM6296-6++ Jerome Mosley Plaintiff Vs. Ruby N. Jones Mosley Defendant To: Ruby N. Jones Mosley

By ORDER of the Court service for service by publication dated Jun. 06, 2016. You are hereby notified that on Jun. 03, 2016 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court and to service upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose address is: Jerome Mosley, 2354 Maryland Ct., Decatur, GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jun. 02, 2016.

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

This the 3rd day of Jun., 2016

CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

Finance

A11

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Increasing public safety is a key component of the CIDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to making this a more economically attractive environment.â&#x20AC;?

East Metro DeKalb CID launching public safety patrols A new public safety initiative by the East Metro DeKalb CID has netted 33 citations and two arrests during the first week of targeted patrols of properties in one of the countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s busiest commercial corridors.

Public safety patrols conducted by offduty DeKalb Police officers launched in the East Metro DeKalb Community Improvement District during the first week of July.

Coverage will initially focus on Wesley Chapel Road and Panola Road.

Officers will work staggered shifts over multiple days, primarily during the overnight hours, and patrols will be tailored to watch for property crimes and other types of incidents that occur most often.

Sgt. Susan V. Sowell, who will lead the patrols, said CID property owners can contact the East Precinct to report areas of concerns. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I will use a variety of enforcement options, such as high-visibility patrols, the operation of speed detection devices, safety checks and foot patrols,â&#x20AC;? Sowell said in a July 11 statement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The officers will operate in the targeted areas during certain peak hours of crime. The areas will be identified by analytical data, lookouts and persons of interest provided by the crime analysis.â&#x20AC;?

CID Administrator Nicole McGhee Hall of Nickel Works Consulting said the added security is the first phase of public safety-fo-

cused plans for the commercial community.

Additional resources may be considered as well as expanded coverage areas. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Increasing public safety is a key component of the CIDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s commitment to making this a more economically attractive environment,â&#x20AC;? Hall said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are pleased to have these brave men and women provide their law Nicole Hall enforcement expertise to keep commercial properties and their owners, employees and clients safe. We expect to see an immediate positive impact from

Workforce Development offers training, assistance DeKalb interim CEO Lee May is touting the success of DeKalb Workforce Development in connecting job seekers with jobs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are pleased to be able to help DeKalb residents find employment t hroug h D eKalb Workforce Development,â&#x20AC;? May said in a July 11 statement. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In 2015, our Lee May DeKalb Workforce Development Office helped more than 26,000 job seekers with employment and training activities that put them on the path to fulfilling their economic dreams.â&#x20AC;?

May and the DWD counted resident Eshetu Demo among the success stories.

Demo, who was laid off from

his job as a refrigeration technician with a commercial services company, struggled to find another job. He tried to leverage his recent experience to gain a similar position but could not land an opportunity that matched his skills and previous work experience as an HVAC technician.

Demo found employment when he turned to the DWD, which works to connect job seekers with employment opportunities in growing industries by providing job search assistance and industry-aligned job training. He is now an apartment maintenance technician with the Worthington Cos. DWD provided funding assistance that allowed Demo to attend the North Georgia Apartment Maintenance Training Program. The program consists of seven weeks of classroom and hands-on training, with two weeks dedicated to

on-the-job training with certification through the Atlanta Apartment Association. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Being able to complete on-thejob training helped me boost my skills for my current position as an apartment maintenance technician,â&#x20AC;?

Demo said.

DWD coached and mentored Demo on writing resumes, developing his personal image and brand, and preparing for interviews. The agency helped him find and secure his current employment.

DWD is 100 percent funded by the U.S. Department of Labor and is a partner of the American Job Center Network.

For more information, including upcoming job fairs, visit www. dekalbworkforce.org or call 404687-3400.

the presence of these officers throughout the CID.â&#x20AC;?

Officers will generate patrol reports detailing their experiences for the benefit of CID leaders. The insights will allow the CID to reach out to commercial property owners and business leaders to advise them of concerns and trends. An officer also will provide an overall safety update as part of the CIDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s regular board of directors meetings.

The CID formed in 2014 through a unanimous vote of the DeKalb Board of Commissioners. CID membership is growing, increasing the revenues to leverage more project funding. The CID accounts for more than 205 commercial property owners.

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DeKalb Workforce Developmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Mobile Career Center is stationed at locations throughout the county during July.

It provides residents with job search assistance, workshops and training, resume writing pointers, and interviewing tips. Businesses can use the mobile unit for recruiting, pre-employment screenings, interviewing and training.

Staff members will be available to offer assistance to residents interested in applying for the DeKalb summer internship program. The program provides short-term internship opportunities for low-income young adults ages 16-24 who are not enrolled in school and seeking employment.

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CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

Family & Back-to-School Expo Saturday, July 23, 2016

Copyright © 2016 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

July 16, 2016

www.crossroadsnews.com

Making the grade

Section B

Young performers once again will take to the stage and step lively at the CrossRoadsNews’ 11th annual Family & Back-to-School Expo on July 23 at the Mall at Stonecrest in Lithonia.

Information & resources to get you excited about the new school year!

Noon to 5 p.m. • Lower Level • the Mall at Stonecrest ■ Free Back-to-School screenings

■ Informative presentations

■ Entertainment

■ Door prizes & giveaways

CrossRoadsNews

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July 16, 2016

The July 23 CrossRoadsNews expo will help families turn their attention to the 2016-2017 school year.

Expo is chock-full of information and giveaways 2346 Candler Road Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007 www.CrossRoadsNews.com editor@CrossRoadsNews.com The Family & Back-to-School Expo Special Section is a publication of CrossRoadsNews, Atlanta’s award-winning weekly newspaper.

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Graphics Editor Curtis Parker Reporters Jennifer Ffrench Parker Donna Williams Lewis Graphic Designer Sharif Williams Copy Editor Brenda Yarbrough 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. © 2016 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

The new school year will be kicking off on Aug. 8 and the to-do checklist is long.

There are immunizations to get; back-toschool screenings to be done; and school supplies, uniforms and school clothes to buy.

And then everyone has to get back in that back-to-school frame of mind.

On July 23, the annual CrossRoadsNews’ Family & Back-to-School Expo will help families turn their attention to the 2016-2017 school year with information and other resources, performances, screenings, a fashion show, and giveaways.

It takes place from noon to 5 p.m. on the lower level of the Mall at Stonecrest.

During the expo, which is in its 11th year, families can visit exhibitors offering a variety of products and services to help make the new school year successful and see an array of dance and musical performances by talented DeKalb, Henry and Rockdale county students.

This year’s expo is sponsored by DeKalb Solicitor-General Sherry Boston and Kaiser Permanente of Georgia.

Boston, who has been solicitor-general since 2011, is a big supporter of perfect attendance for students. This is the fifth year that she has sponsored the expo to encourage students to sign her Perfect Attendance Pledge.

Kaiser Permanente, which operates five medical centers in DeKalb County and in Conyers, will be encouraging families to incorporate walking and other activities in their daily routine.

Exhibitors include private and state schools; dance schools; health centers; the Friends of Stonecrest Library; the Conyersbased nonprofit BRIMI Foundation, which supports girls; and the DeKalb Board of Health.

A young expo-goer signs DeKalb Solicitor-General Sherry Boston’s Perfect Attendance Pledge.

Boston, an expo sponsor, is a big supporter of perfect attendance for students.

Kids can take photos of Kaiser Permanente’s Doc Broc; pick up safety tips from the DeKalb School District’s McGruff the Crime Dog and reading tips from Reading Rams; and watch a kids fashion show featuring styles from Baby Girl Couture, a new kids fashion store on the upper level of the Mall at Stonecrest.

Former beauty queen and fashion icon Jan Reynolds is styling the show featuring back-to-school and other outfits.

Oakhurst Medical Centers and Georgia Piedmont Technical College will offer free blood pressure checks and the DeKalb Board

of Health will be offering rapid results HIV testing.

Giveaways include 50 drawstring bags to the first 50 people who sign up with BRIMI Foundation, T-shirts, gift cards and gift baskets.

Expo-goers who visit at least a dozen expo exhibitors can enter to win a “Fabulous Back-to-School” Gift Basket compliments of the Mall at Stonecrest.

The mall is at Turner Hill Road and I-20 in Lithonia.

For more information, call 404-2841888.

.

2016 Family & Back-to-School Expo Exhibitors & Grand Prize Entry Form Visit at least 12 of these exhibitors* at the 2016 Family & Back-to-School Expo and enter to win a Back-to-School Gift Basket from the Mall at Stonecrest. Drawing takes place on July 23, 2016, at 4:40 p.m. at the Main Stage in front of Sears on the lower level of the Mall at Stonecrest. _____ Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates

_____ DeKalb County Sheriff – Jeffrey Mann

_____ Jenae’s Dance Experience

_____ Brimi Foundation, LLC

_____ DeKalb Solicitor General – Sherry Boston

_____ Kaiser Permanente of Georgia

_____ City of Lithonia Farmer’s Market

_____ Friends of Stonecrest Library

_____ Kilombo Pan Afrikan Institute

_____ Conservatory of Dance and Fine Arts

_____ Georgia Piedmont Technical College

_____ Oakhurst Medical Center

_____ CrossRoadsNews

_____ Georgia Stars Academy of Dance

_____ Organization of DeKalb Educators

_____ DeKalb Convention & Visitor’s Bureau

_____ Green Pastures Christian Academy

_____ Team 3 Fitness, Sports & After School Program

_____ DeKalb County Board of Health – HIPPS Name ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ City _____________________________________________ E-mail_______________________________________________________________________ Home phone _________________________________________________ Cell ___________________________________________________________ * Eligible entries must be validated by at least 12 exhibitors and must include your complete name, address, e-mail address and telephone number. Employees and immediate family members of CrossRoadsNews and the Mall at Stonecrest are not eligible to win. You must be at least 18 years old to enter. You MUST be present to win.

July 16, 2016

FBTS Expo

CrossRoadsNews

B3

2016 Family & Back-to-School Expo Program Highlights July 23, 2016 • Noon to 5 p.m. • The Main Stage in front of Sears Lower Level, The Mall at Stonecrest Noon

Expo kicks off with Rae Rae “The Exercise Motivator” Clark and the Prestigious Pearls dancers

12:30 p.m.

Georgia Stars Academy Jr. & Sr. Company

12:45 p.m.

Jenae’s Dance Experience Jazz ages 10-14 Rae Rae Clark

1 p.m.

Back-to-School Fashion Show

2 p.m.

Conservatory of Dance

2:30 p.m.

Kayla Wyatt, Singer

2:45 p.m.

Jenae’s Dance Experience Duet 9-year-olds

3 p.m.

DeKalb Solicitor-General Sherry Boston

3:30 p.m.

Georgia Stars Academy “Fab 7” Majorettes

3:45 p.m.

Zion Moore, singer

4:p.m.

Jenae’s Dance Experience Hip-Hop ages 12-15

4:40 p.m.

Grand Prize Drawing

5 p.m.

Expo Ends

Prestigious Pearls

Back-to-School Fashion Show

Conservatory of Dance

Sherry Boston Kayla Wyatt

Zion Moore

CrossRoadsNews

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July 16, 2016

“It felt great being up there and seeing … people of different colors and nationalities looking at me and me bringing a smile to their faces.”

Essence Magazine’s “Emerging Artist to Watch” Zion Moore performing with his dancers Ben McGana and Anthony Washington on July 2 in New Orleans. He will perform JUly 23 at the CrossRoadsNews Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest.

Singer Zion Moore bringing it back home at BTS Expo

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Fresh from “slaying it” at the 2016 Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, Columbia High School’s rising senior Zion Moore will be on the Main Stage at the 11th annual CrossRoadsNews Family & Back-to-School Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest.

Zion, who has been tagged by Essence Magazine as an “Emerging Artist to Watch,” performed before what his mother, Corliss Moore, said was “thousands, thousands and thousands” of people on July 2 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in downtown New Orleans.

“It was an amazing experience,” she said, adding that she cheered so loud, she lost her voice.

“There was just a sea of people,” she said.

“They had him up on the big jumbotron and I thought, ‘This is the real deal.’”

After his performance, Zion hobnobbed with the cast of the Fox TV show “Empire”

and received encouragement from Bryshere “Yazz” Gray who plays Hakeem Lyon. He also met Lee Daniels, “Empire’s” producer and creator.

Zion, who has performing since age 4, is a singer and dancer who is no stranger to the CrossRoadsNews Family & Back-to-School Expo stage. Last year he performed his then new release “Splash,” and in 2014, he showed off his “hopping and ticking” dance moves.

He said his performance at the Essence Music Festival was his biggest audience so far.

“It felt great being up there and seeing all these people of different colors and nationalities looking at me and me bring a smile to their faces,” Zion said. “It made me feel good.”

At the 2016 CrossRoadsNews Expo on July 23, Zion will perform at 3:45 p.m. from the Main Stage near Sears on the mall’s lower level.

He will perform his new “All I Want to Be” single just like he did at the Essence

Music Festival. The song is produced by his cousin, Atlanta music producer Mike Da Rockman.

In New Orleans, Zion told his audience that he knew that many of them at a young age said “I want to do this when I grow up.

I wanna be this when I grow up.”

“This is basically a testimony of what I want to do in life and what I try to do in life,” he said before singing about his parents working hard and growing up the church.

“When I step up on the stage, I’m going to turn it up,” he sang to screams from the audience.

Zion, who is 17 years old, is graduating from high school this school year. He plans to study mass communications and theater arts at Georgia State University.

View Zion Moore at the 2016 Essence Music Festival at https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=f9qxaO3ESV8. Follow him on Instagram @iamziondafro.

Former radio, TV personality to serve as emcee Lillie Shaw-Lomax, a former TV news reporter and anchor and radio talk show host-turned-CME minister, will be mistress of ceremonies for the CrossRoadsNews 11th annual Family & Back-toSchool Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest on July 23.

In a media career spanning 30 years, ShawLomax worked with TV Lillie Shaw-Lomax and radio stations in Mississippi, South Carolina and Washington, D.C. Along the way, she interviewed the likes of Betty Shabazz, Bebe Moore Campbell, Colin Powell and U.S. Rep. John Lewis. She also had conversations with former Vice President Al Gore, Dorothy Height, Walter Mosley, Nikki Giovanni, Yolanda King, Sister Soulja, and Wynton and Branford Marsalis.

Shaw-Lomax, who lives in Stone Mountain, is nearing completion of her Master of Divinity at the Interdenominational Theological Center in Atlanta and is the creator and host of the radio and television podcast Beneath the Surface: The Motto Is Faith.

Justice. Power. Unapologetic Truth, which will begin airing next spring.

Shaw-Lomax, who is married to First Afrikan Presbyterian Church’s pastor, the Rev. Dr. Mark Lomax, is owner and president of G&M Shaw Productions LLC, a video and documentary production company.

The expo takes place noon to 5 p.m. on the mall’s lower level with performances, presentations and a kids back-to-school-fashion on the Main Stage near Sears.

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CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

B5

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PROSECUTION FOR A BETTER QUALITY OF LIFE `

MY GOAL IS TO: ³ KEEP OUR COMMUNITY SAFE ³ IMPROVE OUR QUALITY OF LIFE ³ KEEP OUR KIDS IN SCHOOL AND OUT OF TROUBLE ³ PROTECT THE VULNERABLE Solicitor-General Boston wants to help kids stay in school to ensure a brighter future for DeKalb’s youngest citizens. Our Office works hard with families and school administrators to provide support and resolve attendance issues before they rise to the level of prosecution of parents and guardians.

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B6

FBTS Expo

CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

“I’m hoping that the parents listen with an open mind. … I mean, we’re talking seventh grade.”

New HIV cases in DeKalb highest among ages 13-24 The DeKalb Board of Health will offer free rapid HIV testing on July 23 during the CrossRoadsNews’ Family & Backto-School Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest.

By Donna Williams Lewis

On a mission to curb the spread of HIV, DeKalb County public health workers are offering rapid HIV testing anywhere people congregate, from festivals and colleges to barbershops, libraries and street corners.

On July 23, the confidential, finger-stick test will be available at CrossRoadsNews’ Family & Back-to-School Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest.

Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford, chief executive officer of the county Board of Health, said she is excited about the opportunity to try to reach the thousands of people expected to attend the 11th annual expo.

“I’m hoping that the parents listen with an open mind,” she said.

State figures show that from 2008 to 2012, the newly diagnosed HIV population in DeKalb was highest among ages 13-24, she said.

“I mean, we’re talking seventh grade,” Ford said.

The district health director talked about a mother who told health workers on World AIDS Day that she was worried about her son’s status.

The mom said girls had told him: “If you’re using a condom, you must have something.”

Some kids are dismissing HIV, Ford said, telling health workers it’s “just a virus, and you can take medication for that.”

HIV is spreading in the United States primarily through sexual behaviors or needle use, and it can lead to AIDS if left untreated.

“HIV is a long-term, irreversible, chronic disease that affects every organ, ultimately,” Ford said.

The medications required to keep HIV under control and that people can take to prevent the infection are pricey, she added.

Rapid HIV test results are available within 15 minutes, said Jil Swift, a county public health educator.

People whose tests come back as “preliminary positive” will be counseled and linked to care.

A vial of their blood is drawn and sent to a state lab to confirm the HIV diagnosis.

“Our main goal is to make sure people are getting tested and they know their status,” Swift said.

“A lot of people who tested positive had

no clue.”

DeKalb had 422 new HIV diagnoses in 2014, according to the latest figures available from the Georgia Department of Public Health. Among them, 82 percent were male and 71 percent were black.

In a county of more than 700,000 residents, 422 new HIV cases in a year may not seem like much.

“But it’s a real issue at a time when other cities are managing to get this under control,” Ford said.

DeKalb’s 2014 number is down by 19 percent from 519 new cases recorded in 2012.

But it’s an increase of 9 percent since 2013,

when there were 390 new cases in DeKalb.

Ford says every person who has been sexually active should know their status.

“The fact that we’re coming up with newly diagnosed cases of AIDS in 50-year-olds tells me that they have been living with HIV for years,” she said.

Georgia was ranked fifth highest in the nation for the number of people living with HIV in 2013, with the highest numbers coming from Fulton and DeKalb counties.

DeKalb had 9,039 people living with HIV and 4,873 living with AIDS in 2014, according to the state. Fulton County had nearly double DeKalb’s numbers.

Board of Health extends hours for BTS screening Library offering help The DeKalb Board of Health is offering Saturday and evening back-to-school hours for immunizations and screenings at its health centers.

No appointment is necessary. Services are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Parents should bring: n Each child and his or her immunization record. n Cash, a debit/credit card or a check from a Georgia bank. n Each child’s insurance card. The centers accept Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids and

State Health Benefits Plan (Blue Cross/ Blue Shield of Georgia). Other insurance may be accepted.

On July 30, immunizations and vision and hearing screenings will be available at all centers from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

On Aug. 2-4 and Aug. 8-10, there will be extended hours for immunizations and vision and hearing screenings at all centers from 8:15 a.m. to 7 p.m.; extended hours for dental screenings at Central DeKalb Health Center from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; and extended hours for dental screenings

at other centers. Call for information.

The centers are Central DeKalb, 440 Winn Way in Decatur (404-294-3762); East DeKalb, 2277 S. Stone Mountain-Lithonia Road in Lithonia (770-484-2600); North DeKalb, 3807 Clairmont Road N.E. in Chamblee (770-454-1144); and South DeKalb, 3110 Clifton Springs Road in Decatur (404-244-2200).

The centers’ usual hours are Monday through Friday from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information, visit www. dekalbhealth.net or call 404-294-3700.

with BTS paperwork Parents and guardians who need help with back-to-school paperwork and immunizations can attend Ready for School: Medicaid/Immunization Round Up on July 23 at the Clarkston Library.

The event takes place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Get help filling out your children’s Medicaid paperwork and get the free immunizations they need to start school.

The library is at 951 N. Indian Creek Drive in Clarkston. For more information, call 404-5087175.

July 16, 2016

FBTS Expo

CrossRoadsNews

B7

“Education is important to me and has been part of my multi-pronged approach to creating a better DeKalb.”

DeKalb Schools’ rising graduation rate is good news all around Why education matters n Nearly one-half of all high school dropouts ages 16-24 are unemployed. n High school dropouts earn an average of $270,000 less than graduates over the course of their lives.

For Georgians, this represents a $7.3 billion loss in earning potential. n Truancy is the No. 1 predictor among boys and the No. 2 predictor among girls for future criminal activity. n Truancy is also linked to other issues such as drug and alcohol use, depression, and violence. n Dropouts are six times more likely to be incarcerated as those with a diploma. n In Georgia, 56 percent of all prison inmates are high school dropouts.

Tips for a successful year

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

DeKalb Solicitor-General Sherry Boston encourages students, parents and all stakeholders to work together to keep youth engaged and in school.

By DeKalb Solicitor-General Sherry Boston

I love sharing good news, especially on the education front.

According to the latest statistics available from the U.S. Department of Education, the national high school graduation rate has reached a record high of 82.3 percent.

In DeKalb County, the graduation rate rose to 71 percent in 2015, a dramatic increase from 57 percent just three years prior.

I am no statistician, but I certainly understand the significance of this upward trend.

Behind every one of those numbers is the name and face of a young boy or girl who, by earning their high school diploma, is creating a pathway to success in higher education, the work force, and, quite frankly, in life.

Education is important to me and has always been part of my multi-pronged approach to creating a better DeKalb. We must all work together to keep our youth engaged and in school.

State law requires that all children between the ages of 6 and 16 attend school. Any

parent or guardian found to be violating the compulsory attendance law, as it is known, shall be guilty of educational neglect, a misdemeanor offense. Individuals convicted of violating the state law can be fined, sentenced to 30 days in jail, and ordered to perform community service. Putting parents in jail is the last resort. The Office of the SolicitorGeneral works with a team of school administrators and education experts to provide support and resolve attendance issues before they rise to the level of prosecution.

Our internal research indicates that parents sometimes avoid taking kids to school because of concerns related to learning disabilities, bullying, and lack of transportation. Many absences associated with those issues, however, are preventable because of the wide variety of resources. School officials can assist with linking parents and guardians to programs and resources that best match their needs.

The Solicitor-General’s Office also offers an avenue of support to parents and guardians whose children are chronically absent

through our Attendance Review Team diversion program. ART requires parents and guardians to sign a contract agreeing that their child will have no unexcused absences and that they will meet with the child’s teacher, counselor, or social worker at least once a month for a specified period of time. Those who fail to comply with these conditions and improve a child’s school attendance could ultimately be subject to prosecution.

Fortunately, the number of alleged educational neglect cases referred to our office has decreased significantly with each passing year. My hope is that this downward trend continues in tandem with the nation’s rising graduation rate. Call me overly optimistic, but I truly believe that through the combined efforts of parents, educators, and community stakeholders working together for the benefit of our students, we can one day boast a 100 percent graduation rate for every child in our nation and our great county.

Sherry Boston has been DeKalb County solicitor-general since 2011. Boston is the DeKalb district attorney-elect.

n Send your child to school every day school is open – except when ill. n Wake your child up early enough so she or he can get to school on time, even if that means 15 or 30 minutes earlier than she or he used to wake up. n Encourage your child to eat a good breakfast every morning; try not to let him or her skip breakfast. n Pack healthy snacks and lunches that will maintain their energy and help with learning. n Talk with your child about their school day. n Inquire about your child’s homework and make sure it’s completed each night. n School officials can be great problem solvers. Contact your school if you think your child has a learning disability, is being bullied, has transportation or attendance issues due to homelessness, or needs other support. n Create a study routine for your child.

A good rule of thumb is to have your child do his or her homework as soon as she or he arrives home from school. n Have your child prepare for school each night: Pick out clothes or uniforms, socks, shoes, place homework assignments in book bags, etc. n Be sure your child gets a good night’s sleep. n Praise and reward your child’s success when appropriate.

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July 16, 2016

“They’re so positive. I get a lot of hugs. I love it, and they do, too.”

Conservatory of Dance engaging mind, body and spirit

By Donna Williams Lewis

After 30 years of teaching dance, Michelle Douglas, founder and artistic director of the Conservatory of Dance and Fine Arts, is now working with the children of some of her former students.

Teaching is still a thrill for Douglas, whose studio serves about 250 children a year in on-site classes Michelle Douglas in Lithonia and in an outreach program called Dance in Motion.

“I love it, love working with the children, love showing the art of dance,” she said. “We dance to engage the mind, body and spirit.”

Conservatory dancers will perform tap, hip-hop and other styles of dance on July 23 at the CrossRoadsNews Family & Back-toSchool Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest. They will be on the Main Stage near Sears on the mall’s lower level at 2 p.m.

The award-winning Conservatory dancers come from a school that has produced a number of successful dancers – among them, Lamoi Hendrington of Lithonia, who was accepted into the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater in New York City, and Jasmine Williams from Decatur, who is now performing with the Dance Theatre of Harlem.

Other graduates have gone on to dance with the cheerleading squads of the Atlanta Falcons and the Washington Redskins.

Douglas said she and her teachers promote a sense of family in the school and they work to keep their students encouraged and “lifted up.” She reminds her teachers: “You can find one good thing to say about any-

Students from the Conservatory of Dance and Fine Arts will perform tap, hip-hop and other styles of dance on July 23 at 2 p.m. on the Main Stage near Sears on the lower level of the Mall at Stonecrest during the CrossRoadsNews expo.

body. Find it and let them know what it is.”

The Conservatory is observing its 21st anniversary in August and it is hosting its annual open house for registration for the new school year on Aug. 6 at its Lithonia studios, near Panola Road and I-20, at 5424 Hillandale Park Court. Open house class

registration will be from noon to 3 p.m.

The school enrolls students from the age of 2 to adults. The tinier tots are typically the students Douglas teaches. She says they are uninhibited and love to learn.

“They’re so positive,” she said. “I get a lot of hugs. I love it, and they do, too.”

Classes include ballet, pointe, modern, jazz, lyrical, tap, hip-hop and African dance, tumbling and drill. This year, Douglas plans to offer after-school classes and to add a second performing dance troupe to give the “recreational” students who are taught just once a week a chance to perform.

CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

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FBTS Expo

CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

“That was where I got all of my real friends. The arts are not just about something to do. They can really change your kid’s life.”

Students at Jenae’s Dance Experience Performing Arts Studio will show off their hip-hop and jazz dance skills at the July 23 expo at the Mall at Stonecrest.

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Jenae’s Dance Experience heading toward an amazing year

By Donna Williams Lewis

Over the past year, Jenae’s Dance Experience Performing Arts Studio has quadrupled in space, doubled in students and started a competition dance team that takes first place everywhere it goes.

The students will show off their hip-hop and jazz dance skills on July 23 at the CrossRoadsNews Family & Back-toSchool Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest. They will be on the Main Stage near Sears at 12:25 p.m., 2:45 p.m. and 4 p.m.

It’s a busy time for owner Jenae Duncan and her teachers

who offer classes in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, African dance, hip-hop, step and tumbling.

“This is our seventh year, and we’re really looking forward to an amazing year,” Duncan said.

To Duncan, who began dancing at the age of 2, dance is much more than movement. Shy and bullied as a child, dance became Duncan’s solace and shield.

“That was where I got all of my real friends,” she said.

“The arts are not just about something to do. They can really change your kid’s life.”

Duncan’s resume includes an A-list of stars she has toured and appeared with, including Monique, Beyonce and Sean Paul. She found her true calling to be teaching.

“I really have a love for kids, and I really get a big high off of teaching them,” she said.

Her dance studio has moved five minutes away from a 1,000-square-foot spot in downtown Conyers to a 4,125square-foot former beauty school in the Hunting Creek Plaza on Ga. Highway 20.

Since then, the school has grown from 60 to 120 students, with a capacity for 30 more. The students won three local competitions they entered this year.

Jenae’s Dance Studio offers scholarships, intentionally affordable pricing and free tuition for two kids each month who distinguish themselves in their actions and attitudes.

CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016

FBTS Expo

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“Don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself or anyone else because if we stand together, we can stop the bullying.”

Kayla Wyatt stands for those who can’t stand up for themselves “I’m gonna stand tall And sing this new song.

They can push me down, But I get up off the ground And stand tall.”

– From “Stand Tall” by Kayla Wyatt

By Donna Williams Lewis

Fourteen-year-old Newton County student Kayla Wyatt is using her many artistic gifts to tackle an all too common school problem – bullying.

Kayla’s gentle voice and soft, tender music pack a powerful message in “Stand Tall,” a new song and video produced by the Marietta-based talent development company Hungry Artiz.

“I want to be the one who can stand up for the ones who can’t stand up for themselves,” said Kayla, an actor, model, dancer and singer.

She and two of her friends, Ciara Hall and McKenzie Calloway, will perform “Stand Tall” on July 23 at the CrossRoadsNews Family & Back-toSchool Expo at the Mall at Stonecrest. The trio will take the Main Stage, near Sears on the mall’s lower level at 2:30 p.m.

Kayla isn’t likely to have stage fright. She’s been wowing audiences since the age of 3, when she won the Little Miss Newton County pageant with a hip-hop version of the ABCs. Now she is an actress who was nominated in November 2015 for best supporting actress in the Short Film Awards in New York City for her role as Carlie in the film “My Hue of Blue.”

This fall, she will be a ninth-grader at the Academy of Liberal Arts at Newton County High School and a dancer in the school’s marching band.

She’s also a sought-after speaker in her school system, where kids at several schools have watched her perform “Stand Tall.”

“I always tell them don’t be afraid to stand up for yourself or anyone else because if we all stand together, then we can stop the bullying,” she said.

Kayla remembers feeling like a hero in seventh grade at Veterans Memorial Middle School when she intervened to stop a girl from picking on and pushing another girl.

Her video features a boy who loses his tablet to bullies. The role is played by the video producer’s son, Zyon Cooks, who has Down syndrome.

Kayla said it was fun filming the production.

“Zyon knew what to do, and we all danced at the end,” she said.

Listen to “Stand Tall” at https://soundcloud.com/user-276549592/standtall-by-kayla-wyatt. See the video at https://youtu.be/pd0jqGR9Ang.

Multitalented Kayla Wyatt (left) and friends Ciara Hall and McKenzie Calloway will perform “Stand Tall” on July 23 at the Mall at Stonecrest during the expo.

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CrossRoadsNews

July 16, 2016