CrossRoadsNews, June 29, 2013 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

COMMUNITY

4TH OF JULY

Staffing facility is next step

Celebration of Independence

A hiring center will open by July 8 to find employees for the new Walmart Super Center nearing completion at Stonecrest. 2

Red, white and blue sweet treats provide perfect complement to the fireworks, parades and other festivities for the 4th of July. 6,7

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

June 29, 2013

Volume 19, Number 9

www.crossroadsnews.com

Supreme Court invalidates key piece of Voting Rights Act By Ken Watts ken@crossroadsnews.com

In a stunning landmark decision on June 25, the U.S. Supreme Court threw out a key provision of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. Civil rights activists and other leaders on both sides of the issue say the impact will be felt in Georgia, one of eight states required by the law to get pre-clearance from the U.S. Justice Department to make voting changes. The state will no longer have to get approval from the Justice Department before redrawing House, Senate and congressional districts and county commission, school board and other local districts. In a 5-4 vote, the court ruled that Section

4 of the act is unconstitutional. Section 4 outlined a formula that the federal government used to determine which jurisdictions would get close Justice Department scrutiny under Section 5 of the act because of a history of discrimination in voting laws. The Supreme Court ruling frees Georgia from the requirement that it “pre-clear” with the Justice Department any changes in the state’s voting law. The other states were Texas, Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, Arizona, Virginia and Alaska. The pre-clearance formula also covered parts of North Carolina, Florida, South Carolina, California and South Dakota. The court did not rule on Section 5

but invalidated the coverage formula that makes it work. Writing for the majority, Chief Justice John Roberts said “there is no denying, however, that the conditions that originally justified these measures no longer characterize voting in the covered jurisdictions.” Roberts goes on to say that “at the same time, voting discrimination still exists. No one doubts that. The question is whether the act’s extraordinary measures, including its disparate treatment of the states, continue to satisfy constitutional requirements. As we put it a short time ago, the act imposes current burdens and must be justified by current needs.” The ruling prompted an emotional re-

action from 5th District U.S. Rep. John Lewis, who marched, bled and was beaten in the fight for voting rights. “The Supreme Court has stuck a dagger into the heart of the Voting Rights Act,” said Lewis, who was John Lewis severely beaten on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala., in March 1965 when police attacked a peaceful march for voting rights. The incident and other racial violence of that era led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act. Please see VOTING, page 3

Celebrating Free Flow of Traffic I-20 collector/ distributor lane opens early By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

It’s now smooth sailing through the I‑20/I‑285 interchange in Decatur after the Georgia Department of Transportation opened the new collector-distributor lanes a month earlier than planned on June 26. At a ribbon-cutting on the Wesley Chapel entrance ramp Wednesday morning, GDOT board member Robert L. Brown said the 4.5-mile project, which had been under construction since February 2011, improves safety for motorists and cuts down significantly on the traffic weaving that went on at the junction of the two highways. Brown called the opening of the project a wonderful development in DeKalb. “We are making improvements and celebrating those improvements with a ribboncutting today,” he said. Brown said that the county has a lot to be proud of and to celebrate. “We have a high quality of life in DeKalb Elected and County,” he said. “We work together as a GDOT officials cut team. We are going to continue to do that for the ribbon June the good of the community. It is important 26 on $30.9 for us to be able to do that as we continue to million worth of enhance the image of DeKalb County.” improvements on The $30.9 million project overhauls the the 1-20/1-285 congested I-20/I-285 interchange by sepainterchange in rating I-20 through-traffic from motorists Decatur. exiting at Wesley Chapel Road and those entering from I-285. During the final months of construction, it was slow going for motorists entering the interchange from I-285, who often faced backups on the exit ramp and for miles onto the interstate. While the ribbon-cutting was under way Wednesday, traffic was breezing through the I-285. That traffic now merges onto I-20 after Drive and Panola Road. new three-lane collector-distributor lanes, it passes the Wesley Chapel Road exit. Brown said that traffic analysis shows which use a 1.2-mile barricade to separate The project also added sound barriers that the improvements will have immediate through-traffic from that entering from along both sides of I-20 between Columbia impact on peak-hour travel.

Photos by Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

“Travel time will improve between 36 [percent] and 74 percent,” he said. Wednesday’s ribbon-cutting ceremony was the second on road improvements in South DeKalb in seven weeks. On May 8, Brown and elected officials cut the ribbon on the $26.4 million Lithonia Industrial Boulevard Extension for a total of $57.3 million in improvements. “Dollars are being spent in DeKalb County,” said Brown, who represents the county on GDOT’s board. “The Department of Transportation is partnering with the county and with the federal government to make that happen.” About 8,400 vehicles per hour travel the interchange. The collector-distributor project separates merging traffic on I-285 from Please see TRAFFIC, page 4

Community

CrossRoadsNews

June 29, 2013

“I started seeing all these opportunities here. They saw that I was young but very eager.”

Hiring center for new Stonecrest Walmart opening in July By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

The new Stonecrest Walmart is in its final stages of construction and a hiring center will open by July 8 to find 300 full- and part-time workers. John Moreno, the store’s manager, says the hiring center will open in a vacant storefront next door to the Rainbow store in the Stonecrest MarketPlace shopping center that overlooks the Mall at Stonecrest. He says he is seeking to hire hourly associates and supervisors and managers for the 152,000-square-foot Super Walmart nearing completion at I-20 and Turner Hill Road in Lithonia. “Most of the hiring will be from the Lithonia area and DeKalb County,” Moreno said Tuesday. The hiring center will stay open for six to eight weeks, but Moreno says the store will continue to hire even after it opens for business on Oct. 2. Moreno, who grew up in Colombia, joined Walmart eight years ago as a parttime hourly associate working the graveyard shift in the produce department. He said the company offers great growth opportunities to its employees. Six months after he started working there, he said he indicated to his manager that he was interested in growing with the company. “I started seeing all these opportunities here,” he said. “They saw that I was young but very eager.” He was put in the company’s management training program and said he learned quickly that Walmart’s employees are the reason for its success. Moreno says that more than 80 percent of Walmart’s managers started as hourly associates, just like him. Nationwide, Walmart’s 1.4 million em-

“As mayor, I’ll fight to ensure a safe and secure environment, promote sustainable living, and build a better future for our youth.”

Terry hoping to be mayor of Clarkston Two-year Clarkston resident Ted Terry has thrown his hat in the ring for mayor of Clarkston in November. Terry said June 24 that he is running to ensure that families have a common-sense Ted Terry voice on the City Council dedicated to protecting their rights, looking out for their future, and addressing the current and future challenges the community faces. “As mayor, I’ll fight to ensure a safe and secure environment, promote sustainable living, and build a better future for our youth,” he said. Terry has a decade of public service experience, working in nonprofit consulting for the Sierra Club and Human Rights Campaign; Environment Georgia; and the Clarkston Active Living Initiative. He also has worked on campaigns for state representatives, state senators, county commissioners, school board members, local officials and a U.S. congressman. Terry will challenge incumbent Mayor Emanuel Ransom, who was the city’s vice mayor when then-Mayor Trey Tygrett died suddenly in December 2009. Tygrett had been in office just shy of a year at the time.

Store manager John Moreno started at Walmart as a part-time hourly associate. He is looking for 300 full- and parttime workers and says there are lots of opportunities for employees.

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

ployees make average hourly pay of $11.75. Industrial Boulevard Walmart. He has a “Ninety percent of them have benefits mechanical engineering degree but said he including 401(k) and health insurance,” he is not unusual. said. “We have managers who are lawyers, teachers, etc.,” he said. ‘Walmart provides … help to grow’ His wife of more than two decades, AnalMoreno says he will be a champion for isa, is an assistant manager at the Madison, the employees of his store. Ga., Walmart. She has been with Walmart 22 “If you join us, I am going to help you years. They have three children. succeed,” he said. “Walmart provides a lot The Stonecrest store is a green store with of help to grow and I will make it work for LED lighting and what Moreno calls “intelboth of us.” ligent fixtures,” including motion sensors While job hunters also can apply online, that turn lights on and off. Moreno said he and six to 10 managers will “The company has decided that sustainbe present daily at the hiring center to answer ability and profitability can work together,” questions and describe the positions. he said. Before he was named manager of the Last week, Moreno suggested that parkStonecrest store in mid-May, he was a shift ing lots between the new Walmart and Sam’s manager for four years at the Covington Club should be linked to make it easier for

customers to get between them. Within days, it was approved and the contractor was able to cut a road between the sister stores. “We operate quickly if it’s going to benefit the customer and improve the experience,” Moreno said. When it opens in October, the store will join supercenters at Memorial Drive in Decatur, on Fairington Road in Lithonia, and at Memorial Drive and North Hairston Road and Highway 78 in Stone Mountain. On June 26, a Neighborhood Market opened in Tucker, and on Oct. 26, one will open in the Covington Square Shopping Center at Covington Highway and Panola Road in Lithonia. The Stonecrest Walmart hiring center will be in Store 415 at 8120 Stonecrest MarketPlace.

AGL pipeline project to snarl traffic in South DeKalb Be alert for traffic delays in neighborhoods as Atlanta Gas Light’s Eastside pipeline project moves into South DeKalb. AGL says its crews this week are installing sections of the 24-inch pipeline near the intersection of Horse Shoe Trail and Boulderview Drive in Decatur. In a June 6 letter to Commissioner Larry Johnson and neighbors, AGL says installation will include clearing of the easement where needed, excavating in the easement and along road rights of way to put the pipeline in place, and installing a regulator station in the vicinity of Constitution Road (to manage the flow of gas) to ensure continued safe and reliable natural gas service to its customers. Crews are working in several locations along the pipeline route in open areas and in neighborhoods. Pipe installation uses a technique known as horizontal directional drilling, which is under way to install pipe under I-20 and Flat Shoals Road. That method requires entry and exit points at Cook Road and Brannen Road. The Eastside pipeline project, part of AGL’S $250 million Pipeline Replacement Program, has been under way since October 2012 and is designed to upgrade its natural gas delivery system. The 24-inch pipeline will run 28 miles from AGL’s liquefied natural gas facility in Riverdale to connect with an existing transmission system near Buford Highway and Clairmont Road. About 18 miles of the pipeline will pass through unincorporated DeKalb, Atlanta-inDeKalb, and the city of Decatur. Here is an overview of AGL’s activity in DeKalb during June: n Paving of Stanton Street completed after pipeline installed and DeKalb County replaced storm drain in road. n Pipe installation continuing between Cresta Drive and McAfee Road and at Wee

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

A crew installs a section of Atlanta Gas Light’s Eastside pipeline near the intersection of Horse Shoe Trail and Boulderview Drive, a mile south of I-20.

Kirk Road – appropriate traffic control will be in place. Pipe installation is under way in other areas including: n South of I-20 between Flat Shoals Road and Gresham Road. n Across and between Boulderview Drive, Caribea Drive and Mary Lou Lane. n South of Rollingwood Drive toward Bouldercrest Road. n North and east of I-285/Moreland Avenue interchange in easement toward Constitution Road. n Drilling to place pipe under I-20 to continue. n Surveying and pre-construction activities

along the entire pipeline route as needed.

Impacts n Additional construction traffic in areas of installation. n Typical construction noise during clearing and installation – noise level depends on proximity to site. For questions about the Eastside pipeline project, call 404-584-3130. AGL says the telephone line is monitored regularly and callers can generally expect to receive a response within an hour during normal weekday business hours. The response time is longer after hours, on weekends and on holidays.

June 29, 2013

Community

CrossRoadsNews

“I love the air conditioning. And the roof don’t leak. It’s an efficient use of space.”

South Precinct relocates to renovated building near mall By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Families can see and touch “the Beast” and other DeKalb Police special operations equipment at a June 29 open house for the new Derwin Brown Memorial South Precinct in Decatur. The Beast, a huge armored vehicle with an arm that can reach multiple stories high, is the DeKalb SWAT team’s latest crimefighting tool. The department purchased the Mobile Adjustable Ramp System vehicle in May 2012 through a Homeland Security grant. Police spokeswoman Mekka Parish says the vehicle is a head-turner. “It makes its presence known,” she said, adding that officers nicknamed the vehicle “the Beast” because of its size. Other special operations vehicles and audio-visual equipment also will be on display. The precinct relocated June 1 to the former Toys “R” Us building on H.F. Shepherd Drive, across from the Gallery at South DeKalb, from its longtime location near the intersection of Candler and Glenwood roads. During the 10 a.m.-to-3 p.m. open house, residents will get to tour the facility and meet Chief Cedric Alexander and the precinct’s command staff. The county acquired the building in 2006 in a land swap with Mack2 Enterprises and spent $3.5 million to renovate and retrofit the building. Mack2, which owns properties on the corner of Candler and Glenwood, gets the old precinct building to combine with its other holdings for a planned mixed-use development. The new precinct houses 150 officers and

DeKalb Police Chief Cedric Alexander chats with Sgts. C.F. Andrews and M.S. Cloudt in the hall way of the new South Precinct Tuesday. A June 29 open house and tour is part of the precinct’s grand opening festivities.

civilian employees. Officer S. Smart, who has been at the South Precinct for 10 years, says he loves the new digs. “I love the air conditioning,” he said. “And the roof don’t leak. It’s an efficient use of space.” Smart said he hadn’t used the gym yet because all the weights haven’t arrived. “I am looking forward to it,” he said.

Sgt. C.F. Andrew loves that they get their own cubicles. “People have already started personalizing them with family photos,” he said. Saturday’s open house follows the official ribbon-cutting on June 28 with DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis and DeKalb Commissioners Larry Johnson, Stan Watson and Kathie Gannon. Brandy Brown, daughter of the late Sheriff-elect Derwin Brown, for whom the

precinct is named, was a special guest at the 11 a.m. ceremony. Parish said the facility also houses the Criminal Scene Unit and provides cubicle office spaces for the precinct’s sergeants. It has a gym for officers and a community room that Parish says is available free of charge to community groups seeking meeting space. The new South Precinct is at 2842 H.F. Shepherd Drive in Decatur.

Civil rights leaders, others call Supreme Court ruling appalling, reckless VOTING,

from page

U.S. Rep. John Lewis (at right on the ground) was among Civil Rights marchers beaten on the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala., in 1965 during a march for voting rights.

Lewis said that while the court did not deny that voter discrimination still exists, “it gutted the most powerful tool this nation has ever had to stop discriminatory voting practices from becoming law.” “Those justices were never beaten or jailed for trying to register to vote,” he said. “They have no friends who gave their lives for the right to vote. I want to say to them, ‘Come and walk in my shoes.’” Edward DuBose, president of the Georgia NAACP, said he was appalled by the court’s decision. “Medgar Evers died for the right to vote,” DuBose said at a news conference Wednesday. “The four little girls in Birmingham were killed for the right to vote.” The NAACP said it will work with state legislatures and push Congress to pass new voting protections for minorities. Kevin Myles, the NAACP’s Southeast regional director, said the protections are necessary because of ongoing discrimination. “To say that there’s no need for any scrutiny, no need to take a second look, no need for any safeguards because it used to be much worse – that’s not a compelling argument,” Myles said. The NAACP also is looking at strengthening Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, which deals with discriminatory intent. Fourth District U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson called the court’s ruling a reckless decision. “The court engaged in historic overreach, ignoring their own precedents and disregarding evidence of ongoing discrimination at the polls,” Johnson said in a statement after the ruling. “A call for strong swift action by Congress is now front and center. I will work with my colleagues, on both sides of the aisle, to ensure voters have every necessary protection.” Georgia House Minority Leader Stacey Abrams said she’s very disappointed in the

ruling. “It severely weakens Section 5 and makes it very difficult for legislators and for citizens to reach out to the Justice Department to ask for help when we see challenges coming in response to voting rights,” she said. Abrams also is worried about the effect the decision could have on Georgia’s growing Latino and Asian populations. “I understand the court’s concern about the formulary and making certain that it’s reflective of the changing demographics of the state, but I think what’s most important is that we remain responsible for anticipating what the impact of any changes to voting rights can be and make certain that this doesn’t become a way to harm these new communities before they have an opportunity to really develop their political muscle,” she said. Abrams said Congress should expand the formula for determining which jurisdictions need pre-clearance and that the expansion should include all states. But Gov. Nathan Deal, a Republican, applauded the Supreme Court decision that he said guarantees that Georgia will be treated like every other state – “a right we have earned.” “The Voting Rights Act was a vital tool in the struggle to ensure that all Americans had access to the ballot box,” he said. “But

determining who needs ‘pre-clearance’ by a formula based on the 1964 election defies logic. Over the last half-century, Georgia has reformed and our state is a proud symbol of progress.” The high court ruling came in the case of Shelby County v. Holder. In 2006, the city of Calera in Shelby County, Ala., a mostly white suburb of Birmingham, enacted a discriminatory redistricting plan without complying with Section 5, leading to the loss of the city’s sole African-American councilman. Under compliance with Section 5, the city had to draw a nondiscriminatory redistricting plan and conduct another election in which the councilman regained his seat. Shelby County filed suit in federal court

calling the pre-clearance requirement of the Voting Rights Act unconstitutional and saying that Congress exceeded its authority in 2006 when it reauthorized Section 5 for another 25 years. After several defeats and appeals, the suit landed before the Supreme Court in 2012. Georgia Secretary of State Brian Kemp said the ruling could have an effect on Georgia’s election system in the short and long term. “And that could be something as big as redistricting or as small as changing a voter registration form, just the wording on that,” he said. In addition to eliminating federal clearance before redrawing state House and Senate and congressional districts, Kemp said city and county election officials also won’t need federal approval ahead of time. “If they wanted to decrease the number of precincts in a county to save money because a lot of people are early voting now … before you would have had to get that pre-cleared” he said.” Now, it seems that you will not have to do that.” Still, if some contend an election change violates the remaining parts of the Voting Rights Act, they could sue. Kemp says his office will continue to follow Section 2 of the act. That section says states can’t have voting practices or procedures that discriminate based on race, color or language.

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Graphic Design Curtis Parker Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Jessica Smith Ken Watts Copy Editor Brenda Yarbrough Circulation Manager Jami Ffrench-Parker CrossRoadsNews is published every Saturday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsNews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher.

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June 29, 2013

“We want a code that says no to any commercial development in our neighborhoods.”

Proposed changes to DeKalb zoning worry some By Ken Watts

Planning workers Melora Furman (left) and Madolyn Spann inspect a chart of zoning districts at a public hearing on June 18.

ken@crossroadsnews.com

DeKalb County planners are hoping they’ve cleared up confusion over where cell phone towers can be placed and eased community concerns about proposed changes to the DeKalb Zoning Code. At a June 18 public information meeting hosted by commissioners at the Maloof Auditorium, Andrew Baker, the county’s director of Planning and Sustainability, said the debate can be frustrating. He said the proposed changes to the code incorporate more public input. “The whole idea that you can build a cell tower anywhere just by getting a permit Andrew Baker is not a correct statement,” he said. “We now require a public hearing before cell towers are built. So we called this meeting to give people a better understanding of the code and to recommend changes on cell towers and many other issues.” But some residents were still skeptical. Louise Runyon, co-chair of Good Growth DeKalb, said the Medlock neighborhood-based group appreciates the chance for input but is not yet convinced it will lead to a better zoning code. “A public hearing is different from having a code that says no commercial development in residential neighborhoods, including cell phone towers,” Runyon said. “We want a code that says no to any commercial development in our neighborhoods.” Vincent Latimer, president of Cedar Grove Neighborhood Association, would like to see more upscale commercial development in the Bouldercrest area and stricter code enforcement on residential property owners and developers. “We need more control on how far back houses should be from the street, the quality of building mate-

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

rials, the number of houses per lot, and the number of cars parked on driveways and lawns,” Latimer said. “To attract more business to South DeKalb, we have to keep it clean and make it the kind of neighborhood where business owners would want their employees to live.” To address all concerns, DeKalb adopted a comprehensive zoning plan in 2007 that outlines a vision for controlled expansion to be achieved by the year 2025. Baker told the meeting that the county has been using a 1999 zoning code to implement that plan. “In order to fully implement the comprehensive plan’s vision, the county needs a more updated zoning code that is consistent with current trends of development,” he said. He presented slides with excerpts from the proposed code, and planning workers placed charts around the auditorium illustrating the various development zones. The Zoning Code Update has several goals: n Reduce traffic by creating mixeduse walkable communities. n Identify the best locations for new growth. n Promote redevelopment of un-

derutilized retail centers. n Provide “predictability” by creating standards. n Protect single-family neighborhoods. The proposed code also creates new standards for lots, streets, landscapes, open spaces and site improvements. Baker said the proposed changes should make it easier for initiatives such as aging in place, mixed-use development, intergenerational activity centers, and neighborhood protection. “The new code is user-friendly and includes graphic illustrations, useful tables and more concise regulatory standards,” he said. It also encourages redevelopment and repurposing of existing commercial sites as an alternative to demolition, thus causing fewer disruptions to residential neighborhoods. Runyon said the plan displayed on June 18 is an improvement over the one that Baker presented on May 28. But she says it still needs tweaking on the issue of public input, a sensitive topic for her group that has been fighting the construction of a Walmart at Suburban Plaza.

Good Growth DeKalb is suing in DeKalb Superior Court to block the construction of a Walmart near the congested six-way intersection of North Decatur Road, Scott Boulevard and Medlock Road. “There is strong evidence that excess power is given to the planning director and to staff that communities do not have the same appeal rights as developers and that public notice about new development and public hearings is insufficient,” Runyon said. “What we need is clear, understandable language that spells out very specifically how the interests of neighborhoods will be improved upon in this new plan.” Commissioners did not take a final vote on the Zoning Code Update at their June 25 meeting and deferred the matter until Aug. 27. District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson, who chairs the Planning and Economic Development Committee, said the code will likely go through more fine tuning and the public will get additional opportunities to offer suggestions this summer. The draft plan is available at www.planningdekalb.net. Click on “Project Overview.”

New lanes the result of county, state and federal partnership traffic, from page

I-20 eastbound through-traffic to prevent significant lane-changing that used to take place. The Georgia Department of Transportation says the project is a short-term solution to traffic congestion until a larger programmed project can be implemented in 2032 when an estimated 148,420 vehicles a day will use the interchange. DeKalb Commissioners Larry Johnson, Lee May and Stan Watson and state Sen. Gloria Butler attended the ribbon-cutting along with U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson’s representative, Eric Hubbard. They hailed the partnership of federal, state and county dollars.

Circulation Audited By

Johnson, who represents Commission District 3, said the project is a step in the right direction to making sure that traffic can be more efficient. “Every time that we can decrease congestion, that increases business opportunities in our area,” he said. “Every minute or second that we save helps our quality of life.” Watson thanked DOT for the dollars that are spent in the county. He said the CD project will help with traffic. Wesley Chapel is one of the main corridors in the county and the Connector improvements will help. “We are going to make it great in DeKalb County and on the corridors of Wesley Chapel Road to

make economic development and revitalization,” he said. May said that projects like the collector-distributor lanes help the county grow economic dollars and that he is committed to making sure that a rail line comes to South DeKalb and stops at Wesley Chapel Road. “As these transportation projects continue to transform our area, you will see the quality of life of our citizens and our area continue to grow and be impacted by the work,” he said. Butler said that it is exciting to see Georgia’s dollars at work and to see the safety improvements incorporated in the projects. “When you see a project like

this, you know that somebody has been fighting for the dollars to come forth,” she said. Butler said that she knows the people have been a little uncomfortable with the traffic. “But when they come home this evening at 5 o’clock and see some of those cones gone, we will probably hear a hooray from the interstate,” she said. While the lanes are open, construction crews will continue to complete cosmetic improvements. DOT spokesman Mark McKinnon said grass still needs to be added along portions of the project and some signage will be erected, but any further disruption to traffic will be minimal.

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June 29, 2013

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July

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“Adding patriotic flair to your celebration is easy with the right recipes and decorating accents.”

FAMILY FEATURES

ireworks don’t have to be the only party element that makes guests ooh and ah during July 4th festivities. With colorful sweets that sparkle and a themed tablescape exploding with red, white and blue, your party is sure to be the best on the block. “Adding patriotic flair to your Independence Day celebration is easy with the right recipes and decorating accents,” said Nancy Siler, vice president of consumer affairs at Wilton. “Put your personal John Hancock on the party by turning traditional summertime foods into amazing sweet treats.” Try these dessert ideas from the Wilton test kitchen for a celebration that ends with a bang: n Burgers with a Sweet Bite: Traditional burgers are a staple for summer parties; switch things up with Sweet Sliders and build your burgers with unexpected ingredients. Start with whoopie pies for

the buns, add a brownie “patty,” roll yellow fruit candies into thin layers for cheese, and top it off with red and yellow Sparkle Gel for ketchup and mustard. n Playful Twist on Summer Fruit: Make mouths water by serving up slices of delicious watermelon ... cheesecake! Strawberry cheesecake dotted with mini chocolate chips imitates the center of the fruit, and a pistachio and coconut crumble crust mimics the watermelon rind. n Patriotic Treat Pops: For the grand finale, nestle Red, White and Blue Treat Pops in a bowl of red Cinnamon Drops. Layer on the festive colors with vanilla cake, colored icing and star-shaped sprinkles. Finish with stars and stripes Rocket Treat Pops Toppers or red, white and blue pinwheels. For more celebration ideas, visit www.wilton. com.

Cool Watermelon Cheesecake Makes about 12 servings Crust: 1-1/4 cups (16 ounces) roasted salted pistachios 2 cups sweetened flaked coconut 1/4 cup granulated sugar 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) butter, melted Leaf green icing color Filling: 3 packages (8 ounces each) cream cheese, softened 2/3 cup granulated sugar

June 29, 2013

1 teaspoon imitation clear vanilla 1 cup heavy whipping cream 1 package (16 ounces) frozen whole straw berries, thawed, pureed and strained (about 1-1/2 cups) 1 envelope (1/4 ounce) unflavored gelatin No-taste red icing color 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips, divided

I n food processor, pulse pistachios until coarsely ground. Add coconut, sugar, butter and icing color; pulse until well combined. Press into bottom and 3/4 up side of 9-inch springform pan. Refrigerate while making filling. In large bowl, beat cream cheese, sugar and vanilla until light and creamy. Add heavy cream and beat until combined. In small saucepan, bring strawberry juice just to boiling, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Sprinkle gelatin evenly over top and whisk vigorously to dissolve completely, about 3 minutes. Pour into cream cheese mixture. Add icing color and beat until well combined. Beat in 1/3 cup mini chocolate chips. Pour into chilled crust. Sprinkle top with remaining chocolate chips. Refrigerate until set, about 3 hours.

Red, White and Blue Treat Pops Makes about 12 Treat Pops Whoopie Pie Cakes: 1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1-1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/4 teaspoon salt 6 tablespoons butter, softened 2/3 cup granulated sugar 2 egg whites 1-1/2 teaspoons imitation clear vanilla extract 2/3 cup milk Filling: 3 cups buttercream icing Christmas red icing color Royal blue icing color Patriotic mix sprinkles Rocket Treat Pops Toppers Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare mini whoopie pie pan with vegetable pan spray. In large bowl, stir together flour, baking powder and salt. In large bowl, beat butter and sugar with electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add egg

whites and vanilla extract and beat until well combined. Alternately add flour mixture and milk in three additions, beating until just combined. Spoon one tablespoon batter into each cavity. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until tops of cakes spring back when touched. Cool in pan 3 minutes. Cool completely on cooling grid. In separate small bowls, tint 1 cup butter cream red, 1 cup blue and reserve 1 cup white. To assemble: Place one cake in bottom of treat pop. Pipe a swirl of blue icing from back edge following the curve of the con tainer to the front, then filling in the center; add sprinkles. Add second cake. Pipe a swirl of white icing; add sprinkles. Top with another cake. Pipe a swirl of red icing. Top with Patriotic Sprinkles or Rocket Treat Pops Toppers. Convenience tip: Substitute vanilla wafer cookies for whoopie pie cakes.

Sweet Sliders Makes about 24 Sweet Sliders Cake Buns: 1 package (16 ounces) yellow cake mix Eggs, water and vegetable oil to prepare mix Brownie Patties: 1/2 cup all-purpose flour 1/8 teaspoon salt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter 1/3 cup granulated sugar 1 tablespoon water 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract 1 egg Toppings: Shredded coconut Leaf green icing color Assorted fruit flavored candies Red sparkle gel Yellow sparkle gel Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare whoopie pie pan with vegetable pan spray. For buns, combine cake mix, eggs, water and oil in large bowl; mix according to package instructions.

Fill prepared pan cavities 2/3 full with cake batter. Bake 9 to 11 minutes, or until tops of cake spring back when touched. Cool in pan 10 minutes; remove to cooling grid and cool completely. Repeat with remaining cake batter. For patties, combine flour and salt in small bowl. In small saucepan, melt butter and sugar with water; stir until sugar is dissolved. Add chocolate chips; stir until melted. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla extract. In large bowl, beat egg with electric mixer. Add chocolate mixture; mix well. Add flour mixture; stir until just combined. Divide batter evenly between whoopie pie pan cavities, filling about 1/3 full. Bake 9 to 11 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center comes out nearly clean. Cool 10 minutes; loosen edges of brownies and remove from pan. Cool completely. For toppings, mix shredded coconut with leaf green icing color for lettuce. Roll yellow fruit candies into thin layers for cheese. Use red and yellow sparkle gels for ketchup and mustard. To assemble, top cake bun with a brownie patty. Add toppings and finish with second cake bun.

June 29, 2013

4th

July

CrossRoadsNews

Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.

Light up the skies!

Independence Day fireworks will light up the skies in downtown Decatur, Avondale Estates, Stone Mountain Park, Centennial Olympic Park and Lenos Mall.

Happy birthday America – festivities celebrates nation’s 237th By Jessica Smith

Red, white and blue will in full display in Decatur’s annual Pied Piper Parade in and Avondale Estates parade and fireworks show at Lake Avondale.

The United States turns 237 on July Fourth and there will be plenty of red, white and blue parades, barbecues and fireworks to mark the national birthday. Independence Day commemorates the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, in which U.S. colonies declared their independence from the kingdom of Great Britain. Festivities abound, from the Village of Stone Mountain’s annual Fourth of July Parade to fireworks at Centennial Olympic Park and Lenox Square.

Pied Piper Parade The city of Decatur’s annual Pied Piper Parade begins at 6 p.m. at First Baptist Church of Decatur and culminates at the Community Bandstand on the Decatur Square downtown for a musical concert and fireworks. Decatur city commissioners will lead the parade in a mini-fire truck. Neighborhoods and community organizations can join the parade by either making a float, riding a bike, skating or walking. There will be the presentation of colors and singing of “The Star-Spangled Banner.” At 7 p.m., the Callanwolde Concert Band will perform, followed by a fireworks show at 9 p.m. from the top of the DeKalb County parking deck. First Baptist Church is 308 Clairemont Ave. The Community Bandstand is at 101 E. Court Square. For more information, call 404-3718386, 404-371-8262 or e-mail Katie.Abel@ Peachtree Road Race decaturga.com. About 60,000 runners and walkers will kick off at Lenox Square in the 2013 Atlanta Avondale Estates Avondale Estates will celebrate the Fourth Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race with a parade and a fireworks show at Lake on the Fourth of July. The 6.2-mile race, which is in its 43rd Avondale. The parade begins at 10 a.m. The fire- year, will course down Peachtree Street to 10th Street near Piedmont Park in Atlanta. works begin at dusk. There is also a wheelchair race, which For more information, contact Karen Holmes at 404-294-5400 or kholmes starts at 6:45 a.m. The footrace starts at @avondaleestates.org or visit www.avondale 7:30 a.m. For more information, visit www. peachtreeroadrace.org. estates.org.

N.E. in Atlanta. For more information, call 404-233-6767.

Family-friendly fun Centennial Olympic Park’s Fourth of July celebration includes family-friendly fun and entertainment and a fireworks display synchronized to a special selection of patriotic and popular music. Park gates open at 6 p.m. The fireworks show begins at 9:40 p.m. Centennial Olympic Park is at 265 Park Ave. West N.W. in Atlanta. For more information, visit www.centennialpark.com.

Lenox Square fireworks More than 200,000 adults and children are expected for the 54th annual Fourth Celebration at Lenox Square. It begins at 6 p.m. on the mall’s outdoor main stage. The Jimmy Buffet tribute band Sons of Sailors, Atlanta’s Next Legend competition winner Wesley Cook, and Party on the Moon will perform live. The 20-minute fireworks display to patriotic music begins at 9:40 p.m. Lenox Square is at 3393 Peachtree Road

Fantastic Fourth fete Stone Mountain Park’s annual Fantastic Fourth fete takes place July 4-6 on the Memorial Lawn. The show, which is in its 46th year, begins at 9:30 p.m. daily. Fireworks shoot nightly at the end of the Lasershow Spectacular in Mountainvision, neon laser lights projected on the side of the mountain with surround-sound music, a flame cannon and special effects precisely choreographed to music. It is followed by a special patriotic fireworks finale. The event is free with a $10 daily parking pass or $35 annual parking permit. Stone Mountain Park is at U.S. Highway 78 East in Stone Mountain. For more information, call 770-498-5690.

Scene

CrossRoadsNews

June 29, 2013

There will be a free Health and Fitness Expo featuring local businesses and offering information on getting and keeping fit, nutrition and more.

Lots of Decatur parks to explore during Parks and Rec Month July is Parks and Recreation Month, and the city of Decatur wants residents to show parks some love. It is encouraging them to explore its 10 parks and three dog parks by visiting a park they haven’t been to before, taking photos of themselves enjoying the park, and sending them in to be posted on the blog www.beactivedecatur.com or post them on the Decatur Active Living Facebook page and expound on why they love Decatur’s parks. Here are some tips to celebrate parks: n Visit Glenlake Park and work out in the great outdoors on the adult exercise equipment. Then take a stroll through the Decatur Cemetery. Pick up a Cemetery Walking Tour map from the cemetery office or Decatur Visitors Center and learn about the many historical figures buried there. n Bring your binoculars to your favorite park or greenspace and look (and listen) for birds. Visit www.allaboutbirds.org for information on identifying birds. n Watch softball games and youth baseball games at Oakhurst Park Monday through Thursdays from 6 to 8:30 p.m. or watch adult

Pick up a Cemetery Walking Tour map from the Decatur Cemetery office or Decatur Visitors Center and learn about the many historical figures buried there.

softball games at McKoy Park on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7 to 10 p.m. n Celebrate the Fourth of July at a city of Decatur pool. Afterward, join the an-

nual Pied Piper Parade and wind your way through downtown Decatur. Lineup is at the First Baptist Church at 5:30 p.m., and the parade begins at 6 followed by music from

Bluegrass musicians will perform at the gazebo on Main Street in Stone Mountain Village on July 3 and every Wednesday through Nov. 13 starting at 6 p.m.

More planetarium shows at Fernbank Fernbank Science Center has “supersized” its planetarium schedule with more daytime, evening and Saturday shows. Super Sized Saturdays use the facility’s newly enhanced full dome projector inside the 70-foot diameter planetarium, which is one of the largest in the nation. Daytime

the Callanwolde Band at 7 and fireworks at dark. For more information, visit www .decaturga.com. n Join Bike Decatur’s July Mobile Social on July 13. Meet at the Church Street MARTA station at 6:30 p.m. for a leisurely five-mile ride through Decatur’s neighborhoods. All levels are welcome. n Join the Get Active! Team Decatur Kickoff. On July 22, attend the Kaiser Permanente Get Active! Atlanta and Team Decatur kickoff event at the newly renovated Decatur Recreation Center from 6 to 8 p.m. that includes Mayor Jim Baskett and race director and Olympian Jeff Galloway. There will be a free Health and Fitness Expo featuring local businesses and offering information on getting and keeping fit, nutrition, and opportunities to participate in fun fitness activities as well as drawings for prizes and information on registering for the run/walk. Participate in Zumba, Jazzercise and NIA Dance. Bring the whole family. For more information, visit www.decatur ga.com/activeliving or www.beactivedecatur .com.

shows are for younger audiences, while traditional astronomy shows will be presented in the afternoons and evenings. Fernbank Science Center is in Druid Hills at 156 Heaton Park Drive. For showtimes and previews, visit www.fernbank .edu/planetarium.htm.

3-Ps workshops for home buyers Families can pick up tips on home buying and foreclosure prevention as well as credit counseling at a Family Fun Day at the Community Achievement Center on June 29. HUD-approved housing agency D&E will host “3-Ps to Power” mini-workshops all day for adults and food, music and face-painting outside for kids. The 3-Ps workshops are: n Prepare to buy a home: Credit counseling – learn to improve or re-establish your credit. n Purchase process explained: Meet

industry experts, real estate agents, inspectors, lenders and insurance agents. n Protect your investment: Budget counseling, HomeSafe Georgia, loan modification, Making Home Affordable, unemployment programs. There will be door prizes, including a free credit counseling session. The Community Achievement Center is at 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway in Decatur. For more information, call 770-9616900.

‘Bluegrass on Main’ Wednesdays Music lovers can jam to live bluegrass in Stone Mountain Village on July 3 and every Wednesday through Nov. 13. “Bluegrass on Main” with pickin’ and grinnin’ starts at 6 p.m. at the village gazebo on Main Street. Spectators can bring a chair or blanket

to hear old-time tunes at the free event. Musicians are invited to join in the jam. If it rains, the jam moves to the Village Corner German Restaurant, Tavern & Bakery at 6655 James B. Rivers Drive. For more information, visit www.stone mountainvillage.com.

CrossRoadsNews

June 29, 2013

Scene

“Sisterland” centers on a natural disaster that shakes a family to its core and forces a woman to confront the identity she’s been fleeing.

Author, photographer to share stories of St. Simons island St. Simons natives Jingle Davis and Benjamin Galland will discuss the marvels and history of their coastal island home at an author talk and signing of their informative new book, “Island Time: An Illustrated History of St. Simons Island, Georgia,” on July 8 at the Decatur Library. Davis is a retired journalist who worked for decades with The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, and Galland, an expert photographer, works out of Brunswick. Davis often covered South Georgia and the coast for the AJC, and Galland is a partner with the h2o Creative Group. The talk starts at 7:15 p.m. “Island Time,” published by the University of Georgia Press, features more than 200 contemporary photographs, historical images and maps. It explores St. Simons’ amazing history going back to prehistoric times and bringing its story through the antebellum days of slavery and into recent decades of growth and popularity. The island is about 80 miles south of Savannah. Prehistoric people established some of North America’s

Davis provides a comprehensive history of St. Simons, connecting its stories to broader historical moments. Timbers for Old Ironsides were hewn from its live oaks during the Revolutionary War. Aaron Burr fled to St. Simons after killing Alexander Hamilton. Susie Baker King Taylor became the first black person to teach openly in a freedmen’s school during her stay on the island. Rachel Carson spent time on St. Veteran journalist Jingle Simons, which she wrote about in “The Edge Davis and Benjamin Galland of the Sea.” will discuss their new book. The island became a popular tourist destifirst permanent settlements on St. Simons, leaving three nation in the 1800s, with visitors arriving on ferries until a giant shell rings as evidence of their occupation. People causeway opened in 1924. from other diverse cultures also left their mark: Mocama Davis describes the challenges faced by the community and Guale Indians, Spanish friars, pirates and privateers, with modern growth and explains how St. Simons, with its British soldiers and settlers, German religious refugees, and 20,000 year-round residents, has retained the unique charm aristocratic antebellum planters. and strong sense of community that it is known for today. Enslaved Africans and their descendants forged the The Decatur Library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown unique Gullah Geechee culture that survives today. Decatur. For more information, call 404-370-3070.

Gardening tips at summer series New and aspiring gardeners and those who just love to play in the dirt can find nirvana at the Summer Gardening Series getting under way July 8 at Scott Candler Library in Decatur. All classes will be taught by staff of the DeKalb Cooperative Extension Office. The series kicks off at 2 p.m. with Basic Vegetable Gardening with Lynwood Blackmon. Participants will learn how to start a vegetable garden from the very first steps, including what you need, what to grow, how to care for your plants, when to harvest, and some solutions for potential problems. On July 15, Gold Medal Plants with Gary Peiffer explores special landscape plants. Each year a committee of Georgia horticulture

educators and green industry representatives picks five to six different landscape plants that grow well throughout the state. These include a flower, a perennial, a tree, a shrub and often a vine. Participants can learn more about these special choices to help them decide what to plant in their own yard or garden. On July 25, Container Gardening with Sarah Brodd will tackle limited growing space. The container gardening method is an easy way to grow herbs, veggies, flowers and more in a small space. Learn how to pick a container, build your potting mix, add plants, and care for them. Container gardening is a great way to add instant color to any location. Scott Candler Library is at 1917 Candler Road. For more information, call 404-286-6986.

Novel explores family crisis Best-selling author Curtis Sittenfeld will discuss her new novel “Sisterland” on July 1 at the Decatur Library. The talk starts at 7:15 p.m. “Sisterland” explores family and identity, loyalty and deception, and the delicate line between truth and belief. It centers on a natural disaster that shakes a family to its core and forces a woman to confront the identity she’s been fleeing since adolescence. It is Sittenfeld’s first appearance at the Center Curtis Sittenfeld for the Book. Her previous novels, all of which hit The New York Times best-seller list, include “Prep,” “The Man of My Dreams” and “American Wife.” Her nonfiction has appeared in publications including the Times, Atlantic and Glamour. She is a graduate of Stanford University and the famed Iowa Writers Workshop. The Decatur Library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, call 404-370-3070.

CrossRoadsNews

People

June 29, 2013

“Thank you for being a beacon and a blessing. Thanks for being part of the DeKalb County family.”

DeKalb’s first African-American police chaplain retires after 32 years By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

When Reginald Carter got out of the military in 1981, he was certain of one thing. “I knew that I wanted to do more than just preach from the pulpit,” he said. In his search for his new calling, Carter went first to the county jail, but he tire of recidivism, ex-prisoners who kept coming back,. “I kept thinking there must be something more,” he said. He found it by volunteering to care for the men and women who send bad guys to jail. “Who cares for them?” he said. “I decided that was where I would be.” Carter became a police chaplain, and made history as the DeKalb County’s first African-American police chaplain. Thirty-two years later, some of the uniformed men and women whom he counseled, prayed with and provided spiritual guidance to during their moments of pain, trials and happiness sent him off to retirement at a June 25 ceremony at the Derwin Brown South Precinct. Some of them told him that retirement would not – could not – end their relationship with him. Officer A. Williams, whose year-old marriage was officiated by Carter, thanked him for his counsel to him and his wife. “Just because you are retiring from the Police Department doesn’t mean you are

Police Chief Cedric Alexander (left) and South Precint Commander Major E.L. Jones applauds Police Chaplain Reginald Carter at a retirement party for him on June 26.

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

retiring from us,” Williams told him. “We are going to call on you.” The ceremony was the first event in the South Precinct’s new 40,000-square-foot facility near the Gallery at South DeKalb mall. The precinct’s 150 police officers and civilian employees relocated to the former Toys “R” Us building on June 1. Maj. E. Jones, the precinct’s commander, joked that he wasn’t born yet when Carter became a chaplain. He thanked him for the time he gave to the officers and their families. “Thank you for being a beacon and a blessing,” he said. “Thanks for being part of

the DeKalb County family.” Police Chief Cedric Alexander said that Carter’s service to the police family in difficult times is a blessing. “We are appreciative,” he said. Alexander, who became chief in March, said that in the short time that he has known Carter, he has found him to be a wonderful, wonderful man. After they presented plaques and trophies and read a DeKalb CEO proclamation naming June 25 as Reginald Carter Day in DeKalb County, Carter told the officers that it had been an honor to serve them. “My hat’s off to each and every one of you,” he said. “It was you who allowed me to

pear in this case and file objections within 30 days after the petition was filed. Dated: June 4, 2013 Rhenita Mahoney Petitioner, Pro se 401 Friendly Hills Drive Decatur, GA 30035 678-791-9177

Legal Notices 6/29, 7/6, 7/13, 7/20

Notice of Petition to Change Name(s) of Minor Child(ren) in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 13CV6688-2++ Ian Alexander filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on June 14, 2013 to change the name(s) of the following minor child(ren): From Ava Bartholomew-Alexander to Ava Nicole Enid BartholomewAlexander. From Tristan Bartholomew-Alexander to Tristan Marcelle BartholomewAlexander. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within the time prescribed in OCGA 19-12-1(f)(2) and (3). Dated: April 17, 2013 Ian Alexander Petitioner, Pro se 5894 Strathmoor Manor Circle Lithonia, GA 30058 404-750-5780

Debra DeBerry Clerk of Superior Court

6/29, 7/6, 7/13, 7/20

Notice of Petition to Change Name(s) of Minor Child(ren) in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 12CV12371-10 ++ Ashley E. Thompson filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on November 8, 2012 to change the name(s) of the following minor child(ren): From Kingston Carter James Pittman to Kingston Carter James Thompson. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within the time prescribed in OCGA 19-12-1(f)(2) and (3). Dated: Nov 8, 2012 Ashley E. Thompson

Petitioner, Pro se 808 Tree Mountain Pkwy Stone Mountain, GA 30083 678-362-6511

in writing within sixty (60) days of, June 18, 2013. Witness the Honorable Daniel M. Coursey, Jr. Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 18th day of June, 2013.

6/29, 7/6, 7/13, 7/20

Debra DeBerry Clerk of Superior Court

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 13CV6957-7++ Tabatha Lundy Foster filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on June 24, 2013 to change the name from: Tabatha Lundy Foster to Tabatha Alicia Foster. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within 30 days after the petition was filed. Dated: June 20, 2013 Tabatha Foster Petitioner, Pro se 4670 Cedar Park Trail Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-987-1432

Debra DeBerry Clerk of Superior Court

6/29, 7/6, 7/13, 7/20

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action # ++13CV6639-7++ Rochelle Yvonne Gayden Plaintiff Vs. Marcus Neal Flowers Defendant TO: Marcus Neal Flowers By Order of the Court service for service by publication dated June 18, 2013, you are hereby notified that on June 14, 2013, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is Rochelle Gayden, 2918 Catalina Dr, Decatur, GA 30032. Answer

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action # ++13CV5416-2++ Donald Gene Burks Plaintiff Vs. Sandra Luvenia Burks Defendant TO: Sandra Luvenia Burks 314 Bourley St Leesburg, GA 32748 By Order of the Court service for service by publication dated June 10, 2013, you are hereby notified that on May 7, 2013, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is Donald G. Burks, 1795 Crescent Centre Blvd, Tucker, GA 30084. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of, June 10, 2013. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 11th day of June, 2013. 6/29, 7/6, 7/13, 7/20

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action # ++13CV5849-4++ Kasandra D. Bonaparte Plaintiff Vs. Aaron Bonaparte Defendant TO: Aaron Bonaparte 300 7th Ave, Apt 9 Asbury Park, NJ 07712 & PO Box 611 Neptune, NJ 07754

come into your lives.” Carter said that God placed him at the Police Department. “As chaplains we are here to be a listening ear for you,” he said. “If we don’t have the answer, we refer you to others who do.” Carter offered one suggestion “in love” to the department he is leaving. “If ever possible, find some discretionary money for the program,” he said. “Even if you give us $100 a year, we can report it to the IRS as a charitable contribution. If you have a raggedy car, give it us so that we can use it to serve the officers. We believe something can be done. The chaplains love you.” To chuckles from the audience, Carter’s wife of 38 years, Daisy, said her husband would leave her in the middle of the interstate to get to police officers in need. “I come second to y’all,” she said. “And because it gives him so much joy, it gives me joy.” Carter also made another first in his career. He was also Georgia’s first AfricanAmerican commissioned officer for the Georgia National Guard and made it into Jet magazine in the 1970s. Officer Ben Gaither, who is also the pastor of Stronghold Christian Church in Lithonia, succeeds Carter as head of the chaplain program. He thanked Carter for his service to the chaplains. “You have trained us. You have mentored us,” he said. “We are a better chaplain service for all that you have done.”

Debra DeBerry Clerk of Superior Court

6/15, 6/22, 6/29, 7/6

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION By Order of the Court service for service by publication dated June 3, 2013, you are hereby notified that on May 21, 2013, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is Yazmin Sobh, Atlanta Legal Aid, 246 Sycamore St, Ste 120, Decatur, GA 30030-3434. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of, June 3, 2013. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flake Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 12th day of June, 2013. 6/15, 6/22, 6/29, 7/6

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 13CV6354-10 ++ Louvenia Denmark filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on May 30, 2013 to change the name from: Louvenia Denmark to Louvenia Harris. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within 30 days after the petition was filed. Dated: May 30, 2013 Louvenia Denmark Petitioner, Pro se 299 Glen Hollow Dr #2 Decatur, GA 30034

Debra DeBerry Clerk of Superior Court

6/15, 6/22, 6/29, 7/6

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 13CV6281-4 ++ Rhenita Marie Mahoney filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on June 4, 2013 to change the name from: Rhenita Marie Mahoney to Rhenita Marie Mundine. Any interested party has the right to ap-

In the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action # ++13CV4517-4++ Demeca Hood Plaintiff Vs. Carlos Peebles Defendant TO: Carlos Peebles 2167 Glenwood Ave Atlanta, GA 30316 By Order of the Court service for service by publication dated June 3, 2013, you are hereby notified that on April 16, 2013, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is 3488 Robins Landing Way #7, Decatur, GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of, June 3, 2013. Witness the Honorable Cynthia J. Becker Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 10th day of June, 2013. 6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29

Notice of Petition to Change Name(s) of Minor Child(ren) in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 12CV11612-1 ++ Zewdu Ashagre Waldesanbat filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on October 19, 2012 to change the name(s) of the following minor child(ren): From Shalom Z. Waldesanbat to Shalom Z. Ashagre. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within the time prescribed in OCGA 19-12-1(f)(2) and (3). Dated: Oct 16, 2012 Zewdu A. Waldesanbat Petitioner, Pro se 1721 Spring Chase Circle Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-418-2331

Debra DeBerry Clerk of Superior Court 6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 13CV5813-9 ++ Karen C. Williams filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on May 30, 2013 to change the name from: Karen C. Williams to Caryn Martha Williams. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within 30 days after the petition was filed. Dated: May 30, 2013 Karen C. Williams Petitioner, Pro se 512 Fortune Ridge Road Stone Mountain, GA 30087 404-574-9744

Debra DeBerry Clerk of Superior Court

6/8, 6/15, 6/22, 6/29

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 13CV6362-1 ++ Stacey Elaine Wigfall filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on May 23, 2013 to change the name from: Stacey Elaine Wigfall to Stacy Elaine Young. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within 30 days after the petition was filed. Dated: May 23, 2013 Stacey Elaine Wigfall Petitioner, Pro se 1554 Columbia Circle Decatur, GA 30032 404-734-0597

Debra DeBerry Clerk of Superior Court

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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.

CrossRoadsNews

June 29, 2013

HAIR CARE / SALONS

Natural Hair Products For Natural and Relaxed Hair Some of the products we carry include:

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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.

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LAW OFFICE OF TRICHELLE GRIGGS SIMMONS

1951 Wesley Chapel Road • Decatur, GA 30035

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