CrossRoadsNews, July 18, 2009 - Section A by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

BACK TO SCHOOL

SPORTS

The word has come down from the DeKalb County School System. Items such as bare midriffs, sagging pants and clothing bearing racy slogans will not be tolerated. B1

With the first day of the new school year just a few weeks away, workers are busy prepping three DeKalb schools in their new locations. B6

The Decatur Court Kings came up short in their quest for the WBA championship, but some players got even better – NBA scouts who took notice. A10

Dress well or else!

Schools on the move

July 18, 2009

Reaching new heights

www.crossroadsnews.com

Volume 15, Number 11

County failed to provide resources for Recorders Court By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

The loss of millions of dollars in uncollected revenues and existence of a warrant “black hole” at the DeKalb Recorders Court exist because of long-standing inaction on the part of DeKalb County government, county documents show. The court, which processes more than 230,000 citations annually and projects revenues of $21.4 million in 2009, collects fines for traffic and code violations. It has been under intense scrutiny for the loss of more than $20 million in uncollected fines, and for the actions of 11 rogue employees who allegedly ran side businesses

“Recorders Court’s short fallings, however, stem from inadequate staffing, facilities, funding and technology, all of which have been brought to the attention of the previous and the current administrations.” Chief Judge Joy R. Walker, DeKalb County Recorders Court

collecting cash and favors for themselves to settle traffic citations. At a June 30 press conference, CEO Burrell Ellis said it is important for county government to begin the process of “re-establishing the DeKalb County Recorders Court’s judicial and financial integrity and its ability to fulfill its

responsibilities to the county and its citizen.” Ellis’ statements followed the June 25 indictments by District Attorney Gwen Keyes Fleming of 11 people – including four former Recorders Court employees – who fixed traffic tickets for cash and store credits, and a DeKalb Grand

Jury’s subpoena of financial documents from the Recorders Court other county departments. During the press conference, Ellis laid the blame for the court’s problems on Chief Judge Joy Walker and Chief Clerk Joyce Head. “It is clear to me that was a responsibility of the chief clerk by statute and the chief judge was not entirely clear in terms of her responsibility to the administration of these things,” he said. But correspondence dating back to 2003 – obtained by CrossRoadsNews – between Chief Judge Joy Walker and court staff and the administrations of CEOs Vernon Jones and Ellis, paint a

picture of county officials erecting obstacles to or ignoring the Recorders Court’s efforts to serve arrest warrants and increase its collection of fines. In letters and memos, Walker, the court’s chief judge, tried repeatedly to get staff, space, technology and other resources to improve the court’s efficiency, serve warrants and collect fines – but was repeatedly denied. Even when Walker pointed out the millions of dollars that could be collected in fines, county officials turned a blind eye. In a July 3 statement followPlease see WALKER, page A4

Celebrating a Link to Ancestry

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Trip to Sapelo Island replete with ceremony, emotion

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

When 50 members of First Afrikan Presbyterian Church went to Sapelo Island on July 10 and 11, the trip was filled with prayer, reflections, music and dance. As part of the church’s annual ancestral walk, members paid

homage to their African ancestry with visits to the Gullah people who have lived continuosly on the island since the 1840s, and pledged support in their fight to keep their land. Above, Elder Itihari Toure and other church members

launched toy boats in the ocean in memory of the Africans who survived the grueling Middle Passage on the slave ships that brought them to America. Story, page A9

CrossRoadsNews

July 18, 2009

HUGE WEEKEND USED CAR SALE! MALCOLM CUNNINGHAM AUTO GROUP’S

OUR ENTIRE INVENTORY HAS BEEN REDUCED FOR THIS SPECIAL USED CAR EVENT!

2 LOCATIONS! 2X THE INVENTORY! $

BUY WITH

FINANCE RATES

CREDIT EXPERTS ON-SITE...

0 DOWN!

AS LOW AS

2.9% APR!

OVER $10 MILLION TO LEND!

Example. 1999 Ford Mustang, STK#9304A. Sale Price $4995 Buy for $90.21 per month for 72 months at 5.99% APR with $0 down plus tax, tag and title.

For a limited term with approved credit.

USED 2008’S ON SALE! LIKE NEW! 2008 Pontiac G6

2006 JAGUAR X-TYPE STK#P8934

14,995

2008 DODGE DURANGO STK#P8862

15,995

Auto, CD, STK#176130

2008 CHEVROLET IMPALA Leather, Sunroof, STK#P8929

2006 NISSAN MAXIMA SE

16,888

2008 FORD ESCAPE Leather, Sunroof, STK#96022A

16,995

Sunroof, CD, STK#M8151

2008 FORD EDGE

17,995

2006 CADILLAC SRX STK#P8869

V6, CD, STK#205393

2005 CADILLAC CTS

17,995

STK#M37787

24K Miles, STK#P8919

17,995

2005 MERCEDES-BENZ ML350 STK#G8064

19,995

All offers plus tax, tag and title with approved credit. Offers cannot be combined. See dealer for details. Offers expire date of publication.

“We Make It Easy” I-20, EXIT WESLEY CHAPEL TO SNAPFINGER WOODS DR • DECATUR

1-800-640-9458 More Inventory at

SALES HOURS: MON-FRI 9AM-9PM SAT 9AM-8PM • SUN CLOSED PARTS & SERVICE HOURS MON-FRI 7AM-7PM SAT 7AM-4PM • SUN CLOSED COLLISION & BODY SHOP HOURS: MON-FRI 8AM-6PM SAT 8AM-1PM • SUN CLOSED TAKE THE WESLEY CHAPEL EXIT OFF I-20 TO SNAPFINGER WOODS DRIVE

Low Miles, STK#M8158

13,995

2008 Dodge Charger

13,995

175,000

2009 Ford Focus SES STK#P8917 ..............................$14,999 2007 Ford Mustang STK#75227268 ..........................$14,999 2009 Ford Fusion SE STK#P8851................................$15,888 2006 Ford F-250 STK#98110B ......................................$15,995 2007 Ford Escape XLT STK#P8907............................$15,999 2008 Ford Mustang Deluxe STK#P8902 ..............$15,999 2008 Ford Escape XLT STK#P8908............................$16,500 2005 Ford F-150 FX4 STK#P8850 ..............................$16,888 2005 Ford Expedition Eddie Bauer Rear Ent, STK#P8906A ..$16,995 2005 Ford Expediton XLT STK#P8933....................$16,999 2008 Ford Escape XLT STK#P8881............................$17,888 2008 Ford Explorer XLT STK#P8868 ........................$17,999 2007 Ford F-150 XLT STK#P8865................................$17,999 2007 Nissan Murano S STK#P8905 ..........................$18,288 2006 Ford F-150 STK#P8931 ........................................$18,299 2009 Ford Mustang STK#P8903..................................$18,888 2009 Ford Mustang STK#P8909..................................$18,999 2006 Infiniti G35 STK#P8911........................................$18,999 2006 Ford F-150 XLT STK#P8914................................$18,999 2007 Ford Edge SE STK#P8928 ..................................$19,288 2009 Ford Taurus SEL STK#P8886 ............................$19,888 2007 Ford F-150 XLT STK#P8889................................$19,888 2006 Ford Expedition XLT STK#P8930..................$20,588 2008 Ford F-150 XLT Stk#P8872 ................................$20,888 2008 Ford F-150 XLT Stk#P8876 ................................$20,888 2009 Ford Taurus Limited Stk#P8885 ....................$20,888 2006 Ford F-150 FX4 Stk#P8895 ................................$21,888 1966 Ford Mustang STK#00002 ..................................$29,900 2008 Ford Expedition Limited STK#P8901........$33,999 2009 Lincoln MKS STK#9G607509 ..............................$37,888 1969 Ford Mustang STK#00003 ................................$39,900 1967 Ford Mustang STK#00001 ..................................$48,900

2008 MAZDA5 Sport

STK#M8157

13,995

OR CHOOSE FROM OUR HUGE SELECTION OF OTHER PRE-OWNED

2002 2001 2006 2007 2005 2006 2007 2007 2007 2005 2005 2007 2006 2006 2004 2006 2006 2007 2006 2006 2007 2006 2007 2006 2006 2006

Ford Focus ZX3 STK#91027B ..............................................$4995 Ford Ranger Ext Cab V6, STK#94001A ..............................$5995 Pontiac Grand Prix Clean, Low Miles, STK#M8134 ........................$8995 Ford Focus SE Auto, STK#285636............................................$9995 MAZDA6 Spoiler, CD, STK#M8185 ............................................$10,995 Toyota Camry LE CD, STK#M8159 ....................................$11,995 MAZDA3i Touring STK#718740 ......................................$11,995 Toyota Corolla S Spoiler, STK#93008A ................................$11,995 Volkswagen Jetta Auto, CD, STK#M8126 ............................$11,995 Ford Escape XLT CD, STK#M8170 ....................................$12,995 Volvo S40 Leather, CD, STK#M8180 ........................................$12,995 Mercury Milan Premier V6, Leather, Sunroof, STK#M8133 ......$13,995 Nissan Maxima STK#P8926 ..........................................$16,895 Honda CR-V EX Loaded, STK#M8190 ..................................$16,995 Infiniti FX35 Loaded, STK#101301 ........................................$17,995 Mini Cooper S STK#93501A ............................................$18,995 Nissan Maxima Leather, Sunroof, CD, STK#M8187 ......................$18,995 Ford Explorer XLT CD, STK#M8179 ..................................$19,995 Infiniti G35 Leather, CD, STK#M8188 ......................................$19,995 Ford F-150 Crew Cab XLT Stk#M8181 ......................$19,995 Audi A4 Leather, Sunroof, CD, Stk#C1001 ......................................$19,995 Acura MDX Leather, CD, Sunroof, Stk#C1002 ..............................$20,995 Ford Expedition Loaded, Leather, Sunroof, Stk#C1003 ..................$20,995 Cadillac STS Loaded, Black Roof, STK#192049 ............................$20,995 Infiniti M35 Loaded, CD, STK#M8178 ......................................$26,995 Mercedes-Benz M-Class Loaded, Sunroof, CD, Stk#T6A108661 $26,995 All offers plus tax, tag and title with approved credit. Offers cannot be combined. See dealer for details. Offers expire date of publication.

Come in and take a test drive!

AT THE MALL AT STONECREST

1-800-641-1939

HOURS: Monday-Saturday 9am-8pm

www.MCAutoATL.com

5C (10.5”) x 16” 17021-MCFO (7-18) crossroads fc (mp)

1999 Ford Mustang STK#9304A ........................................$4995 2003 Ford Taurus Leather, Sunroof, STK#96044A ..............$5999 2005 Volkswagen Golf STK#98050A ..............................$6995 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Touring 53K Miles, STK#94555A ..$6995 2007 Kia Spectra EX STK#P8856......................................$6999 2007 Ford Focus SES STK#91025A ..................................$8888 2006 Ford Focus ZX4 STK#P8830....................................$8995 2008 Ford Focus SE STK#P8861........................................$8999 2007 Ford Focus STK#P8819 ..............................................$9995 2006 Toyota Tundra STK#P8814B ..............................$10,895 2006 Toyota Camry Solara STK#P8813..................$10,995 2008 Chrysler Sebring STK#P8913 ..........................$10,995 2008 Chrysler Sebring LX STK#P8877....................$10,788 2008 Hyundai Sonata Auto, STK#P8852 ..................$10,999 2007 Dodge Caliber SXT STK#P8932 ....................$10,999 2008 Dodge Avenger STK#P8924 ............................$11,388 2004 Ford F-150 Ext Cab V8, STK#98110A ............$11,999 2008 Ford Focus SE STK#P8884 ................................$12,450 2004 Toyota Camry LE STK#P8912A ........................$12,499 2006 Ford Fusion SE STK#P8857................................$12,488 2006 Ford Fusion SE STK#P8864................................$12,588 2004 Ford F-150 Lariat STK#P8843 ..........................$12,995 2007 Ford Fusion S STK#P8910 ..................................$12,999 2009 Ford Focus SE STK#P8825 ................................$12,999 2008 Ford Focus SE STK#P8883 ................................$13,388 2007 Ford Fusion SE STK#P8847................................$13,888 2008 Ford Focus SE STK#P8882 ................................$13,888 2008 Ford E-150 Cargo Van STK#P8904 ..............$13,395 2004 Jeep Wrangler 4X4 Soft Top, STK#P8891A ....$13,995 2007 Ford Mustang Leather, Shaker Stereo, STK#P8939 ....$13,995 2008 Dodge Durango STK#P8862 ............................$13,999 2007 Ford Econoline STK#P8880 ............................$13,999

2006 FORD GT STK#00004

11,995

12,995

2008 MAZDA6i Touring 2005 MERCEDES-BENZ C230

Auto, CD, STK#M8189

17,995

STK#P8925

2008 Nissan Sentra

2008 Ford Fusion SEL STK#P8897

11,995

16,995

STK#P8923

11,995

2006 LINCOLN ZEPHYR

Auto, STK#187844

10,995

15,995

2008 Hyundai Sonata STK#P8926

2008 Ford Focus SE

Community Decision due soon on former chief ’s firing Fired DeKalb Police Chief Terrell Bolton will find out by Aug. 19 whether he can reclaim his job as the county’s top cop. At the end of a six-and-a-half hour administrative hearing on July 15 at the county’s offices on Ponce De Leon Avenue, hearing officer Phyllis Williams said she would render her decision in 30 to 35 days. DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis Terrell Bolton fired Bolton on Feb. 24, alleging insubordination and misuse of county property and comp time. Bolton is appealing his dismissal from the job that paid him $162,000 year. During the hearing, which resumed after a June recess, Bolton – who was DeKalb’s police chief for more than two years – defended the actions for which he was fired. He said he was entitled to the 80 days of comp time in 2007 and 2008, holding onto seized and forfeited police vehicles, and giving his since-fired chief of staff Keisha Williams, a civilian, a fully loaded Crown Victoria and police uniform. Bolton testified that he was exempt from county procedures prohibiting police executives from taking compensatory time because former CEO Vernon Jones promised him comp time when he hired him in December 2006. “My deal was that I had followed the [comp time] policy as established by my boss,” he testified. “I was an executive and I was unique.” After the hearing, Bolton told the media that he was looking forward to being vindicated. He said he wanted his job back. Bolton was the Dallas police chief for four years before he was fired in August 2003. Jones hired Bolton even though he was not on the short list of candidates recommended by a search committee Jones had picked.

CrossRoadsNews

July 18, 2009

“My deal was that I had followed the [comp time] policy as established by my boss. I was an executive and I was unique.”

Convicted killer sentenced to life plus 5 years A 29-year-old on July 14 to two convicted felon who consecutive life sengunned down a man tences plus five years trying to protect his for the 2008 murder mother during a robof 36-year-old Mac bery, will spend the Mayer. McClarin rest of his life behind shot and killed Maybars. er on April 9, 2008, DeKalb County D. McClarin while McClarin was Superior Court Judge robbing his mother, Gail C. Flake sentenced De- Ad Mayer-Lillard, at gunpoint marcus McClarin of Lithonia in the parking lot of Belvedere

Theater on Columbia Drive in Decatur which she owned. Mayer died from a single shot in the back. McClarin had previously served at least three years in prison for illegally receiving and transporting firearms before he was released on Jan. 18, 2008. A DeKalb jury convicted McClarin on June 26 on seven

felony charges including malice murder, felony murder, armed robbery, two counts of aggravated assault, possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Assistant district attorneys Courtney L. Johnson and Zina B. Gumbs prosecuted the case.

Suspects in separate murder cases arrested in DeKalb Two murder suspects are being held in the DeKalb County Jail without bond. DeKalb Sheriff’s deputies arrested 34-year-old Thomas B. Sanders on Tuesday and nabbed 24-year-old Emmanuel Lewis Spinks of Stone Mountain on June 9. Both men were arrested on Thomas Sanders charges of gunning down victims earlier this year. Sanders, whose city of residence is unknown, allegedly murdered Malinowsky Duranteoyoki Harris of Decatur on July 4 after the two got in an argument inside the Shell gas station on Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur. Minutes after both men left the store, shots were fired and Harris E. Lewis Spinks was shot in the head and back. He was pronounced dead after being transported to Grady Hospital in Atlanta. On July 14, officers spotted Sanders in a black truck and followed him to several locations before they arrested him at his 16-year-old girlfriend’s house on Athens Lane in Atlanta.

Authorities believe that Spinks shot 21-year-old Charles Patton of Decatur to death on May 11 near Patton’s residence on Creste Drive. The criminal arrest warrant says that in the days leading up to the victim’s death, Spinks allegedly

assaulted friends of the victim and said that he was coming after Patton and his friends and family. Spinks was arrested without incident at the corner of Memorial Drive and Mountain Drive after a tip.

Fairington Club Condos 3 BR and 2 BA • All Appliances Included From $70,950 • Total Payments from $650 Grant Money Available and 3% Closing Costs Andre' Todd, Builder Rep 404-379-9837 or 404-243-1835

www.NewHomesGeorgia.com

SNIFF OUT SAVINGS Dogs come to our rescue all the time. That’s why it only makes sense to have them help us search for energy savings. Clyde knows that ENERGY STAR® qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) use three-quarters less electricity, generate 75% less heat, and last up to 10 times longer than incandescent lighting. Find more ways to sniff out savings at GeorgiaPower.com.

DeKalb County Human Development Department

ACCEPTING HUMAN SERVICES GRANT APPLICATIONS FOR 2010 The DeKalb County Human Development Department is accepting Human Services grant applications for the upcoming year for General Funds and Victim Assistance Funds from non-profit organizations. Starting June 26, 2009, applications will be available Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Human Development Department located at 39 Rogers Street, N.E., Atlanta, Georgia 30317. Applications will also be available electronically by visiting www.co.dekalb.ga.us, clicking on the “Departments” link, and going to “Human Services.” Only applications from incorporated non-profit organizations with a taxexempt status will be considered. These organizations must also meet other guideline criteria for consideration.

EarthCents programs from Georgia Power benefit the environment.

Applicants must have a prevention or early intervention focus and meet an urgent community need for consideration. Services provided must address issues related to economically disadvantaged individuals, families and children, youth, or seniors adults including under-served and difficult-to-serve populations. For more information on the grant applications, please call Lisa Thomas at 404-270-1176 or Jewell Collins at 404-270-1174. For information on obtaining victim assistance program certification, please contact the State of Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council at 404-657-1956. Completed applications must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 31, 2009 in order to be considered for 2010 funding. Applications will not be accepted after the deadline. ©2009 Georgia Power.

Community

CrossRoadsNews

July 18, 2009

“Since my employment as Chief Judge in 2002, I have made numerous requests to the administration for improvements at the Recorders Court.”

Court’s requests for more resources repeatedly ignored 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 Staff Writer McKenzie Jackson Advertising Sales Cynthia Blackshear

CrossRoadsNews is published every Thursday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsN ews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

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.

L L CA S! CA ES! O O L L IC OD RV GO E S

www.eastmetromarket.com

WALKER,

from

ing Ellis’ press conference, Walker pointed out that no staff or judge of Recorder’s Court is the target of the grand jury subpoena and the request for documents never alleged any wrongdoing at Recorders Court. “Nor does the alleged improper conduct of one or more individuals reflect a problem with ‘judicial and financial integrity’ in Recorder’s Court,” she said. She said that since her arrival at the court in 2002, she and the staff have been working tirelessly to improve customer service and the court’s efficiency. “Recorders Court’s short fallings, however, stem from inadequate staffing, facilities, funding and technology, all of which have been brought to the attention of the previous and the current administrations,” she said.

Warrants not a priority Among the documents requested by CrossRoadsNews is a Feb. 23, 2007, memo to then-county administrator Richard Stogner, which was copied to finance director Mike Bell, then-Police Chief Eddie Moody and assistant county administrator Morris Williams. In it, Walker asked for help collecting more than $25 million in outstanding warrants, including fines and fees. The memo said that in June 2002, Recorders Court ended its contract with Dan Haggerty and Associates Inc. for the collection of outstanding civil warrants to move the process in-house beginning in the year 2003. “To that end, Recorders Court requested three additional posi-

tions to continue the collection,” she said, adding that two positions were approved in the 2003 budget. “The Police Department has now informed me that ‘petty offense’ warrants are not a priority for their department because of the CEOs new initiative to get more police on the street serving felony and misdemeanor warrants,” she said. Walker said that historically, the police department disposed of “one million plus” warrants a year for Recorders Court, either in the form of cash or incarceration. “The absence of our main incentive (incarceration) puts the collection of those funds in jeopardy,” she said. “At best, our contribution to the General Fund will be diminished, as well a s our ability to provide services necessary to be functional.” Even then, five years before e2 Assure’s 31-page performance review of the court in 2008, Walker pointed out that the court had “an excess of $25 million in outstanding warrants, inclusive of fines and warrant fees.” Walker tried to use the DeKalb Marshal’s Office to serve the warrants but was turned down by State Court Chief Judge Matthew Robbins. In a letter dated March 21, 2003, he said the Marshal’s duties could not be expanded to serve as a “police agency” for the Recorders Court. “Since the inception of the State Court, the Marshal’s office has been responsible for and limited to the service of only civil process,” Robbins wrote. “In pursuit of that purpose our Marshal’s Office does not even serve our arrest warrants.” When Walker sought the help of the Sheriff ’s Office, she was told that it could not spare any officers

“due to the high volume of felony warrants that needed execution.” She next tried to use off-duty police officers to serve the warrants, but two county attorneys issued legal opinions “strongly” counseling against it. In a Feb. 11, 2004, memorandum, assistant county attorney Amil C. Johnson said “there are significant liability concerns related to the actions of off-duty officers who execute arrest warrants and we would strongly counsel against creating this type of program.” “More importantly though, it appears that state law prohibits the use of off duty officers to execute arrest warrants issued by the Recorders Court of DeKalb County.” Johnson went on to say that the law establishing the court specifically limits the kinds of officers who may execute such arrest warrants to DeKalb County police officers, sheriffs and deputy sheriffs of the state of Georgia. Eight days later, on Feb. 19, 2004, chief assistant county attorney Viviane H. Ernstes revised Johnson’s opinion and once again “strongly” counseled against using off-duty officers from other jurisdictions.

Positions never filled In November 2006, Walker offered a three-pronged proposal “to resolve the excessive amount of unresolved cases.” Among other things, she asked for coordination and cooperation from other county agencies, overtime pay, temporary workers and vendors, and for the Jones’ administration to direct support for the court’s efforts. “The other agencies’ respective goals and priorities have not

included this work in the past, so the Administration must make it a priority and goal by directing them to participate and granting them the resources to do so,” she said. The proposal asked for a kickoff meeting with the administration, police department, court officials, sheriff ’s office, law department and communications office and collection efforts on a permanent basis. She stressed, “the cooperation for the Police Department would be critical to this effort.” Three years later, Walker was still in search of the positions to serve the court’s warrants. To her inquiries about the positions in spring 2007, court administrator Terry G. Phillips confirmed in a March 19, 2007, e-mail that four Warrant Program Officer positions approved for Recorders Court in the 2004 budget and created as Police Officers positions 10516 to 10519 “are all vacant and have never been filled.” By last December, Walker was outlining the court’s challenges to then CEO-elect Burrell Ellis and telling him that more than 16,000 pending citations issued in 2008 had to rescheduled as far out as June 2009 because the court had no place to hold the hearings. In the Dec. 17 letter, she outlined problems with serving warrants, problems with information systems, and the need for updated technology to serve warrants. “Since my employment as Chief Judge in 2002, I have made numerous requests to the administration for improvements at the Recorders Court,” she said. “Each and every request that I have made has been denied by the DeKalb County’s Finance Department and the Board of Commissioners.”

Quick Read

Decision due soon on former Georgia’s 1st swine flu death Free screenings available at chief’s firing A3 confirmed A7 area health centers B3 Fired DeKalb Police Chief Terrell Bolton will find out by Aug. 19 whether he can reclaim his job as the county’s top cop.

Georgia’s first death from the H1N1 virus was confirmed lat week by the Georgia Department of Community Health.

Free health screenings and vaccinations will be available for DeKalb elementary school students on August 5 at Knollwood Elementary School in Decatur.

Surge in tax appeals taking Dozier picked by NBA’s Miami toll on panel’s budget A5 Heat A8 New principals to balance ratings among schools B4 With a surge in appeals of property tax Former Lithonia High School basketball assessments, the DeKalb Board of Equalization may exhaust its $63,000 budget by the end of August.

star Robert Dozier was selected in the second round of the NBA draft on June 25.

Twenty-four DeKalb schools will have new leadership when the first bell rings Aug. 10 on the 2009-2010 school year.

Schools to crack down on Commissioners ink deal for dress code violations B1 Schools relocate as part of parking near court A5 system consolidation B6 Starting Aug. 10, sagging pants, plungStarting this fall, consumers will have to pay to park when they go to the DeKalb Recorders Court or the County Jail.

ing necklines and other revealing attire, and clothing with slogans will be outlawed at all DeKalb County schools.

Three South DeKalb schools will be in different places when school opens this fall.

Mall concert offers rap, hip Guilty plea entered in 5-year Tax-free days help bolster hop, r&b B7 Ponzi scheme A6 finances in down economy B2 A host of young hip-hop stars will take the A former real estate and business law attorney has pleaded guilty to charges of orchestrating a $2 million Ponzi scheme.

Just in time for back-to-school shopping, the annual tax-free shopping days will be here July 30 to Aug. 2.

stage at the third annual “Meet the BEAT” Back-to-School concert on July 25 at the Mall at Stonecrest.

index to advertisers

Circulation Audited By Alpha Climate Control...................................A10 Avondale Tire & Service LLC......................... A11 Brock Tours & Travel.................................... A11 DeKalb Convention & Visitor’s Bureau........... A5 DeKalb Co. Human Development Dept..........A3 DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office....... A9 Diversified Marketing Service Inc....................A3 Ella’s Caring Hands Adult Day Care.............. A11

Fairington Condos..........................................A3 Fletcher’s Place.............................................. A4 Georgia Power................................................A3 Housing Authority of Dekalb County............. A6 Malcolm Cunningham Ford........................... A2 New Jersusalem Outreach Ministries............. A9 Newburn Reynolds Photography.................. A11 Service 1st Auto Care.................................... A11

Steps to a Healthier DeKalb............................A7 Wal-Mart.......................................................A12 Wireless Global Solutions............................. A11 Wright, James & Boston P.C........................... A6

– Back to School Section –

Adoption & Family Expo.................................B7 BaSix Knowledge Academy........................... B4

Eulla Master Stylist......................................... B4 Fidel’s Kiddie Salon........................................ B6 Harper & Associates Family Medicine PC...... B6 New Generation Learning Center.................. B4 North Georgia Orthodontics...........................B3 Northeast Performing Arts Group.................. B4 The Mall at Stonecrest................................... B8 The School Store........................................... B4

July 18, 2009

Community

CrossRoadsNews

South DeKalb’s ZIP code 30032, 30038 and 30058, which have been hard hit by foreclosures, had the most appeals.

Surge in property tax appeals taking toll on hearing panel’s budget By Mary Swint

With a surge in appeals of property tax assessments, the DeKalb Board of Equalization, the taxpayers last resort before going to court, may exhaust its $63,000 budget for board services for 2009 by the end of August. On July 14, D e Ka l b D i s trict Attorney G w e n Ke y e s F l em i n g a n d Robert Glover, the board’s vice chair, asked the Gwen K. Fleming DeKalb Board of Commissioners’ budget committee for up to $92,516 in additional funds to cover board members’ salaries, staffing and mail costs for the final four months of the year, which are the board’s busiest. The Board of Equalization hears

appeals from property owners who disagree with the Board of Tax Assessors. Property owners cannot sue the county over their property assessments without first going to the board or an arbitrator. As of July 5, property owners had filed 10,083 appeals of their assessments to the DeKalb Tax Assessors Office. The unprecedented number is a 63 percent increase over 2008. The total assessed value of the appeals is $3.7 billion. Hank Ruffin, the county’s interim chief appraiser, said the appeals are coming from all over the county but that Commission Districts 3 and 5 in South DeKalb and District 1 in northwest DeKalb dominate. South DeKalb ZIP codes 30032, 30038 and 30058, which have been hard hit by foreclosures, had the most appeals. ZIP code 30319 in Commission District 1 also had

high appeals. Of the appeals filed, only 514 were withdrawn and 20 were sent to arbitration. Historically, about 40 percent of the appeals end up at the Board of Equalization, whose members work part time. Keyes Fleming said that in 2008, the Board of Equalization handled 2,506 appeals, but this year they are on target to hear 4,000 to 5,000 appeals. Hearings on the 2009 appeals are expected begin in late August or September. Earlier this year the Board of Equalization worked on 1,500 appeals from the 2008 tax year and spent 80 percent of their 2009 budget by June 30. Keyes Fleming said board members, who served on average two days per month in 2008, are averaging four days per month this year. Last year, DeKalb Commissioners raised the daily stipend for

equalization board members from $40 to $60 because surrounding counties are paying more. To conduct an appeal hearing, Board of Equalization members split up into 13, three-member panels. Members meet in three hearing rooms in the Callaway Building so three panels meet in the morning and three in the afternoon, at a salary cost of $1,080 a day. To meet the increased demand for appeals, Keyes Fleming said the board will try to hear more cases per day by reducing the hearings from 20 minutes to 15. The district attorney, whose office oversees the Board of Equalization, proposed two options for funding its operations for the last four months of 2009. Both included $5,400 for staff and more than $24,400 for mailing property owners some 4,093 scheduling notices by regular mail and

another 4,093 decisions by certified mail, as required by law. One option assumes every panel is fully staffed and works every available day, costing the county $62,640 in board member salary. The second option calls for $34,500 for member salaries, assuming fewer hearings by November and pushing payments for December hearings to January 2010. The county tax assessors anticipated this year would be very unusual when the number of property tax returns – stating the owners’ estimates of their property values – quadrupled to 8,100. The deadline for filing the returns was March 1 before the statewide property tax assessment freeze was signed into law in April. Ruffin, the chief appraiser, said the taxpayers exhibit widespread dissatisfaction with their assessments.

Commissioners ink short-term deal for parking near Recorders Court Starting this fall, consumers will have to pay to park when they go to the DeKalb Recorders Court or the County Jail. As expected, the DeKalb Board of Commissioners awarded a contract to AAA Parking to design a system to better manage four public parking lots in the Camp Circle area as part of a four-month pilot program this fall. The four lots, which have been described as chaotic, have about 460 parking spaces near Recorders

Court, the county jail and the criminal division of the Magistrate’s Court on or near Camp Circle. David Fisher, the county’s director of the Facilities Management, told commissioners that the proposed $3 fee was merely a suggestion. Responding to a question from Commissioner Lee May, Fisher said that even though the RFP for the contract and the four bids used a $3 fee in comparing cost estimates, the fee may be a fixed rate or based

on time of service. He said the commissioners will be asked to approve the parking fee. The bid from AAA Parking would guarantee the county $10,000 each month plus 80 percent of gross revenues that exceed $26,000 per month. The estimated annual revenue for the county would be $561,600, based on an estimated $3 fee and 24,000 vehicles being parked per month.

Without the commissioners’ approval of any parking fees, May wondered if revenue estimate was “putting the cart before the horse.” Fisher said other computer models with different parking fees and number of cars showed the AAA Parking bid generating the most revenue for the county. Commissioner Jeff Rader said there was a great potential for raising revenue when parking is a scarce resource. He asked Fisher

to involve the board in setting the fees. The vote was 6 to 1, with May abstaining. The four parking lots are located east of County Jail with 100 spaces, south of Bobby Burgess Building with 93 spaces, east of Bobby Burgess Building with 50 spaces and south of old Juvenile Court with 225 spaces. They serve the courts, jail and any other offices in the Camp Circle area.

CrossRoadsNews

Finance

July 18, 2009

Georgia has seen a 65 percent increase in joblessness between June 2008 and 2009.

Unemployment continues to climb as state’s jobless rate tops 10 percent mission Michael ThurGeorgia’s unemploymond had hoped for a ment rate is now in decline. double digits. He said Wednesday In June, the state’s that with 483,394 jobless unemployment rate workers, Georgia is in the climbed to 10.1 percent, midst of a deepening ecothe highest on record. nomic crisis. The rate was 9.6 perJune unemployment cent in May. Nationally, 9.5 per- Michael Thurmond statistics for DeKalb County were not available at cent of Americans are out of work. June was the 20th press time, but in May the county’s consecutive month that Georgia’s rate increased to 9.4 percent after unemployment rate has been an 8.8 percent unemployment rate in May. There were 35,798 unemhigher than the national rate. The climb in the rate continues ployed people in DeKalb in May. With the jump in unemployeven though Georgia Labor Com-

COMING THIS FALL THE TERRACES AT PARKVIEW 6800 PARKVIEW TRAIL LITHONIA GA, 30058 THE HOUSING AUTHORITY OF DEKALB COUNTY (HADC) IS NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR ONE (1) TWO (2) AND THREE (3) BEDROOM UNITS FOR THE TERRACE AT PARKVIEW PROJECT BASED WAITING LISTS. Applicants may apply at the following locations:

Monday - Friday 8am to 5pm 750 Commerce Drive Suite 201 Decatur GA, 30030 OR

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 8am to 5pm 3218 Tobie Circle Scottdale, GA 30079

Please visit the HADC website @ www.dekalbhousing.org for more information on this property. WAITING LIST WILL CLOSE JULY 22ND, 2009 AT 5:00 PM

Long lines at job fairs bring home the extent of joblessness that continues to plague Georgia.

McKenzie Jackson / CrossRoadsNews

ment, Georgia has seen a 65 percent increase in joblessness between June 2008 and 2009. The number of people now getting unemployment insurance is 160,249 or 33 percent of the jobless. Those getting extended federal benefits number 93,000.

Thurmond said Georgia leaders should develop a bi-partisan recovery plan focusing on three critical elements – protecting vulnerable citizens, including the children, elderly and sick; encouraging economic development investments that promote job creation, and

future prosperity and educational institutions. While the statewide job losses came in professional and business services, trade, transportation and warehousing, healthcare and educational services, showed a combined increase of 12,000 jobs.

Guilty plea entered in 5-year Ponzi scheme A former McDonough real estate and business law attorney has pleaded guilty to federal charges of orchestrating a $2 million Ponzi scheme over the last five years. Steven H. Ballard now faces up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $250,000. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Thomas W. Thrash Jr. on Sept. 29 at 10 a.m. Ballard, 53, tendered his guilty plea on July 9 in federal district court. The real estate investment scam defrauded dozens of victims in Georgia, Florida and Tennessee. U.S. Attorney David E. Nahmias said real estate investors in the three states relied on Ballard, who was the attorney in control of their escrowed funds, to use their money to purchase properties and make investments he promised. Instead, Nahmias said, he repaid prior investors and diverted funds

for his personal benefit. “For that criminal violation of trust, he will soon face a prison sentence,” he said. Tracy Lawson, the Clayton County District Attorney, said he is gratified that the U.S. Attorney’s Office pulled together the many victims in the fraud case. “In Clayton County alone, our victims lost over $200,000,” he said, “but there were more victims spread out well beyond our county limits, and now the federal prosecution and this plea addresses the justice that these victims deserve.” The case against Ballard showed that between September 2002 and May 2006, he collected more than $2 million through his investment scheme that stole from investors in Dunwoody, Duluth, Fayetteville, Jackson, Jonesboro, Newnan, Palmetto, Peachtree City, and Whitesburg in Georgia, and in Florida

and Tennessee. He told the victims that he was making “lucrative” real estate and other investments, which were not actually transacted. He often used bogus HUD-1 settlement statements, warranty deeds and sales contracts to reflect non-existent property purchases, while using the money to repay former victim investors. The repayments included their principal plus substantial “returns” often exceeding 50 percent of the initial investment, but those repayments were all funded with money from new victim investors. The State Bar of Georgia suspended Ballard’s law license in September 2005, and he was disbarred in May 2006. Ballard was charged in June 2009 with one count of wire fraud, which encompasses the entirety of his five-and-a-half year scheme.

July 31 is the deadline to get a digital TV coupon The last chance to get a $40 DTV converter box coupon is nearing and the DTV Assistance Centers and the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights Education Fund are urging families to apply for one before the July 31 deadline. The $40 government coupon allows owners of television sets that went black with the June 12 conversion to digital television to purchase a converter box so they can get a signal. Older television sets that use antennas are not compatible with the new digitial signals that televisions stations now transmit. With the coupons, consumers can pay $9 to $19 for the digital converter boxes that cost from $49 to $59. The box converts digital overthe-air television signals into analog, enabling older television sets to receive them. Coupons are valid for 90 days after they are issued. They are transferable, meaning they can be given to others. For more information, visit www.dtv2009.gov or call 1-888388-2009.

Wellness

“Fighting cancer is a difficult, challenging journey, but with the help of trained American Cancer Society patient navigators, people don’t have to go through it alone.”

Drug company funds advocate for cancer patients Cancer patients now have a dedicated friend at DeKalb Medical. The Decatur hospital added a fulltime American Cancer Society patient navigator in May to its Charles B. Eberhart Cancer Center, which serves 500,000 cancer patients annually. The position, held by award-winning health professional and social worker Kamilah Konrad, is funded by a $10 million grant from pharmaceutical manufacturer AstraZeneca to the American Cancer Society. Konrad comes to the position with more than 11 years of health care experience working for the American Cancer Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, and Atlanta Medical Center. Patient navigators provide emotional support for cancer patients who visit the medical center for treatment. They also ensure that patients have transportation to and from appointments.

DeKalb Medical, which is also building a cancer center at its Hillandale campus in Lithonia, is the first of nine Georgia hospitals to enter into a three-year patient navigator agreement with the American Cancer Society. It is among more than 23 hospitals nationwide that received funds from AstraZeneca to place a navigator on their staff. The company expects to place at least 50 Patient Navigator Programs over a five-year period in communities across the United States. Paula Mohen, the American Cancer Society’s South Atlantic Division’s CEO, said a cancer diagnosis is a life-changing experiPaula Mohen ence for patients, their families and their caregivers. “Our patient navigator is able to

provide support every step of the way, from explaining what to expect with chemotherapy, to making sure patients have transportation to and from appointments,” she said. “Fighting cancer is a difficult, challenging journey, but with the help of trained American Cancer Society patient navigators, people don’t have to go through it alone.” Betty Castellani, who directs the Charles B. Eberhart Cancer Center, said they are grateful for the funding which will extend the reach of the patient navigator program. Betty Castellani “ This prog r am proactively reaches patients who are most in need of specialized services and support, providing the critical link to local resources that will improve their outcomes and quality of life,” she said.

Study looks at health status of Georgia’s men Cancer, stroke and heart disease account for 53 percent of all male deaths in Georgia, a new report by the Georgia Commission on Men’s Health finds. The “2009 Men’s Health Report: A Comprehensive Look at the Status of Men’s Health in Georgia,” released July 7, reports on incidences of disease, injury and death affecting Georgia’s men. The 27-page study, which compiled men’s health statistics from 2000-2006, says unintended injury accounts for 27 percent of the male deaths in Georgia, followed by suicide, chronic lung problems, diabetes, chronic kidney problems

CrossRoadsNews

July 18, 2009

and the flu. It found most Georgia men do not eat the recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables, that one in every five men smokes cigarettes, that lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in men, and that black men are disproportionately affected by prostate cancer. The study also found that metro Atlanta counties have lower death rates due to major cardiovascular disease, cancer and external causes than the state’s rural areas, and that nearly 43 percent of men report being overweight and 29 percent say they are obese.

Dr. Waldo Floyd, chairman of the nine-year-old Georgia Commission on Men’s Health, said its vision is to establish substantial changes in the health and wellbeing of men so that Georgia will serve as a model for other states. “We are challenging Georgians, to work with the Commission and its partners to engage communities in dialogue, while motivating them to seek solutions that address health issues and challenges faced by Georgia’s men,” he said. The report is available at Georgia Department of Community Health’s website, dch.georgia.gov.

Flip-flops can help keep the feel cool in summer, but they can also contribute to ailments like broken toes, abrasions and sprains.

Doctor to discuss foot protection As temperatures rise and the weather heats up, many people will stay cool by slipping on a pair of their favorite flip-flops before venturing outside. Unfortunately, many barbeques, pool parties and other enjoyable outdoor activities are also accompanied by painful foot ailments – cuts and abrasions, broken toes and painful sprains – attributed to flip-flop wear. The American Podiatric Medical Association says the lack of heel and arch support can also cause foot pain, not only for flip-flop

wearers, but also for runners, walkers and others enjoying outdoor summer activities or sports. On July 24, you can get up to speed on foot-related injuries, injury prevention and proper footwear at a talk presented by DeKalb Medical podiatrist Ingle El-Khashab. The two-hour talk starts at 5 p.m. in the Dr. Bobble Bailey Tower Auditorium on the Decatur campus at 2701 North Decatur Road. Light refreshments will be served. Registration and parking are free. Call 404-501-WELL (9355) to register.

Website offers kid-friendly health info Parents can get healthy living and food tips information for their children at www. MyFamilyHealthSpot.org website launched by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The kid-friendly online resource, unveiled June 30, offers healthy information for parents, teens and kids on everything from eating vegetables and fruits, to ways to cook healthy food, and health-conscious activities for kids. Lucy Klausner, the hospital’s child health promotion executive director, said most wellness sites focus separately on either adults or children.

“Research has shown that family participation is one of the most effective ways to incorporate a healthy lifestyle for children and young adults,” she said. The website offers a food and exercise log, educational articles, recipes and meal planners for parents, kids and teens. First aid and safety tips, games that teach children about their bodies, health education movies and a health headlines sections are also on the website Families can also track their exercise, food and body mass index and children’s nutrition and activity levels.

Georgia’s 1st swine flu death confirmed Georgia’s first death from the H1N1 virus was confirmed lat week by the Georgia Department of Community Health. The agency confirmed July 10 that a 43-year-old Cobb County woman died July 9 after becoming infected with the virus also known as a swine flu. It indicated that she had underlying health conditions. Dr. Rhonda Meadows, the Department of Community Health’s Commissioner and the state’s acting Public Health Director, said she is saddened by the death. “Although most of the individuals who have contracted the novel H1N1 virus so far, have had mild to moderate symptoms, this viral illness has claimed 170 lives in other states throughout the country,” she said. As of July 8, Georgia has confirmed 143 cases of the virus. People infected with the H1N1 virus experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover from their illness without complications. Symptoms of the virus are similar to seasonal influenza and include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body aces, possible nausea, extreme fatigue and vomiting, especially in children. DCH says the illness has been seen mostly in children and young adults with outbreaks in schools, childcare centers and residential camps. Complications from infection with this virus are most common in children and adults with underlying medical conditions and pregnant women. In preparation for flu season, which begins in the fall, the Department of Community Health, wants people to practice the ABC’s of flu prevention: n Wash hands regularly. n Remain home if you do become ill and follow the advice of your health care professional. n Connect with local health department and share what you learn with friends and family.

CrossRoadsNews

Sports

July 18, 2009

“An athlete like Julian only comes once every seven years. We are so blessed to have him on our team.”

Track stars proving their mettle on national stage By McKenzie Jackson

Robert Dozier played in 17 NCAA tournament games at Memphis.

Dozier signs with NBA’s Miami Heat By McKenzie Jackson

Former Lithonia High School basketball star Robert Dozier was selected in the second round of the NBA draft on June 25. The Miami Heat used the draft’s 60th and last pick to secure the 6-foot-9 forward, who played four seasons at the University of Memphis. During his Memphis career, the Tigers went 137-14 and played in 17 NCAA tournament games. During their remarkable 2007-08 season, which ended in a loss in the NCAA title game, Dozier started 36 of 37 games and averaged 9.2 points and 6.8 rebounds a game. This past season, he averaged 12.9 points and 7.5 rebounds, earning second-team All-Conference USA honors. He also graduated with a degree in interdisciplinary studies on May 9. Lithonia High coach Lewis Jones said he is proud of his former player. “It’s new and very exciting,” he said. “It makes me feel good.” Jones, Lithonia’s coach since 2002, said he had an inkling that Dozier would get drafted after he received a phone call from former Decatur High School coach Bob Rheinhart, now a scout for the Heat. “He called me and asked me a little bit about Robert and said they were probably going to take him in the second round,” he said. Jones describes Dozier as “the most selfless individual that I have coached.” “Whatever needed to be done, he would do,” he said. “Everyone scores, but he would do everything. If we needed a big rebound he would get it. Even at Memphis, whenever he left the game and went back on the bench there was a drop-off in energy.” Dozier is one of two secondround draft picks who will be attempting to make the team when Miami’s training camp begins in October. The Heat traded for Pat Beverly, a 6-foot-1 guard, who was selected by the Los Angeles Lakers with the draft’s 42nd pick. After graduating from Lithonia High School five years ago, Dozier played one year at Laurinburg Institute, a prep school in Laurinburg, N.C., and then enrolled in Memphis in 2005 after signing with the Tigers in November 2004.

One young local sprinter and a team of grade school-aged track & field athletes are showing off their skills on the national level. Ten-year-old 100m and 400m sprinter Julian Cameron of Conley and 50 athletes from the Decaturbased Mark Trail Flying Eagles, a squad of youth ages 6-18, have qualified for nationwide track events. Julian, a rising fifth-grader at Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta, competed in the USA Track & Field National Championships in Prince George’s County, Md., July 9-12, where he finished second in the 400-meter dash with a time of 59.4. The Flying Eagles will participate in the AAU National Junior Olympics in Des Moines, Iowa, on Aug. 1-8. Julian, a sprinter with Impact Athletics Track Club in Conyers, ranks third in the nation in the 400m dash and is sixth in the 100m dash in Georgia according to Elite Youth, a database of performances by thousands of athletes during the outdoor track and field season. Lynne Hampton, the owner of Impact Athletics Track Club, said Julian is a phenomenon, a scholar and a wonderful student-athlete. “An athlete like Julian only comes once every seven years,” Hampton said. “We are so blessed to have him on our team.” Julian said that his parents have

Julian Cameron of Conley ranks third in the nation in the 400m and sixth in Georgia in the 100m.

always stressed that schoolwork comes before anything else. “I understood that and knew that if I didn’t do well in school I couldn’t play sports,” he said. “So I did well in school.” Julian said that his father, Robert G. Cameron, who is stationed in Iraq, is his inspiration. Julian and his mother, Kisha Cameron, send him tapes of all Julian’s races. “Even though my dad is miles away, he still encourages me to do my best,” he said.

Marcellus Boykin (left) of the Mark Trail Flying Eagles qualified for AAU National Junior Olympics in the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay.

Eagles soar Flying Eagles’ boy and girl athletes qualified for the AAU National Junior Olympics in events such as the 100m, 200m, 400m, 4x100m, 4x400m, 4x800m, triple jump, 80m hurdles and discus. The Flying Eagles qualified during the AAU Area 6 National Qualifier Meet in Augusta June 25-28. One of the athletes who qualified was 9-year-old Marcellus

Court Kings season ends in semifinal game By McKenzie Jackson

The Decatur Court Kings’ basketball season ended one game shy of the WBA championship game. The Court Kings, a World Basketball Association semi-pro team, were knocked off 107-89 by the Tupelo Rock n Rollers in the WBA semifinals on July 2 at Bogan Park in Buford. The Buford Majic won the championship with a 95-93 win over the Rock n Rollers on July 3. Court Kings head coach Markeal King said the team had a successful season despite the loss. “Sometimes things don’t turn out how you wanted them to in life,” he said. “Hey, when the season first started I thought I was going to be Coach of the Year. I wanted to win a championship, but sometimes you come up short.” The Court Kings, the defending WBA champs, battled back from a double-digit deficit earlier in the third quarter to come within seven points with 5:18 left in the game before the Rock n Rollers pulled away to victory. Six-foot-eight shooting guard Bennie Lewis, 22, a former Benedict College (S.C.) player, led the Court Kings with 31 points, while Daryl Wilson scored 25 points to lead the Rock n Rollers. King said the Court Kings improved throughout the season. “I watched guys improve from game-to-game,” he said. “I watched guys take things I was teaching them and add it to their game, which is one of the main things we are here for, to get players exposure and develop them.” King said Lewis, who played at

Bennie Lewis (left) used his summer season with the Court Kings to work on driving to the basket off the dribble.

McKenzie Jackson / CrossRoadsNews

Benedict from the 2004-05 season to the 2008-09 season, was one player who got better each game. “Bennie was always a good player, but he added things to his game,” he said. “I had to tell him like to attack the basket every time. I have seen him game by game implement the things I was telling him.” Lewis finished the season as the 2009 WBA Rookie of the Year and made the first team All-WBA roster. Lewis said he improved in driving to the basket. “At school I was mainly a shooter, so I just worked on driving and taking people off the dribble,” he said.

King also said former Towers High School player Jamal Stokes improved this year. “He just went out there and played the game the way I instructed him too,” he said. “That is really good to see a player do and for them to have success at it.” Court Kings Martinis Woody and Darius Lane, who were Lewis’ college teammates, and 6-foot-10 center Marquis Wright, a former University of Alabama player, also picked up postseason recognition. Woody, a 6-foot-8 forward, was named to the All-WBA second team; Lane, a 5-foot-11 guard, and Wright were named to the AllWBA third team.

Boykin in the 100m, 200m and 4x100 m relay events. Marcellus, who attends Midway Elementary School, said it felt good to qualify for the national meet. “It is going to be a little challenging running against people from across the nation,” he said. “I’m excited. I’m looking forward to coming in first because this is my second time running at nationals.” At the 2008 national meet in Detroit, Mich., Marcellus finished fourth in the 100m. Last year, more than 30 Flying Eagles qualified for the national meet and the team came home with 16 awards. Marcellus grabbed first place in the 200m to qualify for the nationals. Keisha Boykin, his mom, said the team and their parents are excited to be heading to the nation’s heartland. “Usually we do pretty well,” she said. Flying Eagles coach Stephon Rivas said that each year more and more Flying Eagles are qualifying for the nationals. “We are very optimistic,” he said. “Right now we are just excited that all of our kids have qualified and we are just hoping they do their very best. We are just proud that we have qualified.” Rivas said the team wants to raise $2,0000 to $3,000 to fund the trip to Iowa. They are having a car wash on July 18 at 9:30 a.m. at National Tire & Battery, 4373 Snapfinger Woods Drive, Decatur. For more information, call Stephon Rivas at 404-213-7444.

GPC coach going into soccer Hall of Fame Georgia Perimeter College men’s soccer coach Marc Zagara will be inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association Soccer Hall of Fame in November. Zagara, GPC’s soccer coach for 18 seasons, was elected to the Marc Zagara Hall of Fame on July 8. Zagara, who has led the Jaguars soccer program since 1991, regularly has had the Jaguars ranked in the top 10 nationally. The Jaguars won the 2005 national championship and were runners-up in 2004 and 2007. The Jaguars finished fifth in 2006 and 2008 and have made the Elite Eight in eight of the past 13 years. Zagara, who coached at Finger Lakes Community College for seven years, has a 277-72-13 coaching record at GPC and a 352-147-19 record overall. While at GPC, he has coached 29 All-Americans and 12 players who have gone on to play professional soccer. Zagara, an associate professor, teaches business and computer science at GPC’s Dunwoody campus.

CrossRoadsNews

July 18, 2009

Ministry

In the 1950s, blacks owned nearly 3,000 of the island’s nearly 17,000 acres. Today, their share is reduced to 434 acres.

Speakers, concert among offerings at 2-day conference

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Elder Itihari Toure and Oyenike Osiapem lead members of First Afrikan Presbyterian Church on its 2009 Ancestral Walk through historic Hogg Hummock on Sapelo Island. Members visit different historic black communities annually.

Ancestral journey links members with past In historic Hogg Hummock on Sapelo Island, the Gullah people have lived since 1840s. The roads are unpaved – but residents say that keeps it authentic. The 47 people, including a dozen children, are the only residents left on the barrier island, 60 miles south of Savannah and accessible only by ferry. For their annual ancestral walk celebrating their African heritage, members of First Afrikan Presbyterian in Lithonia visited the Gullahs to hear their stories and pay their respects to the community’s elder. Fifty adults and children made the July 10-11 trip.

Reginald Hall, a spokesman for the Sapelo Island Cultural and Revitalization Society (SICARS) told them that in the 1950s, Reginald Hall blacks owned nearly 3,000 of the island’s nearly 17,000 acres. Today, their share is reduced to 434 acres. He said the remaining acreage is threatened annually by rising taxes, and developers who want to snatch it away to build expensive resorts. Sapelo Island is now a state

park and the Gullahs’ land is the only acreage not restricted from development. To lure back the people who have left, Hall said SICARS plans to build a cultural interpretative village depicting the way life used to be on the island. He said the village will provide 27 full-time jobs on the island for residents. SICARS is launching a $1.6 million capital campaign this month to build the center. The church presented SICARs with a check and pledged its support for the project. Two members who are lawyers also offered their legal services to the organization.

A bevy of speakers and performers will take the stage during the sixth annual “Steppin Into Praise & Worship” conference at New Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Decatur. The July 31-Aug. 1 event, which begins at 5:30 p.m. nightly is hosted by the church’s Arts and Music Ministry, and will feature a concert. On the f i r s t d a y, speakers will include New Piney Grove minister Lane Fields, evangelist MarMarcia Stokes cia Stokes of Marcia Stokes Global Ministries Inc. in Rex, minister Constance L. Abbott from WOW3 Ministry in Conyers, and pastor Michele Rucker from Dancing on the Promises International Ministries in Stone Mountain. Topics of discussion will be

“The Heart of Worship,” “Spiritual Warfare and Ministry,” and “Renewing of the Mind.” Roscoe Sales, an instructor with the Atlanta Ballet Company, will lead a workshop, and dinner will also be served. Admission to the conference is $20 per person or $15 per person in a group of 15 or more. The second day will include dance and music performances from New Mount Olive Baptist Church’s Vision Dancers, Love Life Christian Fellowship’s Essence of Grace Dancers, O.N.E. Dance Company, His Word in Motion’s dance ministry, Beulah Baptist Church’s dance ministry, More Art Ministry, St. Philip A.M.E.’s Ministry In Motion, and the New Piney Grove Arts Ministry. There will also be a dinner and reception program. New Piney Grove Missionary Baptist Church is at 2580 Snapfinger Road. For more information, call 404-288-5675.

New Jerusalem Outreach Ministries 5721 Miller Grove Rd Lithonia, GA

PASTOR’S 3RD ANNIVERSARY & APPRECIATION AND RENEWING OF WEDDING VOWS PROGRAM FOR PASTOR JULIUS EDMONDSON, SR. AND CO-PASTOR JULIA ARLENE EDMONDSON Saturday July 26, 2009 at 3:00pm Reception to be held at 7850 Fairfield Inn (Stonecrest Mall) following the program.

For additional information call 770-981-7408

Dance the Night Away AT THE Solicitor-General’s Ball

New Jerusalem Outreach Ministries 5721 Miller Grove Rd Lithonia, GA

PASTOR’S 3RD ANNIVERSARY & APPRECIATION AND RENEWING OF WEDDING VOWS PROGRAM FOR PASTOR JULIUS EDMONDSON, SR. AND CO-PASTOR JULIA ARLENE EDMONDSON

Saturday July 26, 2009 at 3:00pm

Reception to be held at 7850 Fairfield Inn (Stonecrest Mall) following the program. Dinner, Dance and Fashion Show for people 65 years and older For additional information call 770-981-7408 July 25, 2009, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road, Lithonia, GA 30058

The Sara Taylor Community Service Award will be presented to an individual over the age of 65 who exemplifies Sara’s commitment to community. Resource Fair, 5 p.m.-6 p.m. Elders can learn about valuable information and services. Free to Seniors, 65 years & older. RSVP Required to Attend the Ball. No admittance at the door. DEKALBCOUNTY GEORGIA

DeKalb County Solicitor-General Robert D. James, Jr.

To RSVP or for Sponsorship and Resource Fair information, please contact Artealia Gilliard at 404-371-4702 or email aagilliard@co.dekalb.ga.us

A10

CrossRoadsNews

July 18, 2009

One-order, one-invoice, multi-newspaper placement service! Reach more than 15 million households served by over 1,020 suburban and community newspapers around North America and Canada. 25-word ad starts at $240 weekly. Discount Contact Rates Available. For more information, call 404-284-1888 Autos DONATE YOUR CAR to SPECIAL KIDS FUND. Help Disabled Children With Camp and Education. Non-Runners OK. Quickest Free Towing. Free Cruise/Hotel Voucher. Tax Deductible. Call 1-866-448-3254. *Police Impounds For Sale! Toyota Camry 1999 only $1000! Honda Accord 1998 only $1000! Hondas, Toyotas, Nissans & More from $500! For Listings 800-366-0124 ext. L213 $500! HONDAS & TOYOTAS FROM $500! Buy Police Impounds & Repos! Acuras, Nissans, Chevys & more from $500! For Listings 800-366-0124 ext. L215

Business Opportunities WHAT RECESSION??? My Income is Exploding. Why? A Billion People ate Chocolate Yesterday! Find out what is in it for you! 1-866-457-3382 recorded information MAKE MONEY ONLINE. Great ground floor opportunity for creating your own business. Be your own boss. Visit www.zoe.ijango. biz or call 1-800-539-7027for more information. PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 Weekly Mailing Brochures from home. 100% Legit! Income is guaranteed! No experience required. Enroll Today! www. startmailingnow.com ALL CASH VENDING! Do you earn $800 in a day? Your own local candy route. Includes 25 Machines and Candy. All for $9,995. 800-893-1185 (Void in SD & MD) **Are You Making $1,500.00 + PER WEEK? ALL CASH VENDING! Incredible Income Opportunity! Snack-soda... Minimum $8K To $40K Investment Required. Excellent Quality Machines. 800962-9189 ACHIEVE FREEDOM, $100K in 100 Days. Cash to Door in Any Economy. Help yourself..your

family...others to create a dream lifestyle! www.MillionCashPlan. com 1-800-457-1112

Business Services Computer trouble? My Computer Works your personal Help Desk. Fast, safe and secure help 24/7 Sign up now get 6 months free back up. 888-375-8686

Education & Training HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA! Fast Affordable & Accredited. FREE Brochure. Call NOW! 1-800-5326546 Ext. 96 www.continentalacademy.com AIRLINES ARE HIRING - Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified -Housing Available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (888) 349-5387. Attend College Online from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Paralegal, *Computers, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. Call 800-488-0386 www.CenturaOnline.com

Employment Opportunities **2009 POSTAL JOBS!** $14 to $59 hour + Full Federal Benefits. No Experience Required. NOW HIRING! Green Card OK. 1-800913-4384 ext. 95 Earn $500.00 weekly assembling Angel Pins in the comfort of your home. No experience required. Call 1-413-303-0474 or visit www. angelpin.net PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 Weekly Mailing Brochures from home. 100% Legit! Income is guaranteed! No experience required. Enroll Today! www. startmailingnow.com $600 Weekly Potential$$$ Helping The Government PT. No Experience, No Selling. Call: 1-888-213-5225 Ad Code E. Void in Maryland and South Dakota. Government Jobs- $12-48.00/hr. Full Benefits/Paid Training. Work available In areas like Homeland Security, Law Enforcement,

Wildlife & more! 1-800-320-9353 Ext 2002 Mystery Shoppers Needed. Earn up to $150 per day. Undercover Shoppers needed to Judge Retail & Dining Establishments Experience Not Required. Call Now 1-877-218-6211 HELP WANTED Work at Home! Government Jobs. FT/PT, Data Entry, Admin/clerical, customer service, and variety of computer jobs. $12-$48/hr, full benefits, paid training. Call 1-888-2937370

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

Help Wanted Let’s Go! Travel USA with #1 Sales Group. Cash & Bonuses Daily, $500 Sign On Bonus, Fun & Casual. Start Today, Jan #888-361-1526, Help Wanted Earn Extra Income, assembling CD cases from home. Start immediately, No experience necessary. 1-800-405-7619 ext 1395 www. easywork-greatpay.com Force Protection Security Details. $73K - $220K Paid Training! Military/Police Exp. helpful but NOT REQUIRED. Kidnapping Prevention $250-$1,000/ day. Paid Expenses. Call

1-615-891-1163 Ext.733 www. rlcenterprises.net

Misc. For Sale “FEATHERWEIGHT MOTORIZED WHEELCHAIRS” Absolutely at NO cost to you if eligible!! Medicare,HMO’S & Private Insurance accepted. ENK Mobile Medical. 1-800-693-8896 (void Canada & Hawaii) PROTECT YOUR FAMILY Get a free GE alarm system with no installation fee and no equipment cost. Most homeowners will receive an insurance discount as well. Mention this ad and get 2 free keychain remotes! Promo code A02086 1-800-951-5128 * REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL!* Get a 4-Room All-Digital Satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting under $10. FREE DVR and HD Upgrades for new callers, SO CALL NOW. 1-800-699-7159

$1000 GROCERY STIMULUS VOUCHER You pay shipping only(all credit and debit cards accepted) Call and claim yours today! Consumer Advocate Research Limited time offer. 1-877-301-7436

Real Estate 3bd 2ba HUD Home only $200/ mo! 4bd 2ba Home only $325/ mo! Priced to Sell! More Homes Available! 5%dn, 20yrs @8%apr! For Listings 800-366-0142 ext. T253 BUY HUD Homes from $199/mo! 4bd 2ba only $325/mo! 3bd 2ba only $199/mo! More Home from $199/mo! 5% dn, 15yrs @8% apr! for Listings 800-366-0142 ext. T252 Texas 20 acres ONLY $13,5000- down $135.00 monthly. No credit check. Roads- Surveyed.

That’s only 1.5cents per sq. ft.! Free INformation. 1-800-8873006 www.lonestarinvestments. com ***FREE Foreclosure Listings*** Over 400,000 properties nationwide. LOW Down Payment. Call Now! 1-800-447-9014 Florida - 40 acre parcels Only 10 remaining. 100% useable. MUST SELL. $119,900 ea. Owner Financing from 3 1/2% Call 1-800-FLA-LAND (352-5263) Florida Woodland Group, Inc. Lic. RE Broker. NC Mountains. NEW! E-Z Finish Log Cabin Shell Financing Available!!With Loft & Full Basement. Includes acreage. $89,900 Warm Winters/Cool Summers 828-247-9966 code 45

Timeshares SELL/RENT YOUR TIMESHARE NOW!!! Maintenance fees too high? Need Cash? Sell your unused timeshare today. No commissions or Broker Fees. Free Consultation. www.sellatimeshare.com 1-866-708-3690

Wanted To Buy $ CASH FOR GOLD $ We buy Gold, Silver, & Plat. Get Cash NOW! Highest Payouts - Satisfaction Guaranteed 877-548-1550

Miscellaneous Advertise your product or service nationwide or by region in up to 12 million households in North America’s best suburbs! Place your classified ad in over 850 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466 or go to www. classifiedavenue.net Brand New Laptops & Desktops Bad Credit, No Credit - No Problem Small Weekly Payments - Order Today and get FREE Nintendo WII game system! Call Now - 800-317-7891

Reader Notice As a service to you – our valued readers – we offer the following information: This newspaper will never knowingly accept any advertisement that is illegal or considered fraudulent. If you have questions or doubts about any ads on these pages, we advise that before responding or sending money ahead of time, you check with the Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Line and/or the Better Business Bureau. They may have records or documented complaints that will serve to caution you about doing business with those advertisers. Also be advised that some phone numbers published in these ads may require an extra charge. In all cases of questionable value, such as promises or guaranteed income from work-at-home programs, money to loan, etc., if it sounds too good to be true – it may in fact be exactly that. This newspaper cannot be held responsible for any negative consequences that occur as a result of you doing business with any advertisers. Thank you.