COMMUNITY
WELLNESS
Funding for mammograms
Recording artists
Charles Glover (right) and Charles Peagler were among several residents who met to hear RaceTrac’s latest proposals for a new store on Wesley Chapel. 3
A $35,000 grant will help DeKalb Medical offer more mammograms and breast cancer services through its Wellness on Wheels program. 6
The young musicians of Still Waters Youth Sinfo-Nia will record a music video with Ashanti Floyd, aka “The Mad Violinist.” 9
Opposing views on RaceTrac
SCENE
EAST ATLANTA • DECATUR • STONE MOUNTAIN • LITHONIA • AVONDALE ESTATES • CLARKSTON • ELLENWOOD • PINE LAKE • REDAN • SCOTTDALE • TUCKER
Copyright © 2013 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.
March 9, 2013
Volume 18, Number 45
www.crossroadsnews.com
403 applicants seek vacant seats on DeKalb School Board By Ken Watts
At the end of the March 6 application deadline, 403 people had put their names into the hat for the DeKalb School Board’s six vacant seats. The men and women seeking the nod from Gov. Nathan Deal’s five-member nominating panel include a former police chief; a former state representative; a former state school superintendent; a collection of lawyers, community activists, professors and parents; and suspended District 7 board member Donna Edler. Kenneth Mason, the nominating panel’s chairman, called it an overwhelming response but said he wasn’t surprised by the
“People are eager to help make the situation better for the students.” Kenneth Mason, nomination committee chairman
outpouring of interest. “People are eager to help make the situation better for the students,” said Mason, a State Board of Education member and a resident of Stone Mountain. The panel was set to meet for the first time at noon on March 8 at the State Capitol.
Mason said each applicant will get the necessary due diligence. “We’ll be working into the weekend to review the applications as quickly and as thoroughly as possible and hope to complete the review by the middle of next week,” he said. The nominating panel, which includes former state School Board member Jim Bostic; Garry McGiboney, the Georgia Department of Education associate superintendent of Policy and Charter Schools; Alicia Philip, president of the nonprofit Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta; and Georgia Power’s regional external affairs manager Sadie Dennard, is picking a list of nominees from which Deal will make appointments
to finish the terms of the six longest-serving DeKalb School Board members. Deal suspended Sarah Copelin-Wood, District 3; Jesse “Jay” Cunningham, District 5; Edler; Nancy Jester, District 1; Dr. Pam Speaks, District 8; and Dr. Eugene Walker, District 9, on Feb. 25. The constitutionality of the state law that authorized Deal’s action was challenged in federal court but was denied on March 4, clearing the way for Deal to appoint replacements to finish their terms, which end in 2014. Please see APPLICANTS, page 8
Federal court ruling, page 2
12 charged with manslaughter in fatal hazing Four of FAMU band members from metro area By Ken Watts
A dozen students who played in the Florida A&M University marching band with drum major Robert Champion Jr. of Decatur now face criminal charges and up to 15 years in prison in his death. Orange-Osceola State Attorney Jeff Ashton sent an e-mail to attorneys for the former band members notifying them that their clients will be charged with manslaughter in addition to the felony hazing charges for which they were arrested in spring 2012. Ten were charged last May in connection with Champion’s beating death on Nov. 19, 2011, in Orlando, Fla. Two other students, Henry Nesbitt, 26, and Darryl Cearnel, 25, were charged Monday in the fatal hazing. Four of the people charged are from the Atlanta area: Aaron Golson,19; Johnathan Boyce, 24; Shawn Turner, 26; and Lasherry Codner, 20. Champion, 26, one of six drum majors who led FAMU’s famous marching band, died after he was severely beaten aboard a charter bus parked at the Rosen Plaza hotel in Orlando, where the band stayed during the Florida Classic weekend. An autopsy showed that the Southwest DeKalb High School alumnus had bruises all over his body and died of internal bleeding. At a March 5 news conference at the World Trade Center building in Atlanta, Champion’s parents, Pam and Robert Champion Sr., said they were pleased with the state attorney’s decision to upgrade the charges. “I definitely think it’s a step in the right direction,” said Pam Champion, who lives in Decatur. “I really applaud Mr. Ashton for taking another look at the case. I think I’m more encouraged about the leadership that
Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews
Robert Champion Sr. (left) and Pam Champion held a press conference with attorney Christopher Chestnut after charges were upgraded in the death of their son.
is in place now than I was before.” In 2012, Ashton’s predecessor, Lawson Lamar, opted against bringing murder or manslaughter charges, saying the mass hazing made it difficult to assign blame for Champion’s death. “We’re just encouraged that justice will be done,” said Robert Champion Sr. His son and other hazing victims allegedly were forced to run from the front of the bus to the back while being beaten. In written statements to police, band members said the hazing “was a longrunning ritual that you had to go through to be accepted.” FAMU’s famous “Marching 100” was in Orlando for the annual rivalry football game with Bethune-Cookman University, which featured a “battle of the bands.” Champion’s family was angry that the original charge
was “felony hazing,” saying it minimized the tragic results. Christopher Chestnut, the family’s attorney, criticized FAMU, saying Champion would not be dead and no one would be facing jail time if the university had done a better job preventing hazing within the legendary band. “The word hazing itself does not depict what has been done to my son or any other individual” who has been victimized, Pam Champion said. “The word hazing itself puts a very light tone on it as you can see and sometimes people don’t take it seriously for what it is. But it certainly is much more serious than the word depicts. So you just have to lift that off the top of what’s been done. Then you have a true idea of what happened.” Chestnut said that a manslaughter charge is more commensurate with the criminal acts
that were committed. “There were individuals who conspired to cause bodily harm to Robert Champion that resulted in his death. That’s manslaughter,” he said. “That’s murder. So these charges are much more commensurate than felony hazing or misdemeanor hazing.” The maximum penalty for felony hazing is five years in prison. Ashton declined comment Tuesday on why he decided to file the more serious charges in the case. The tragedy had a significant impact on FAMU, Florida’s only public historically black university. President James Ammon and two faculty members resigned and enrollment dropped by 1,000, causing a financial loss of $60 million. Band director Julian White retired under a cloud of controversy. The band remains suspended and there’s been no announced time for its return. Two former band members, Brian Jones and Ryan Dean, pleaded no contest to thirddegree felony hazing last year and were not among those charged Monday. Jones was sentenced to six months of community control, which strictly limits his freedom. He also received two years of probation and 200 hours of community service. Dean received four years of probation and 200 hours of community service. But Champion’s family say they bear the heaviest burden. “I loved my son very much,” his mother said, her voice breaking with emotion. “You had to know the kind of person Robert was. He was a people person. He was a caregiver and protector, because that was his demeanor. So those things I miss most of all ... him being sensitive and knowing when I needed someone to talk to or vice versa.” “It’s been very difficult to adjust to the loss of my son,” said Robert Champion Sr. “But I’m encouraged to keep fighting for my son and to encourage others to not participate in hazing. I think hazing has come to the point now where it’s got to be stopped and this is the time to do it.”
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Community
CrossRoadsNews
March 9, 2013
“ I plan to continue to seek justice through the court system until this matter with the governor is resolved.”
Judge backs replacement of 6 School Board members By Jennifer Ffrench Parker and Ken Watts
Gov. Nathan Deal’s suspension of the six longest-serving members of the DeKalb School Board stands. U.S. District Judge Richard Story denied the board members’ motion for a preliminary injunction and lifted his temporary restraining order announced Feb. 24 that prevented Deal from replacing them. “The harm from the loss of accreditation to the School District and the resulting harm to the students in the district are profound,” Story wrote. “To permit the board members to continue to serve while their individual claims are resolved risks substantial consequences for the School District and its students. The court finds that this risk of harm far outweighs the risks to the board members.” The suspended board members are Sarah Copelin-Wood, District 3; Jesse “Jay” Cunningham, District 5; Donna Edler, District 7; Nancy Jester, District 1; Dr. Pam Speaks, District 8; and Dr. Eugene Walker, District 9. DeKalb School Board Chairman Melvin Johnson said he appreciates the judge providing an opinion in a timely manner and pledged his full and complete cooperation with the panel that is picking new board members. “Time is of the essence,” Johnson said in a statement Monday. “It is essential that we have a governing board capable of meeting the needs of our administration, students, parents and taxpayers. Equally important is having a board in place to work with the administration on ensuring that the district regains full accreditation.” Story said that the board members did not satisfy the requirements for a preliminary injunction based on the 14th Amendment claims. Board members had challenged the constitutionality of Georgia law 20-2-73, enacted in 2011. The law gives the governor the authority to suspend local School Board members. The Georgia Board of Education recommended the suspensions after a marathon 14-hour hearing on Feb. 21. That hearing followed the Southern As-
S. Copelin-Wood
Jesse Cunningham Donna Edler
sociation of Colleges and Schools placing the DeKalb School District on accreditation probation on Dec. 17 for “dysfunctional management, nepotism, declining student performance, intimidation of staff and administrators, and financial mismanagement.” Reacting to the ruling, Deal said he will move forward with replacing the board members. He also announced that Robert L. Brown, who serves on the Georgia Department of Transportation Board, will join Brad Bryant as a second liaison to the DeKalb School Board to monitor progress. “The court’s decision today will allow us to take the next steps toward protecting the futures of DeKalb’s students and maintaining the school system’s accreditation,” he said. “I agree with the judge’s opinion that ‘the harm from the loss of accreditation to the School District and the resulting harm to the students in the district are profound.’ ” Given the gravity of this situation, Deal said he greatly appreciates Brown, who is the owner of the Decatur architectural firm RL Brown & Associates, accepting his request to serve as a liaison to the DeKalb board. “He and Brad Bryant will make a great team to work with me, the DeKalb board and Superintendent Michael Thurmond to make sure that the system puts the students first,” the governor said. Walker, former chairman of the DeKalb School Board and one of the lawsuit’s plaintiffs, said he was dismayed but not deterred by Story’s ruling. “I respectfully but wholeheartedly disagree with the judge’s decision, and I plan to continue to seek justice through the court system until this matter with the governor is resolved,” he said in a statement. Walker said that none of the board
Nancy Jester
Pam Speaks
members, including himself, has committed a crime or misappropriated, misused or misspent funds entrusted to them. “Quite the opposite,” he said. “We have served with honesty and integrity. In fact, this board under the severe stress by the downturn of the economy has worked tirelessly to provide a quality education to our children with a minimum amount of adverse impact on the homeowners of this county. It has not been easy, and there has not always been a consensus. There is no crime in that; rather it is an inherent ingredient in the democratic process.” Edler, who joined the board in January 2011, called Monday’s federal court ruling “a humbling experience.” She said she has tried to make the best decisions in the interest of the students and citizens since her arrival on the board and wants to continue to serve. “I’ve conducted myself professionally both on and off the board,” she said Monday. Edler said she is willing to reapply for her job within 30 days as allowed under state rules. She and the other suspended board members were up for re-election in November 2014. AdvancEd, the parent company of SACS, said Story’s ruling will allow the system to move forward and “to put in place a Board of Education with its priorities appropriately placed on student achievement.” Mark A. Elgart, the group’s president and CEO, said their greatest hope is to help the DeKalb County School District find its way back to being one of the highest-performing school systems in the southeastern United States. “That was still possible as late as the
1990s, and it’s still possible today,” he said. Stor y w rote that though the DeKalb board members have refuted some of SACS’ allegations, the violations “were so egregious” that the district was placed on “accredited Eugene Walker probation,” the level of accreditation immediately preceding loss of accreditation. Story also ruled that the issues raised by board members’ state law claims should be certified to the Supreme Court of Georgia and that the parties confer in an effort to agree upon certified questions for submissions to the Supreme Court of Georgia. “If the parties are unable to agree within 10 days of the entry of this order, each party shall submit proposed certified questions to the court,” the order said. The judge said that the School District has no interest in any particular person serving on the School Board. “Rather, the interest of the School District is that a duly constituted board be in place so that it can conduct business. The School Board Suspension Statute assures continuity of operations through appointments by the governor to fill vacancies created by the suspensions,” Story said. “Thus, the loss of any property interest by the School District is not apparent to the court,” and would lack a key element in its 14th Amendment claim. Story said the court finds that the SACS report provided the board members adequate notice and that suspension with pay ameliorated some of the due process concerns expressed by Walker. He pointed out that a hearing also was held. A five-member nominating panel appointed by Deal took applications for candidates to replace the board members through March 6. The panel chaired by state School Board member Kenneth Mason was scheduled to meet on Friday. Interested applicants submitted their name, contact information, home address, seat they were applying for, resume or brief biography, and statement of interest to dekalb schoolboardnominations@georgia.gov.
March 9, 2013
Community
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CrossRoadsNews
““I just don’t see viable businesses gravitating to a service station as an anchor. You put that RaceTrac there, you just killed our street..”
RaceTrac revives proposal for gas station on Wesley Chapel By Jennifer Ffrench Parker
The $2.5 million RaceTrac gas station and convenience store proposed for the corner of Wesley Chapel Road and Snapfinger Woods Drive is back on the table. Chad Baker, RaceTrac’s senior project manager, told residents at a March 5 community meeting that the company would file applications with the county on March 7 to lift zoning restrictions on two of the three parcels on which it plans to build the project. The parcels are zoned commercial, but two of them are former restaurant properties. The applications, which would come before the Board of Commissioners for a vote in May, are seeking to remove the restaurant conditions. In 2011, the company put its plans on hold after an outpouring of opposition from residents about building a fifth gas station in a one-mile stretch of corridor. In the past two years, Baker said his company had solicited feedback, listened to the community, tried to understand its concerns, and has implemented some of the recommendations into the applications. He said the community wanted a patio and extensive landscaping and it has incorporated both. It also is incorporating plans to create a gateway at the I-20/Wesley Chapel ramps and transform the median from the ramp to its store with extensive landscaping. Baker said the community also asked the company to try to attract other retailers to the area and it has had talks with many, including Busy Bee Restaurants. “What we are here tonight to do is to inform you that we are going to file our applications,” he said. “We can’t tell you we are here to build because we have to get approval from the county commissioners.” The new 5,928-square-foot service station also would sell fresh fruit and frozen yogurt. “We are going to bring you our first-rate store,” Baker said. Atlanta-based RaceTrac, which operates more than 300 stores nationwide, plans to build its new brick-and-stone façade prototype store at the location that was home to a RaceTrac service station in the 1990s. That station was condemned by the Georgia Department of Transportation to make way for the Wesley Chapel road-widening project that began in 2004. The company, which promotes itself as a low-price leader on gas prices, competes aggressively with QuikTrip, which has a store a mile away at the corner of Wesley Chapel and Rainbow Drive. There are three other gas stations – Shell, Exxon and Chevron – on Wesley Chapel before getting to the QuikTrip. The majority of homeowners at Tuesday’s community meeting were vocal in opposition to another gas station on the street. Charles Peagler, who lives in the Kings Ridge subdivision on South Hairston Road, said he has opposed the store from the beginning and still does because it will hurt the corridor’s development opportunities. “I just don’t see viable businesses gravitating to a service station as an anchor. Let’s be realistic here – you put that RaceTrac there, you just killed our street. We know that.” Kevin Chapman, who started the effort to landscape the I-20/Wesley Chapel ramps, said he too is opposed to the RaceTrac. “There is a over-saturation of gas stations in the immediate area,” he said. “I just don’t see how this gas station is going to help us with the goals of the overlay.” He also said the RaceTrac proposal doesn’t go far enough. “What you are willing to give the community pales in comparison to the detriment that will be done to the community,” he said. Delores Harper, who also lives in Kings
RaceTrac officials presented renderings of its proposed convenience store and landscaping plan for the Wesley Chapel exit on I-20. Charles Peagler (above) spoke for many at the meeting when he said he was opposed to RaceTrac’s proposal. At left, Chad Baker (right) presented RaceTrac’s plans for the corner of Wesley Chapel Road and Snapfinger Woods Drive.
Photos by Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews
Ridge, said she supports the proposed RaceTrac. “In this day and age, we cannot stagnate,” she said. “We have got to move forward. It’s time for us to start thinking about the changes that we need to be making to our Delores Harper neighborhood.” Harper said there are no gas stations on the north side of I-20 and that it is inconvenient to get in and out of the QuikTrip at the other end of the commercial strip. “The community needs businesses that are willing to invest the kind of money that RaceTrac is doing,” she said. “I say it would be an attraction that would be nothing but positive for our neighborhood.” Charles Glover, who lives in the Rainbow
Creek subdivision, said that five years ago, he would have said no. “Today, we need a service station,” he said. “We need some funds in DeKalb County, in the South DeKalb area. If they don’t build something in this area, our property taxes are going to skyrocket. If you don’t put something in this area, you are going to price the retired people like myself out of our homes. So we need to look at this.” Sean MacLaurin, RaceTrac’s real estate manager, said it respects people who are homeowners but it is a property owner too. “We own the property and have the right to try to build our store,” he said. Dennis Webb Jr., RaceTrac’s attorney, said that if it got its application to the point where it is approved, the landscape plan would be part of the approval. “There would be a set of zoning condi-
tions that say we will do X, Y and Z. One of the conditions would say that we would landscape the median, that we would plant the interchange,” he said. “So there would be no question. If somewhere down the road someone Dennis Webb Jr. said they didn’t do it, you would have something to point to and they will come and say you are in violation and you will be in trouble.” Baker said RaceTrac stores generate $400,000 a year in taxes and it wants to be part of initiatives to help develop the corridor. “We are here, ready to start development. We are willing to be part of the Wesley Chapel Coalition and the CID.” MacLaurin said that he has been in talks with DeKalb Economic Development Director Charles Whatley about development options for the corridor and has reached out to Busy Bee Restaurants and other retailers who are in the market for new growth. “We can’t obviously spend other people’s money, but we have done our part to make them aware of opportunities on the corridor,” he said. “Every time something new develops here or redevelops, it benefits us as property owners and business owners.” Baker said the community is located at the intersection of two major interstates and the demand for gasoline is here. “In the two years that we have been researching this and talking to people about coming with us to develop this corridor, nothing that we have learned has made us want to walk away or run from this,” he said. “In fact, we are committed to this.”
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The issue we are dealing with in this court case is our right to vote.
Removing board members is not the democratic way 2346 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007 www.crossroadsnews.com editor@crossroadsnews.com
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Editor’s note: U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson, who represents the 4th Congressional District, says Gov. Nathan Deal’s removal of the DeKalb School Board’s six longest-serving members is part of the assault on the 1965 Voting Rights Act that guarantees African-Americans the right to vote. “This right to elect our School Board member is being pre-empted by a state law, which, in my humble opinion, is unconstitutional on a number of different ways,” he told more than 200 residents attending DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson’s monthly Community Cabinet Meeting on March 2. Here is a transcript of those comments: Section 5 of the Voting Rights Act requires that certain jurisdictions with a history of discrimination in voting must get all new laws that they are proposing pre-cleared by the Justice Department before they can go into the effect. The questions before the U.S. Supreme Court is whether or not Section 5 – the pre-clearance provision of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 – should be scrapped because either there is no more discrimination in terms of tactics to dilute African-American voting strengths, or to prevent blacks from voting, or there is not enough in the congressional records that would demonstrate that those same jurisdictions that are covered need to be covered now. During the arguments, one of the justices stated quite bluntly that racial entitlements – the Voting
“If some of you don’t appreciate some of the members of the School Board that we have right now, that is our fault because we voted them in. Don’t let somebody come along and say, ‘I am going to take them out for you, and I am going to put my own folks in there.’ ” Rep. Hank Johnson
Rights Act, which guarantees black folks of this right to vote – which of course came out of the 15th Amendment that was passed in 1879. But we couldn’t exercise that right to vote because of the poll taxes and literacy tests and countthe-number of black jellybeans in a jar, how many bubbles on a bar of soap. Those kinds of things we couldn’t get rid of until the 1965 Voting Rights Act. So we have that struggle taking place right here in DeKalb County. We have a right to vote for School Board members. [Applause] We also have a right for our children to be educated. But let’s not mix those two up when there are two issues at stake. No. 1. Our children. Put that over here. No. 2. Our right to elect representatives. Let’s put that over here. We can walk and chew bubble gum at the same time. Can we do that? [Applause] Let’s put the education of our children over here. I want to talk about our right to vote and the fact that when we have that right, there are all kinds of ways we can be deprived of it.
Do you understand me? I was up in Ohio for the elections in November – you would not believe the number of schemes that were just ongoing to try to suppress voter turnout. Folks, let’s wake up. Let’s protect our right to vote. [Applause] If some of you don’t appreciate some of the members of the School Board that we have right now, that is our fault because we voted them in. Right. Don’t let somebody come along and say, “I am going to take them out for you, and I am going to put my own folks in there.” [Applause] That is not the democratic way. That is not the democratic way. So everybody else has the right to vote. In Gwinnett County, they have the right to vote for their School Board. Right. Fulton County, Cobb, Cherokee. DeKalb County citizens have a right, but this right to elect our School Board member is being pre-empted by a state law, which, in my humble opinion, is unconstitutional on a number of different ways. But we cannot let that stand. It’s in the court system now and I believe that Judge Story is the type
of judge you would want to have on a case like this. So I am looking forward to him ruling that the statute that allows the governor to come in based on the recommendation of a private accreditation agency to suspend, to override the will of the voters of DeKalb or any other jurisdiction, to override the will of the people, to impose his selection to run our business, to administer our property taxes, that’s not right. I know that there are a lot of people who have different views on this issue. I just wanted to talk about this precious right to vote. That is the overriding issue. Education does not mean that is not important. But the issue we are dealing with in this court case is our right to vote. What it means is, if the president of the United States doesn’t like the way Congress is operating, and you elected your congressman or Congress people, the president could not come in and say, “OK I am going to take over the whole Congress and I am going to wipe out the folk that you voted in, and put my folks in.” What kind of sense does that make? So, that’s what I want to tell you today. On so many different fronts, our rights are being eroded, and if we don’t stand up and fight for our rights, then they will just be taken away. [Prolonged applause] Hank Johnson lives in Lithonia. On March 4, U.S. District Judge Richard Story sided with the state and ruled that the removal of the School Board members stands.
Americans’ constitutional and civil rights at stake By Dr. Eugene “Gene” Walker
I am dismayed, but not deterred, following our setback in federal court Monday. I respectfully but wholeheartedly disagree with the judge’s decision, and I plan to continue to seek justice through the court system until this matter with the governor is resolved. This is why: I was born in Thomaston, a small town in Upson County. The indignity of segregation and racism was the backdrop of my youth. I swore at that time that I would stand up for my rights no matter the cost. I have not swayed from the self-commitment, and virtually all my adult life has been dedicated to service to my fellow man, with a special dedication to education. I preface this to explain, again, why I am obligated to engage the governor in the court system. It is morally abhorrent to sit idly by and allow the usurping of the one man one vote right that has been bought and paid with the blood, sweat and tears of my generation. It is imperative that public servants preserve and protect the constitution and adhere to all laws, including the precept of a citizen’s
“It is imperative that public servants preserve and protect the constitution and adhere to all laws, including the precept of a citizen’s right to choose their representative government.” Dr. Eugene Walker
right to choose their representative government. With the current assault of Section V of the Voting Rights Act and the perpetual gerrymandering to disenfranchise races of people, I am compelled to employ every means available to me to protect citizens’ rights. The governor is using SACS and the State Board of Education as a hammer and chisel to chip away at the progress we have made. No one on the DeKalb County Board of Education, myself included, has committed a crime or misappropriated, misused or misspent funds entrusted to us. Quite the opposite: We have served with honesty and integrity. In fact, this board under the severe stress by the downturn of the economy has worked tirelessly to provide a quality education to our children with a minimum
amount of adverse impact on the homeowners of this county. It has not been easy, and there has not always been a consensus. There is no crime in that, rather it is an inherent ingredient in the democratic process. I don’t feel the governor is personally attacking me. This is not about Eugene Walker. When I step aside through my own actions or through the wisdom of the electorate, I believe I will ultimately be judged on my legacy as an educator, coach, administrator, state senator, state commissioner, Pardons and Paroles Board member, in addition to my role now as a School Board member. I believe the greatest gift I can bequeath to the children of this school system at this time is a contemporary lesson on civics, civil liberties and standing up for what is right.
If this unconstitutional act is to stand, then what is next? It will only be a matter of time before another constitutional right will be taken away by another wayward and self-perpetuating politico under the guise of the greater good. Minorities should not feel secure if contrived allegations from anonymous sources with hidden agendas can go to private agencies and to have their civil rights stolen away. This cannot and shall not be allowed to stand. Leadership calls for tough and sometimes unpopular decisions. Such it is with standing up to the power brokers who seek to systematically erode, divide and conquer the voting strength of partisan and racial minorities. If I lose, so be it. But I cannot and will not go down without a fight on the principles at stake here. Dr. Eugene Walker represented District 9 on the DeKalb School Board until he and five other members were suspended by Gov. Nathan Deal on Feb. 25. He challenged in federal court the constitutionality of the state law that would give one elected official authority to remove another from office, but the judge upheld the law in a March 4 ruling.
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March 9, 2013
Community
5
CrossRoadsNews
“You could always count on Polly to be somewhere where it made a difference. I am really saddened.”
Polly Meriwether Lewis remembered as mother, friend, activist By Jennifer Ffrench Parker
Family and hundreds of friends celebrated the life of Polly Meriwether Lewis at a home-going service at Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church in Decatur on March 7. Lewis, 63, died March 1 at her Decatur home after battling cancer for six years. She was remembered as a caring mother, loyal friend, dedicated AKA soror, ardent church member, and a people Polly Meriwether Lewis person. For more than 30 years, Lewis had a finger in many of the good things that happened in DeKalb County. Friends said the county will be poorer for her departure. “We are a better people because she passed this way,” the Rev. Jerry Alexander said. Chris Morris, who knew Lewis for 37 years, said her friend was one of DeKalb’s biggest champions. “Polly just loved the community,” Morris said. John Leak, another longtime friend, called her “just a great person.” “You could always count on Polly to be somewhere where it made a difference,” he said. “I am really saddened.” In the early 1980s, when DeKalb was undergoing massive changes with the influx of middle-class African-Americans and the flight of white residents, Lewis was a core member of an ad hoc volunteer group called the Non Nons because members were nonpolitical. “We wanted to bring the community together and help them get to know each
Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews
A Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home director watches over the casket during the homegoing celebration for Polly Meriwether Lewis on March 7 at Greater Travelers Rest Baptist Church.
other,” Morris said. Lewis, Leak and former state Rep. Frank Redding, who were part of the group, organized social events to facilitate interactions between residents. “It was folks getting together to fellowship,” Leak said. “We had no name, no office, no agenda. We didn’t try to save any souls. It strengthened a lot of relationships for the good of the community.” Redding said the Non Nons got a lot of work done because of Lewis. “Polly was the organizer,” he said. While Lewis was never political, she was
the ultimate insider with the ear of elected officials who were shepherding change. Redding said she stayed away from the limelight but was an adviser to many elected county and state officials, including Nate Mosby, John Evans and Eugene Walker. “She was one of the best advisers I had when I was in the General Assembly,” he said. Lewis succeeded Redding as community relations director in 1981 when Manuel Maloof was CEO. She left the county to become executive liaison to the board of trustees of the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority that
ran Grady Memorial Hospital in 1995 and stayed there until her retirement. She served on many local boards, including the YMCA, the South DeKalb Business Association, DeKalb EOA Inc. and Leadership Atlanta and was very active in Alpha Kappa Alpha and Greater Travelers Rest, where she was a member for 39 years. Morris said Lewis was active and engaged in her church. “Our faith was the foundation of everything we did,” Morris said. “We could talk about anything and we knew it would stay between us. It’s a good thing to have friends on whose shoulders you can cry.” State Rep. Pam Stephenson, who worked with Lewis on the hospital authority and was a friend, said Lewis’ illness did not hamper her community work and she was recently appointed by DeKalb Commissioner Stan Watson to serve on the county’s Zoning Board of Appeals. Lewis had brain surgery two weeks ago to remove a tumor, but Stephenson said she was trying to work even from the hospital. “That was Polly,” Stephenson said. “She loved DeKalb County. I had to tell her that she needed to focus on herself.” Stephenson, who spoke with Lewis on Friday morning, said she was in high spirits. “She sounded stronger than she had been in weeks,” Stephenson said. Lewis was found dead later that day. U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson, who proclaimed Lewis a U.S. Citizen of Distinction during the service, said it was his pleasure to have known her and worked with her. “She did great things and never asked for credit for it,” he said. Lewis is survived by sons Barry and Justin and a host of relatives and friends.
CLAUDIA G. LAWSON DeKalb County Tax Commissioner
ATTENTION
MOTOR VEHICLE OWNERS Effective March 1, 2013, House Bill 386 removes the sales and annual ad valorem tax on newly-purchased vehicles. A one-time title tax of 6.5% (2013), 6.75% (2014) and 7% (2015) replaces the annual tax. Here’s what you need to know: • New one-time title ad valorem tax fee applies to all title transactions (new and used vehicle purchases, transfers, all transfers among family members, or vehicles new to the state) and eliminates payment of sales tax and annual ad valorem tax. • If you purchase a vehicle in Georgia after January 1, 2012 but before March 1, 2013, you may have the option of paying annual ad valorem tax or a one-time title ad valorem tax fee. Vehicles purchased out of state are not eligible to opt in. • Whether paying the one-time title ad valorem tax fee OR annual ad valorem tax, requirements for insurance, emissions, driver’s license and the renewal of your tag by your expiration date remain the same. • If you purchased a vehicle before 2012, you will remain on the current annual ad valorem tax system. NORTH OFFICE 1358 Dresden Drive, NE Atlanta, GA 30319
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SOUTH OFFICE 2801 Candler Rd. #66 South DeKalb Mall Decatur, GA 30034
(404) 298-4000 www.dekalbcountyga.gov/taxcommissioner
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CrossRoadsNews
Wellness
March 9, 2013
“We are proud that our funds remain focused on local needs that make a difference in Georgia communities.”
Cancer study seeking participants Two DeKalb County YMCAs are enrolling men and women to participate in the American Cancer Society’s Cancer Prevention Study 3. The sites and times are Wade Walker Park Family YMCA in Stone Mountain on March 13 from 7 to 11 a.m. and March 14 from 3 to 7 p.m. and the Decatur Family YMCA in Decatur on March 14 from 3 to 7 p.m. and March 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The society is seeking 5,000 metro Atlanta participants ages 35 to 65 and 300,000 people total for the study. Program participants must have never been diagnosed with cancer and willing to commit long-term to the study, which involves completing follow-up surveys periodi-
cally for the next 20 to 30 years. Researchers will use the data to build on evidence from a series of studies that began in the 1950s to help better understand lifestyle, environmental and genetic factors that cause or prevent cancer. Randy Redner, the Cancer Society’s Georgia vice president, said the study offers a unique opportunity. “By partnering with the YMCA to provide locations for CPS-3 enrollment, we are making it as easy as possible for Atlanta residents to take part in this life-changing study,” Redner said. For more information or to enroll, visit www.cps3atlanta.com or call 1-888604-5888.
Yoga class focusing on stress relief Library patrons seeking an outlet to relieve stress can attend a free workshop on yoga, fitness and meditation on March 23 at Salem-Panola Library in Lithonia. Wealth & Wellness coach Steffanie Haggins, a certified master trainer, yoga trainer and boot camp fitness instructor, will lead the 11 a.m.-to-noon session. Participants are asked to wear modest fitness gear. Haggins said the workshop is recommended for those who want peace of mind by eliminating stress and resolving internal battles. She was initiated into the Center for Spiritual Awareness in Steffanie Haggins 2001. The Salem-Panola Library is at 5137 Salem Road. For more information, contact StudioSteffanie at StudioSteffanie@gmail.com or 678-330-8139.
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DeKalb Medical’s Wellness on Wheels was among 19 breast health and breast cancer programs receiving nearly $500,000 in grants from It’s the Journey, producer of the Atlanta 2-Day Walk.
WOW gets breast health grant DeKalb Medical’s Wellness on Wheels initiative will be able to do more mammograms and breast diagnostic services, including biopsy, because of a $35,000 grant from It’s the Journey Inc. WOW was one of 19 breast health and breast cancer programs statewide that received nearly $500,000 in grants from It’s the Journey, producer of the Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer, scheduled this year for Oct. 5. Janet Rizan, WOW’s executive director, said the grant will help them diagnose breast cancer in the earlier stages and decrease mortality. Kimberly Goff, It’s the Journey executive director, said the grants ensure the organizations can continue to provide services from basic clinical exams to hereditary screening and follow-up treatment for breast cancer. “We are proud that our funds remain focused on local needs that make a difference in Georgia communities,” Goff said. WOW has been providing breast cancer screening services to low-income, uninsured medically underserved women for the past 14 years. It provides 100 to 110 mobile digital screening mammograms monthly, primarily in the Stone Mountain and Doraville areas. Clients receive a clinical breast exam. WOW also offers breast ultrasound, MRI,
surgical consultation and biopsy, and clients are taught to do self-breast exam. The services are offered free of charge to women with cancer and their loved ones. The 19 recipients, who all provide services to underserved communities, were celebrated on March 4 at Maggiano’s Little Italy in Buckhead. Most grants ranged from $15,000 to $35,000. Other recipients serving DeKalb clients include the Asian Breast Care program; Emory University’s Department of Human Genetics for Bridging the Grady GAP – Genetic Access Program for Individuals at Risk for Hereditary Breast Cancer; the Good Samaritan Health Center Inc. for Women’s Health Screening Program; Northside Hospital and Greater Atlanta Hadassah for Check It Out; and TurningPoint Women’s Healthcare for Rehabilitation and Educational Programs for Women With Breast Cancer. The 30-mile Atlanta 2-Day Walk for Breast Cancer raises money and awareness for Georgia breast cancer programs. In 10 years, it has generated almost $9 million to fund 188 grants. For more information, visit www.itsthe journey.org. For sponsorship, donations or participation in the October walk, visit www.2daywalk.org, e-mail info@2daywalk .org or call 404-531-4111.
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“The best way to keep yourself and your family safe is to prepare now instead of waiting until disaster strikes.”
Tornadoes peak season begs for preparation from everyone The peak time for tornadoes is March through May, and Ready Georgia wants residents to be prepared for disaster. The Georgia Emergency Management Agency is encouraging everyone to get ready now for these potentially disastrous storms. Charley English, GEMA/Homeland Security director, said the storms are dangerously unpredictable. “It’s critical to know in advance what to do and where to take shelter,” English said. “These Charley English storms may come with little warning, so the best way to keep yourself and your family safe is to prepare now instead of waiting until disaster strikes.” In January, twisters struck Adairsville and Gordon County, flattening homes and businesses, flipping vehicles, and causing a fatality. Despite the damage, weather experts say it could have been worse. Tornado warnings helped many residents seek shelter in time. GEMA points to the massive twister that struck Joplin, Mo., in May 2011, destroying one-third of the city and leaving more than 160 deaths in its wake. Many fatalities were people inside mobile homes or vehicles. The National Weather Service says tornadoes, some of nature’s most violent storms, are the No. 1 severe weather killer in Georgia. Research shows that a majority of Georgians are still unprepared to survive for the
Tornadoes like the one that swept through Adairsville and Gordon County in January, claiming one life and leaving a path of destruction, are the No. 1 severe weather killer in Georgia.
recommended 72 hours after a large-scale emergency. In a 2012 survey, only 38 percent believe they need to be prepared to survive for the recommended 72 hours and a majority had not purchased weather radios or created a family reconnection plan. GEMA says that type of complacency can be deadly. A new 15-second public service announcement airing on TV stations statewide features the “day before” the Joplin tornado and illustrates the importance of preparing today to help reduce the consequences. Ready Georgia offers tools and resources to prepare for emergencies. Visitors to www .ready.ga.gov can find information to create
a disaster supply kit, develop a tailored communications plan, and stay informed about potential threats. For preparedness on the go, download Ready Georgia’s free mobile app. Ready Georgia shares the following tips:
Prepare for a tornado n Familiarize yourself with the terms: A tornado watch means a tornado is possible in your area, and a tornado warning means a tornado has been spotted in your area and you need to take shelter immediately. n Determine in advance where you will take shelter in case of a tornado warning. n Prepare a Ready Kit of supplies, including a first-aid kit, NOAA Weather Radio and a
three-day supply of food and water.
Plan to take shelter n If a tornado warning is issued or if you see a funnel cloud, take shelter immediately. n Storm cellars or basements provide the best protection. n If underground shelter is not available, go into an interior room or hallway on the lowest floor possible. n In a high-rise building, go to a small interior room or hallway on the lowest floor. n Stay away from windows, doors, outside walls and corners. Go to the center of the room. n A vehicle, trailer or mobile home does not provide good protection. Plan to go quickly to a building with a strong foundation. n If shelter is not available, lie flat in a ditch or other low-lying area. Do not get under an overpass or bridge. n Stay in the shelter location until the danger has passed. n Listen to NOAA Weather Radio, watch TV, or check the Internet often for official news and instructions. n After a tornado, stay clear of damaged buildings and downed power lines. n Help injured or trapped people. Check on others who may require special assistance, such as the elderly, children and people with disabilities. For more information, contact DeKalb Emergency Management Agency at 770270-0413 or DEMA@co.dekalb.ga.us or visit www.ready.ga.gov or www.gema.ga.gov.
Expert talking up memory loss and brain health Brain health expert and author Paul Nussbaum will discuss memory loss and perception issues at a March 19 seminar at Emeritus at Decatur. He will talk about increasing cognitive fitness and delaying the potential onset of memory loss. The seminar, which begins at 5:30 p.m., is free. Nussbaum is national director of brain health for Emeritus Senior Living as well as clinical Paul Nussbaum neuropsychologist and adjunct professor of neurological surgery at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine. He is author of “Save Your Brain” and “Brain Health Lifestyle.” Researchers are hunting for solutions, he said. “While researchers continue to search for a cure or preventive measure for Alzheimer’s, the good news is that there are specific steps each of us can take right now to increase the health of our brain and slow the potential onset of memory loss,” Nussbaum said. Statewide, the number of people with Alzheimer’s is expected to increase by 45 percent by 2025. Nussbaum will discuss lifestyle changes individuals can make to promote brain health and slow the possible onset of memory loss, among them, foods that promote cognitive fitness, signs and symptoms of memory loss and memory-impairing diseases, and the latest scientific research on brain health. Emeritus at Decatur provides care for people with Alzheimer’s and other memoryimpairing diseases through its Join Their Journey program. It is operated by Emeritus Senior Living, the nation’s largest assistedliving and memory care provider. Reservations are required for the seminar at 404-299-6600. Emeritus at Decatur is at 475 Irvin Court in Decatur. For more information, visit www.Emeritus.com.
One of the keys to beating breast cancer, is knowing where you stand. The other is knowing where to go. The newly expanded Comprehensive Breast Care Center at DeKalb Medical at Hillandale is proud to offer state-of-the-art technology for early detection, including digital mammography. And behind all of our technology and equipment, are equally phenomenal people, like our compassionate Nurse Navigators and nationally-acclaimed breast surgeons. From individualized treatment plans to even seemingly small acts – down to providing stylish patient robes and calming music during screenings – our attention to detail continues to set us apart from other hospitals. Because we believe in caring about people, not just for them. For a comprehensive virtual tour of our Breast Care Center, please visit dekalbmedicalhillandale.org, then call 404-501-2660, to schedule your annual mammogram, today.
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CrossRoadsNews
Community
“I want someone who can understand the concerns that these young people have.”
Clerk hosts Passport Day DeKalb residents can apply for new passports or renewals at a National Passport Day event in the DeKalb Superior County Clerk’s Office on March 9. Debra DeBerry, clerk of Superior Court, is hosting Passport Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. as part of a national passport outreach event to provide information to U.S. citizens and accept passport Debra DeBerry applications. The event’s goal also is to encourage family travel by making it more convenient for parents applying for passports for their children, which must be done in person for those under 16. The Saturday opening means families won’t have to miss work or school to apply. First-time applicants also must apply in person.
If your previous passport was lost, stolen, damaged or issued more than 15 years ago, or if it was issued when you were under the age of 16, you must apply in person as well. The application and executive fees for a passport are $165. Standard processing takes four to six weeks. Expedited processing of two to three weeks costs an additional $60. U.S. citizens must present a valid passport book when entering the United States by air. U.S. citizens entering the United States from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean and Bermuda at land borders and seaports of entry must present a passport book, passport card or other travel documents approved by the U.S. government. The DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court Office is at 556 N. McDonough St. in Decatur. For more information, call 404371-2251.
Man acquitted in Carroll slaying A young man who turned himself in to DeKalb County Police for the drug-related slaying of a Carrollton man in 2011 was acquitted of murder charges on March 5. Evan Donard Winston, 22, of Carrollton had been jailed since Sept. 9, 2011, when he turned himself in to authorities for the shooting death of 20-year-old Kevin Woods. Woods was shot on Sept. 2, 2011, while he and brother Branden Woods and University of West Georgia student Egim Etta-Tawo sat in a vehicle in the parking lot of the Chateau Apartments in Carrollton. Etta-Tawo allegedly set up a drug deal be-
tween Winston and Woods. Winston fled in a car with an unknown male police later identified as Roudolphe Germain Jr. Germain and Etta-Tawo also were charged. Etta-Tawo was given a deal to testify against Winston. Germain agreed to plead guilty to voluntary manslaughter in exchange for a 15-year sentence. On March 5, a 12-member jury issued a verdict of not guilty on the charges of malice murder and felony murder. Winston’s attorney, Mawuli Mel Davis of the Davis Bozeman law firm in Decatur, said justice was served.
Classes offer the 101 on Clarkston Fifteen Clarkston residents are learning the ins and outs of the workings of government in the inaugural class of the Clarkston 101 citizen education program. The goals of the program, which was launched Feb. 21, are to facilitate a more informed population and increase municipal government transparency; encourage residents to become more involved in service opportunities in Clarkston; and make the local government more accessible to the community. Participants are learning about the functions of various departments within the city through interactive presentations delivered by city staff.
Topics to be covered during the five monthly sessions include understanding the council-manager form of government; law enforcement and court services; understanding the budgeting and millage rate process; voter registration; planning and development and public works, including utilities; and quality of life (code enforcement). In addition to the interactive and instructional training, residents also will participate in on-site and off-site tours of government facilities and a police ridealong program. For more information, call 404-2966489.
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Police seeking input from citizens DeKalb residents can participate in an 11-question survey about DeKalb Police Department services through March 31 at www.dekalbcountyga.gov. The survey is a requirement of the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies process. Respondents will answer questions about response times, roadside assistance, traffic citations, and satisfaction with the level of assistance received from the Police Department. The results will be provided to the
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The DeKalb School Board members were suspended on the recommendation of the Georgia Board of Education in the wake of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools placing the School District on accreditation probation and issuing a scathing report citing governance, ethical and financial problems in the district. Jester announced her resignation Wednesday in a message on her blog, Whatsupwith nancyjester.com. Under state law, she and the other suspended members are entitled to apply for reinstatement to their jobs. Edler, who joined the School Board in January 2011, was on the list but denies that she submitted her name. She says she will seek reinstatement through another process. Mason said the panel will review applicants based on the School Board district where they live. The largest number of applicants – 98 – had Decatur addresses. There were 74 applicants with Atlanta addresses; 72 from Stone Mountain; 60 from Lithonia; 19 each from Dunwoody and Ellenwood; 10 from Tucker; seven from Clarkston; three from Chamblee; two each from Avondale Estates, Brookhaven and Conley; and one from Doraville. Seventeen of the applicants were from Conyers, College Park, Duluth, Fairburn, Forest Park, Grayson, Kennesaw, Snellville, Stockbridge and Woodstock, all areas that are outside DeKalb County, which makes them ineligible to serve. “I don’t want to pre-empt the process by going into specifics,” said candidate Thad Mayfield of Lithonia. “But I have expertise and experience to help this county get where it needs to go.” Mayfield, a business consultant, served as chair of the committee that promoted the $475 million SPLOST IV ballot initiative in 2011. He also chaired the DeKalb school consolidation committee in 2010. “Boards are supposed to make policy, allocate resources and let the superintendent and administrators run the schools,” said Jack Sartain of Stone Mountain. Sartain, 76, is the retired CEO of Doctor’s Hospital in Atlanta. He said allowing educators to operate free of political pressure is crucial to creating a school atmosphere where students can excel. Gina Mangham of Lithonia is an attorney
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Avalanche of applicants 403 people applied to replace suspended board members. Here are the cities for 394 of the candidates: City Applicants Decatur.......................................... 98 Atlanta............................................74 Stone Mountain..............................72 Lithonia.......................................... 60 Dunwoody...................................... 19 Ellenwood....................................... 19 Tucker.............................................10 Clarkston...........................................7 Chamblee.........................................3 Conyers.............................................3 Snellville............................................3 Avondale Estates...............................2 Brookhaven......................................2 Conley...............................................2 Smoke Rise.......................................2 Stockbridge.......................................2 College Park..................................... 1 Doraville........................................... 1 Duluth............................................... 1 Fairburn............................................ 1 Forest Park........................................ 1 Grayson............................................ 1 Kennesaw ........................................ 1 Woodstock........................................ 1
and longtime community activist. She believes her background gives her skills to help the board avoid budgetary trouble. “I do business litigation and have an eye for contracts and for details. And it’s those details that make all the difference” in keeping the district out of financial hot water, Mangham said. The selection panel is expected to have face-to-face interviews with about 75 candidates. Brian Robinson, a spokesman for Deal, said the governor has asked the committee to provide him with at least two names for each of the seats. After a video-chat with 21 DeKalb high school students on Thursday, Deal said that he wanted replacements who understand the challenges faced by the school districts. “I want someone who can understand the concerns that these young people have,” he said. For a full list of the School Board applicants, visit www.crossroadsnews.com/ bookmark/21908955.
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police chief for use in planning and achieving the goals of the Police Department. DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis said public safety continues to be the county’s top priority. “I encourage all DeKalb residents to take the survey and provide the county with the information we need to plan for the future and preserve the safety of our county.” Residents can complete the survey anonymously or provide comments and contact information.
Decatur candidates dominate
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CrossRoadsNews
March 9, 2013
Scene
“This video is just a start of other possible music projects to come. Bring enthusiasm and applause.” “Young Titan” explores Winston Churchill’s life as a young man between 1901 and 1915, a period critical to his life’s mission.
Author to discuss Churchill The Still Waters Youth Sinfo-Nia Orchestra will be performing in a music video with “The Mad Violinist” Ashanti Floyd at Arabia Mountain High School in Lithonia on March 9. Spectators are welcome.
Music video is a first for orchestra Still Waters Youth Sinfo-Nia Orchestra will record a music video with “The Mad Violinist” on March 9 at Arabia Mountain High School in Lithonia. The five-time Grammy Award-nominated Mad Violinist, aka recording artist Ashanti Floyd, will perform in concert with his live orchestra of young musicians. Cameras will be ready to roll beginning at 10 a.m. General admission is $15 per person and David Robinson, the founder and director of Sinfo-Nia, says that parents, students and teachers and orchestra alums, patrons and supporters can join them for the performance. “This video is just a start of other possible music projects to come,” Robinson said. “It took a whole lot of work and resources to put this project together. Bring your enthusiasm and applause.” Floyd, who is also a producer and string arranger, has performed on BET’s “106 & Park.” He has recorded with T-Pain, Lil Wayne, Lupe Fiasco, Rick Ross, Fantasia, B.B. King, Mario, 50 Cent, Young Jeezy, David Banner, Sean Kingston, Young Buck and Nicki Minaj. Arabia Mountain High School is at 6610 Browns Mill Road. For more information, visit www.sinfonia.com or contact Still Waters Youth Sinfo-Nia of Metropolitan Atlanta at info@sinfo-nia.com or 404-328-0840.
Last peek at Master Active living Plan Residents can get their final look at De Kalb’s Master Active Living Plan at a March 12 meeting at the Maloof Auditorium. The DeKalb Board of Health and Department of Planning and Sustainability are co-sponsoring the meeting for the county’s Central and South study areas. The Master Active Living Plan will enhance the county’s viability in attracting new business, residential development and livability and community character.
Residents and stakeholders will get to see the results of their input into the final recommendations for transportation, land use, and parks and economic development improvements. The meeting starts at 6 p.m. Maloof Auditorium is at 1300 Commerce Drive in Decatur. For more information, call Ron Sherwood at 404-577-6300 or Shawanna Qawiy at 404-371-9771.
Biographer Michael Shelden will discuss the early life of Sir Winston Churchill, a major figure of the 20th century, on March 13 at the Decatur Library. The lecture, part of the March Festival of Writers, takes place from 7:15 to 9 p.m. Churchill is the subject of Shelden’s acclaimed new book, “Young Titan: The Making of Winston Churchill.” Shelden explores Churchill’s life as a young man between 1901 Michael Shelden and 1915, which is so critical to his life’s mission. Pulitzer Prize winner Jon Meacham calls it “a memorable portrait” of the statesman’s life and loves in this period. Shelden, who teaches at Indiana State University, is a former writer for the London Daily Telegraph and author of four honored biographies, including “Mark Twain: Man in White” and “Orwell: The Authorized Biography,” a Pulitzer finalist. Decatur Library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, call 404-370-3070.
PRISM talking development Economic development is on the agenda for the March 14 PRISM meeting at St. Timothy United Methodist Church in Stone Mountain. Charles Whatley, DeKalb Economic Development director; ARC’s research director Mike Alexander; and Selig Development Corp. Vice President David Stogner will speak on the topic: “Can neighborhoods take action to help boost economic development in their community?” Whatley will provide an incentive overview. Alexander will discuss community demographics, and Stogner will talk about shopping center development and retail marketing. The meeting starts at 7 p.m. The church is at 5335 Memorial Drive. For more information, call Joe Arrington at 404-308-0473.
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March 9, 2013
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Reach more than 15 million households served by over 1,020 suburban and community newspapers around North America and Canada. 25-word ad starts at $240 weekly. Discount Contact Rates Available. For more information, call 404-284-1888 Autos 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 CAR DONATIONS WANTED! Help Support Cancer Research. Free Next-Day Towing. NonRunners OK. Tax Deductible. Free Cruise/Hotel/Air Voucher. Live Operators 7 days/week. Breast Cancer Society #800-7280801.
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Business Opportunity Make Up To $2,000.00+ Per Week! New Credit Card Ready Drink-Snack Vending Machines. Minimum $4K to $40K+ Investment Required. Locations Available. BBB Accredited Business. (800) 962-9189
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Employment Opportunity HELP WANTED!! Make $1000 a week mailing Brochures From Home! Genuine Opportunity. FREE Supplies! NO Experience Required. Start Immediately! www.mailing-group.com
Education & Training ATTEND COLLEGE ONLINE from Home. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV authorized. Call 800-488-0386 www.CenturaOnline.com AIRLINES ARE HIRING- Train for hands on Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified- Housing
available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (877)818-0783
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. ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get CPAP Replacement Supplies at little or NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 1-866-993-5043 YOU or a loved one have an addiction? Over 500 alcohol and drug rehab facilities nationwide. Very private/Very Confidential. Inpatient care. Insurance needed. Call for immediate help! 1-800-297-6815 CASH PAID - UP TO $28/BOX for unexpired, sealed DIABETIC TEST STRIPS! 1 DAY PAY-
MENT & PREPAID shipping. BEST PRICES! Call 1-888-3660957. www.Cash4DiabeticSupplies.com
ANTEE Owner Financing. West Texas Beautiful Mountain Views! Free Color Brochure 1-800-7558953 www.sunsetranches.com
Financial
Misc. For Sale
Ever Consider a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your FREE DVD! Call Now 866-967-9407
100% Guaranteed Omaha Steaks - SAVE 69% on The Grilling Collection. NOW ONLY $49.99 Plus 2 FREE GIFTS & right-to-thedoor delivery in a reusable cooler, ORDER Today. 1- 888-697-3965 Use Code:45102ETA or www. OmahaSteaks.com/offergc05
CREDIT CARD DEBT? LEGALLY HAVE IT REMOVED! Need a Minimum $7,000 in debt to qualify. Utilize Consumer Protection Attorneys. Call now 1-866652-7630 for help.
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 1-888-698-8150
Land for Sale America’s Best Buy! 20 AcresOnly $99/mo! $0 Down, No Credit Checks, MONEY BACK GUAR-
Promotional prices start at $19.99
Miscellaneous Advertise your product or service nationwide or by region in up to 12 million households in North America’s best suburbs! Place your classified ad in over 750 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466 or go to www. classifiedavenue.net DISH Network. 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! 1-877-992-1237 *REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! * Get a 4-Room All-Digital Satellite system installed for FREE and programming starting at $19.99/ mo. FREE HD/DVR upgrade for new callers, SO CALL NOW. 1-800-699-7159
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.
11
CrossRoadsNews
March 9, 2013
Pet services
shoe repair
DeKalb Dog Spa
Marketplace more! Get started today! Call 404829-4268. Ad code CR006
Business Opportunities Eat Jerky? Get Paid! $12 Biz Opp Simple. Real. Profitable. Unlimited income potential. Make money from home. Sales leaders needed. 404-975-0460 (24-hr recorded message).
HELP WANTED Busy mom needs young man to help her 6 grade son with homework on Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays call 770-633-6282
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
TRAVEL The Explorers.Holyland Experience Orlando Florida bus trip on May 17 2013. Cost $120. Contact Jemma 404 643 4625.Woodburn Motor Coach.
FOOTWEAR CLINIC AN INTERNATIONAL FRANCHISE HEEL QUIK! INC.
Expert Shoe & Boot Repairs
Spa Package
$35.00
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.
for rent
includes Bath • Nails • Anal Glands • Ear Cleaning Teeth Brushing • Cut/ Trim
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(inside South DeKalb Mall)
(678) 705-8368
4691 Redan Rd, Stone Mountain, GA 30083
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404-241-9267
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youth services
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www.eastmetromarket.com
2800 Candler Road • Suite 73 • Decatur, GA 30034
30?
THE ULTIMATE TEEN NIGHT LIFE EXPERIENCE HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
SPECIAL $250
GET VIP FOR YOUR BIRTHDAY!
Celebrate your birthday in our VIP Party Room
Call 404-284-1888 to find out how.
BOOK TODAY!! (678) 820-9389 2728 Wesley Chapel Rd • Decatur,GA 30034 theatlantagroove@gmail.com
spa / salon education / training
NOW OPEN ATLANTA’S QUALITY BEAUTY AND SKIN CARE
events
home services
home services
ARTHUR’S CONTRACTING
MICKENS REPAIR SERVICE
• Handyman Services • Plumbing - Water Line Repair & Fixture Installation • Unclog & Repair Sewer and Drain • Concrete Driveways • Wood & Chainlink Fence
with a personal touch… COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL • Additions • Basement • Decks • Roofing • Painting • Fire Damage • Tile & Hardwood Floors • Electrical • Concrete • Plumbing • Siding • HVAC Repair & Service
Call Arthur 404-838-6541
2618 Max Cleland Blvd., Lithonia 30058 Lashes, Brow & Contour $25 Full Face Make-up $35 • Facials $25 WAXING, THREADING • APPOINTMENT ONLY • NO WAIT
678.914.1688 • thespaladies.com
spa / salon
LICENSED & INSURED
770-906-7950
*All work and materials are guaranteed
medical
Slim Your Body
MEDICAL WEIGHT LOSS MANAGEMENT
Walk In Clinics
Tuesdays 2:30-5:30 & Friday 8:30-12:30 No Appointment Needed
Spring Forward Daylight Savings Time Don’t forget to set clocks ahead one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday.
• General Health Assessment • Personalized Exercise and Diet program tailored to your needs and life style • B12 and/or Fat-burning Lipo injections • Prescription for Appetite Suppressants if medically indicated
KENDRICK FAMILY PRACTICE 5900 Hillandale Drive Suite 300 • Lithonia, Ga 30058 • 770-987-2155
fabrics / upholstery
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CrossRoadsNews
March 9, 2013
Exhibitors include: AAA Auto Club South Camp C Square Community Resource Solutions Craig B. Williams, DDS DeKalb County Board of Health Excellent Montessori Girls with Gusto!
Go Mobile 4 U! Moja Dance Studio New Life Christian Acad. of Achievers The Academy of the Scholars The Sunshine House Tupac Shakur Center for the Arts