CrossRoadsNews, June 9, 2012 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

COMMUNITY

SCENE

The DeKalb Police Department will face the Atlanta Fire Department for the Metro Atlanta Public Safety Flag Football League title. 2

Papas can treat their offspring to some fancy footwork at the annual Father-Daughter Dance on June 16 at North DeKalb Mall. 8

Bragging rights on the line

Best date in town

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

June 9, 2012

Volume 18, Number 6

www.crossroadsnews.com

Candler Road Library opening still a few weeks away By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

“That’s what we are telling staff, but we don’t know for sure,” she said. The system was awaiting the completion of a traffic light into the facility and Weissinger said that was completed last week. On Wednesday, the fire marshal completed inspection of the building, and Comcast recently installed fiber lines needed to run the library’s 27 public access computers. When it opens, the new branch will replace the 8,700-square-foot Scott Candler Library, which has been on McAfee Road for 47 years. Weissinger said the old branch will be closed for about three weeks to facilitate the

The new Scott Candler Library on Candler Road is still weeks away from opening. Even though construction on the 12,000-square-foot facility, has been finished since December, DeKalb Library director Alison Weissinger said Thursday that they are awaiting the certificate of occupancy and the arrival of furniture to move in. “We can’t move in until we have it,” she said. “But we should have it soon.” When construction started on the facility in December 2010, it was to open in spring 2012. Weissinger said they are hoping to open by the end of July. Please see LIBRARY, page 6

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

The new library is awaiting ts Certificate of Occupancy, and the arrival of furniture.

Two shot to death at Victory Church funeral Two others injured after service for shooting victim By Carla Parker

Two men were shot to death Thursday in the parking lot of Victory for the World Church in Stone Mountain, minutes after the funeral for a 19-year-old shooting victim ended. Two other people were injured and hospitalized in the gunfire, which occurred around 1 p.m. Mourners were leaving the church after the home-going service for Ryan Devon Guider of Ryan Guider Decatur, who was shot to death on May 26, when gunshots pierced the air. The homegoing service for Guider was being held at the church where his mother a member. DeKalb Police had not identified the dead or injured by press time Thursday. The condition of the injured people was also not known late Thursday. Hours after the crime, police had three people in custody but did not identify them. DeKalb Public Safety Director Wiz Miller said 28-year-old Marcus D. Ventress, who is a suspect in Guider’s death, was seen in the parking lot with a gun. He was not among the suspects deMarcus Ventress tained Thursday. “Initial reports were he was the one who showed up and started shooting,” Miller said. Williams said one of the victims died on the scene and the other died on the way to the hospital.

Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Witnesses said there was pure chaos in the parking lot as nearly 500 people tried to run back inside Victory Church to escape the bullets.

Miller said Thursday’s shootings could have been either retaliation or “just another show of disrespect for Mr. Guider and his family.” Witnesses said there was an altercation in the parking lot before the discharge of gunfire. Miller said detectives believe Ventress left the church with others in a vehicle. People traveling in a vehicle were detained not far from the church but Miller could not confirm who was in the car or if they’ve been charged.

Witnesses said there was pure chaos in the parking lot as nearly 500 people tried to run back inside the church to escape the bullets. Ron Williams, who was preparing food for the repast in the church kitchen, said his wife, Geraldin, was in the sanctuary when the shooting started. “She heard shots and somebody told everyone to get down,” he said. “she was terrified and frantic. I never thought nothing like this would happen at a church.” Wil Williamson, a minister who said a

prayer at the funeral, said he saw the suspects and the victims fighting before the shooting. “I heard at least four or five shots then saw two dead bodies,” he said. “It was surreal.” Williams said he has been a member of church on North Hairston Road for 25 years. “I’ve never seen anything like this,” he said. Police said Ventress, 28, killed Guider in Please see SHOOTING, page 2

CrossRoadsNews

Community

June 9, 2012

“I love my wife and kids. Pray for my child in the hospital,” Johnson told reporters when he was leaving court after the hearing.

Police, fire teams vie for title Alleged drunk driver free on bond The DeKalb Police Department will face off with the Atlanta Fire Department on June 9 for the Metro Atlanta Public Safety Flag Football League championship trophy. The championship game concludes the six-week Flag Football League season, which kicked off on May 5. The league features public safety teams throughout the metro area, including DeKalb, Clayton, Henry, and Gwinnett counties and the city of Atlanta. The 1 p.m. championship game takes place at Hallford Stadium in Clarkston. The Southwest DeKalb High School Marching Panthers and the Stephenson

High School Marching Jaguars will faceoff in a halftime show. The Public Safety Flag Football League is the first of its kind in metro Atlanta and is designed to build camaraderie, increase morale, enhance collaboration, and promote overall health and wellness among police and sheriff departments. Tickets are $5 for adults and kids ages 10 and older. Kids 9 and under are free. Proceeds benefit the Gold Shield Foundation of Metro Atlanta LLC, which assists spouses and dependent children of law enforcement officers or firefighters killed or incapacitated in the line of duty. Hallford Memorial Stadium is at 3789 Memorial College Ave. in Clarkston.

Lewis to hose town hall meeting

John Lewis

DeKalb District 3 residents can meet Congressman John Lewis at a June 14 town hall meeting at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in Decatur. Lewis acquired a bigger chunk of DeKalb County in the recent redistricting following the 2010 US Census. His 5th Congressional District now includes most of DeKalb Commission District 3. The 7 p.m. meeting is being cohosted by District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson.The Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center is at 3181 Rainbow Drive in Decatur. For more information, call 404-371-2988.

Training set for National Night Out DeKalb residents interested in organizing a National Night Out event for their community can attend the 2012 National Night Out Training on June 12 at the Stonecrest Library in Lithonia. At the 6:30 p.m. training session, participants will learn about National Night Out and what it takes to organize an event. More than 12,000 communities nationwide

celebrate the crime and drug prevention event that encourages residents to leave their lights on and hold community social events. The 29th annual Night Out will be celebrated on Aug. 7. The library is at 3123 Klondike Road. To register, visit www.events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07 e5zbwpi1c2508654&oseq.

Community. Fairness. Justice.

A Lithonia father accused of driving drunk when he crashed his car with his four kids inside – killing his teenage daughter – is out on bond. Anthony Johnson, 35, was released on $12,500 bond on June 6. Police said he lost control of his Chrysler Pacifica on June 3 and crashed into the woods on Highway 78 near Stone Mountain. Johnson’s 15-year-old Anthony Johnson daughter, Corliss Johnson, the oldest of his four children, died in the crash. Her 11-yearold sister, Joy, was taken to the hospital in critical condition with a skull fracture and possible brain injury. She remains hospitalized at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. The two boys, 8 and 9 years old, who were not identified, were treated for minor injuries. Corliss had just completed her freshman year at Stephenson High School. Johnson was arrested and charged with DUI, vehicular homicide, endangering the life of a child and failure to maintain lane. According to a police report, officers arrived at the crash scene to find Johnson’s oldest daughter dead in the car, but no one else was at the scene. Johnson told authorities that he passed out after the crash, and when he could not find his cell phone, he and his sons walked nearly a mile to the Metro Café Diner on Rockbridge Road and called for help.   In a 911 tape released on June 5, Johnson told the 911 operator that “two of my girls in the back seat – they’re dead.” The officer interviewing Johnson outside the diner wrote in the police report that Johnson’s “speech was slurred, he was loud, and his eyes were bloodshot red.” The officer reported a strong smell of alcohol coming from his breath. Johnson consented to a blood test to determine whether or not he was under the influence, but those results have yet to be released.   When the officer asked how much alcohol Johnson had to drink before the crash, the report says Johnson replied, “What does that have to do with the accident?”

Corliss Johnson died when police say her father, Anthony Johnson, lost control of his car and crashed into woods near Stone Mountain.

The officer reported that after he asked again, Johnson said he he had one beer while watching the NASCAR race at his brother’s house. The police report says he told the officer that he drank “one pint of an unknown liquor” at his brother’s house while the race was on.   According to the police report, Johnson also told the officer that after the race was over, he “consumed half of a Budweiser tall boy and wasted a shot of whiskey on his clothes.” The report says Johnson told the officer he was on his way to pick up his wife from work at CVS in Gwinnett County when two cars passed him on Highway 78 “at a high rate of speed, causing his vehicle to lift off the ground.” Johnson told the officer he overcorrected and crashed into the woods. When he woke up, the report says his boys responded when he called out for them, but his daughters did not. At his court appearance on June 5, prosecutors revealed that Johnson had two prior DUI arrests, in 2002 and 2004. “I love my wife and kids. Pray for my child in the hospital,” Johnson told reporters when he was leaving court after the hearing. A memorial fund has been established at Wells Fargo Bank to assist with funeral and medical expenses. Donations can be made out to the Corliss Johnson Memorial Fund.

Police suspect retaliation was motive Police cars and tape filled the parking lot at Victory as investigators try to piece together what happened.

Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews

SHOOTING,

www.daxfordekalb.com

from page

retaliation for burglarizing his home. Police said Guider allegedly stole jewelry, cash and drugs and punched Ventress’ mother. Ventress, who is considered armed and dangerous, is also wanted for aggravated assault for allegedly shooting into an apartment in the 5800 block of Treecrest Parkway where he thought Guider lived. Investigators say Ventress served a sixyear sentence in federal prison on a drug trafficking charge and has been imprisoned in Indiana on a cocaine possession charge. He is currently on parole and probation for these charges.

Kenneth L. Samuel, the church’s pastor, had preached the eulogy minutes before about the value of life, setting the right priorities in life, and promoting peace. “This tragedy is another reason why people of all faiths must come together with public safety officials and elected officials to stem the rising tide of youth violence in the African-American community,” he said in a statement late Thursday. Guider was buried at Rest Haven Memorial Park on Candler Road around 3 p.m. Many of those who had planned to attend the interment were forced to stay at the church, which police cordoned off with yellow crime scene tapes while they investigated.

June 9, 2012

Community

CrossRoadsNews

“Eliminating transportation to AMHS would effectively close our high school, or turn it into a neighborhood school.”

3,000 students face loss of transportation due to budget cuts By Carla Parker

More than 3,000 DeKalb students could lose transportation to school under a budget proposal up for a June 11 vote. To help close a $73 million budget shortfall in its 2013 proposed budget, both Superintendent Cheryl Atkinson and the DeKalb School Board have proposed ending transportation for all magnet and choice programs – including DeKalb Early College, theme school and Arabia Mountain High School students. The transportation elimination is expected to save the school district $1.8 million but will strand 3,060 students who attend schools like Kittredge Magnet, Chamblee Middle, and Chamblee Charter High schools

in North DeKalb. The cuts will affect 542 elementary students, 973 middle school students, and 1,545 high school students. Other options under consideration include a 1 mill property tax hike, larger class sizes, two extra furlough days for employees, loss of employee health and dental insurance subsidies; cutting 25 media clerks; eliminating overtime extra activity pay and textbook replacement; and reducing 10 assistant principals and 10 counselors through attrition. The school board is set to vote on the proposed budget on June 11 at 6:30 p.m. at the J. David Williamson Board Room, Administrative & Instructional Complex, 1701 Mountain Industrial Boulevard in Stone Mountain.

Parents will get to voice their concerns about the proposed budget before the vote. Under the proposed cuts, Arabia Mountain High will see the biggest impact with 891 students losing their transportation. In an email circulated to parents this week, the Arabia Mountain PTSA said that number represents half of the school’s enrollment. “Eliminating transportation to AMHS would effectively close our high school, or turn it into a neighborhood school,” the email said. Judith Taylor, an Arabia Mountain parent who drops her daughter off at school, said the transportation cut will cause “total pandemonium” at the school. “This could add up to over 800 cars to an area which is already congested between

7 and 8 a.m.,” she said. “It is ridiculous to even contemplate an additional three or eight hundred cars dropping/picking up students. In effect, if the School Board has its way, I will definitely be late for work every morning.” Janaiha Ellis, whose 15-year-old daughter, Reanah Gibson, attends DECA, said her daughter will be late to school every day if she has to drive her to school. “I have to drop my 5-year-old off at school before 7:45 a.m.,” she said. “It’s impossible – with traffic – to get Reanah to school by 8 a.m. If they cut the transportation she’ll be in violation of the attendance policy.” Ellis said it’s unfair to punish students for something they have no control over. “Why do the kids have to suffer for their educational choice?” she said.

Walmart officials respond to complaints about Fairington Road store By Carla Parker

Walmart officials are reviewing a litany of complaints about the Fairington Walmart and they told Lithonia residents that they will soon have a timeline on making fixes at the store. At a June 7 community meeting, the officials – regional general manager Karen Brewer-Edwards, district manager Zola Davis, and public affairs and government relations K. Brewer-Edwards manager Glen Wilkins – fielded complaints about safety and customer service, long lines, spoiled food, lost carts and trash and soliciting in the store’s parking lot. Brewer-Edwards said the notes that were

taken at the meeting will be looked at and a timeline set to resolve the issue. “I don’t want to just say this will be fixed in three days or one day,” she said. “Then I’m not being honest with you. Let us look at the list and give you a commitment and then you’ll hear from your commissioners [Lee May and Stan Watson].” Brewer-Edwards hosted the meeting at Ousley United Methodist Church to hear directly from residents after a meeting last week with Commissioners Stan Watson and Lee May. About 40 customers who shop regularly at the store showed up for the meeting. Concern over safety in the store’s parking lot was the number one issue that came up. Jackie Johnson, who lives in the Panola Mill subdivision, said the front of the store is always congested whenever she shops there.

“It’s always cars in front of the store and customers who are just standing around,” she said. Joyce Lindsey, who also lives in Panola Mill, said she saw what she thought was prostitution in the parking lot a week ago. “I saw a young lady sitting on the rail near the carts and a couple of gentlemen drove up and I think one of them chastised her and she walked away and went and sat back on that rail,” she said. “That was the most upsetting thing to me.” Brewer-Edwards said a third-party company is suppose to secure the parking lot. “It definitely appears that they are not doing their jobs,” she said. “They are suppose to be riding around the parking lot to deter any wrongdoing.” Residents also complained about poor customer service and said employees were

often out of uniform and rude. Ronald Johnson, who lives in the Buckingham subdivision, said the community deserves better. “It’s amazing how I can go to another side of town and see a complete Ronald Johnson difference in the look, the costumer service, and everything else,” he said. “I don’t even go in there anymore. The few times I’ve walked in there – I’m embarrassed.” Davis, the district manager, said a new manager – who was not named – that he is bringing will improve the store. “I believe I have the right person,” he said. “He’s a strong disciplinarian and will fix the basic things fast like employees’ attire.”

15 K-9 officers

you Innovative thinking about new ways to improve security helped MARTA achieve Flagship Agency status, the highest ranking any police department can earn*. We could use your eyes, too. If you see something that’s not right, call us. We’ll take it from there. *Awarded by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA).

If you

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something

Call (404) 848-4911 if you see something out of the ordinary.

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

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June 9, 2012

When will we stop having to go through the “back door” and/or beg for our fair share of funding?

Funding won’t solve problems facing our schools The title made me suspicious: “Investing in our kid’s education is not an option” [Dr. Eugene Walker, Forum, CrossRoadsNews, June 2, 2012]. I have learned that when a politician uses terms such as “our kids” the appeal is to emotion, not to the sense of reason. It is usually linguistic seduction for intellectual robots to roll with him, picking up and distributing outrage, anger, and bootleg conviction to make a fallacious argument. It is a kind of pimping or rabble rousing political noise saying nothing. Dr. Walker invoked video lottery parlors, jealousy for Mississippi’s gambling tourists, the National Center for Public Education and terror knifings to education budgets to convince us that Georgia public education is going to be extinct without gobs more state money. It was a pantomime in words. However, he never made one cogent support for his position. There was no discussion of educational return on investment (ROI) or return on assets (ROA), as in SAT scores, AYP performance, drop-out

“Since 2008-09 school year, African American students’ SAT scores have lagged behind Native Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and whites by double and triple digits in the composite SAT score, in every category and in every year. ” Elrado Ramsey

rates – nothing! What are we getting for the $6,052 the US Census Bureau said that Georgia taxpayers spent on every elementary-secondary public school pupil in the 2008-09 school year? Georgia does not have an education funding problem. It has a “black student problem.” If we use SAT scores, the end of the line production of a college-ready young person; AYP – the federal SAT for public schools and their districts; and dropout rates, which tells us how many $6,052/student/year we are rescuing from waste, black students, majority-black schools and majority-black school districts are unmitigated disasters in the Georgia public education calculus. Dr. Walker and the seduced have a snowball’s chance in hell’s

microwave of convincing the Georgia legislature to add new money to elementary and secondary public education. In fact, it makes sense to cut what there is. The system is working beautifully for the people who are using it. It does not need one new dime. Only black students are not using the system. n African American students are 150 points behind Asians in average overall SAT scores; n 150 behind them in math; n 100 behind them in writing; n and 90 behind them in verbal. To put this in perspective, contrary to popular belief, whites and Asians are close, though Asians tend to be a few points ahead. Hispanics and Native Americans are moving up quickly. However, since 200809 school year, African American

students’ SAT scores have lagged behind Native Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and whites by double and triple digits in the composite SAT score, in every category and in every year. The predominantly black public schools and public school districts are the same disasters. They are tremendously more likely not to meet AYP. Some black public school administrators are so sensitive to this fact that they refuse to adhere to the standard professional websites practice of putting pictures of the leadership and the customers in action on the schools’ web sites. The DeKalb School District and a whopping 52 percent of DeKalb public schools did not make AYP last year. I will not discuss dropout rates, since horrific dropout rates forAfrican American students date back to the early 1970’s. This has not changed. Not reason; only consciences of pity and sympathy could get new education funding through the Georgia legislature, and we know how “well” those two perform in government considerations. Elrado Ramsey lives in Decatur.

Stories about TSPLOST vote sparks Internet discussion Our May 12 story “Supporters, opponents gearing up for TSPLOST fight” started a lively conversation at www.crossroadsnews.com. MARTA Employees have not had a pay raise in almost seven years, where is that money coming from? Look at the ceiling and general condition of The Art Center Station, pay close attention to the ceiling ! OMG ! Look at the floor tiles of The Garnett Station, Unbelievable the condition! Millions upon millions of repairs needed right now at MARTA rail stations!!! The State of Georgia has never contributed one dime to MARTA = Only State in the Country to not support it’s Public Transit! Thank you Bubba! And this bill is not the answer? The additional taxes will force certian merchants to move out of the higher taxed counties, just as many stores did when DeKalb and Fulton voted in MARTA years ago. The State of Georgia has always wanted to grab up a “busted n broke” MARTA ! The US DOT should punish the State of Georgia and take transportation funding right off the top of any Federal Monies for Georgia and give it to MARTA ! – JerryMyer Jackson Jr. DeKalb County will loss over $560 million on TSPLOST which is over 45% of the money invested in the Transportation Investment Act. Please update the information above with the following because the 10 counties will actually experience a loss in return on investment: n Cherokee County with a negative loss of 4%. n Clayton County with a negative loss of 18%. n Cobb County with a negative loss of 75%. n DeKalb County with a negative loss of 45%. n Douglas County with a negative loss of 41%. n Fayette County with a negative loss of 17%. n Fulton County with a negative loss of 25%. n Gwinnett County with a negative loss of 20.6%. n Henry County with a negative loss of 6%. n Rockdale County with a negative loss of

28%. The TSPLOST will delivery a negative loss for the ten counties of District 3. The one winner is the City of Atlanta. Remember, the TSPLOST problem will simply generate profits for the politically connected. Taxpayers & Voters deserve a viable solution. – Viola Davis

the “back door” called state of good repair, MARTA would not receive a dime! The other bus systems throughout Georgia are allowed to use TSPLOST for operation and maintenance. Is this fair? When will we stop having to go through the “back door” and/or beg for our fair share of funding? – Viola Davis

I looked at the information provided by the ARC. In your math, you excluded the investments partially in DeKalb (totaling over $1.3 million dollars). It’s fair to say a large percentage of that will be in DeKalb as it includes the Clifton Corridor Rail and Network upgrades). You can’t make a definitive statement about the ROI for DeKalb unless you also factor those projects also. – GrandPoohBah

Because your calculations only factored projects that are 100% in DeKalb, it meant you used unsound logic in your original post. And with respect to the “Redistribution of Wealth” you mention, you also excluded the Federal tax dollars needed to help with this project also. Those dollars come from citizens around the country. MARTA could not have been built without the Federal funding. Funny you mention the Cliff shuttle. As I understand, this was a service provided by Please view the TIA Return on Investment Emory, not tax payers. documentation provided by Atlanta Regional – GrandPoohBah Commission (ARC) at http://www.scribd.com/ doc/92194885/Transportation-Investment-ActI focused on funding and projects entirely Return-on-Investment-for-County-City. within DeKalb County. How does concentratView the money generated within the county ing a majority of the funding within the City of and subtract the amount spent entirely within Atlanta solve our traffic congestion problem? the county. Once again, DeKalb County tax- We must demand a viable solution and removal payers and voters are being asked to pay $10 to of the 50/50 Restriction on MARTA. receive $5 despite our (DeKalb and Fulton) 30 We must stop the “Redistribution of Wealth” year investment worth over 6 billion. done for years to DeKalb County. This was acThe Georgia General Assembly refused to complished with words such as “partially” and get rid of the 50/50 restriction on MARTA. In “partner”; however, DeKalb County often ends other words, DeKalb and Fulton County can’t up with the short end of the stick. This system even control the money collected within their of funding is used in health, environmental, counties. transportation and education. Do you honestly believe the politicians are It takes over an hour to get down I20 East going to invest additional money to extend in high volume hours and MARTA continues to MARTA into South DeKalb or care about our cut routes and increase fares. TSPLOST depends economic development? on the people who are due to receive little of We need an additional rally cry, “Get rid of nothing from the referendum to pass this law 50/50 restriction on MARTA or vote “no” for (South DeKalb). TSPLOST. The bus system that travels through the ClifIt is written in the law (TSPLOST) that no ton Corridor does not charge a bus fee. This bus money can be used for MARTA operation and system is called the Cliff shuttle. The bus system maintenance. Remember, this was written only was “free” for riders when I rode the system. Did for MARTA. you know that? If MARTA did not get the money through – Viola Davis index to advertisers

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Community

“The transportation referendum is the second most important vote that DeKalb citizens can make this year.”

Forum to tackle TSPLOST issues businesses considering locating to the county During June 11 discussion, the panelists will discuss why voters should support or oppose the referendum on July 31. Supporters say that supporting the referenJohn Evans dum is a good regional thing to do and that it will bring jobs and boost the region’s income. Opponents says say without the I-20 rail project, DeKalb is getting passed over for economic development, that the Questions will be takSteen Miles en from the audience . The Porter Sanford Performing Arts & Community Center is at 3181 Rainbow Drive in Decatur. For more information, call 404-2841888.

MARTA board to vote on budget The MARTA board will vote on its proposed 2013 operating and capital budgets on June 11 which will include the final step up in staggered increases for Mobility and reduced fares. The transit authority’s board will vote on a propose fiscal year 2013 operating budget of $434.95 million and a capital funds budget totaling $230.4 million for the Capital Improvement Program and $141.6 million for debt service. The proposal does not include recommendations for annual merit or wage increases for employees, which would be the fifth consecutive year of no salary increases. MARTA’s sales tax revenues are projected to decline $130 million through fiscal year 2016. In a June 6 statement, the board says the 2013 budget proposal takes a fiscally prudent approach to maintaining quality transit service while continuing to explore operational efficiencies, internal cost savings and new revenue generation

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opportunities. The budget includes a “steady state” level of current bus and rail services while increasing Mobility services by about 9 percent, enhancing safety and security measures, and investing in state-of-goodrepair projects. In addition, the proposal does not include a base fare increase; however, it continues staggered increases for the Mobility base fare, reduced fare and Mobility passes. The price of a reduced fare (half-fare) will increase from 95 cents to $1, the Mobility base fare will increase from $3.80 to $4, and the Mobility monthly pass will increase from $122 to $128.If approved as part of the 2013 budget, fare changes would take effect on Oct. 7, 2012. The budget takes into account the end of the temporary waiver on the MARTA Act financial restrictions on June 2, 2013. The board meeting will be held at 1:30 p.m. Monday at MARTA headquarters, 2424 Piedmont Road in Atlanta. For more information, visit www.itsmarta.com or call 404-848-5000.

ler nd Ca

The controversial penny sales tax transportation referendum that is on the July 31 ballot, will be discussed at a June 11 Community Forum at the Porter Sanford Arts Center in Decatur. The panel of pro and con speakers includes Jeff Jeff Dickerson Dickerson, spokesman for the Citizens for Transportation Mobility; DeKalb NAACP President John Evans; DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson and former state senator and MARTOC Committee member Steen Miles. MARTA’s assistant Larry Johnson General Manager of Planning, Cheryl King, and ARC Land Use Division Chief Dan Reuter will provide background information. They are prohibited from taking public positions on the referendum. The forum takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. is co-sponsored by CrossRoadsNews and the DeKalb League of Women Voters. It will be moderated by CrossRoadsNews Editor and Publisher Jennifer Parker. Belinda Pedroso, the League’s president, said that the forum will help clarify a lot of issues for voters who want to make an informed decision when they go to the polls. Early voting starts on July 9. “The transportation referendum is the second most important vote that DeKalb citizens can make this year,” Pedroso said. “We need DeKalb County residents to come out en masse to hear the pros and cons about the transportation bill so they can make their own informed decision about the penny sales tax.” The transportation referendum is seeking approval from metro-Atlanta voters to levy a one percent sales tax to fund $8.5 billion in transportation projects. If approved, all 10 metro-Atlanta counties will pay the tax. Residents of DeKalb and Fulton counties, who already pay a penny tax to fund MARTA, will pay two pennies for transportation. Since they began taxing themselves in 1973, DeKalb and Fulton residents have paid more than $7.5 billion to fund MARTA. Among the 157 projects to be funded by the July 31 transportation referendum, DeKalb will get $556.8 million to fund 15 projects entirely within the county. It will also share in a number of other projects with Atlanta and Fulton County. DeKalb residents are up in arms over the referendum, because a long-anticipated I-20 rail line to the Mall at Stonecrest is not among the projects on the list. Instead the county is getting $225 million to build five “park-and-ride/transit centers” near the Mall at Stonecrest, Fairington Road/Lithonia Industrial Boulevard, Wesley Chapel Road, Candler Road and in East Atlanta. While the tax will pay for regional transportation improvements, DeKalb residents, who would be paying 8 percent in sales taxes, including a penny sales tax for the DeKalb School System, and a penny Homestead Option Sales Tax, have to weigh the impact that the tax will have on the community’s tax base, their purchasing power, and on new

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June 9, 2012

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Finance

June 9, 2012

“We are pinching and squeezing and continue to stretch to keep going. It’s going to be incredible tight.”

APD’s home-buying program and development celebrated Help coming The Get Home Now program has signed Irons said his neighborhood revitaliza- of 550 the opportunity to buy homes and for struggling its 100th customer just as it is celebrating its tion firm is proud to offer a continuum of renovate them. Its FHA-insured loans also come with a first anniversary. services, designed to help families achieve the IT professionals job-loss protection plan that pays the hoVaughn Irons, presi- dream of homeownership. Unemployed and under-employed IT professionals may qualify for more training and job placement through WEDA’s “Putting Georgia to Work” program. An information session was scheduled for June 8 at the office of the non-profit Women’s Economic Development Agency in Atlanta. WEDA is seeking to help communication analysts, computer software engineers/applications, computer software engineers/systems, and database administration, is available through a grant with the U.S. Department of Labor. It is serving as the outreach arm for the statewide program that is identifying, training and providing job placement through IT Training Institute, Pacific Systems Inc. WEDA is accepting applications, screening applicants, and holding career fairs and more information sessions. The WEDA Office is at 1389 Peachtree St., Suite 102. For more information, e-mail pgwp@weda-atlanta.org. Apply online at www.pgwp.org.

Credit repair workshop Adults with credit issues can get tips on overcoming their challenges at a June 23 Repairing Your Credit workshop at the East Lake Family YMCA in Atlanta. The DeKalb NAACP in co-sponsoring the 10 a.m.-to-noon workshop with the YMCA. Registration begins at 9:30 a.m., and materials will be provided by Bank of America. The East Lake Family YMCA is at 275 East Lake Blvd. The workshop is free to attend, but space is limited. To reserve a spot, R.S.V.P. by e-mail to naacpcreditrepair1-free@ yahoo.com. For more information, call 404-2418006.

dent of APD Solutions, and DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis announced this week that Elonda Dixon, who purchased a home in Ellenwood, was the 100th customer of the Vaughn Irons program. She used homebuyer assistance programs through DeKalb County government and APD Solutions to make the purchase in February. Dixon was expected to be formally recognized at the June 8 grand opening of APD’s mixed-use Brownstones at Panola Slope on Covington Highway in Decatur.

Dear Dave, I’m a single dad with two teenagers at home. My 15-year-old son wants to open a checking account of his own, but he doesn’t want me or anyone else to have access to it. Should I just let him do this and suffer the consequences I know are coming? – Tim Dear Tim, When it comes to 15-year-olds, as a parent you have every right to say, “My food, and my roof. You do what I say.” With kids this age you never know what you’re getting. Half the time you’re talking to a 35-year-old, and the other half they’re 5 again. At that age, I think you let them do, or not do, these things based on their ability to perform well in life. To the extent they behave and show some sense, you lengthen the rope and give them more freedom and privileges. If they act like doofuses, you shorten the rope. Remember, no is a complete sentence. If it were my son, I’d sit him down and gently explain that he doesn’t have the capacity or knowledge to manage this idea by himself just yet. Then, make yourself a part of the experience by teaching him to handle money wisely. As he matures in financial understanding, you can give him more leeway.

NOTICE OF PROPERTY TAX INCREASE

NOTICE

The Mayor and Council of the City of Lithonia do hereby announce that the millage rate will be set a meeting to be held at City Hall, 6980 Main Street, on July 2, 2012 at 6:30 pm and pursuant to the requirements of O.C.G.A. Section 48-5-32 do hereby publish the following presentation of the current year's tax digest and levy, along with the history of the tax digest and levy for the past five years.

CURRENT 2012 TAX DIGEST AND 5 YEAR HISTORY OF LEVY 2007

Real & Personal 28,919,717 Motor Vehicles 1,900,420 Mobile Homes 184,102 Timber - 100% Heavy Duty Equipment Gross Digest 31,004,239 Less M& O Exemptions 327,906 Net M & O Digest 30,676,333 State Forest Land Assistance Grant Value: 0 Adjusted Net M&O Digest 30,676,333 Gross M&O Millage 11.699 Less Rollbacks Net M&O Millage 11.699 Total City Taxes Levied $358,882 Net Taxes $ Increase $41,637 Net Taxes % Increase 13.12%

2008

meowners’ mortgage for up to six months if they lose their jobs. The loan also covers renovation expenses and the purchase of appliances. The Panola Slope grand opening and block party festivities included live entertainment, fun and food. APD is redeveloping Panola Slope, a $5 million project originally constructed in 2007, but fell into foreclosure. It acquired the development that includes 23 luxury brownstones, midrise condominiums, and more than 12,000 square feet of street-level retail space from three banks. It was originally constructed in 2007. Visit www.homebyrequest.com.

Teen wants to block parents from checking account

The Governing Authority of the City of Lithonia has tentatively adopted a millage rate which will require an increase in property taxes by 6.43 percent. All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this tax increase to be held at City Hall, 6980 Main Street, on Monday, June 18, 2012 at 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. A third hearing will be held at City Hall on Thursday, June 28, 2012 at 6:30 pm. This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 17.068 mills, an increase of 1.03 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 16.037 mills. This proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $25,243.00 is approximately $26.00. The proposed increase on non-homestead property with a fair market value of $64,656.00 is approximately $67.00. The proposed tax increase will enable the City to meet anticipated obligations and to establish a reserve fund.

“Since the introduction of the Get Home Now program, we have been able to work with DeKalb government to ensure that people have access to the resources they need to get into homes and now improving the neighborhoods with developments such as Panola Slope,” he said. Ellis said that the county’s partnership with APD Solutions and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is making the American Dream of home ownership a reality for hardworking DeKalb County citizens who want to invest in their future. The Get Home Now program offers borrowers with credit scores of 580 and police and military personnel with credit scores

2009

2010

2011

2012

30,651,118 2,052,210 191,510

28,842,932 1,979,710 191,805

26,674,180 1,582,040 176,149

20,765,829 1,615,590 176,149

19,375,805 1,690,000 117,094

32,894,838 636,190 32,258,648 32,258,648 11.699 11.699 $377,394 $18,512 5.16%

31,014,447 566,739 30,447,708

28,432,369 565,746 27,866,623

22,557,568 545,059 22,012,509

21,182,899 562,008 20,620,891

30,447,708 12.321 12.321 $375,146 -$2,248 -0.60%

27,866,623 13.178 13.178 $367,226 -$7,920 -2.11%

22,012,509 15.205 15.205 $334,700 -$32,526 -8.86%

20,620,891 17.068 17.068 $351,957 $17,257 5.16%

If he wants to go dramatic on you, let him. And remind him that for every minute he’s in drama mode, that’s less leeway he’s getting in this matter and every other one in his life. No, at 15 he’s not opening a checking account on his own. – Dave The point of life insurance Dear Dave, I have a 20-year level term life insurance policy. I noticed the other day that the cost would increase to $4,000 per year at the end of the term. Is that because it’s the end of the policy coverage or something else? – Tate Dear Tate, Technically, the policy will expire at the end of the term. But most companies that sell term life insurance will let you renew it, if you can’t get any other insurance, at a ri-

diculously high rate. But let’s face it, 20 years down the road your probability of death has also increased. If it were me, and I’m near the end of that policy, I’d go buy another 20-year level term policy, and let the old one run out. The only time you might run into trouble with a policy like that is if you were in the last year of coverage, and were diagnosed with a terminal illness. Then you’ll really pay through the nose to keep your coverage intact. But the real point of a 20-year level term policy is to ensure that your family is taken care of while the kids are at home and your mortgage is covered if you die prematurely. If you follow my plan, you’ll have $500,000 to $1 million in your retirement account when the policy runs out and the kids are gone. Plus, you’ll have taken a 15-year mortgage, and your house will be paid off too. If something happens then, your spouse will be okay financially. The further along in life you get, assuming you do the stuff I teach, the less need you’ll have for life insurance! —Dave Dave Ramsey is one of America’s most trusted voices on money and business. Follow Dave on Twitter at @DaveRamsey and on the web at daveramsey.com.

New facility funded by parks bond LIBRARY,

from page

move to the new location. With the larger space, the new branch will have large children and teen sections, a study room, and a community meeting room that seats 80 people. The new library is among the final four new and expanded facilities, funded by the 2005 parks bond fund that raised $54.5 million for the construction of five replacement library facilities, four expanded and renovated libraries, and three new libraries, bringing the number of library facilities to 25. The bond does not provide for operations costs. The final three projects to be built are the new Ellenwood Library that will go up near

Linecrest and River Roads; a replacement library for the Brookhaven branch; and construction of a two-story 38,000-square- foot processing and administration building. But while the library system has grown in number and square footage, its funding from the county has plummeted from $2 million in 2007 to $100,000 a year. To cope, the library system has reduced operating hours systemwide and the only branch that currently opens on Sundays is the Decatur branch. Weissinger said they would like to restore opening hours systemwide but with less money coming in it’s a struggle. “We are pinching and squeezing and continue to stretch to keep going,” she said. “It’s going to be incredible tight.”

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June 9, 2012

Wellness

“As this report shows, DeKalb Medical is a key pillar in the community and this relationship is important to us.”

DeKalb Medical impacts region’s economy in a big way DeKalb Regional Health Systems generated more than $806 million in revenue and sustained 6,480 full-time jobs for the local and state economy in 2010, a recent report by the Georgia Hospital Association found. The report evaluated the impact of DeKalb Regional, which includes DeKalb Medical, DeKalb Medical Hillandale and DeKalb Medical at Downtown Decatur. DeKalb Medical CEO John Shelton called the report welcome news. “What pleases us most from this report is that we ended up with a net increase in full-time jobs,” Shelton said in a May 23 statement. “That’s a positive sign for us and the community because the overall economy and job situation was still in rough shape at that time.” While DeKalb Medical remains a major component of the area’s economic engine, the hospital’s leadership, like the rest of the Georgia hospital community, is concerned about a wide array of economic challenges that have made

Teen dating violence for discussion event Teen dating violence, which is on the increase in DeKalb and across the country, will be explored at a June 14 discussion at the Exchange Park Intergenerational Center in Decatur. DeKalb District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson and the DeKalb Solicitor General’s Office are co-presenting the 10to-11:15 a.m. meeting. Nationally, females ages 16 to 24 are three times more likely to suffer intimate partner violence than any other age group. Exchange Park Intergenerational Center is at 2771 Columbia Drive. For more information, e-mail larryjohnson@dekalbcountyga.gov or call 404-371-2425.

it increasingly difficult to meet the community’s health care needs, including continued cuts in Medicare and Medicaid payments and a fast-growing uninsured population. Currently, 34 percent of all hospitals in Georgia are operating with negative margins. “As this report shows, DeKalb Medical is a key pillar in the community and this relationship is important to us,” Shelton said. The report used the economic multiplier developed by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis to evaluate hospital’s impact. The multiplier considers the “ripple” effect of direct hospital expenditures on other sectors of the economy, such as medical supplies, durable medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. The Georgia Hospital Association is the state’s largest hospital trade association. For more information, visit DeKalb Medical at Hillandale is one of three hospitals owned by www.dekalbmedical.org. DeKalb Regional. Together they generated more than $806 milllion.

Screenings for health fair Workshop to offer Free health screenings, art and entertainment are some of the events on tap for the June 9 Family and Community Fun Day/ Health Fair and Expo at Welcome Friend Baptist Church in Ellenwood. The 10 a.m.-to-3 p.m. event, sponsored by the Nurses Guild, is seeking to raise awareness about proper screenings, nutrition and fitness. Screenings for blood pressure, hearing and vision, body mass index, cholesterol, and blood glucose will be available. Debra Curtis, the church’s Health Ministry president, said information on prostate health and vouchers for prostate screenings will also be available. A Senior Citizens Workshop will cover questions that all seniors need to know to ask their doctors. There will be an artists market, Kids Zone, games and prizes, Fire Safety House, Zumba demonstrations, and music. The church is at 3198 Bouldercrest Road. For more information, visit www.welcomefriendbaptistchurch. org or call 404-241-0554.

insights into farming Small and aspiring farmers can attend a free workshop and field day on June 14 at Love Is Love and Berea Mennonite Farms in Atlanta. During the 9 a.m. -to-2:30 p.m. program, participants will observe organically grown crops in various stages of development and other production practices. Training sessions include organic fruit and vegetable production, aquaponics (growing fish and plants), micro-irrigation, U.S. Department of Agriculture EQIP financial incentives, forestry management, edible landscape, and the Georgia EBT Farmers Market Program. Special guest speakers will discuss urban agriculture and aquaponics productions, and local chefs will demonstrate cooking with Georgia grown produce. The event is free to attend but registration is required by June 11. The program takes place at 1820 Mary Dell Drive. For more information, directions and to register, visit www.tiny.cc/LBdf2b or call 678-376-9518.

CrossRoadsNews

Youth

June 9, 2012

“Through my two years with this foundation, I have grown and I have learned about myself.” Simon Scholars from Southwest DeKalb and Chamblee Charter high schools were honored at the Simon Foundation Awards Banquet at Emory University.

Simon Scholarship recipients sing praises of 2-year program By Carla Parker

Two years ago at the Ronald Simon Family Foundation’s scholarship banquet, Jaiva Crawford gave a tearful speech about the struggles she and her father, John, were facing after he lost his human resources job. Through the help of the Simon Scholarship Program, Jaiva overcame her financial challenges and finished her high school career on a high note as 2012 resident valedictorian at Southwest DeKalb High School. She said the foundation’s help was invaluable to her success. “Through my two years with this foundation, I have grown and I have learned about myself,” she said. “My family, my dedication, my dreams and the emphasis of the foundation made the last two years of high school

more unbelievable.” Jaiva is headed to Kennesaw State University in the fall. She and her Simon Scholars 2012 class were recognized at a May 31 Simon Foundation awards banquet at the Emory University Conference Center. The 2012 class includes eight students each from Southwest DeKalb and Chamblee Charter high schools. All of the students, who are academic high achievers, face economic worries caused by immigration, death, sickness and job loss. Since its inception in 2004, the Irving, Calif.-based foundation has helped hundreds of disadvantaged youth and awarded more than $20 million in scholarships. The Simon Scholars Atlanta Chapter,

SPLOST committee members sought DeKalb Schools is seeking volunteers to serve on a 12-member Citizen’s SPLOST Oversight Committee. The advisory committee, which is expected to begin meeting in August, will provide citizen review of the voter-approved SPLOST Project IV list. The penny tax is expected to raise $645 million to build, renovate and upgrade schools; improve sports facilities; and add technology. Qualified candidates must reside within the school district and may not be members of the Board of Education or employees of the district, and must not have any economic interest in any of the district’s projects. Experience in accounting, architecture,

auditing, construction, engineering, finance, K-12 education, legal, planning, project management or real estate is desired. Volunteers must be able to dedicate at least two hours each quarter to meet, generally in the evenings. Members must pass a background check and sign a nondisclosure agreement. The deadline to apply is June 17. Applications must be submitted at http://goo. gl/ZfoSV. Questions about the Citizen’s SPLOST Oversight Committee may be emailed to splost-oversight@fc.dekalb. k12.ga.us. For more information, visit www. dekalb.k12.ga.us.

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Beautiful Smiles for Children, Teens & Adults Cel 20 Ye ebrating ar Comm s in the unity

which started in 2005, has inducted 141 students who have received more than $4 million in scholarships. Students in almost all of DeKalb’s high schools have received Simon Scholarships, but since 2008 it has elected all its scholars from four certified Simon Scholar High Schools – Southwest DeKalb, Druid Hills, Redan, and Chamblee – in DeKalb. The certified schools were chosen because of their successful academic programs and/or their proven records of success with implementing the Simon Scholars Program. Each year, the foundation selects scholars from the schools’ sophomore class and offers them intensive support during their last two years in high school. Annually, up to 20 scholarships are awarded across the four schools.

To qualify for the program, students must have at least a 2.5 academic grade-point average, be self-motivated, and be involved in community service. Southwest DeKalb graduate Rodney Dew, who will be majoring in international business, said it was an incredible experience being a Simon scholar. “It has helped me to expand my wings and develop into a great leader,” he said. “It has taught me that working with others is critical to my success. It has taught me the skills that will be valuable to my success at Howard University.” At the May ceremony, Chamblee Charter High School graduate Forest Ogunyankin was named “Simon Scholar of the Year.” He will attend Vanderbilt University in the fall and major in neuroscience.

Young pianist to perform at library Classical pianist Yasha Young will perform at the Covington Library on June 16. During the 2 p.m.4 p.m. recital, the 10-year-old Decatur pianist will showcase the talent that won her an Outstanding Performance rating at the Cobb County Music Teachers Association’s Local Piano Auditions at Kennesaw State University in March. Since then Yasha has played at the annual Winners Recital and auditioned at the Georgia Music Teacher Association state competition where she was awarded a medallion for playing Sonatina Opus 55 No. 1 by Fredrick Kuhlau and Burgmuller Opus 100 from 25 Easy and Progressive Studies for the Piano. The fourth-grader, who is home schooled, said it was awesome to advance to the state competition. “I felt happy and I was relaxed,” she said. “I’m usually nervous before playing but it felt great to play and I felt comfortable.”

Yasha Young won an Outstanding Performance rating at the Cobb County Music Teachers Association’s Local Piano Auditions.

Yasha has only been playing the piano for five years, but you would never guess. “It gives me a break from what’s going on around me and it’s challenging,” she said. Yasha’s mother, Yolanda, said her daughter’s accomplishments are “wonderful.” She wishes every child could be so exposed. “Music gives kids discipline, focus and self-esteem,” she said. Yasha’s performance at the library is free to attend. The library is at 3500 Covington Highway in Decatur.

Film touts education improvements

www.drcraigwilliamsortho.com

The documentary film “Making the Grade in Georgia: Educational Freedom and Justice for All” will be screened on June 11 at Deeper Life World Outreach Ministry in Stone Mountain. The screening, which begins at 7 p.m., is co-sponsored by the Georgia Charter Schools Association. “Making the Grade in Georgia” takes aim at the perilous cost of not providing rigorous, college- and career-ready educational options for the state’s children. Georgia leaders will explain why citizens must do everything possible to lift Georgia from its current 48th national rank in education, and its 65 percent

high school graduation rank. The 30-minute film’s subtitle, “Educational Freedom and Justice for All,” points to the urgency of the issue and belief that when parents are given more options for their children’s education, the results can be exceptional. Several successful models of “choice” are documented in the film, such as public charter schools, home schooling, virtual online education, and more. A discussion and Q&A session will follow. Deeper Life World Outreach Ministry is at 5684 Redan Road. For more information, contact Nina Rubin at 404-835-8903 or nrubin@gacharters.org.

June 9, 2012

Scene

CrossRoadsNews

“It has always been my personal goal as a pastor to bring as many souls to Christ as I can.” North DeKalb Mall’s annual Father Daughter Dance will be June 16 in the mall’s Food Court.

DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson’s 15th annual Father’s Day Friday Golf Tournament will be held on June 15 at the Sugar Creek Golf Course.

Fathers, daughters invited to dance Dads and daughters of all ages can put on their fine duds and dance to a live band on June 16 at North DeKalb Mall. The semiformal Father Daughter Dance takes place from 7 p.m-8:30 p.m. in the food court. There will be refreshments and prizes.

It’s $3 per person to attend; June 13 is the final deadline to register. North DeKalb Mall is at 2040 Lawrenceville Highway in Decatur. For more information, visit www.northdekalbmall.com or call 404-320-7960.

Golf tourney to benefit arts, Rotary About 25 teams of golfers will be teeing off at the Sugar Creek Golf Course on June 15 in DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson’s 15th annual Father’s Day Friday Golf Tournament. Registration begins at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9. The tourney will benefit the Porter San-

ford III Performing Arts and Community Center and the South DeKalb Rotary. Spaces are still available for participants and teams. Sugar Creek Golf Course is at 2706 Bouldercrest Road in Atlanta. For registration and more information, call Dewey McClain at 770-925-3201.

Author to share family’s Titanic tale

Stonecrest Library marks 1st year

“The Wings of Opportunity,” pubAuthor Julie Hedgepeth Willished in 2010, “The Significance of liams will share her family’s story the Printed Word in Early America” of rescue and survival after the in 1999, and “The Early American sinking of the Titanic during a Press, 1690-1783” in 1994. talk on June 11 at the Carter LiDuring her 7 p.m. talk, Williams brary in Atlanta. will relate the story of Albert and his For 100 years, the story of young family who were saved from the RMS Titanic has fascinated drowning on the Titanic by a compeople around the world. Julie H. Williams bination of luck and pluck: Albert’s The ship, which was thought to be unsinkable, sank on its maiden voyage outgoing nature, wife Sylvia’s illness, and claiming the lives of 1,514 people in one of their infant son Alden’s helplessness. Their detailed story of the short life of the the deadliest peacetime maritime disasters Titanic and their lucky rescue aboard the illin history. Williams’ great-uncle, Albert Caldwell, starred Lifeboat 13 has never been fully told who was 26 years old, was one of the 710 in Titanic literature. Williams said that Albert lived to be 91 survivors. Her book “A Rare Titanic Family: The and told her the story of the Titanic dozens Caldwells’ Story of Survival” was published of times. The Jimmy Carter Presidential Library on April 15, 2012. Williams is a journalism professor at and Museum is at 441 Freedom Parkway. For Samford University. Her other books include more information, call 404-865-7109.

A book sale, story time, crafts, and prize giveaways are among the events that will celebrate the first anniversary of the opening of the Stonecrest Library on June 16. The Friends and Family Day takes place noon to 4 p.m. The festivities are hosted by the Friends of Stonecrest Library, which

formed soon after the library opened last year as the county’s first new library in more than 20 years. Stonecrest Library is at 3123 Klondike Road. For more information, visit www. friendsofstonecrest.com or call 770-4823828.

FATHER DAUGHTER DANCE For Dads & daughters of all ages

Rainbow Park service on television I can,” Dial said. Members and fans of Rainbow “We’re ‘the Park’ for You” can Park Baptist Church can now view be seen on AIB TV on Comcast the church’s “We’re ‘the Park’ for Channel 5, AT&T U-Verse Channel You” Wednesdays on AIB-TV. 6, Charter Communications ChanThe 9 p.m. broadcast began airnel 22, and on Video On Demand ing on May 23. on www.aibtv.com or streaming at The Rev. Steven N. Dial Sr., the AIBNet.tv. church’s senior pastor, said the TV Rainbow Park Baptist Church is broadcast is another way to reach Steven Dial Sr. at 2941 Columbia Drive. For more people. “It has always been my personal goal as information, visit www.rainbowparkbaptist. a pastor to bring as many souls to Christ as org or call 404-288-1910.

Area churches offering VBS programs Area churches are hosting fun-filled vacation Bible school programs for children and adults starting June 11. The Ray of Hope Church in Decatur will host Awesome Adventure VBS from June 11-14 offering fun, food and classes for children from age 4 through youth and adults in the Family Life Center. Classes start at 6:30 p.m. A nursery will be provided for children under 4. Ray of Hope Christian Church is at 2778 Snapfinger Road. For more information, visit www.rayofhope.org or call 770-696-5100, Ext. 233.

The School of Biblical Studies at Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain is offering VBS from June 11-13. Classes take place 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. for the entire family – couples, singles, children, youth, men and women, and the focus is the family. A free dinner will be served nightly from 6 to 6:45. To register, e-mail rodney.mason@bereanchristianchurch.org. Berean Christian Church is at 2201 Young Road. For more information, visit http:// bereanchristianchurch.org or call 770-5934421.

Saturday, June 16

7 pm – 8:30 pm • Food Court Live Band • Refreshments & Prizes Dress: Semi Formal

$3.00 per person

Deadline –Wednesday, June 13

2050 Lawrenceville Hwy. • Decatur, GA 30033 • 404-320-7960 www.northdekalbmall.com

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June 9, 2012

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HEALTH CARE

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FUNDRAISING

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MEDICAL RESEARCH

Are you interested in a clinical study for your diabetes? We are seeking volunteers to participate in this clinical research study who are: (a) Between 18 and 79 years of age; (b) Have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes; and (c) Not able to control their blood sugar with metformin. For additional information about the benefits and risks of the study, please contact us: Atlanta Ropheka Medical Center/Atlanta Premier SMO in Riverdale, Ga. Contact: APSMO Study Coordinator (866) 218-0717 Ext. 4 apsmo.crc.ropheka@gmail.com

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surveys / research

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 750 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466 or go to www. classifiedavenue.net AT&T U-Verse for just $29.99/ mo! SAVE when you bundle Internet+Phone+TV and get up to $300 BACK! (Select plans). Limited Time CALL NOW! 866944-0810.

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.

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

CrossRoadsNews

June 9, 2012

Youth Services IXGEN, Inc. & Peace Lutheran Church

Marketplace

Business Opportunities

Request for Proposals - Animal Services LifeLine Animal Project is soliciting proposals from DeKalb County Certified LSBE, MBE, and WBE subcontractors for work, services and supplies related to the following DeKalb County solicitation: Outsourcing of Animal Services Operations, 12-500232-RFP, proposal due 6/14/2012. For additional information please call 404-292-8800 or email admin@lifelineanimal.org.

COMMUNITY SALE Saturday, June 9th 8-5pm, PCA 1st Annual Community Yard Sale. Selling food, clothing, handbags, shoes, jewelry, household items, three 32 passenger buses and much more. Located at 3597 Covington Hwy, Decatur, GA 30032. Contact Barbara Williams at 404-556-5390 or barbara.williams@pcaction.org

$885 per mon! call 24/7, 1 888 269 6795 x189 1st U Rlty

2 single rooms for rent in basement of Decatur home. $100 weekly, $100 deposit. Utilities, Cable, Washer & Dryer included. 404-408-9125.

HELP WANTED Driver: $2,500 Sign-On Bonus. Hiring Solo and Team Drivers. Great Benefits Package. Excellent Home Time. CDL-A Required. Students Welcome 888-441-9358 www.superservicellc.com

REAL ESTATE Government, Bank Foreclosures, & HUD Homes In Your Area Great Deals! Call today for a free customized list with pictures. 1-866-210-9361.

FOR RENT/LEASE Stone Mtn foreclosure, Waters Edge, .brk 4brm, 2.5Ba, LR, Dr, Den, Fin Bsmt$119k, $1000 dn,

EDUCATION

LEARNING IS FUN!! Flying High Pre-K program for Future Leaders of tomorrow

Age 4 Registration begins June 18th – July 30th Curriculum Based 8-Week Program v Three Nutritious Meals v Field Trips v The first 20 children will get a start up school supplies gift box

Business Hours: 6 a.m. to 12 a.m.

4391 Glenwood Road Decatur, GA 30032

404-284-8909 (office) www.davis@oelpa.com

Youth Empowerment Program

For Teens & Young Adults, ages 14 -26

June 16 – July 21, 2012 Saturdays: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. At Peace Lutheran Church 1679 Columbia Drive, Decatur, GA 30032

Registration $25

MARKETPLACE RATES

Limited scholarships available

home services

For more information, call

404-248-7798

Youth Services

wanted to buy

PROJECT HOME IMPROVEMENT • Deck Design • Deck Repair • Porches / Repair • Pergolas • Patios • Garden Boxes • Drywall • Interior Framing • Door Installation • General Carpentry • Installations • Storage Sheds

“Mount up with wings as eagles!”

www.projecthomimprv.com

404-536-5882

LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE People Self Storage will hold a public auction to enforce a line impose on said property as described below, pursuant to Georgia Self Storage Facility Act Georgia Code Section 104-210 to 10-4-215. Auction will be held on or after June 18th, 2012 at 11:00 AM at 7703 Conyers St., Lithonia, Ga. 30058. Phone # 770-482-9099. Management reserves the right to withdraw any bids or units from sale. Unit Name 1161.............. Zachary Howard 1016 ............. Cassie Jackson 2100 ............. Mark Grissom 2011.............. Alex Madison T007 ............. Phillip Thomas A100 ............. Leroy Francis 1150.............. Fassil Shenkoru 1048 ............. Antonio Marble 1037 ............. Mitchell William 1077 ............. Jonathan Rucker Cash Only.

Download Applications at www.ixgeninc.org

Place your MarketPlace line ad here – up to 20 words for $25. Additional words are $3 per block of five words (maximum 45 words). Boxed Ads (with up to 3 lines bold headline): $35 plus cost of the classified ad. Send ad copy with check or credit card information and contact phone number (if different from ad) to MarketPlace, CrossRoadsNews, 2346 Candler Road, Decatur, GA 30032, or e-mail to marketplace@crossroadsnews.com. Our deadlines are at noon on the Friday one week prior to publication, unless otherwise noted.

youth services

subscriptions

3-POINT SHOT CONTEST ENTRY FEE $7

DUNK CONTEST ENTRY FEE $7

BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT FRI, JULY 13 AND SAT, JULY 14, 2012 Lucious Sanders Rec Ctr 2484 Bruce Street, Lithonia, GA 30058

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June 9, 2012

A MAGICAL JOURNEY

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5/29/12 4:19 PM