CrossRoadsNews, March 7, 2015 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

COMMUNITY

SCENE

Friends, family and colleagues shared fond memories of former Wesley Chapel Librarian Doris Wells at her homegoing service on March 4. 2

The Georgia Department of Labor’s career center on Covington Highway is closed indefinitely after a car crashed into it on Feb. 28. 4

The Bonaventure Quartet brings its unique mix of hot and cool jazz, show tunes, folk ballads and other genres to the Decatur Library. 6

Library pioneer remembered

Jobs center disabled

Eclectic musical blend

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

March 7, 2015

www.crossroadsnews.com

Volume 20, Number 45

Full accreditation beckoning DeKalb Schools By Ken Watts

“The Board of Education, principals, teachers, and staff working with parents and community leaders have made great strides in meeting the needs of our students,” he said on Feb. 26. “SACS recognizes the progress we are making toward Michael Thurmond stabilizing the district in a manner that allows us to refocus our efforts on academic achievement.” SACS said it recognized the “concerted effort and focused work of the board, Superintendent Thurmond, system staff and personnel at all levels to stabilize the system and create a culture of trust and transparency.” It acknowledged the district’s consider-

The DeKalb School System is one step closer to full accreditation after the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools upgraded its status to “Accredited on Advisement.” The new status is one notch from full accreditation, which the district has been seeking for the past two years. It moves from “Accredited Warned,” a status it has had since July 18, 2014. The report, released on Feb. 26, followed SACS’ three-day visit to the district in December 2014. Schools spokesman Quinn Hudson said many principals called the central office in Stone Mountain to offer congratulations. Superintendent Michael Thurmond said the new status is another sign of recovery for the district, which nearly lost accreditation in December 2012 over governance, financial and student performance issues. Please see SACS, page 2

Full accreditation protects the value of DeKalb’s high school diplomas like those earned by these 2014 Southwest DeKalb graduates.District has three action items left to complete.

District 5 now on track to get commissioner BOC expects to vote on top pick on March 10

DeKalb commissioners expect to pick one of these candidates as the interim District 5 commissioner

By Ken Watts

DeKalb commissioners are expected to vote for an interim District 5 commissioner at their March 10 meeting. After interviewing five nominees on March 3, members say they are hopeful they can finally agree on an interim representative. Commissioners Sharon Barnes Sutton, Kathie Gannon and Larry Johnson said on March 5 that they’re hopeful the district of 140,000 people will have a commissioner after nearly 21 months without representation. Barnes Sutton said she’s more than hopeful. “My goal is to come out of that meeting on Tuesday with someone selected for the seat,” she said Thursday. District 5 residents have been without a commissioner since July 18, 2013, when Gov. Nathan Deal appointed their commissioner, Lee May, to be the county’s interim CEO while suspended CEO Burrell Ellis is facing trial on corruption charges. On Tuesday, commissioners interviewed Markus Butts, Gina Smith Mangham, Dr. Kathryn Rice, Kenneth Saunders III and George Turner. The five were picked from the list of 20 District 5 residents who applied for the interim position in July 2014. Turner and Rice were selected by a citizen panel in August 2014, but when May nominated them, commissioners, who disagreed with his selection process that excluded the

n Markus Butts is a DeKalb planning commissioner and manager in the Atlanta Department of Watershed Management.

n Gina Smith Mangham is an attorney who ran against interim CEO Lee May in the 2012 election for the District 5 seat.

board, voted them down on Feb. 10 and undertook their own nomination process. Voters don’t get to pick a permanent District 5 commissioner in a special election because the seat is not vacant. As interim CEO, May will return to the district if Ellis is acquitted and returns to the CEO office. Barnes Sutton, who represents District 4, said she has been encouraging her colleagues to agree to vote on the interim commissioner on Tuesday. Interviews with the five candidates were streamed live on DeKalb County TV and at http://dekalbcountyga.gov/dctv/video.htm. All six commissioners – Barnes Sutton, Johnson, Gannon, Nancy Jester, Jeff Rader, and Stan Watson – participated in the interviews, and each has submitted his or her top

n Dr. Kathryn Rice is leader of the movement to form a city of Greenhaven in South DeKalb and founder of the South DeKalb Improvement Association.

n Kenneth Saunders III is a member of the Parks Bond Advisory Committee and a former member of the District 5 DeKalb Community Council.

three candidates for the position. Gannon, the Super District 6 commissioner, said all the choices will be ranked. “We will see what we get out of that,” she said. She said she left the interviews with her clear first choice for the position and is hopeful they can have a decision on Tuesday. “A couple of them stood out,” she said. “I was looking for how they present themselves, independent thought, and ideas on how they would work with us given the stalemate we find ourselves in.” Barnes Sutton said the candidates seemed well-prepared. “I was interested in their knowledge of how our government works, not in talking points or personal agendas,” she said. “In

n George Turner is president of the District 5 Community Council and a retired MARTA manager.

particular, I wanted to know their thoughts on budgeting policy, service delivery, and the roles and duties of the commissioners.” Johnson, presiding officer and District 3 commissioner, said he was elated District 5 residents had the opportunity to see interviews of the five candidates in real time. “The candidates showed passion for providing a voice for District 5 residents and a strong desire to lead our county,” he said. “I am confident that this process, one that involves transparency and the direct input of District 5 residents, will yield a great result for the people of District 5. I will continue to deliberate, assess the candidates and speak with my fellow commissioners as we collectively reach a decision on District 5 representation.”

CrossRoadsNews

Community

March 7, 2015

“We will resolve these remaining issues in order to restore full and unconditional accreditation to our district.”

Doris Wells made library the center of community’s cultural, social life March 14, 1949 – Feb. 27, 2015

Doris Wells, who retired from the DeKalb Public Library System in 2006 after 32 years, was its first AfricanAmerican employee in 1974.

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Doris Wells, who left her stamp on the Wesley Chapel-William C. Brown Library after 17 years as branch manager, died Feb. 27 at Northside Hospital after a brief illness. She had been battling cancer since last fall. She was 65 years old. Wells, who was born March 14, 1949, in Orangeburg, S.C., became the DeKalb County Library System’s first African-American employee in 1974. She retired from the system in 2006 after 32 years. At a March 4 Celebration of Life service at Clifton United Methodist Church in Atlanta, relatives, friends, colleagues and church members remembered Wells as a loving mother, passionate grandmother, devoted daughter and sister, inspiring colleague, ardent proponent of African-American culture, determined community leader, and loyal friend. Wells joined the library system in material processing before becoming branch manager of the Scott Candler Library. In 1992, when the newly built Wesley Chapel Library opened, she was tapped to be its manager. Under her leadership, it became one of the county’s busiest branches and the center of South DeKalb’s educational and social life. She created the branch’s extensive collection of books by and about AfricanAmericans, founded the library’s annual Kwanzaa Awareness Festival, and made the branch a gathering place for African-American culturalists. In 2000, she and daughter Tami Wells-Thomas launched the annual Jubilee of Reading Adult Book Club Conference that draws a bevy of black authors. Over her career, she mentored hundreds of librarians. DeKalb Library Director Alison Weissinger, who counts herself among Wells’ protégées, said she was heartbroken at her sudden passing. “She was my first manager in 1998 when I came to DeKalb County,” Weissinger said. “She was a mentor to me and I got to see her in action. She was an amazing role model. She really showed us how to reach out into the community and to expand programming for children and adults.” Myguail Chappel, the library system’s Take-Out Services manager, said when he joined the system in December 1996, Wells took him under her wing and taught him about the importance of community. “She taught me that a library could be a place where people feel safe,” he said. “She saw the library as a cultural center.” Chappel, who spent three years at the Wesley Chapel Library with Wells before being promoted to a branch manager at Scott Candler Library, said that in her quiet way, Wells planted seeds and inspired others to be

Orders being taken for plant sales DeKalb residents can place orders through March 9 for azaleas, blueberries, hydrangeas, gardenias and other varieties for the DeKalb Cooperative Extension’s third annual plant sale. The plants will be available for pickup on March 21 at the office, 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 200, in Decatur. Jessica E. Hill, Cooperative Extension director, said the sale is in its third year and growing. “We are committed to helping citizens realize and understand the role they play in the beautification and sustainability of their own neighborhoods,” she said. The order form is available at www. ugaextension.com/dekalb. For more information, call 404-2984080.

and do better and create something positive for the DeKalb community. “She was never loud,” he said. “You would never know she had planted a seed until you saw it bloom and affected so many people.” In 2006, the library system honored Wells by naming the street that connects the Wesley Chapel Library to Rainbow Drive “Wells Way.” Even though she was retired, Wells continued to be a friend of the library. In 2013, she helped to organize the Heritage Festival, which incorporated Kwanzaa Awareness Festival. Jennifer Parker, CrossRoadsNews pub-

lisher and editor, who was a friend, said Wells will be missed but her legacy will live on in the young librarians she mentored, the library patrons she introduced to principles of Kwanzaa, and the adults and children in whom she encouraged and nurtured a love of books. “Doris was a great lady who knew how to pull people together,” said Parker, a past president of the Friends of the Wesley Chapel Library. “She was passionate about the library. You met Doris and before you knew it, you were a volunteer.” Deborah Bolden, a longtime member of the Friends of the Wesley Chapel Library,

said Wells loved being a librarian and loved people. “She made sure our community and our children were exposed to African-American history,” Bolden said. “When the kids had book reports to do, she made sure that the branch had enough books for them to check out. She made sure we had the latest books by African-American authors.” Bolden said she first met Wells in 1984 at the Scott Candler Library at an exhibit she put together of her first edition stamps released by the U.S. Postal Service. “Doris was a stamp collector and she made me one too,” Bolden said. In the early 1990s when the Wesley Chapel Library opened, a lot of new people were moving into the area and the social scene was in its infancy. Bolden said Wells always made sure there also was something going on at the library. “I met the black quilting group, the Brown Sugar Stitchers, at the Wesley Chapel Library,” she said. “I saw Michael Glenn’s collection of first-edition books by AfricanAmerican authors at the library, and she had the Buffalo Soldiers and the Tuskegee Airmen there. And Kwanzaa. She made sure we knew about the principles of Kwanzaa. We all got our Kwanzaa education from Doris.” Wells leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Tami Wells-Thomas, son-in-law Mark Thomas, and grandchildren Nathan and Grace Thomas of Conyers; a brother, James E. Kennerly Jr., and wife Gwendolyn of Decatur; and a host of relatives and friends. Donations in lieu of flowers can be made to the Doris Wells Memorial Fund, c/o The Friends of the Wesley Chapel Library, 2861 Wesley Chapel Road, Decatur, GA 30034.

School District must resolve last three action items SACS,

from page

able fiscal progress and noted the $31 million budget surplus for fiscal year 2014 and that the district is now operating in a “financially responsible and transparent manner.” In addition, the SACS report said that the district “has developed and systematically implemented a comprehensive technology plan including the launch of the district’s Infinite Campus student information system.” Still, it noted that the district is at a “crossroads” and faces “two major transitions” – the search for a new superintendent and a transition to a seven-member School Board from a nine-member board. SACS challenged the School Board to

“leverage the progress” that has been made in the past two years to resolve the challenges that led to the current situation. To regain full accreditation, SACS directed the district to address 14 required actions. Eleven action items have been completed. The last three are: n Develop a process to sustain governance improvements; n Implement policy that separates board duties from administrative duties; and n Ensure an equitable distribution of technology throughout the district. Hudson said the last step – the School Board revising policy to “eliminate all references to board members meeting with, and requesting information from senior staff ” without prior notification and approval by

the superintendent – may be the most difficult. SACS acknowledges that the DeKalb Board of Education is undergoing a “culture shift” but said that two years after nearly losing accreditation, there is no written policy that specifically prohibits board members from “circumventing the superintendent” in the daily operations of the district. Dr. Melvin Johnson, the School Board’s chairman, said members understand what is at stake. “The board is committed to creating an environment that ensures trust and transparency between the district and its stakeholders,” he said. “We will resolve these remaining issues in order to restore full and unconditional accreditation to our district.”

Community

“It makes me furious that a landmark that has meant so much … to black people is still named for a man whose life’s work was fueled by hatred.”

GPTC’s new Wesley Chapel Road campus to open this summer By Ken Watts

Georgia Piedmont Technical College Adult Education Campus will open this summer on Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur. GPTC President Jabari Simama announced a time frame in his Feb. 19 State of the College address at the Clarkston campus. The new campus is taking the space of the old Everest Institute in the Wesley Chapel Crossing shopping center anchored by Planet Jabari Simama Fitness and Little Giant supermarket. Simama said the new 91,124-square-foot campus will help boost economic activity in an area undergoing a rebirth and provide opportunities to 45,000 South DeKalb residents “structurally outside the economy” because they don’t have high school diplomas. Simama said the college will offer the most comprehensive adult education program available and include accelerated opportunities for employment.

“We also plan to open an entrepreneur and business development center in conjunction with the DeKalb Development Authority as well as provide community space for meetings and events, much needed in that part of the county,” he said. Simama said an initiative called the Georgia Piedmont Advantage will be offered at the Wesley Chapel and other GPTC campuses. The initiative will help men and women who are unemployed, underemployed or lacking proper academic and professional credentials to obtain training within strategic industries identified and funded by Gov. Nathan Deal and the General Assembly. Areas include health care and IT, practical nursing, childhood care and education, diesel engine mechanics, commercial truck driving, welding, certified engineering technician, computer programming, and film and set design. Simama said that with the HOPE, Pell and Strategic Industries Workforce Development grants, students can obtain their certificate, diploma or degree with little to no cost in 24 months or less.

Busloads of Atlantans to march in Selma Hundreds of metro Atlantans will join thousands participating in the 50th anniversary march across the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Ala., on March 8. The group of more than 350 civil rights supporters and members of the Greater Metropolitan Atlanta chapter of Jack and Jill of America Inc. will lock arms with other participants who will walk across the bridge just like marchers did in April 1965. The South Fulton County Faith Riders motorcycle brigade will escort the six tour buses to Selma to re-enact the Selma-toMontgomery March that led to the 1965 Voting Rights Act that protected AfricanAmericans’ right to vote. Drummers from First Afrikan Presbyterian Church in Lithonia will help send off

the buses departing from the Mall West End at 6 a.m. on Sunday. The Voters Empowerment Collaborative, led by the Rev. Albert E. Love, is coordinating the trip. Love, who has been going to Selma annually since 1990, said this year they are urging marchers to support legislation to ensure the Voting Rights Act remains intact. Love said they need support for HR 885 introduced by Rep. James F. Sensenbrenner (R-Wis.) and co-sponsored by U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.) to restore the law and expand it to all states. “So this year we march because we want HR 885 to be made into law by Dec. 31 this year,” Love said. For more information, visit VEC.org or call 404-788-4542.

Petition seeks new name for Pettus bridge There is a move afoot to rename the Edmund Pettus Bridge that figured so prominently in the 1965 civil rights struggle for voting rights for African-Americans. Thousands of people will march across the bridge on March 8 to commemorate the April 1965 Bloody Sunday march in which blacks were beaten by Alabama police. Students UNITE and its outreach coordinator, Brandi Hatter, have launched a petition on Change.org seeking to change the name of the bridge. Hatter, a University of Montevallo senior, said the bridge, one of the most important monuments of the civil rights Brandi Hatter movement, is named for a man who was a leader of Alabama’s KKK. Hatter, a biochemistry major who runs cross country at Montevallo, said at least once a week she runs over the bridge.

CrossRoadsNews

March 7, 2015

“I’ve always been so proud to be from Selma, proud of my town’s history and the role we played in securing voting rights for black people across America,” she said. “So imagine my anger and horror when I found out that Edmund Pettus, the man that bridge is named for, was grand dragon of the Alabama Ku Klux Klan.” Pettus also was a Confederate war general. “It makes me furious that a landmark that has meant so much to me, my family, and black people across America is still named for a man whose life’s work was fueled by violence and hatred,” she said. The petition at www.change.org/p/ rename-selma-s-edmund-pettus-bridgemarchon calls on the National Parks Service and Alabama leaders to rename the bridge. It does not offer a new name for the bridge. A petition to rename the bridge for U.S. Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.), who was severely injured on Bloody Sunday, failed to garner much support.

“IT’S A HOUSE PARTY AWAY FROM HOME” JMSA Signature Events Presents

FLASHBACK FRIDAYS @ The Atrium Friday March 20th

Featuring The Mixologist DJ Charlie Mason

House bills for three new DeKalb cities introduced By Ken Watts

Bills seeking referendums for the proposed cities of Stonecrest, LaVista Hills and Tucker were introduced in the Georgia Legislature this week. If approved, residents in the proposed cities could vote in November. The Stonecrest bill, HR 539, was introduced March 3 on the heels of the bills for LaVista Hills and Tucker, which dropped a date earlier. S t a te Re p. D e e Dawkins Haigler (DLithonia) introduced the bill to create the proposed 29-squaremile city of Stonecrest. It was co-sponsored by state Reps. Tonya AnD. Dawkins Haigler derson (D-Lithonia), Karen Bennett (D-Stone Mountain) and Dar’Shun Kendrick (D-Lithonia) and has been assigned to the House Governmental Affairs Committee. Stonecrest Alliance President Jason Lary called the bill “history-making.” “We’re very excited and we believe it will have no problem passing because we have no border conflict with anyone,” he said. Lawmakers have to approve before a cityhood proposal can be voted on by the residents of the targeted neighborhoods. The Stonecrest plan advanced to the Legislature on Feb. 13 after the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute said the proposed city is feasible with projected annual revenues of $9,848,152 and annual operating expenses of $7,910,218. The LaVista Hills and Tucker bills passed the Governmental Affairs Committee and Subcommittee on March 3 and headed for debate on the floor of the House. If they clear the House, they’ll move on to the Senate. State Reps. Tom Taylor (R- Dunwoody) and Scott Holcomb (D-Atlanta) filed HB 520 calling for a voter referendum on creation of a city of LaVista Hills Tom Taylor in the neighborhood around Northlake Mall. Leaders of “LaVista Hills YES” thanked sponsors and rallied supporters in an email

after the measure was introduced. Co-chair Allen Venet predicted LaVista Hills will follow the trail blazed by other recently created North Metro cities. “Brookhaven, Sandy Springs [in Fulton County] and Dunwoody all have lower tax rates than DeKalb County and LaVista Hills will too,” Venet said. “Instead of paying DeKalb County for services including police, zoning and roads, the same tax dollars would shift over to a leaner city government.” Co-chair Mary Kay Woodworth said opponents are wrong to call cityhood divisive. “A smarter, well-managed government is good for everyone in LaVista Hills, and a successful city will help all of DeKalb County,” she said. “Now is the time to let the Legislature know we want a chance to vote on cityhood.” HB 515, a bill for a city of Tucker that would border LaVista Hills, sponsored by Reps. Billy Mitchell (D-Stone Mountain), Holcomb and Michelle Henson (D-Stone Mountain) also cleared committee on March 3. Michelle Penkava of Billy Mitchell Tucker 2015 group pushing cityhood thanked the community for support. “We ask that they join us in thanking Rep. Mitchell, Rep. Holcomb, and Rep. Henson for taking this important step in helping the Tucker community realize our dream of cityhood,” she said. Organizers of the proposed South DeKalb city of Greenhaven are hopeful that it also will get voted on during this session. Dr. Kathryn Rice, a Greenhaven organizer, said she was hopeful that Rep. Pam Stephenson (D-Decatur) will file the bill on March 9 in the wake of the Vinson Institute’s report that the proposed city would be feasible. Stephenson was not available for comment before press time Thursday. Based on 2013 revenues collected in unincorporated DeKalb, the Vinson Institute said the proposed 126.2-square-mile city would generate revenues of $45,611,418 and have expenses of $18,434,437. All four cityhood measures face a tight time frame to clear both houses before the 40-day General Assembly ends on April 2. March 11 is Crossover Day when all bills in each chamber have to be approved so they can move on the next chamber for discussion, review and possible passage.

Saving Makes Good Sense While you can’t put a price on good GI health, everyone wants the best possible care at the most reasonable cost. At Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates, we deliver expert care to every patient, whether privately insured, on Medicare or Medicaid, or self-pay. Our commitment starts with Board Certified specialists who diagnose and treat every type of liver disease and digestive disorder – from acid reflux to hemorrhoids. And for endoscopic procedures like your screening colonoscopy, we have an accredited outpatient center right in Lithonia. You can even request an appointment on-line.

Care. Convenience. Cost-effectiveness. What every patient wants – and deserves. Lithonia / Panola Endoscopy Center • 5403 Hillandale Park Court

770.817.0224

Mahmoud Barrie, M.D. Norman Elliott, M.D. Tommie Haywood III, M.D. Barry Levitt, M.D.

DOORS OPEN @ 9PM

$10 ADVANCE TICKETS @ WWW.JMSHOATS.COM THE LARGEST THROWBACK MUSIC & CARD GAME/TOURNAMENT PARTY $10 ADVANCE TICKETS TO BE ENTERED INTO A MONTHLY RAFFLE • $3 UNTIL THE WELL RUNS DRY $3 •

5479 Memorial Dr. • Stn Mtn, GA 30083 • (404) 610-2819 (678) 898-0714

www.atlantagastro.com AGA is a participating provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most healthcare plans offered in Georgia. Panola Endoscopy Center is accredited by AAAASF and certified by DCH.

CrossRoadsNews

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Graphic Design Curtis Parker Assistant Editor Brenda Yarbrough Advertising Sales Kathy E. Warner Front Office Manager Catherine Guy Circulation Manager Jami Ffrench-Parker CrossRoadsNews is published every Saturday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsN ews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Advertisements are published upon the representation that the advertiser is authorized to publish the submitted material. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless from and against any loss or expenses resulting from any disputes or legal claims based upon the contents or subject matter of such advertisments, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.

March 7, 2015

“For too many Americans, especially for people of color, the recovery has not reached their household.”

May cleaning house at Development Authority later than March 18. DeKalb interim CEO May said he intends Lee May is overhauling to nominate new board the Development Authormembers and he had ity of DeKalb County and interviewed several canis seeking candidates for didates so far. nomination. “This will provide a Candidates with a fresh start for the DADC background in economic as all board positions are development, business Lee May either vacant or expired,” law, and/or finance are preferred. Interested parties should he said in a March 2 statement. Members, some of whom have forward their relevant information to CEO@dekalbcountyga.gov no served on the board for more than

five years, were notified of May’s plans over the weekend. He thanked them for their commitment and service. “We owe them a debt of gratitude, but it is time for a new beginning,” May said. During the next 30 days, May said he will submit his nominees to the DeKalb Board of Commissioners for review and approval. He said the day-to-day operations of the authority will remain

unaffected as current board members are replaced. Board members will continue to serve until the new nominations are confirmed by the Board of Commissioners. The Development Authority hired economic development strategist Ray Gilley on Feb. 9 as its president. May said Gilley will attend to the implementation of DeKalb’s strategic economic development plan and provide the necessary leadership moving forward.

Johnson, caucus push for reform Community Cabinet U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson and members of the Congressional Black Caucus presented criminal justice reform bills to President Obama on Feb. 10 at the White House. The bills include legislation aimed at curbing what Johnson calls the over-militarization of local police and grand jury reform. Johnson it was an Hank Johnson honor to discuss his justice reform bills with the president. “I spoke about how our young people have lost confidence in the criminal justice system in general,” said Johnson, whose District 4 includes parts of DeKalb County. “It’s one of the reasons I introduced a bill to reform the grand jury process that would create transparency when local agencies

investigate police officer shootings. I also introduced legislation to address the overmilitarization of our local police forces. We cannot police our communities with officers looking like an occupying force.” CBC Chairman G.K. Butterfield and other caucus members also discussed a variety of issues, including education, trade and funding for persistent poverty communities. Johnson said there is no question that the country’s economy is improving but African-Americans and other minorities continue to struggle economically. “For too many Americans, especially for people of color, the recovery has not reached their household,” Johnson said. “Black America continues to be in a state of emergency, and it’s up to members of the CBC to continue to make the case for a faster recovery for low-income families.”

moves to new school

DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson’s Community Breakfast meeting is relocating to Southwest DeKalb High with its March 7 meeting. The monthly meeting was most recently at Chapel Hill Middle School in Decatur. Watson, the Super District 7 commissioner, gave Stan Watson no reason for the move. The meeting, which includes a free hot breakfast, begins at 9 a.m. Speakers are Miguel Southland, aviation general manager of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport; DeKalb State Court Judge Stacey K. Hydrick; and Watchdogs for Justice lawyer Clara King. Southwest DeKalb High is at 2863 Kelley Chapel Road in Decatur. For more information, call 404371-3681.

Car crash shuts down Department of Labor career center The Georgia Department of Labor’s DeKalb Career Center on Covington Highway in Decatur is closed indefinitely for repairs after a car flipped and crashed into a brick wall of the center on Feb. 28, causing a gas leak. The driver was not at the scene when DeKalb Fire Rescue arrived. Capt. Eric Jackson said the department has had no contact with the driver. About eight storefronts in the Pendley Hills Shopping Center on Covington at Redan Road were evacuated because of the gas leak. Police were checking for registration of the vehicle, which was pulled out of the ditch and towed

away. No determination has been made about how long it will take for the repairs to be completed and the career center to be reopened, GDOL said on March 2. Job seekers and unemployment insurance claimants may receive services by visiting other GDOL career centers, including the North Metro Career Center at 2943 N. Druid Hills Road in Atlanta, or online at www.gdol.ga.gov. They also can monitor the site for updates about the reopening of the DeKalb Career Center. The center had been scheduled to reopen on March 2 after being closed on Feb. The driver of this car flipped and damaged the DeKalb Career Center on Covington Highway on Feb. 28. The center is closed indefinitely for repairs. 26 because of a lack of heat.

Former Atlanta Schools Superintendent Beverly Hall dies scheme to inflate achieveEmbattled former Atment test scores for thoulanta Public Schools Susands of Atlanta students perintendent Beverly Hall – many of them the poor, died on March 2. minority children she Hall, who was APS professed to champion. superintendent from 2008 She denied wrongdoto 2011, was at the center ing but faced as much of the school district’s as 45 years in prison for cheating scandal. She had Beverly Hall racketeering and other been battling Stage IV offenses. breast cancer. She was 68. Because of her illness, her trial Hall was facing criminal charges alleging that she orchestrated a was delayed while dozens of other

educators, named in a 65-count criminal indictment in March 2013, were undergoing trial for cheating on standardized tests to cover up poor performance by Atlanta public school students. Hall’s death deprived her critics and supporters of a final verdict on her legacy. To some, she was a visionary who raised standards and modernized Atlanta schools, but to others, she perpetrated a massive fraud to make herself look good.

Before the scandal, Hall had been one of the most highly regarded school officials in the nation. The American Association of School Administrators named her National Superintendent of the Year in 2009. Murray Brothers Funeral Home in Atlanta is handling funeral arrangements, which were not complete at press time Thursday. She is survived by her husband, Luis, and a son, Jason.

index to advertisers

Circulation Audited By

Atlanta Gastroenterology................................ 3 Bobby L. Scott & Associates............................ 8 Building Inspections Services.......................... 8 DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court...................... 7 DeKalb County Sheriff’s Department.............. 7

DeKalb Medical............................................... 5 Fabric Joint, LLC.............................................. 8 Johnny Harris CPA.......................................... 8 Johnson Hopewell Coleman LLC.................... 8 Johnson’s Antiques & Flea Market.................. 8

Law Office of Trichelle Griggs Simmons......... 8 Marten Transport............................................ 8 Quenon Smith................................................ 8 Smiles for Less................................................ 8 Tax Roadmap.................................................. 8

The Atrium...................................................... 3 Best Buy Co. Inc......................................Inserts Holistic Health Management Inc.............Inserts Walgreens...............................................Inserts Walmart..................................................Inserts

March 7, 2015

Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

The risk of having a first stroke is nearly twice as high for African-Americans than for whites.

Symposium on Strides for Stroke 5K honoring late educator Walkers and run- Arts in collaboration with the Gresham Park raise awareness of stroke and its effect on mental health, quality of life. The national nonprofit health ners can help raise Recreation Center. Visit https://www.eventbrite.com/d/lo- care organization focuses 100 percent of its awareness about strokes substance abuse and their prevention cal/stride-for-stroke-walk for registration. resources and attention to preventing and Caregivers and residents can share in the discussion of mental health and substance abuse issues at a symposium on March 7 at the Community Achievement Center in Decatur. DeKalb Super District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson and book and magazine publisher Vikki Hankins are presenting the symposium, which takes place from 2 to 4:30 p.m. It is free and an Vikki Hankins R.S.V.P. is not required. Hankins will serve as moderator. Experts with a diverse background in education as well as experience are among panelists: Garry L. Jones, a retired Department of Justice employee, author and commentator; Brenda Cynthia Moorer Cibulas, chief clinical officer at the DeKalb Community Service Board; Dr. Keri Norris, chief of health policy and administration for the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority; and Cynthia Moorer, an LPN and chair of the National Alliance on Mental Illness Keri Norris – DeKalb. Watson, a member of the DeKalb CSB board, said he believes the symposium supports the effort to remove the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness and move toward practical solutions. He said it is important to raise awareness about mental health and substance abuse issues and provide effective resources and services to the DeKalb community. The center is at 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway. For more information, call 404-371-3681.

Daylight saving time’s sleep issue Daylight-saving time returns on March 8 at 2 a.m., and we lose an hour of sleep when we turn the clocks forward one hour. DST lasts until Nov. 1. While we spring forward with the time, this also will lead to a shift in your family’s sleep schedule. Children are usually the ones most affected by the time change, so it’s important that parents take steps to try to make the transition as smooth as possible. The Family Sleep Institute’s top consultants share these tips for adjusting to daylight-saving time: n Shift their schedule gradually. Shift their entire daytime schedule earlier in 15-minute increments before the time change or after the time change. The gradual shift should help their internal clock adjust, making it less likely that they will lose sleep. n Power down before bed. One to two hours before bed on Sunday, power down the electronics, draw the curtains, and dim the lights to encourage the production of melatonin and wind down before bed. n Get on the new time right away. If you choose not to shift their schedule gradually, get them on the new time as quickly as possible by waking them up at the new time Sunday and exposing them to plenty of natural light in the morning. n Be patient and relax. Some children adjust easier than others, but it helps to relax, be patient, and be consistent, and they should be back on track in a few days. For more information, visit www.familysleepinstitute.com.

at the inaugural Dr. Bobby McGhee Strides for Stroke 5K Walk on March 14 at Gresham Park in Atlanta. Bobby McGhee The noncompetitive event takes place from 9 a.m. to noon and is presented by the Academy of the

McGhee, a U.S. Army veteran and longtime educator, died on Feb. 13, 2014. He worked at Radium Springs Middle School as teacher/coach for 27 years and retired as assistant principal at Worth County Middle School in Sylvester. Walk/run proceeds support the efforts of the National Stroke Association to help

reducing the impact of stroke. It has 29 years of experience in providing professional, public, and patient education programs about all aspects of stroke, including prevention, acute treatment, rehabilitation and recovery. The recreation center is at 3113 Gresham Road. For more information, call 770-8080114 or 404-294-9403.

Stroke is a medical emergency: Know the most common symptoms The state of Georgia’s stroke mortality rate is 16 percent higher than the national average, according to the National Center for Health Statistics’ Underlying Causes of Death report for 2006 through 2010. Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and is a major cause of adult disability. About 800,000 people in the United States have a stroke each year. One American dies from a stroke every four minutes on average. Stroke is a medical emergency. Know the signs and symptoms and call 911 right away if you think you or someone you know might be having a stroke. Getting fast treatment is important to preventing death and disability. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is blocked or when a blood

vessel in the brain ruptures, causing brain tissue to die. The five most common symptoms are: n Sudden numbness or weakness of the face, arm or leg. n Sudden confusion or trouble speaking or understanding others. n Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes. n Sudden dizziness, trouble walking, or loss of balance or coordination. n Sudden severe headache with no known cause. The risk of having a first stroke is nearly twice as high for African-Americans than for whites, and blacks are more likely to die following a stroke than are whites. Hispanics’ risk falls between that of whites and blacks. American Indians, Alaska Natives, and blacks

are more likely to have had a stroke than are other groups. Although stroke risk increases with age, strokes can and do occur at any age. In 2009, 34 percent of people hospitalized for stroke were younger than 65. The nation’s highest death rates from stroke are in the Southeast. To reduce your risk: n Eat a healthy diet. n Maintain a healthy weight. n Be physically active. n Don’t smoke. n Limit alcohol use. n Prevent or treat your other health conditions, especially high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes. For more information, visit www.cdc. gov and www.strokeassociation.org.

Doc Talks Upcoming Seminars at DeKalb Medical Puberty Rocks For Girls Friday, March 20, 2015 6:30–8:00 p.m. DeKalb Medical at Hillandale Community Room Is it time to address your daughter’s journey into adolescence? Learn how to help your daughter navigate the turbulent tween and teen years with the help of DeKalb Medical physician Caryn Johnson , M.D. This fun girl’s night out will cover body changes, mood swings, peer pressure and more.

Puberty Rocks For Boys Friday, March 27, 2015 6:30–8:00 p.m. DeKalb Medical at Hillandale Community Room Is it time to address your son’s journey into adolescence? Learn how to help your daughter navigate the turbulent tween and teen years with the help of DeKalb Medical physicians. This fun night out will cover body changes, mood swings, peer pressure and more. Please note that these evenings are only for young adults and their parent/guardian.

For a referral to a DeKalb Medical physician or to reserve your space for these free seminars, please call 770.415.2383. Light refreshments will be served. Parking is free. www.dekalbmedical.org

dekalbmedical

CrossRoadsNews

Scene

March 7, 2015

Music styles include hot and cool jazz, Broadway show tunes, Latin noir, folk ballads, sea shanties and rock ’n’ roll. The Atlantabased Bonaventure Quartet, which has grown into a “double quartet,” will perform on March 10 at the Decatur Library.

TV production filming to close Oak Grove Drive Filming for television will close Oak Grove Drive between Oakshire Court and Woodleaf Lane to through traffic on March 18. DeKalb County government said the road will close 6:30 a.m. until 9 p.m. on Oak Grove, off LaVista Road. Signs will be posted in the area advising motorists of construction work and traffic restrictions. Atlanta-based Spots Films has been working on scenes for a commercial at a residence on Oak Grove that also involve a monster truck stunt on the road. The film production company specializes in shooting comedy and branded content as well as table top and long-form television. For more information, contact Spots Films location manager Karen Goeckel at 678-612-1776.

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2223-4++ Henry Lee Harrison filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Feb. 12, 2015 to change the name from: Henry Lee Harrison to Henry Lee Bonner. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Feb. 12, 2015 Henry Lee Harrison Petitioner, Pro se 2035 Memorial Drive, Apt. 604 Atlanta, GA 30317 678-851-5309 02/21, 02/28, 03/07, 03/14

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2192-8++ Marcus Alexander Cooper filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Dec. 17, 2014 to change the name from: Marcus Alexander Cooper to Lamar Leslie Brown. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Dec. 17, 2014 Marcus A. Cooper Petitioner, Pro se 3765 Wetherburn Dr. Clarkston, GA 30021 404-860-1105 02/28, 03/07, 03/14, 03/21

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV1592-08++ Sandra M. Howard Plaintiff Vs. Charles A. Howard Defendant To: Charles A. Howard By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Feb. 12, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Jan. 22, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the

Capture old memories and provide a space for new ones at Learn to Make a Scrapbook on Saturdays beginning March 14 at Redan-Trotti Library in Lithonia. Sessions take place from 10:30 a.m. to noon. At the multi-week program, which continues to April 25, participants will learn all about making a scrapbook. Sessions will cover what types of materials to use and how to organize a scrapbook. Patrons will bring their own scrapbook and what they’d like to put in it. Instructions will be provided to make a meaningful book of memories. Call or stop by the branch to register and to ask what type of scrapbook to bring to the classes. Funding is provided by the Friends of the Redan-Trotti Library. The library is at 1569 Wellborn Road. For more information, call 770482-3821.

Bonaventure Quartet to gig in Decatur The Bonaventure Quartet brings its eclectic brand of music to the Decatur Library on March 10. The concert begins at 7 p.m. The quartet, which has grown into a “double quartet,” combines the gypsy-jazz stylings of Django Reinhardt and the torchy-twangy mezzo delivery of Patsy Cline with a rowdy troupe of Romani-esque instrumentalists. Music styles in the repertoire of the Atlanta-

based confederation founded by guitarist/composer Charles Williams include hot and cool jazz, Broadway show tunes, Latin noir, folk ballads, sea shanties and the occasional twinge of rock ’n’ roll. Funding is provided by the Friends of the Decatur Library. The library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, call 404370-3070.

suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Jeanetta Moffett, 4715 Fellsridge Drive, Stone Mountain, GA 30085. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Mar. 02, 2015. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 4th day of March, 2015

Legal Notices 02/21, 02/28, 03/07, 03/14

Scrapbook classes at Redan-Trotti

Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Lindsey Siegel, 246 Sycamore St., #120, Decatur, GA 30030. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jan. 12, 2015. Witness the Honorable Linda W. Hunter, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 19th day of February, 2015 02/28, 03/07, 03/14, 03/21

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV1825-2++ Marcella Salter Plaintiff Vs. Larry Salter, Jr. Defendant To: Larry Salter, Jr. 2810 Lawrenceville Hwy., Rm. 134 Tucker, GA 30043 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Feb. 17, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Feb. 13, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Marcella Salter, 3046 Highland Park Lane, Lithonia, GA 30038. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Feb. 17, 2015. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 18th day of February, 2015 03/07, 03/14, 03/21, 03/28

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV5160-10++ Ayo Alvin Ayerni, Jr. filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on May 15, 2014 to change the name from: Ayo Alvin Ayerni, Jr. to Alvin John Ayerni. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Feb. 6, 2015 Ayo Alvin Ayerni, Jr. Petitioner, Pro se 6775 Winterberry Ridge Dr. Stone Mountain, GA 30087 678-938-9472 03/07, 03/14, 03/21, 03/28

Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County

State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV1894-3++ Lucelyn JaMette Fennell Plaintiff Vs. Saheed Reginald Mustapha Defendant To: Saheed Reginald Mustapha 224 N. Third Ave. Saginaw, MI 98607 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Jan. 06, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Jan. 22, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Lucelyn JaMette Fennell, 3004 Del Monico Dr., GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jan. 06, 2015. Witness the Honorable Clarence F. Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 9th day of February, 2015 03/07, 03/14, 03/21, 03/28

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2547-4++ April Mitchell Plaintiff Vs. Carlos Mitchell Defendant To: Carlos Mitchell By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Jan. 27, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Jan. 19, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: 743 Tarkingon Rd., S., Stone Mountain, GA 30088. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jan. 27, 2015. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flake, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 2nd day of March, 2015 03/07, 03/14, 03/21, 03/28

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV10170-10++ Mario Perkins Plaintiff Vs. Rukaiyah Culbreath

Defendant To: By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Jan. 24, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Oct. 27, 2014 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff whose name and address is: Mario Perkins #1108958, P.O. Box 466, Alamo GA 30411. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Jan. 24, 2015. Witness the Honorable Tangela M. Barrie, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 26th day of February, 2015 03/07, 03/14, 03/21, 03/28

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2190-2++ Jeanetta Moffett Plaintiff Vs. Jesse Moffett Defendant To: Jesse Edward Moffett By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Mar. 02, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Feb. 24, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed

03/07, 03/14, 03/21, 03/28

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2204-3++ Barbara Annette Milon Plaintiff Vs. Johnny Bernard Dorsey Defendant To: Johnny Bernard Dorsey 657 Magnolia St., NW Atlanat, GA 30314 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Feb. 27, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Jan. 12, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Barbara A. Milon, 3100 Lumby Dr., #628, Decatur, GA 30034. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of February, 27, 2015. Witness the Honorable Clarence F. Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 4th day of March, 2015 03/07, 03/14, 03/21, 03/28

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2544-3++ Princess Gibson Plaintiff Vs. Kermit Gibson Defendant To: Kermit Gibson By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Feb. 26, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Feb. 19, 2015, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Princess Gibson, 1586 Line Street, Decatur, GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Feb. 26, 2015. Witness the Honorable Clarence F. Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 4th day of March, 2015 03/07, 03/14, 03/21, 03/28

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV2670-10++ Female Drakeford filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Feb. 27, 2015 to change the name from: Female Drakeford to Keysha Drakeford. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Nov. 06, 2014 Keysha Drakeford. Petitioner, Pro se 1823 Broadway Street Decatur, GA 30035 770-557-6717

DeKalb County Sheriff Office

Jeffrey L. Mann, Sheriff 4415 Memorial Drive • Decatur, GA 30032

Sex Offender

Eric Jones 3438 Kingsbrooke Way Decatur, GA 30034 Charge of Rape Convicted on 4/12/2004

Sex Offender

Anthony Levell 4815 Buford Highway Chamblee, GA 30341 Charge of Child Molestation Convicted on 1/14/1997

Sex Offender

Tommy McIntyre 169 Pine Tree Circle Decatur, GA 30032 Charge of Aggravated Sex Assault Convicted on 4/10/1997

Sex Offender

Wali McMillian 2471 Terrace Trail Decatur, GA 30035 Charge of Sex Assault 1st Degree Convicted on 9/11/1992

The DeKalb Sex Offenders List is published by the DeKalb County Sheriff Office. For more information call the Sex Offender Unit at 404-298-8130.

CrossRoadsNews

March 7, 2015

Youth

“It will be my great privilege to represent not only DeKalb but also Georgia when I travel to D.C. in March.”

Black History conference for young people Deltas’ prom Teens and young adults are set to take center stage at the inaugural Let Freedom Ring Black History Conference on March 14 at the Exchange Park Recreation Center in Decatur. Jared Sawyer Jr. Ministries and DeKalb District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson are presenting the 11 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. conference. Registration starts at 10:30 a.m. or at www.lfrbhc.org. Jared Sawyer Jr. Let Freedom Ring celebrates the accomplishments of AfricanAmericans and features workshops, food, games and prizes as well as community leaders, civil rights activists, elected officials and public figures.

Jared, a 17-year-old pastor, gospel artist, media personality and author, is the event’s host. DeKalb Super District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson, state Sen. Steve Henson (District 41) and state Rep. Howard Mosby (District 83) are expected Michael Campbell to attend. More than 100 students will receive the Trailblazer Student Award, acknowledging scholars who exemplify academic excellence and community service. Workshops target social issues, AfricanAmerican history, gender-based advancement and academic enhancement as well as teen socio-economic progression and

dress giveaway

nonviolent resistance. Presenters include Michael Campbell, founder and CEO of Black on Purpose Television; the Rev. Tyrone Jackson, youth pastor at Rock Hill Baptist Church; and the Rev. Samuel Mosteller, former Zion Da Fro Georgia SCLC president. Youth and young adults will perform in the Talent Competition, hosted by teen media personality Zion Da Fro. Black on Purpose Television will air live on-site and stream the conference at www. lfrbhc.org. Exchange Park is at 2771 Columbia Drive. For cost and more information, visit www. jaredsawyerjr.com or call 404-769-6036.

Girls who need prom dresses can get one at a March 14 Prom Dress and Accessories Giveaway at the Community Achievement Center. The Decatur Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority is hosting its thrid annual giveaway from 9 a.m.-to-1 p.m. Dresses, which are new or gently used,, are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A parent or guardian must accompany girls. The center is at 4522 Flat Shoals Parkway in Decatur. For more information, contact Angela Sanders at ppdchair@dstdac.org.

Druid Hills senior to visit Congress Live demos at STEM Round Table Druid Hills High senior Jacob Pierce is a delegate to the U.S. Senate Youth Program and is participating in the 53rd annual Washington Week on March 7-14. Jacob, student body president and a member of the DeKalb Student Advisory Committee, and 103 other student delegates will receive a $5,000 college scholarship. “I am thrilled to have Jacob Pierce been chosen to participate in the USSYP program. It is an extraordinary opportunity and one that I am certain will prove invaluable as I pursue my current and future goals.” He said he was “honored and humbled” to represent DeKalb. “I would not be able to achieve these great things were it not for the support of my parents, teachers and friends,” Jacob said. “It will be my great privilege to represent not only DeKalb but also Georgia when I travel

to D.C. in March.” While in Washington, Jacob and fellow delegates will attend meetings and briefings with senators, members of the House of Representatives and congressional staff, a justice of the Supreme Court, leaders of Cabinet agencies, senior members of the national media, and even the president. Jacob is a member of the National Honor Society, Beta Club and “Each One Reach One,” a peer mentoring program he co-founded. He has served as a student representative to the DeKalb School Board and the district’s Strategic Planning Committee, is a former member of the Druid Hills school improvement team, and participated in the Georgia Governor’s Honors program in the area of social studies. He hopes to attend Georgetown University and study public policy or economics. The merit-based U.S. Senate Youth Program is sponsored by the Senate and funded by the Hearst Foundations. For more information, visit http://www.dekalb.k12.ga.us.

Stakeholders will see live demonstrations of STEM applications at a free round table on March 10 at the Sanford Center. District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson and Georgia Piedmont Technical College are hosts for the 6:30-to-8:30 p.m. event. “STEM – science, technology, engineering and mathematics – is the future,” Johnson said. “Research shows that the demand is much larger than the supply of employ-

able individuals within STEM industries. It’s time we change that. This event will be the first step in the right direction as we engage educators, parents, businesses and government to ensure DeKalb County is ready to meet this growing demand – both in the talent we’re providing and tech businesses we want to call South DeKalb home.” The center is at 3181 Rainbow Drive in Decatur. Call 404-371-2425.

Teen girls can apply for S.M.I.L.E. High school girls interested in learning more about the criminal and civil justice system can apply for DeKalb State Court Judge Stacey K. Hydrick’s S.M.I.L.E. Summer Program. Hydrick is accepting applications through April 15 for the fourth annual Summer Mentoring Initiative in Legal Education. The program, which is free to attend, meets Fridays starting May 29 to July 31 in

Courtroom 2A in the Judicial Tower of the DeKalb Courthouse at 556 N. McDonough St. in Decatur. S.M.I.L.E., which began in 2012, help high school girls learn about careers in criminal justice, law, corrections, probation, and social work. Visit www.smiledekalb.com or contact Samantha Whaley at swhaley@dekalbcountyga.gov or 404-371-2350.

One-order, one-invoice, multi-newspaper placement service!

Reach more than 15 million households served by over 1,020 suburban and community newspapers around North America and Canada. 25-word ad starts at $240 weekly. Discount Contact Rates Available. For more information, call 888-486-2466. Autos CASH FOR CARS! Any Make, Model or Year. We Pay MORE! Running or Not. Sell Your Car or Truck TODAY. Free Towing! Instant Offer: 1-888-545-8647 AUTO INSURANCE STARTING AT $25/ MONTH! Call 877-9299397 CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Makes!. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call 1-800959-8518 WANTED: 190SL, 230SL, 280SL, Mercedes or other pre-1972 Foreign Sportscar or Convertible. Porsche, Jaguar, Ferrari, etc. ANY CONDITION! FAIR OFFERS! Mike 520-977-1110.

Business Opportunity AVON- Earn extra income with a new career! Sell from home, work,, online. $15 startup. For information call: 888-423-1792 (M-F 9-7 & Sat 9-1 Central) How To Be Wealthy, Healthy and Travel For Life! FREE Report: Call 206-208-8343 or Fax to: 206-337-5053

Education & Training AIRLINE CAREERS Start Here

- Get hands on training as FAA certified Technician fixing jets. Financial aid if qualified. Call for free information Aviation Institute of Maintenance 1-877-818-0783 www.FixJets.com

Employment Opportunities HELP WANTED!! Make up to $1000 A Week Mailing Brochures From Home! Helping Home Workers since 2001! Genuine Opportunity! NO Experience Required! www.needmailers.com VOID IN WI

Financial/ Insurance PROBLEMS with the IRS or State Taxes? Settle for a fraction of what you owe! Free face to face consultations with offices in your area. Call 855-970-2032 GET CASH NOW for your Annuity or Structured Settlement. Top Dollars Paid. Fast, No Hassle Service! 877-693-0934 (M-F 9:35am-7pm ET)

WIN or Pay Nothing! Contact Bill Gordon & Associates at 1-800706-8742 to start your application today! Sell your structured settlement or annuity payments for CASH NOW. You don’t have to wait for your future payments any longer! Call 1-800-283-3601

Health & Fitness Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90% on all your medication needs. Call today 1-800-4188975, for $10.00 off your first prescription and free shipping. Wheelchair and Scooter Repair. Medicare Accepted. Fast Friendly Service. BBB Rated. Loaners Available. CALL 1-800450-7709

process, while others slow, or even REVERSE aging? Discover the secret routines to FIGHT aging process.Visit www.ReverseAging123.com Unique oil proven to REGROW lost hair Go to www.ReGrowYourHair123.com to discover how you can END hair loss & even regrow lost hair cheaply, easily, & NATURALLY

Home Improvement All Things Basementy! Basement Systems Inc. Call us for all of your basement needs! Waterproofing, Finishing, Structural Repairs, Humidity and Mold Control FREE ESTIMATES! Call 1-800-998-5574

Misc. For Sale

FREE Medicare Quotes! Get Covered and Save! Explore Top Medicare Supplement Insurance Plans For Free! It’s Open Enrollment, So Call Now! 877-243-4705

Got Knee Pain? Back Pain? Shoulder Pain? Get a painrelieving brace -little or NO cost to you. Medicare Patients Call Health Hotline Now! 1- 800-9005406

Get The Big Deal from DirecTV! Act Now- $19.99/mo. Free 3-Months of HBO, starz, SHOWTIME & CINEMAX FREE GENIE HD/DVR Upgrade! 2014 NFL Sunday Ticket Included with Select Packages. New Customers Only IV Support Holdings LLCAn authorized DirecTV Dealer Some exclusions apply - Call for details 1-800-897-4169

SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY BENEFITS. Unable to work? Denied benefits? We Can Help!

The #1 WORST Exercise for Aging. Did you know certain exercises accelerate the aging

Acorn Stairlifts. The AFFORDABLE solution to your stairs! **Limited time -$250 Off Your

Stairlift Purchase!** Buy Direct & SAVE. Please call 1-800304-4489 for FREE DVD and brochure. Get CABLE TV, INTERNET & PHONE with FREE HD Equipment and install for under $3 a day! Call Now! 855-752-8550

Miscellaneous Advertise your product or service nationwide or by region in over 7 million households in North America’s best suburbs! Place your classified ad in over 570 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466

DISH TV Retailer. Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/month (where available.) SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 800-2781401 Protect Your Home - ADT Authorized Dealer: Burglary, Fire, and Emergency Alerts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! CALL TODAY, INSTALLED TOMORROW! 888-858-9457 (M-F 9am-9pm ET) FREE $50 WALMART GIFT CARD & 3 FREE issues of YOUR FAVORITE MAGAZINES! To claim this free offer, Call 855954-3224 FREE BAHAMA CRUISE. 3 days/2 nights from Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Pay only $59 port charge! Upgrades available! Call Now! 877-916-3235 FREE GOLD IRA KIT. With the demise of the dollar now is the time to invest in gold. AAA Rated! For free consultation: 1-866-6835664

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

March 7, 2015

financial

Marketplace BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

HELP WANTED

“Ladies! Be your own boss! My company is looking for sharp women who want to own their own business, be their own boss, have freedom and flexibility - all while earning a top income. You deserve more! Get started today! Call 404-829-4268. Ad code CR1505.

Drivers, CDL-A: Home EVERY Weekend! ALL Loaded/Empty Miles Paid! Dedicated Southeast! Or Walk Away Lease, No Money Down. 1-855-321-4565

EMPLOYMENT Administrator needed for 2nd shift at busy childcare center. Experience in childcare administration preferred; email resumes to: kreativekidsacademy@comcast. net.; Attn: Jean Charles, Director

LEGAL NOTICES Notice -- Articles of Incorporation: to incorporate Yeshua Kingdom Church and Temples, Inc. have been delivered to the Secretary of State. The registration office of the corporation is 385 Patterson Ave., Atlanta, Georgia 30316. Registered agent at address is Henry Anderson.

advertising

financial

THIS SIZE AD FOR ONLY $

30?

Tax Problems?

Want a CPA or Tax Attorney to handle your case?

Call

TAX ROADMAP

We Navigate Solutions for You!

Call 404-284-1888 to find out how.

MARKETPLACE RATES 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.

insurance

services

Dental Benefits Including Dentures Available!

HOME & BUILDING INSPECTIONS INTERIOR CODE INSPECTIONS FOR MITI UNITS

Special Gov’t Program Available for those with Medicare and Medicaid or Those with Medicare And Extra Help For Details, CALL FOR

ICC CERTIFIED

(678) 939-2742

FREE REPORT, 24 HRS 800-704-3307

38 YEARS EXP.

1,050

dental implant

1500 value

Smiles For Less, LLC Stone Mountain | 770-879-0845 With this coupon. Excludes abutment, crown & bone graft. Certain restrictions apply. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 2/28/2015.

100

per month

With this coupon. Includes orthodontic exam & x-ray. Certain restrictions apply. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 2/28/2015.

Schedule Your Appointment Today 1525 East Park Place Blvd, Suite 1500 Stone Mountain | 770-879-0845 www.GeorgiaSmilesforLess.com

Johnson Hopewell Coleman, LLC “EXPERIENCED LAWYERS, EXPERIENCED MINDS”

merchandise LOOKING FOR GREAT PRICES & SPECTACULAR BARGAINS?

ANTIQUE & FLEA MARKET

ANTIQUES • AFRICAN & AMERICAN ART • BOOKS • CARPETS • CHILDRENS GAMES • COSMETICS (Avon, Mary Kay & more) • ELECTRONICS • FURNITURE • HAND CRAFTED JEWELRY • DESIGNER & CASUAL CLOTHING FOR THE FAMILY (infants, children, men, & women) • HANDBAGS • HATS • HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES • FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS • GREETING CARDS • GAMES • LUGGAGE • SEWING SUPPLIES (w/seamstress available for alterations) • SHEA BUTTER (lotions, oils, hair products, etc) • SHOES • SOCKS • TOYS • VACUUMS (including repair) • & MUCH, MUCH, MORE!!!

OVER 70 BOOTHS ALL HEATED & AIR CONDITIONED!!!

braces

Smiles For Less, LLC Stone Mountain | 770-879-0845

JHC

Apply online today: www.marten.com/careers.html EEOE functioning under an AAP.

dental

taxroadmapusa.com

attorneys

Marten Transport, a Leading Refrigerated carrier, is now hiring at the Tucker, GA Terminal for: Tractor/Trailer Techs to maintain our fleet of trucks. All level positions available. Highly competitive pay based on exp. Great benefits including UMR Medical, Delta Dental, 401k (after 90 days).

LuHall@bellsouth.net

855-829-7623

attorneys

help wanted

% major treatment 15 services OFF

WE HAVE A BRAND NEW LOOK • COME VISIT US AT:

6933-B MAIN ST, LITHONIA GA 30058 (across from Wayfield Foods)

NOW Open Mon – Sat 10am - 6pm

for patients without insurance Smiles For Less, LLC Stone Mountain | 770-879-0845 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 2/28/2015.

150

two cleanings per year 250 value

Smiles For Less, LLC Stone Mountain | 770-879-0845 With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 2/28/2015.

fabrics / upholstery

FABRIC

DISCOUNT FABRICS & UPHOLSTERY

financial

BOBBY L. SCOTT, CPA LLC CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANT Accounting • Taxes • Business Consultation Individuals • Corporations • Non-Profits IRS Representation

1316 Rockbridge Road, Suite L Stone Mountain, Ga. 30087

ERE BELVED

ALSTON DRIVE SE

CA LER

Over 30 Years Experience Member: AICPA & GSCPA

3372 MEMORIAL DRIVE SE DECATUR, GA 30032

Personal Injury & Workers Comp • Family Law/Divorce/Custody • Wills/Probate/Trusts Bankruptcy • Criminal Defense • Corporate & Business Law • Immigration Law

4153 Flat Shoals Parkway | Bldg C Suite 322 | Decatur, GA 30034

P:404.289.2244 F:404.289.2888 www.bjhlawyers.com

(770) 638-1201 Fax E-Mail bls55@aol.com Bobby L. Scott, CEO

For Appointment Call (770) 638-1200 Office

GLENWOOD ROAD

PLAZA

FREE

FABRIC WITH UPHOLSTERY

OFFER OFFER EXPIRES EXPIRES03/31/14 3/31/15

WE HAVE MOVED TO A BIGGER AND BETTER LOCATION! ADDRESS : 3372 MEMORIAL DRIVE DECATUR, GA 30032 PHONE : (404) 284-1543 • (404) 966-8320 HOURS : MONDAY - SATURDAY 10AM - 6PM E-MAIL : FABRICJOINT@GMAIL.COM WEBSITE : FABRICJOINT.COM

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