CrossRoadsNews, July 25, 2015 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

Kudos ...

Come on now ...

Send us your nominees

... to the East Metro Community Improvement District for taking the initiative and upgrading the median on Wesley Chapel Road north of I-20.

... to motorists and/ or pedestrians who have already started discarding litter on the Wesley Chapel median barely a week after new landscaping was installed.

Welcome to “Kudos & Come On Now,” the CrossRoads News initiative that highlights the people, businesses or groups who are going the extra mile to make our communities look better, as well as those who aren’t doing nearly enough. When you see examples at either extreme, tweet a photo and the location to us @CRNews_DeKalb or post it to facebook.com/crossroadsnews with #KudosDeKalb or #ComeOnDeKalb. For more examples of Kudos & Come On Now, visit crossroadsnews.com/kudos.

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

July 25, 2015

Volume 21, Number 13

www.crossroadsnews.com

Associate judges named for new State Court Traffic Division By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

The associate judges for the new DeKalb State Court Traffic Division are state Sen. Ronald Ramsey, Brian K. Ross, Kiesha Storey and Shondeana Crews-Morris. Gov. Nathan Deal appointed the four from a short list of 10 applicants on July 22. A total of 26 lawyers applied for the appointments. The associate judges will preside over more than 175,000 traffic cases in the new Traffic Division created by House Bill 300 and signed into law on March 3. They will serve for 18 months and seek election in 2016 to four-year terms of office.

nia resident and husband of U.S. District Judge Eleanor Ross. Storey is a DeKalb deputy chief assistant solicitor general. Crews-MorS. Crews-Morris Ronald Ramsey Brian Ross Kiesha Storey ris is a deputy Ramsey, who represents Senate District ADA at the Fulton County District Attorney’s 43, is also the chief legal officer of the DeKalb Office. The four will preside over the Traffic DiSchool District. Ross, a senior assistant district attorney vision created by House Bill 300 to replace with the Clayton Judicial Circuit, is a Litho- the DeKalb Recorders Court, which was

abolished on July 1. Hours after news of his appointment came on Wednesday, Ramsey said he will resign from both the Senate and the DeKalb School District on July 31. He said he was excited about this new chapter in his life. “I embark on a new course in my life,” he said. “I was a judge for the Stone Mountain Municipal Court for seven years before I became a senator. It was my passion.” Ramsey, who was a runoff candidate for DeKalb Probate Court in 2004, was elected to the Georgia Senate in 2007. He said that Please see JUDGES, page 4

No diploma for one in six seniors in 2015 9 South DeKalb schools in top 10 ‘no diploma’ list By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

One in six – or 964 – of the 2015 Senior Class left the DeKalb School District in May without a high school diploma. Instead, the seniors left the district after 12 years with certificates of attendance. The group was enough to fill Columbia Middle or Cedar Grove High schools, which had 2015 enrollments of 933 and 998 students, respectively. DeKalb School Board Chairman Melvin Johnson said that 964 students failing to get high school diplomas is not good enough. “One is too many,” he said on July 23. “Our Melvin Johnson goal is to close that gap and work toward all of our students getting diplomas.” The 2015 class of 6,225 seniors actually improved on the class before it. with 5,261, or 84.5 percent, of its seniors getting diplomas. In 2014, the number of seniors who left the district without diplomas was 1,456 or 24 percent of the senior class of 5,954. This year, 492 more seniors received diplomas. Nine of 10 schools with the most students – 667 – failing to get high school diplomas are in south DeKalb County. They are Martin Luther King Jr., Elizabeth Andrews, Miller Grove, Cedar Grove, Clarkston, Southwest DeKalb, Tucker, Stone Mountain, and Columbia high schools. MLK Jr. High topped the list with 188, or 57.5 percent, of its senior class failing to get diplomas. It nearly doubled its 2014 record when 108 seniors, or 29 percent, of seniors failed to land diplomas on graduation day. District Spokesman Quinn Hudson said

During graduation season in May, 964 – or 15.5 percent – of DeKalb’s seniors did not receive high school diplomas, down from 24 percent in 2014. The majority of MLK Jr.’s seniors, above at their May 9 pre-commencement service, did not get high school diplomas. Instead, they left school with certificates of attendance. In 2014, 29 percent of the senior class did not get diplomas.

that some of those students attend summer school and end up getting their diploma later in the year. District 5 School Board member Vickie Turner, who represents MLK Jr. High, exress shock and dismay at news the school’s poor performance. “I am real disturbed by it,” she July 23. “It’s real disheartening that so many children went to school and left without the prize, a high school diploma.”But Turner

said the failure did not just happen in the 12th grade. “Those indicators are there,” she said. “It says the ball has been dropped somewhere. It is the responsibility of both the schools and parents, and parents must be engaged to make sure that their students are getting what they need to graduate.” Turner said MLK Jr. High’s poor showing two years in a row is a wake-up call to bring everyone to the table to ensure that all students succeed.

Elizabeth Andrews High took second place on the 2015 “did not graduate” list. It had 164 students, or 46.3 percent, of its seniors who did not get diplomas. Miller Grove had 75 students, or 21 percent; Cedar Grove and Clarkston High, 42 students each; Southwest DeKalb, 41; Tucker, 40; Stone Mountain, 38; and Columbia High, 37. Please see SENIORS, page 4

CrossRoadsNews

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July 25, 2015

Community

CrossRoadsNews

“We hope it sends a message to community activists and organizers all over the country not to give up the fight against police misconduct.”

DeKalb’s midyear budget up by $6 million with small tax cut By Ken Watts

DeKalb County’s midyear budget grew by $6 million to $1.33 billion on July 21. The Board of Commissioners approved the budget that included body cameras for police, an increase in funding for firefighters and sheriff deputies, and a 0.4 mill property tax cut 4-3. Commissioners Larry Johnson, Mereda Davis Johnson, Sharon Barnes Sutton and Stan Watson voted for the budget. Commissioners Kathie Gannon, Nancy Jester and Jeff Rader voted against it. The millage rate decreases to 20.81 from 21.21. It will save the owner of a $150,000 home about $24 on the county portion of the property tax bill. The BOC approved interim CEO Lee May’s $1.27 billion budget in February but makes midyear adjustments when updated information on property tax revenue and actual cost of essential county services becomes available.

May said the budget reflects the county’s improving economic health. “We are seeing the results of an economic recovery in DeKalb County, which allows us to address our critical needs as well as provide some relief to the taxpayers of DeKalb County,” he said. But Gannon said she Lee May couldn’t support the midyear adjustments because they are a continuation of fiscal problems in DeKalb. “The area where the county provides city services has shrunk,” she wrote in an email to constituents. “There is the possibility that it could shrink again. This is not the time to spend every new penny that the county collects. Our legislative duty was to set the millage rate. The midyear is an opportunity to correct budgets based on a better knowledge of property tax revenue and the real needs of our service providing departments.”

Gannon said some of the amendments in the original proposal, made weeks ago, were legitimate needs and the millage cut “is a step backward.” “However, on Tuesday, those needs had increased an additional $6 plus million to include ‘pork’ projects designed to assure the four votes necessary for passage,” she said. “So, while the county will collect more money due to the higher value in property assessments, they will spend that money as soon as it reaches our checkbook and the lower millage rate will do most of you no good because your higher home value will mean you will pay a higher property tax.” Barnes Sutton, who chairs the Finance, Audit and Budget Committee, said she was proud that the BOC was able to reach a consensus on what she called “a fiscally sound and responsible budget” that improves the efficiency of the delivery of government services while keeping tight controls on expenditures. Larry Johnson said he is happy they still

have a reserve of more than one month in aggregate. “That is the type of fiscal responsibility the credit rating agencies look for,” he said. “I am also proud we were able to add additional funds for our police officers to assist in summertime patrols.” The midyear budget includes: n An additional $3 million for Stormwater to handle project backlogs with private contractors. n $5 million Infrastructure Department for road resurfacing. n $3 million to fund the demolition of old government structures on Camp Road. n $1.5 million to Fire & Rescue to retain 22 firefighter positions that were lost to attrition. n An additional $1.1 million to the Sheriff ’s Office to preserve current staffing levels. n $1 million to Police Department for the first phase of a body camera program. n $1 million to build a new Stone Mountain Library.

Former Habersham deputy indicted in botched raid that injured toddler By Ken Watts

Former Habersham County Sheriff ’s Deputy Nikki Autry was indicted on July 22 on four counts of criminal civil rights violations for her role in the drug raid that severely injured 19-month-old Bounkham “Baby Bou-Bou” Phonessavah on May 28, 2014. A federal grand jury in Atlanta indicted Autry on Nikki Autry violation of Title 18 of the U.S. Code, Section 242. The indictment said that Autry used false information in a search warrant affidavit and provided the same false information to obtain an arrest warrant. During the raid on a “no-knock” warrant at the home in Cornelia, about 85 miles northeast of Atlanta, deputies threw a flash bang grenade into the house that landed in the playpen and exploded in the toddler’s face. Baby Bou-Bou suffered severe burns to his nose, mouth and chest and possible brain damage. He underwent treatment for several weeks in a burn unit. The deputies were looking for drug suspect Wanis Thonetheva, the uncle of Baby Bou-Bou. An informant had falsely claimed

that Thonetheva had sold methamphetamine to undercover agents at the home earlier that day. Thonetheva was not at the house during the raid, but deputies arrested him later at a nearby home. The indictment does Baby Bou-Bou not accuse Autry of injuring the child, but providing false evidence to a judge to obtain a warrant is a federal civil rights violation. The indictment alleges that Autry knew the informant had not purchased methamphetamine from anyone at the residence and had not proved himself to be reliable in the past. Based on this false information, the magistrate judge issued a no-knock search warrant for the residence and an arrest warrant for Thonetheva. Acting U.S. Attorney John Horn said the criminal justice system depends upon police officers’ sworn duty to present facts truthfully and accurately. “There is no arrest that is worth selling out the integrity of our law enforcement officers,” he said on July 22. “Without her false statements, there was no probable cause to search the premises for drugs or to make the arrest. And in this case, the consequences of

the unlawful search were tragic.” The toddler’s family, represented by Decatur lawyers Mawuli Davis and Robert Bozeman, reached a $964,000 settlement with the county in April. Davis said it’s been a long, hard fight to get to this point. “This is only an indictment, but we hope it sends a message to community activists and organizers all over the country not to give up the fight against police misconduct,” he said. Autry, 29, of Clarkesville had been with the Habersham County department for 10

years. She resigned in 2014 and is no longer certified to be a law enforcement officer. Britt Johnson, special agent in charge of the Atlanta Field Office, said the indictment should serve as a reminder to officers. “Integrity is an absolute cornerstone for those who serve in law enforcement and today’s federal indictment of former Deputy Sheriff Autry, sadly, clearly illustrates the results when there is a departure from that ever-important core value,” Johnson said. Autry’s arraignment date was unavailable at press time on Thursday.

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CrossRoadsNews

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Graphic Design Curtis Parker Assistant Editor Brenda Yarbrough Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Circulation Manager Jami Ffrench-Parker

CrossRoadsNews is published every Saturday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsNews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Advertisements are published upon the representation that the advertiser is authorized to publish the submitted material. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless from and against any loss or expenses resulting from any disputes or legal claims based upon the contents or subject matter of such advertisments, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.

July 25, 2015

“I think we have to a better job of addressing that and looking at the early signs for potential dropout situations.”

Appointed judges to run for election in 2016 JUDGES,

from page

he is thankful for his experience in the General Assembly. “It has been invaluable to see how laws are made,” he said. “It will make me a better judge.” Ramsey, a Lithonia resident, has 18 months left on his current term. He said there will be a special election to fill his seat, which includes DeKalb, Rockdale and Newton counties. With redistricting, Senate District 43 now has 45,000 residents in DeKalb, 67,000 in Rockdale, and 61,000 in Newton, which makes it likely that his successor may not come from DeKalb. Ramsey said Wednesday that he had not yet had time to inform the School District about his appointment but that the timing couldn’t be better. “I just marked my 10th anniversary with the School System,” he said. “And the Legal Services Department is on strong footing. I have good people in the department and it should be a smooth transition.” Ross has experience as a prosecutor, defense counsel and civil litigator.

Lary going after Senate District 43 seat By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Stonecrest City organizer and former concert promoter Jason Lary has throw n his hat in the ring for the SenJason Lary ate District 43 seat being vacated by Sen. Ronald Ramsey.

Lary’s announcement comes on the heels of news that Gov. Nathan Deal had appointed Ramsey to one of four associate judgeships in the new DeKalb State Court Traffic Division. “I saw that and said, ‘I am going after that seat,’” Lary said. It will be his first run for public office. Ramsey, who has 18 months left on his term, says he will resign on July 31. It was unclear at press time Thursday when the special election

will be held. Lary, a Lithonia resident, says he wants to help businesses and usher in a new city in the district. He is undaunted by the fact only 45,000 of the district’s 173,000 residents live in DeKalb. “I know that area, and they know me,” he said, adding that his wife, Debra, teaches in Newton County. The majority of the district’s residents – 128,000 – live in Rockdale and Newton counties.

He heads the Crimes Against Women Section in the Clayton County DA’s Office and also has worked in Newton County and the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office and in the Atlanta Solicitor General’s Office. He also was in private practice in Covington and in Decatur. He has been on short lists for judicial appointments before and was also a candidate for DeKalb solicitor general in 2006. Storey, who joined the DeKalb

Solicitor General’s Office in May 2010, manages the Diversion and Community Alternative Program Units, which she created. She has been both a prosecutor and defense attorney and was in private practice for five years and a Hall County assistant district attorney for more than four years. She has worked in Braselton and Gainesville municipal courts as solicitor and assistant solicitor. Crews-Morris, a 15-year prosecutor, manages and directs the

Community Prosecution Unit in the Fulton County DA’s Office where she has worked since November 1999. She was on the DA’s team that successfully prosecuted the Atlanta Public Schools cheating trial. Crews-Morris also has worked with the City Court of Atlanta and has served on the board of the International Women’s House in DeKalb and the DeKalb Junior League. She is a DeKalb native and 1988 graduate of Lakeside High.

Career technical program to help address some issues SENIORS,

from page

This year, only one of DeKalb’s 25 high schools – DeKalb School of Arts with 55 seniors – graduated all of its 2015 class. Schools like Arabia Mountain High and DeKalb Early College Academy, Destiny Academy of Excellence, Gateway to College and Cross Keys High graduated most of their classes and only missed the mark with two to eight students. Johnson said the Board of Education is looking for more progress in decreasing the number of students who leave the district without diplomas. “That is why we hired a superintendent [Dr. Stephen Green] with a curriculum focus,” he said. “That should impact our graduation rate.” Green, who came on board July 1, said he expects 100 percent of students to leave the district with high school diplomas. “Actually, a diploma is just like the floor,” he said on July 23. “I want them to leave with a career path or college. We need to open all pathways, but I just don’t want them to end with a diploma. I don’t want them wandering around on the streets trying to determine what they are going to do. They need to have a plan and they need to be supported in making that plan work.” Green said that the career technical program they are working on will help address some of the issues with seniors currently leaving without diplomas. “I think we have to do a better job of addressing that and looking at the early signs for potential dropout situations,” he said. “That is part of that alignment with curriculum. With that will be a progress monitoring system that will allow us to measure students as they progress through the DeKalb School District. So we will see the early warning signs.” At the other end of the spectrum, he said there will be alternative pathways for students who need them. Green said that he will start with some form of Pathway College and Career Academy, seated at McNair High.

964 in 2015 class did not get diploma The number of DeKalb seniors who left school this year without a high school diploma was down 492 from 2014 when 1,456 failed to get diplomas. This year, 5,261 seniors got diplomas, while 964 left school with certificates of attendance. Did not % did not School Seniors Graduates graduate graduate Martin Luther King Jr. HS 327 139 188 57.5 Elizabeth Andrews HS 354 190 164 46.3 Miller Grove HS 357 282 75 21.0 Cedar Grove HS 203 161 42 20.7 Clarkston HS 301 259 42 14.0 Southwest DeKalb HS 311 270 41 13.2 Tucker HS 372 332 40 10.8 Stone Mountain HS 241 203 38 15.8 Columbia HS 268 231 37 13.8 Druid Hills HS 389 352 37 9.5 Chamblee Charter HS 250 217 33 13.2 Stephenson HS 371 338 33 8.9 Lithonia HS 263 232 31 11.8 Lakeside HS 438 407 31 7.1 Dunwoody HS 354 324 30 8.5 McNair HS 166 140 26 15.7 Redan HS 279 262 17 6.1 Towers HS 227 213 14 6.2 DeKalb Alternative School 13 0 13 100.0 Margaret Harris Comprehensive School 19 6 13 68.4 Cross Keys HS 204 196 8 3.9 Gateway to College 29 25 4 13.8 Destiny Academy of Excellence 70 67 3 4.3 DeKalb Early College Academy 87 85 2 2.3 Arabia Mountain HS 277 275 2 0.7 DeKalb School of the Arts 55 55 0 0.0 Total: 6,225 5,261 964 15.5 Source: DeKalb County School System

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Community

July 25, 2015

“Failure to plan is a plan for failure. We knew all year that finals were coming and we prepared for it.”

Johnson takes oath of office as new District 5 commissioner By Ken Watts

Decatur attorney Mereda Davis Johnson took the oath of office on July 20 to become DeKalb’s new District 5 commissioner. The swearing-in ceremony took place in the DeKalb Courthouse in Decatur packed with Johnson’s family and friends, fellow commissioners, and other elected officials. Johnson won the July 14 runoff election with 53.12 percent of the vote against community activist George Turner. DeKalb Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams administered the oath of office. Johnson’s husband, U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson, held the Bible while she raised her right hand and recited the oath. Johnson said she has hit the ground running by attending the Board of Commissioners’ midyear budget retreat on July 16. “The budget is one of my priorities so I was able to jump in and look at it and ask questions,” Johnson said. “It was very informative and I’m ready for the first [BOC] meeting.” District 5 had been without a representative since June 2013, when Gov. Nathan Deal appointed former District 5 Commissioner Lee May interim CEO to replace suspended

calls because we have not had representation for so long.” Johnson said she and her chief of staff, Elaina Griggs, have been in her new office for the past week preparing to deliver constituent services. She expects the job to be challenging but is excited about the possibilities. Repeating a campaign theme, Johnson said economic development will be a top priority. “The 5th District in my opinion is the gold mine of DeKalb because it has the most undeveloped land and there are huge possibilities for economic development and for jobs that we so strongly deserve,” she said. Johnson said she also plans to devote a lot of attention to ethics issues. “We’ve already dived into that and I will be looking into it more in the coming weeks,” she said. Also during the campaign, she said that Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews if elected, she wanted to be known as “the DeKalb Superior Court Judge Gregory Adams administers the oath of office to Mereda Davis pothole commissioner” and said the cleanup Johnson. U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson holds the Bible. His mother, Christine Callier, is at left. and beautification of South DeKalb would CEO Burrell Ellis, who was indicted on tion that ended in a runoff. be a top priority. Johnson said the district has what it needs corruption charges and is now serving 18 Commissioners Larry Johnson and Kathmost and that’s representation. months in prison. ie Gannon, Clerk of Court Debra DeBerry, “I’m going to be talking with my constit- Sheriff Jeff Mann and School Board member May resigned his commission seat in May to clear the way for the June 16 special elec- uents,” she said. “We’ve already gotten a lot of Vickie Turner attended the swearing-in.

Bronner twins bring message of hard, focused work to DeKalb youth By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

When Kirstie and Kristie Bronner speak, their audience sees double but hears the same message. The identical twin sisters, who made history at Spelman College in 2013 by graduating at the top of their class with 4.0 grade-point averages and becoming co-valedictorians, are now authors and inspirational speakers. On July 18, they brought their message of hard and focused work in a keynote address to the 2015 Youth Empowerment Breakfast at the Evergreen Conference Center at Stone Mountain Park. The sisters told the students of the Youth Leadership Academy, their parents, program alums, county officials, program sponsors and other supporters to ditch average and mediocre and set high expectations for themselves. “You will only reach for what you think you can attain,” they said. “You will prepare for what you expect to get. … The only limits are the ones you put on yourself.” District 4 Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton established the Youth Leadership Academy in 2008. It fosters leadership development, life skills training, educational enrichment and community service. Since its launch, more than 125 students have been through the program. Barnes Sutton said she invited the Bronner sisters to speak to this year’s crop of 26 students because they are “phenomenal

Kirstie and Kristie Bronner, Spelman College 2013 co-valedictorians, third an fifth from left, pose with Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton (red suit), county and other officials and YLA class.

young women” and great role models for all students. The sisters who are also youth ministers at their father Dale Bronner’s megachurch, Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral in Austell, took turns delivering the speech about RUN BEST based on their self-help book, “Double Vals: The Keys to Success in College and Life Beyond.” The 175-page resource guide for high school and college students teaches kids to

strive for success through faith, discipline and hard work. It provides tips about studying, scheduling, living a balanced life and committing to excellence. For their speech on Saturday, the sisters ascended the stage together and took turns speaking on the same subject. They told the teens to ditch average and mediocrity, to be purposeful in their school career, to seek out mentors and cheerleaders to encourage them from the sideline, to

have a plan, to work their plan, to choose people who share their values, and to value their time. The sisters said they weren’t geniuses but that throughout their college career they were organized, studied all the time, and wrote their class papers a week before their deadlines so that they would have time to revise them. “Failure to plan is a plan for failure,” Kirstie said. “We knew all year that finals were coming and we prepared for it.” The twins described how when they were students, they planned out their entire day and week, including scheduling time for fun, and then stuck to the schedule. They said they are virgins intentionally until they get married later this year, and they encouraged the students to stand for something and not to waver. The 2015 YLA students come from 13 DeKalb County high schools. Charique Furlow, a rising 10th-grader at Redan High, said her counselor recommended her for the program. She plans to be an attorney, which will require leadership skills. “So far, I have learned that it takes a team to be a leader,” she said. Khalil Shipman, a rising 10th-grader at Druid Hills High, said participating in the program will enhance his school career. He said it has boosted his self-confidence and opened his eyes. “When leading, it impacts more than you – it impacts the whole group,” he said.

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

July 25, 2015

Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

“Infections with mosquito-borne viruses can be severe, so it’s important to protect yourself … throughout season.”

Back-to-school services at four health centers Students can receive immunizations and screenings at the DeKalb Board of Health, which is offering back-to-school services and extended hours. Its health centers are open from 8:15 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday with extended hours to 7 p.m. on Aug. 4, 5, 6, 10, 11 and 12. For extended dental screening hours, call the nearest health center. No appointment is necessary. Services include issuing certified birth certificates for children born in Georgia. Nutritional screenings and sports physicals are offered at the East DeKalb, T.O. Vinson, North DeKalb, and Clifton Springs health centers. Georgia law requires that children enrolling in child care or public or private school have proof of an up-to-date immunization Georgia Form 3231. They also must have a completed Georgia Form 3300 for vision, hearing, nutritional screenings (BMI) and dental screenings if they are entering a public school for the first time. Children transferring from another county or state must show proof of immunizations and health screenings on the forms. A new requirement for middle school students applies to children born on or after Jan. 1, 2002, who are entering seventh grade or who are new to Georgia schools and entering grades 8 through 12. They must now show proof that they have received one dose of Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis) vaccine and one dose of meningococcal conjugate vaccine. The University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents develops and implements immunization policies for the state’s public colleges and universities. Private institutions develop and implement their own policies.

The DeKalb Board of Health has extended hours for back-to-school immunizations and screenings at four health centers. Birth certificates are available at the Office of Vital Records.

College students may be required to have MMR (measles, mumps and rubella); varicella (chickenpox); Tdap; hepatitis B series; and meningococcal conjugate. The Board of Health can provide an immunization certificate for the college or university. Parents should bring each child and his or her immunization record and each child’s Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids, State Health Benefits Plan (Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Georgia) or Aetna card. Most insurance is accepted. Call the health center to verify. Back-to-school services are available at: n Central DeKalb (T.O. Vinson), 440 Winn Way in Decatur (404-294-3762). n East DeKalb, 2277 S. Stone Mountain-

Lithonia Road in Lithonia (770-484-2600). n North DeKalb, 3807 Clairmont Road in Chamblee (770-454-1144). n Clifton Springs, 3110 Clifton Springs Road in Decatur (404-244-2200). Birth certificates for children born in Georgia are available for $25 from the Board of Health’s Office of Vital Records, Room 191, Richardson Health Center, 445 Winn Way in Decatur. Hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. A Georgia driver’s license or other state identification card is required. Only a legal parent, grandparent or guardian can obtain a birth certificate for a child under 18. For more information, call 404-2943700.

KP offers free quit smoking class in Lithonia Smokers who want to quit can take a free four-week tobacco cessation class at Kaiser Permanente’s Panola Medical Center in August. You do not have to be a member to participate in the noon-to-2 p.m. Quit Smart Program on Saturdays Aug. 1-Aug. 22 – pre-registration is required at 404364-7117. Participants will receive a Quit Smart kit that includes an information guide, a hypnosis CD, and a cigarette substitute. Bupropion SR and nicotine patch vouchers redeemable only at KP pharmacies also are offered. The medical center is at 5440 Hillandale Drive in Lithonia. For more information, call 770-322-2777.

NAACP co-hosting Aug. 1 health fair Free health screenings for hypertension and diabetes will be available on Aug. 1 at the DeKalb NAACP Health Fair at the Gallery at South DeKalb Mall in Decatur. The fair, which is co-hosted by Commissioner Larry Johnson will also include nutrition and weight counseling, back-toschool dental exams, HIV/ AIDs Testing and school supplies. The mall is at 2801 Candler Road. Call Cherry Willis at 404-241-8006.

Preventing bites is key in the fight against mosquito-borne illnesses Mosquitoes are winging their way into a back yard or home near you and bringing with them potential health risks. They are more than minor annoyances, and the Georgia Department of Public Health is encouraging residents to learn about mosquito-borne illnesses and how to avoid them. Amanda Feldpausch, a DPH epidemiologist, said there have not been many documented human cases of mosquito-borne infections in Georgia in 2015, but it is still early in this year’s arboviral season – the annual time of year when mosquitoes are most active. They can carry Eastern equine encephalitis, West Nile virus and Chikungunya. In addition to EEE and West Nile, other viruses such as LaCrosse encephalitis are considered endemic in Georgia. Chikungunya is more likely to be travel-related. “Chikungunya is circulating in the Caribbean, but there has never been a locally acquired case documented in Georgia,” Feldpausch said. DPH data show that in 2014, there

Mosquitoes can carry Eastern equine encephalitis, West Nile virus and Chikungunya. They are most active at dawn and dusk during the summer.

were 13 cases of West Nile and two cases of LaCrosse encephalitis acquired locally. In addition, four cases of dengue fever and 36 cases of Chikungunya were documented last year – all travel-related. Georgia’s arbovirus season runs from the end of June to mid-October. Entomologist Rosmarie Kelly says pre-

Nutrition tips at programs for kids Kids and tweens can pick up tips on healthy eating at programs on July 28 and 29 at the Covington Library in Decatur. Eating Healthy Snacks takes place from 3 to 4 p.m. on July 28 for 7- to 12-year-olds. It is presented by the DeKalb County Extension and is open to the first 20 participants. On July 29, Kaiser Permanente will present the Educational Theatre production “Give Peas a Chance” from 2 to 3 p.m. The program is designed for 3- to 12-year-olds and is open to the first 60 participants. In the production, Cris P. Broccoli, Cal-

cium Callie, Mighty Muscles, and fruits and vegetables are upset because kids aren’t getting their five-a-day. They take to the streets to protest and get kids to have healthier, stronger bodies. Key concepts: Make half your plate fruits and vegetables; reduce sugary snacks and drinks; limit screen time (TV, video games and computer); run and play for at least 60 minutes a day; and increase the amount of calcium-rich foods and drinks young people have each day. The library is at 3500 Covington Highway. For more information, call 404-508-7180.

venting bites is key. “Infections with mosquito-borne viruses can be severe, so it’s important to protect yourself from being infected throughout the entire arbovirus season in Georgia,” Kelly said. The “five D’s”: n Dusk/dawn – Avoid dusk and dawn activi-

ties during the summer when mosquitoes are most active. n Dress – Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved shirts and pants to reduce the amount of exposed skin. n DEET – Cover exposed skin with an insect repellent containing DEET, the most effective repellent against mosquito bites. n Drain – Empty any containers holding standing water – buckets, barrels, flowerpots, tarps – because they are breeding grounds for virus-carrying mosquitoes. n Doors – Make sure doors and windows are in good repair and fit tightly, and fix torn or damaged screens. Kelly also recommends taking proper precautions to protect family pets. “Do not use repellents sold for human use on your pets – ask your veterinarian for a pet-safe repellent,” Kelly said. “Also be sure to protect your pets against heartworm, a parasite carried by mosquitoes that can cause disease and death. If you have horses, make sure they are vaccinated against WNV and EEE.” Visit www.cdc.gov.

Scene

CrossRoadsNews

July 25, 2015

“These monumental rulings defined civil rights laws, formed the basis of congressional legislation, and pioneered judicial reform.”

Atlanta courthouse named landmark for civil rights rulings The U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in Atlanta is among three Southern courthouses designated as National Historic Landmarks for their contributions to civil rights. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals courthouses join more than 2,500 other historic landmarks recognized as places that possess exceptional value and quality in illustrating or interpreting the heritage of the United States. In the 1950s and 1960s, the 5th Circuit, which had jurisdiction in six Southeastern states, contributed to shaping the modern civil rights movement. Its courthouses were involved in rulings of nation-changing events, including the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott, 1961 Freedom Rides, the 1965 Selma-to-Montgomery March, and desegregation of Southern schools and universities after the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education decisions in 1954 and 1955. National Park Service Director Jonathan B. Jarvis said the decisions were pivotal. “In an era of significant resistance to racial equality, these monumental rulings defined civil rights laws, formed the basis of congressional civil rights legislation, and pioneered judicial reform,” Jarvis said in a July 20 statement. “These decisions are relevant to the study of Civil War to civil rights as well as modern conversations regarding civil rights, diversity and inclusiveness.” The U.S. General Services Administration manages nearly 500 historic federal buildings and courthouses, including the 5th Circuit “Civil Rights” courthouses. n U.S. Post Office and Courthouse (Elbert Parr Tuttle U.S. Court of Appeals Building) in Atlanta.

Judicial rulings emanating from courthouse buildings in Atlanta (top); Montgomery, Ala. (lower left); and New Orleans played pivotal roles in the civil rights movement.

Under Chief Justice Tuttle (1960-1967), the 5th Circuit developed a significant body of civil rights jurisprudence, overcame massive resistance in multiple school desegregation and voting rights cases, and more fairly applied and enforced the right to trial by

jury of one’s peers. The greatest period of contribution began in 1960 when Tuttle became chief judge to 1966 when a 5th Circuit school desegregation ruling, U.S. v. Jefferson, marked a turning point in school desegregation. One of the “5th District Four,” Tuttle

earned a national reputation as one of the most significant judges of the 20th century. n U.S. Court of Appeals – 5th Circuit (John Minor Wisdom U.S. Court of Appeals Building) in New Orleans. The court was named in honor of appellate Judge John Minor Wisdom, a scholar of legal doctrinal development whose greatest legacy is in the field of civil rights. The courthouse’s most significant period of contribution began in 1956 when the 5th Circuit Court became involved in a multiyear battle to end Louisiana’s crusade against school desegregation and ended in 1963 when Wisdom’s doctrinal defense in a voting rights case would later be applied to the 1965 Voting Rights Act. n U.S. Post Office and Courthouse (Frank M. Johnson Jr. Federal Building and U.S. Courthouse) in Montgomery, Ala. District Judge Johnson and 5th Circuit appellate Judges Richard T. Rives and John R. Brown led the courts through new legal territory during a decade of social upheaval and the judicial remaking of the South. The period of significance began in 1956 when Rives and Johnson ruled on the Montgomery Bus Boycott case, the first major nonviolent social action of the modern civil rights era, and extended to 1967 when Johnson wrote an opinion that mandated statewide school desegregation over a case-by-case basis. The courts developed civil rights laws, battled massive resistance to school desegregation and discriminatory voting practices, and developed the right to trial by jury of one’s peers. For more information, visit www.nps. gov.

Cops, firefighters face off in flag football for charity Noted historian Local public safety and law enforcement to discuss debut agencies will face off in the Metro Atlanta Flag Football Association’s first games of the novel set in Ga. season on Aug. 8 in Lakewood Stadium. The event also features music, free blood pressure screenings from agency Fire & Rescue teams, and concessions. One ticket covers both games, and children under 5 get in free. At 5:30 p.m., members of Gwinnett’s Police Department and Sheriff ’s Office take on members of Clayton County’s Sheriff ’s Office and Fire & Rescue. At 7 p.m., members of the DeKalb Sheriff ’s Office, Police Department, and Fire & Rescue face an Atlanta team that includes members of its Police Department, Atlanta Corrections, and Fire & Rescue. Gates open at 4:30 p.m. The organizer, DeKalb Sheriff Jeff Mann, said the sports rivalry is for a good cause. “These games and the participating public safety professionals are committed to

Members of DeKalb, Clayton, Gwinnett and city of Atlanta public safety and law enforcement agencies will play benefit games on Aug. 8 at Lakewood Stadium.

building morale, enhancing collaboration, and creating camaraderie while promoting health and wellness,” Mann said in a July 14 statement. Proceeds benefit the nonprofit Gold Shield Foundation of Metro Atlanta, which

provides financial assistance to public safety professionals in time of need. The stadium is at 70 Claire Drive in Atlanta. For more information, including tickets, visit www.goldshieldfoundation.org or call 404-913-5588.

King of South auto show, concert to attract 5,000 Kylan Jones of Ellenwood, a 2002 graduate of Stephenson High, is realizing a lifelong dream – indulging his passion for cars with one of the biggest car and bike shows in the Southeast on Aug. 2. More than 5,000 people are expected to attend StreetWhipz Productions LLC’s King of the South Mega Auto Show & Concert at Atlanta Motor Speedway in Hampton. It takes place from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. with more than 400 cars from all over the United States. There will be sound, bass and burnout competitions plus live performances by Bank Roll Fresh Birthday Bash, Legendary Project Pat, Joe Green, Stack Doe Shawty (old school car music) and more local artists. “For all who will be in attendance this year, they can expect a great car show with a variety of nice cars, good food and great entertainment,” Jones said. He collected toy cars as a boy and began

Stephenson High alum Kylan Jones (shown with Brian Posey) presents the auto show on Aug. 2 in Hampton.

drawing pictures of cars at 5. As a member of Royal Ambassadors (Boy Scouts), he designed cars with aerodynamic lines, earning medals for placing in races. He got his first car at 16 – mom Neva Jones gave him her 325i BMW to travel to Stephenson since he was on the football team and had to stay late for practice. He added his own flair with an enhanced stereo system.

At 21, he acquired and restored a dream car, a 1995 Chevy Impala, joined a car club and began entering his car in shows. In the beginning he never placed, then he started bringing home trophy after trophy. Jones has attended more than 100 shows. In 2010, he partnered with a friend and had his first show at the Atrium on Memorial Drive with 40 cars and about 200 people. In 2011, he moved to Scores Sports Bar on Wesley Chapel Road with 60 cars and about 300 people. He has ventured off by himself with StreetWhipz Productions. Last year’s show was at Atlanta Beach in Fulton County with 300 cars and 1,500 people in attendance. “If you do what you love, it’s not work,” Jones said. The speedway is at 15 Tara Place. For more information, call 678-521-0716 or 404-216-0502.

Award-winning historian Tiya Miles discusses her debut fiction, “The Cherokee Rose: A Novel of Gardens & Ghosts,” on July 27 at the Decatur Library. Her talk, part of the Georgia Center for the Book’s Festival of Writers, starts at 7:15 p.m. The novel tells the story of three young women who are drawn to a Georgia plantation where scenes of extreme cruelty and equally ex- Tiya Miles traordinary compassion play out. It examines a little-known aspect of America’s past – slaveholding by Southern Creeks and Cherokees in the early 1800s. Set in modern-day Georgia on what once was a plantation owned by a Cherokee chief, the novel follows three characters: Jinx Micco, a free-spirited CherokeeCreek historian exploring her tribe’s complicated racial history; Ruth Mayes, whose mother sought refuge from a troubled marriage in her beloved garden and the cosmetic empire she built from its bounty; and Cheyenne Cotterell, affluent Southern black debutante seeking a meaningful personal history. Miles, a 2011 recipient of a MacArthur Fellowship, or “genius grant,” is a University of Michigan professor. Her her research and creative interests include African-American and Native American histories. Books include “The House on Diamond Hill: A Cherokee Plantation Story” and “Ties That Bind: The Story of an Afro-Cherokee Family in Slavery and Freedom.” The library is at 215 Sycamore St. For more information, visit www. dekalblibrary.org.

CrossRoadsNews

July 25, 2015

Finance

“It’s Georgia’s outstanding local restaurants that truly showcase the state’s rich flavors locals and visitors love.”

Ex-worker gets 18 months for theft at Emory Former Emory University employee Brenda Michael has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for stealing more than $317,000 in student tuition payments. Michael, 53, of Atlanta was sentenced on July 23 by U.S. District Judge Willis B. Hunt to one year, six months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and ordered to pay restitution of $317,923.33 to Emory. Michael was convicted on April 30 after pleading guilty. Acting U.S. Attorney John Horn said she used her position to steal hundreds of thousands of dollars in less than two years. “Students trusted that this university employee was there to facilitate their enrollment,” Horn said. “Had the defendant not been exposed by Emory, her deception could have caused even greater damage.” According to Horn, the charges and other information presented in court:

Michael was employed as an administrative assistant with the Wound Ostomy Center, part of the School of Nursing at Emory. As part of her job, she helped students with enrolling in programs and classes. Beginning in August Nancy Seideman 2012, Michael began directing students to pay their tuition and fees via PayPal to an account that students believed was an authorized Emory account. In fact, it was Michael’s personal PayPal account. She misdirected student payments for more than a year, diverting over $317,000. The case was investigated by the FBI with Emory’s assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie L. Mickelson prosecuted the case. Nancy Seideman, Emory associate vice

Dart Container Corp. hosts recruiting event Dart Container Corp. is hosting an on-site recruitment on July 31 at the North Metro Career Center. The 10 a.m.-to-3 p.m. recruitment is to fill positions for inspector packer (GA8316800) and truck driver-OTR (GA8316832). Applicants must obtain a referral and complete an online application at www.dart.jobs before interview. Visit the Georgia Department of Labor at www.dol.state.ga.us to request a referral or the nearest Career Center. Veterans are encouraged to apply. Participants should bring a pen or pencil, paper and resumes. The center is at 2943 N. Druid Hills Road in Atlanta.

Free Consumer Education Clinic at Decatur Library Local attorneys will discuss information regarding debt cases in DeKalb County and facilitate one-on-one consultations at a free Consumer Education Clinic on July 28 at the Decatur Library. The 90-minute clinic begins at 5:30 p.m. Residents struggling with debt who have been sued and have questions can get answers from the DeKalb Volunteer Lawyers Foundation. Participants should bring all documents related to their cases. The library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary.org.

president, media relations, said the university was satisfied with the outcome of the case. “We take the security of our students’ financial information and thefts by employees very seriously and are pleased that we could work cooperatively with the United States Attorney’s Office in bringing the investigation to a successful conclusion,” Seideman said. J. Britt Johnson, special agent in charge, FBI Atlanta Field Office, said the students had every right to trust in Michael, who was assigned to help them. “Unfortunately, Ms. Michael chose to betray that trust and use her position for personal gain,” Johnson said. “The FBI is pleased with its role in ensuring that Ms. Michael be held fully accountable for her criminal conduct, which today’s sentencing certainly does.” For more information, visit www.justice. gov/usao-ndga.

‘Jobs Bus’ stops in Decatur, Lithonia DeKalb’s Mobile Career Center will make stops next week in Decatur and Lithonia for job seekers who need assistance as well as employers. The “Jobs Bus” stops take place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the following locations: n July 27 – Scott Candler Library, 1917 Candler Road in Decatur. n July 28 – Covington Library, 3500 Covington Highway in Decatur. n July 30 – Stonecrest Library, 3123 Klondike Road in Lithonia. The center includes 13 computer stations and high-speed satellite Internet connection. It provides residents with essential services, including job search assistance, resume writing, and interviewing tips. Employers also can use the center. For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary.org and onedekalb.com.

Stone Mountain eatery makes ‘100 Plates’ list The Philly cheese steak at Weeyums Philly Style in Stone Mountain Village has been named one of Georgia’s “100 Plates That Locals Love.” Weeyums, which opened in May 2000 at 900 Main St., was awarded the distinction by the Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Tourism Division and is featured in the state’s new culinary guide, Georgia Eats. Kevin Langston, the department’s deputy commissioner for tourism, said the division is celebrating the state’s culinary greatness this year. “It’s Georgia’s outstanding local restaurants that truly showcase the state’s rich flavors that locals and visitors love,” Langston said in a July 20 statement. “Each dish on our list of ‘100 Plates That Locals Love’ epitomizes Georgia’s culinary scene with locally made and grown ingredients. These are the best of the best in Georgia and we can’t wait to share them with our visitors.” Stone Mountain Mayor Pat Wheeler was proud of the distinction. “Weeyums has been a part of the Stone Mountain community for many years, serving up the best Philly cheese steak the state has to offer,” she said. “They deserve a ‘mountain’ of con-

Weeyums Philly Style’s signature Philly cheese steak has been named one of Georgia’s “100 Plates That Locals Love” by the state Department of Economic Development’s Tourism Division.

gratulations.” As part of the designation, each restaurant is featured in the Georgia Eats official culinary guide being distributed by the 11 Visitor Information Centers statewide; on the state’s consumer tourism site, ExploreGeorgia.org; and on ExploreGeorgia.org’s 14 social media channels. The Georgia Department of Eco-

nomic Development plans, manages and mobilizes state resources to attract new business investment to the state; drive the expansion of existing industry and small business; locate new markets for Georgia products; inspire tourists to visit Georgia; and promote the state as a top destination for arts events and film, music and digital entertainment projects.

of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Legal Notices 07/04, 07/11, 07/18, 07/25

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++15CV6493-4++ Shenl Jackson Plaintiff Vs. Larry Nuckles Defendant To: Larry Nuckles By Order of the Court for service by publication dated June 22, 2015 you are hereby notified that on June 17, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: 7202 Par Fowr Way, Lithonia, GA 30038. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of June 22, 2015. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flake, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 17th day of June, 2015

07/11, 07/18, 07/25, 08/01

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV6989-3++ Trenton Howard Plaintiff Vs. Monique Mayrant Howard Defendant To: Monique Mayrant Howard 3073 Washington Rd. East Point, GA 30344 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated July 06, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Jul. 02, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Trenton Howard, 2211 Holly Hill Drive, Decatur, GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jul. 06, 2015. Witness the Honorable Clarence F.

Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 7th day of Jul., 2015 07/11, 07/18, 07/25, 08/01

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV6986-3++ LaKayla Beard filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on June 29, 2015 to change name from: Baby Girl Clay to LaKayla Caprese’ Beard. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Jun.29, 2015 Name: LaKayla Beard 619 Winchester Ave. Lincoln Park, MI 48146 757-478-8095 07/11, 07/18, 07/25, 08/01

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV6876-7++ Barbie Jean Manning filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on June 26, 2015 to change name from: Barbie Jean Manning to Barbara Barbie Jean Manning AKA Barbara Jean Manning. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: May 03, 2015 Name: Barbara Wright Roberts AKA Barbie Jean Manning 2766 Joyce Ave. Decatur, GA 30032 678-536-6904 07/18, 07/25, 08/01, 08/08

Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court

Civil Action Case Number: ++15CV7091-4++ Pendall Carroll Plaintiff Vs. Charise Carroll Defendant To: Charise Carroll By Order of the Court for service by publication dated July 07, 2015 you are hereby notified that on July 02, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Pendall L. Carroll, 4165 Emerald North Drive, Decatur, GA 30035. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of July 07, 2015. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flake, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 8th day of July, 2015 07/18, 07/25, 08/01, 08/08

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++15CV6991-2++ LeTricia C. Williams Plaintiff Vs. Allante A. Anderson Defendant To: By Order of the Court for service by publication dated July 10, 2015 you

are hereby notified that on July 02, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: 3771 Leyanne Ct, Decatur, GA 30034. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of July 10, 2015. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 10th day of July, 2015 07/18, 07/25, 08/01, 08/08

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++15CV6994-1++ Chanelle Jones Plaintiff Vs. Jonathan Jones Defendant To: By Order of the Court for service by publication dated July 10, 2015 you are hereby notified that on June 30, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: 1414 D Post Oak Drive, Clarkston, GA 30021; (570) 974-5211. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of July 10, 2015. Witness the Honorable Courtney L. Johnson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 13th day of July, 2015

CrossRoadsNews

Youth

July 25, 2015

“I’m familiar with his past school system, having been educated myself in kindergarten through 12th grade in the Kansas City Public School System.” U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson speaks with campers on July 20 at the Redan Recreation Center. He said the summer meal program is at risk if Child Nutrition Reauthorization is not passed.

Johnson talks nutrition at day camp U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson spoke with summer campers on July 20 at the Redan Recreation Center in Lithonia and saw firsthand the benefits of the federally funded nutrition program to combat childhood hunger. Johnson interacted with campers during sports, nutrition education and their daily lunch, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Summer Food Service Program. For many children who receive free and reducedprice meals at school, summer can mean hunger. Just as learning doesn’t end when school lets out, neither

does a child’s need for good nutrition, exercise and education, Johnson said. The Redan center along with 11 other recreation centers in DeKalb help fill the void by providing free meals to children during the summer. These meals are at risk if the Child Nutrition Reauthorization is not passed, he added. Serving meals at park and recreation sites throughout DeKalb gives local children a safe and supervised space to eat nutritious meals, play with friends and receive supplemental education all summer long.

Receptions to welcome Green to DeKalb

Volunteers sort donations to Commissioner Stan Watson’s school supply drive in 2014. He is collecting supplies for the 2015-2016 school year.

Watson seeking school supplies Super District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson is collecting book bags and school supplies for his annual Back-to-School “Book Um and Bag Um” drive throughout July. He is appealing to individuals, businesses, organizations, and others to help exceed his goal of 100 bags and as many school supplies that he can collect. Donated book bags and school supplies will be presented at his Aug. 1 Community Cabinet Breakfast Meeting at Southwest DeKalb High from 9 to 11 a.m. Contact his office at 404-371-3681 to coordinate drop-off or bring supplies to the breakfast so that donors can be acknowledged. The school is at 2863 Kelley Chapel Road in Decatur.

Business and civic groups are lining up to welcome new DeKalb Schools Superintendent R. Stephen Green to the county. The DeKalb Chamber is playing host on July 29 at the district’s headquarters in Stone Mountain. On Aug. 18, Leadership DeKalb is hosting a reception at the Mary Gay R. Stephen Green House in Decatur. The Chamber’s event, which is co-hosted by the School Board, takes place 5:30 to 8 p.m. More than 150 guests are expected. Katerina Taylor, the chamber’s president, said the organization is excited to have Green as DeKalb Schools superintendent. “I’m familiar with his past school system, having been educated myself in kindergarten through 12th grade in the Kansas City, Kan., Public School System,”

Taylor said in a July 20 statement. “It will be great to be a part of what he will bring to the table.” Green served as superintendent in Kansas City for nearly four years, helping the school system earn provisional accreditation from the state, balance three consecutive budgets and pass financial audits, and stabiKaterina Taylor lize enrollment. The district’s headquarters is at 1701 Mountain Industrial Blvd. Contact Emily Yang at eyang@dekalbchamber.org or 404-378-8000, Ext. 234. Leadership DeKalb, Parent Councils United and Junior League of DeKalb County are co-hosting a 6-to-8 p.m. reception at 716 W. Trinity Place. Register at http://www.eventbrite.com/e/welcomereception-for-dr-r-stephen-green-dekalb-schoolssuperintendent-tickets-17344620226.

Lithonia, Lakeside to receive GHSA honor Lithonia and Lakeside high schools are among 48 GHSA members that will receive the 2015 Cooperative Spirit Sportsmanship Award. Lithonia was Region 6 winner in Class AAAA, and Lakeside was Region 2 winner in Class AAAAAA. The award honors schools that demonstrated exemplary sportsmanship during the 2014-2015 school year, said Gary Phillips, executive director of the nonprofit Georgia High School Association. “Sportsmanship is an essential element in the mission of education-based athletics,” Phillips said. “Good

sporting behavior involves many important values that influence the behavior of productive citizens.” Since 2006, the GHSA and Georgia electric membership corporations have sponsored the award that reinforces the GHSA philosophy: “Students, athletes, coaches, spectators and all others associated with high school activities programs should adhere to the fundamental values of respect, fairness, honesty and responsibility.” Awards are presented at fall athletic events and school assemblies. For complete list, visit www.ghsa.net.

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CrossRoadsNews

July 25, 2015

People

“He played a vital role in human and race relations and was a mentor to other blacks coming up in administration.”

Eugene Thompson, a giant in race relations during turbulent ’60s May 9, 1931-July 12, 2015

Eugene Thompson retired from the School District in the 1990s after about 30 years.

Eugene Thompson, who helped guide the DeKalb County School System during its desegregation in the late 1960s, has died. Thompson, who rose from a physical education teacher at the black-only Bruce Street School in Lithonia to assistant area superintendent and district associate superintendent, died July 12 in Southfield, Mich., after an extended illness. He was 84. DeKalb School Board Chairman Melvin Johnson, who was mentored by Thompson at the district, called him a giant in race relations. “He played a vital role in human and

race relations and was a mentor to other blacks coming up in administration,” Johnson said. After DeKalb’s dual education system was challenged in court in 1968 by a black parent, Eugene Pitts, the courts ordered it to desegregate, leading to the closure of the black-only schools – Bruce Street in Lithonia, Lynwood Park in Decatur and Hamilton High in Scottdale. Over the next 27 years, Thompson went from assistant area superintendent for the south to affirmative development director, training and overseeing a new crop of first-time African-American administrators, among them Johnson, Dr. Edward Bouie, Jesse Dixon and Narvie Harris.

Johnson said Thompson’s legacy was making sure that African-Americans were ready to assume the new administrative opportunities that came with desegregation. “He got us all ready and prepared to do the job,” he said. “And we had to do right. We represented the black race and we had to be ready.” Thompson came to DeKalb Schools in 1963 with a bachelor’s degree from Fort Valley State University and a master’s from Columbia University. He retired in the 1990s after about 30 years with the district. Thompson was buried July 23 in Detroit. He is survived by his daughter, Monique Thompson, and sister Josephine Knighten.

Durley named a ‘Champion of Change’ for environmental advocacy The Rev. Gerald Durley, former pastor of Providence Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta, has been recognized by the White House as a “Champion of Change” for his efforts in protecting the environment and communities from the effects of climate change. Durley was among 11 faith leaders receiving the honor at a July 20 event Gerald Durley that featured remarks by Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Gina McCarthy and Brian Deese, senior adviser

to President Barack Obama. The honorees “demonstrated clear leadership across the United States and around the world through their grass-roots efforts to green their communities and educate others on the moral and social justice implications of climate change.” Champions of Change was created as an opportunity for the White House to feature individuals who inspire members of their communities. McCarthy said the EPA was excited to recognize “extraordinary people of faith” from around the country who are acting to protect the planet from harmful climate

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CrossRoadsNews

July 25, 2015

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