CrossRoadsNews, May 9, 2015 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

WELLNESS

YOUTH

PEOPLE

New studies of sedentary lifestyles highlight the advantages of moving around as a way to counteract the negative effects of sitting too much. 7

Columbia High’s Solomon Smith (left) and Zion Moore are Georgia’s High Schools Step Duet champs. 8

Glorious hats in all shapes and colors were on display at Macy’s annual “Parade of Hats Fashion Show” at the Gallery at South DeKalb. 9

Standing up for health

Stepping into stardom

Tantalizing toppers

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

May 9, 2015

www.crossroadsnews.com

Volume 21, Number 2

Lee May resigns District 5 seat; stage set for special election By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

After 22 months without representation on the DeKalb Board of Commissioners, District 5 residents will get to vote for a new commissioner on June 16. Commissioner Lee May, who has been serving as interim CEO since July 2013, resigned the District 5 seat in a May 6 letter to Gov. Nathan Deal. His departure paves the way for the special election. May said that even though it’s not his fault that the district has been unrepresented for so long, the needs of the people of the district “are important at this moment.” “I think it’s the right thing to do,” he

“I think it’s the right thing to do. I know it is the right thing to do.” Lee May Interim DeKalb CEO

said Thursday. “I know it is the right thing to do.” May’s move comes in the wake of mounting calls for his resignation and an April 28 Board of Commissioners vote to withdraw all five nominees – Markus Butts, Gina Smith Mangham, Dr. Kathryn Rice, Kenneth Saun-

ders III and George Turner – for appointment as interim commissioner. The five were picked from the list of 20 District 5 residents who applied for the interim position in July 2014. May said that the BOC’s vote to withdraw all the nominees prompted him to resign the seat. “That was the straw that broke the camel’s back,” he said. He said he also heard the residents who called for his resignation during the public comments to the Board of Commissioners. In the last week since, May said he talked to a lot of clergy and his wife. “We prayed about it,” he said. “This

Tribute to Ultimate Sacrifice A wreath is placed at the monument in Decatur during a memorial ceremony on May 6 for DeKalb law officers killed in the line of duty.

Forty-one DeKalb law officers who were killed in the line of duty in the past 100 years were honored on May 6 for their sacrifice. The solemn memorial ceremony in Decatur Square included a roll call of heroes, an honor guard presentation of colors, a 21-gun salute and a helicopter flyover in missing man formation. The ceremony also marked the 100th anniversary of the Police Department that was founded in 1915. Interim CEO Lee May, Public Safety Director Cedric Alexander, and Police Chief James Conroy joined relatives of fallen officers at the Law Enforcement Memorial Monument outside the historic Old DeKalb County Courthouse. The monument in Decatur not only lists the names of DeKalb officers but also

School Board fires PROACT search firm By Ken Watts

those who have come and those who have left us … and those who have given their lives so that we could live.” May said as the county remembers fallen heroes, it honors the men and women wearing the badge Jarvis Crumley today. “When they leave their homes, they do not know what stands before them and we don’t take that for granted,” he said. Joe and Patricia Crumley, whose son, Officer Jarvis Darren Crumley, was killed on Dec. 29, 1998, were among the audience. Jarvis Crumley, who was responding to assist another officer, died when his car crashed Please see TRIBUTE, page 2

Please see SEARCH, page 2

DeKalb honors fallen police officers at memorial ceremony those who served with Clarkston, Decatur, Doraville and MARTA police departments. Conroy, who gave commemorative challenge coins and badges to the families, was emotional when he spoke to the crowd of 100 people. “Your loved ones are dearly missed, and I hope that by honoring them here today we are able to bring you the sense of comfort,” he said, his voice James Conroy breaking. Alexander called on officers to stay focused on their mission. “Law enforcement in this community and across this great country is under a great deal of scrutiny today,” he said. “But in spite of this scrutiny, we must always remember

Please see MAY, page 2

Chicago-based PROACT Search Inc., which had led the charge to hire DeKalb’s next school superintendent, has been fired by the DeKalb School Board. On May 3, board members voted 6-0 to dismiss PROACT after “disturbing allegations” and a federal investigation of PROACT’s CEO Gary Solomon and owner Gary Solomon were brought to the board’s attention. District 2 member Marshall Orson was absent. In a May 3 notice posted at www. dekalb.k12.ga.us, the DeKalb School Board did not detail the allegations, but an April 30 Chicago Sun-Times article said the allegations involve racial slurs that Solomon allegedly made in a 1999 e-mail and inappropriate behavior involving students when he was a teacher and school administrator at Niles West High School in Skokie, Ill. The newspaper’s article, based on records obtained under the Freedom of Information Act, said that in the email to a former female student, Solomon referred to African-Americans as “mooks, shines, burrheads, yard apes, porch monkeys” and several other racially offensive terms. It said that Solomon also wrote that black people “will never set foot in his house.” The comments were included in a transcript of a state hearing held when Solomon initially fought efforts to remove him from the school district. The transcript also said that in a personal journal he kept on a school computer, Solomon described another school administrator as an “uppity n-----.” Since the Sun-Times story ran, the

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

By Ken Watts

county is more important than my own political position.” May, who was first elected to the District 5 seat in July 2006, was re-elected in December 2012. He said that the county has four windows a year for special elections and June 16 is one of them. If there is no runoff in the special election, a new District 5 commissioner could be seated for the June 23 BOC meeting. The winner of the seat will serve 19 months before seeking re-election. May was tapped in July 2013 by Deal to serve as interim CEO while suspended

CrossRoadsNews

Community

May 9, 2015

“He always said if we heard he died on duty to remember he died doing what he wanted to do.”

Eight selected as Officers killed in line of duty date back to 1852 1 semifinalists for TRIBUTE, a utility pole as he swerved to avoid a superintendent into drunken driver.

A bell tolled as each name on the list of fallen officers was called out during the ceremony on May 6 on the Decatur Square.

from page

SEARCH,

from page

Fayette County, Ky., School Board said it was rethinking its decision to use PROACT to find a new superintendent. The DeKalb School Board statement said that in view of the allegations, it was best to sever ties with PROACT and continue its superintendent search independently. “While these are allegations only, the DeKalb County Board of Education is committed to ensuring that the individuals representing us reflect our values and those of our community,” it said. Board Chairman Melvin Johnson told CrossRoadsNews on May 5 that the board will use the county’s private law firm of Nelson, Mullins, Riley and Scarborough LLP to complete the selection process. “They are a qualified search firm,” Johnson said. The board faces a tight deadline to find a successor to Superintendent Michael Thurmond, whose contract ends in June. Thurmond has told the school board that he will stay on until it finds the best superintendent. PROACT, which won the $25,000 contract to find candidates, brought the district 120 applicants. On May 1 and 2, the board interviewed eight semifinalists. “We had a great discussion about our excellent pool of semifinalist candidates,” the board aid in a May 6 statement. “As a result of these discussions, we look forward to announcing our finalist or finalists in the very near future.”

His father said he loved being a police officer. “He always said if we heard that he died on duty to remember that he died doing what he wanted to do,” he said. Monica Yarbro of Suwanee has attended every DeKalb law enforcement memorial ceremony since her brother, Doraville Officer Hugo Arango, was killed while on duty on May 13, 2000. Arango was shot to death while questioning two individuals suspected of breaking into vehicles in a nightclub parking lot. “I think it’s great that Hugo Arango the county does this every year,” Yarbro said. “It’s been a great comfort to the family.” During the ceremony, Master Police Officer Kieffer DeForest read the names of those who lost their lives while protecting the public. The first name on the list was DeKalb Marshal Moses Formalt who died

Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews

in 1852, decades before the department was call to back up a fellow officer. A bell tolled founded. It ended with East Precinct Officer as each name was called out. Bagpiper Dan Bray, a Georgia state Ivorie Klusmann, who died Aug. 10, 2013, in a single vehicle crash while responding to a trooper, played “Amazing Grace.”

Interim CEO issues apology to District 5 residents MAY,

from page

CEO Burrell Ellis is facing trial on corruption charges. A process for appointing an interim commissioner was put in place in June 2014, but the BOC has failed to make the appointment. Ellis’ first trial ended in a hung jury. He is set to go to trial again in June.

May apologized to the residents of District 5 for the actions of those who don’t live there or even represent them. “The behavior they have displayed has divided this county and is contrary to the constitutional principles our country was founded upon,” he said. Addressing the Board of Commissioners, May said that it’s time to put aside political

games and personal differences and start representing the people of the county. “The interest of the people must come first,” he said. “We cannot continue to tear away at the fabric of DeKalb County. Let’s unite as one and rebuild the confidence, trust, and competence that once made DeKalb County a great place to live, work and raise a family.”

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May 9, 2015

Community

“We must not forget our lowest-paid workers as the economy recovers from the Great Recession.”

Wage hike proposed for lowest-paid school workers HBCU funding Thurmond says the district’s minimum full- and part-time employees. It is $3 above A minimum wage of $10.25 could belevel increased come the norm for the DeKalb School Sys- wage workers deserve to be compensated the current $7.25 per hour federal minimum tem’s lowest-paid employees if Superintendent Michael Thurmond gains traction. Thurmond said on May 4 that he is proposing the minimum wage in his fiscal 2015-2016 budget that takes effect on July 1, 2015. Thurmond presented the proposed $821 million Michael Thurmond budget at the School Board’s work session. The district projects an $80.8 million fund balance or surplus for fiscal 2015 ending June 30.

fairly as they carry out their critical duties. A compensation analysis conducted by the district revealed that employees earning the lowest starting salaries are special education bus monitors, food nutrition assistants, and pre-k paraprofessionals. “We must not forget our lowest-paid workers as the economy recovers from the Great Recession,” Thurmond said. “These loyal, hardworking men and women assist in transporting, feeding, and the education of our students. They are essential to our district’s operational and instructional success.” The pay-hike proposal would affect 600

wage and is in line with President Barack Obama’s push for a national minimum wage of $10.10 an hour for all workers. If adopted on June 17, the School District’s wage increase will result in 14 percent to 37 percent salary increases for about 200 full-time and 400 part-time employees. Current annual starting salaries: n Special ed bus monitors – $10,087 n Food nutrition assistants – $12,959 n Pre-k paraprofessionals – $13,406 Thurmond is recommending annual salary increases or additional paid training days of 10 percent to 37 percent to boost wages for the lowest-paid full-time employees.

Summit seeks better outcomes for males Cyberbullying law expands current act Improving life outcomes for DeKalb’s Donorship, Leadership Skills, Getting Your young people, especially males of color, is on the agenda at the inaugural My Brother’s Keeper Summit on May 16 at Miller Grove High in Lithonia. The DeKalb School District and DeKalb government are co-hosting the 9 a.m.-to-3 p.m. summit in collaboration with 100 Black Men of DeKalb, V-103/WAOK CBS Broadcasting and other partners. My Brother’s Keeper is President Barack Obama’s initiative that addresses persistent opportunity gaps by boys and young men of color. It seeks to ensure that all young people can reach their full potential. The summit brings together leaders, organizations, and people in communities around the country. Workshops include Improving Police Relations in Urban Communities, Gift of Life, Saving Black Lives Through Organ

Money Right, Dismantling the School to Prison Pipeline Panel Discussion, Family & Relationship Dynamics Within the African-American Community, and Discovering Your Voice. Breakfast, lunch and free child care will be provided. There will be one bus per school at the middle and high schools. As soon as the bus is filled, no additional students will be transported. Miller Grove High is at 2645 DeKalb Medical Parkway. For more information and to register, visit https://docs.google.com/ forms/d/1cHSmRyboM_btL3yPzXnrHbdtFkpHyAPU_NH_UmjQO4k/vie wform?usp=send_form or contact Marcia Coward at Marcia_a_Coward@dekalbschoolsga.org or 678-676-0381.

Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal has signed into law House Bill 131 that expands the scope of the current anti-bullying law by including all incidents of bullying via the Internet, whether it occurs on or off campus. HB 131, also known as “The End of Cyberbullying Act,” was sponsored by District 113 Rep. Pam Dickerson (D-Conyers). “For too long, cyberbullying has been a huge roadblock in the way of many students’ ability to receive quality education, a problem which hurts their future employment prospects,” Dickerson said on May 6. “I am delighted that this new law will keep more students in Georgia safe from the negative impact of cyberbullying.” She said Georgia is taking the necessary steps to provide a safe learning environment.

U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson has helped secure a $10 million increase in the House Armed Services Committee’s base funding level for science research at historically black colleges and universities and minority institutions. HASC “marked up,” or amended, the fiscal 2016 National Defense Authorization Act. J o h n s o n’s k e y amendments increased STEM funding for HBCUs by $10 million to $35.9 million. The Hank Johnson increase eliminates the administration’s proposed cut and restores funding to the fiscal 2014 level. It is $1.4 million above the current fiscal 2015 funding level. Johnson said there is still work to be done to protect and support funding in both chambers as Congress works to finalize both the authorization and appropriations process for Defense. “Ensuring our nation’s leading experts and innovators are from diverse backgrounds only strengthens our ability to compete in the global marketplace,” said Johnson, who represents District 4 that includes parts of DeKalb County. “We must give these talented students the resources they need to find new, innovative, cost-efficient solutions for health, human needs, energy, environmental and security challenges of the nation.” Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund, and Johnny C. Taylor Jr., president and CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, applauded Johnson’s efforts.

Because you get what you pay for.

That’s why I invested in ENERGY STAR® appliances and received rebates in return. Thanks to the money saving tips on the Georgia Power website, I learned exactly how to turn my renovation into a reward. First, I got $50 for taking advantage of the Georgia Power Refrigerator Recycling Program. Then, I got a rebate for purchasing ENERGY STAR® certified appliances, and since these appliances use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models, I get the benefit of a lower monthly bill. For more information on tips and rebates, visit georgiapower.com/save. Certain restrictions apply. Must be a Georgia Power customer. Rebate available through November 30, 2014. Customer must submit receipt/invoice for the ENERGY STAR® appliance with the rebate form.

Forum 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 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.

CrossRoadsNews

May 9, 2015

“We need equity investment pools, funded by those who have made it out, to provide access to capital to create small, black businesses.”

The black community is in trouble; who will go? DeKalb Delegation Chair Howard Mosby was the keynote speaker at the DeKalb NAACP Annual Membership Breakfast on March 28. Below are excerpts from his speech. How many of you know that injustice is getting harder and harder to find? I know some of you are thinking that injustice Howard Mosby is easy to spot, but let me challenge you with the fact that Trayvon Martin was killed and the U.S. Justice Department ruled that there was no case against Zimmerman. And the U.S. Justice Department is headed by an African-American! You don’t become equal by sit-

ting at the front of the bus. Dr. King had a dream. His dream was simple – get black folks in the game by the same rules and then we can do the rest. We just celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Bloody Sunday march in Selma. Seems like injustice was easy to spot back then. I submit to you that each generation will have a tougher time spotting injustice than the previous one. Injustice has learned to hide her ugly face with better plans, products, and policies. Advancing freedom is becoming more difficult with each and every generation. So I get questioned all of the time about the formation of new cities and annexation plans being proposed by existing cities. However, those questions are shrouded by the negative innuendos and rumors. What is real vs. perception.

And as we all know, perception becomes fact in the political arena. For instance, who’s going to jail next? Is the School District going to lose accreditation? Is my neighborhood going to be left in an unincorporated island? Will South DeKalb be stuck with the legacy costs while North DeKalb scatters to their isolated islands of safety? Can Northlake, South DeKalb, North DeKalb, and Stonecrest malls continue to survive in DeKalb? And y’all say it with me – why don’t we have a District 5 commissioner? Real? Perception? How do you pursue liberty in the face of injustice? First you have to be able to recognize injustice. The black community is in trouble. And specifically, south DeKalb County is in trouble. We all see the images on TV. We also have social media giving us real time play-by-play coverage of black

folks being shot down, choked to death, foreclosed on, fired from jobs, fired on while being on their jobs, put out of their homes, and in the streets fighting each other. On top of that, DeKalb County commissioners are accused of and even one has been convicted of crimes, while the chief executive officer is indicted, and misuse of taxpayer funds is played out on investigative reports in newspapers and television daily. And a lot of these black folks who are the lead story on the nightly news also have titles like mayor, league MVP, congressman, comedian and entertainer, and even preacher. So it is easy to see why young black folks don’t trust today’s leaders. For a longer version of this column, visit http://crossroadsnews. com/news/forum/.

CrossRoadsNews 20th Anniversary Gala still resonates Ingrid Dove and members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Decatur Alumnae Chapter were among 450 guests at the black-tie gala.

The CrossRoadsNews 20th Anniversary Gala on April 25 at the Ramada Plaza in Atlanta is still getting rave reviews. Here are a few:

All dressed up Jennifer, that gala was the best! Seriously you should host a gala yearly. It was great seeing folks together enjoying themselves. We were dressed up with someplace to go! Thanks for a good evening. Rena Norman, World Quarters Inc. (late ’80s-early ’90s). And I did!

Beautiful celebration We had a great time! Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your celebration! Congratulations! You have made a true positive impact on this community! Nora Polk, attorney, Decatur

Made me proud I expected to have fun celebrating with Curtis Parker and Jennifer Ffrench Parker, old friends and colleagues from the Gaston Bureau

But I didn’t anticipate being so moved by hearing elected officials and community leaders laud the value of their coverage of south DeKalb County, from the hardpressing watchdog stuff to coverage of student achievements and health fairs. Made me proud to be a journalist and left me in awe that this family has kept their own paper alive for 20 years in the worst of business climates. Ann Helms, reporter, The Charlotte Observer

So proud of you The event was wonderful. My guests had a great time. I can’t tell you how proud I am of you and Curtis. I know the work you do is exhausting, but please know how much we/I/MARTA/your community are enriched because of CrossRoadsNews. Please, please, please keep up the good work. Lyle Harris, MARTA

Wonderful asset Curtis and Jennifer Parker are great friends and a wonderful asset

to our community! I have had the distinction of being a reader, supporter, fan, employee and advertiser of CrossRoadsNews at some point and time over the past 20 years! I still carry around my first dollar that I earned in the latter part of 1995 as a writer. Jennifer paid me $50! It is still in my wallet. She excels at what she does and encourages her writers to do also. When I wrote my first few articles, my paper was “bleeding” with all of the changes that needed to have been made. Fast forward about 15 years, I am writing for international publications. I’ve got this writing thing down! Well … so I thought! I came up with a story idea, Jennifer asked me to write it! I did and was indeed proud of myself! Well, let’s just say … I’m not as good as I thought! Thanks so much, Ms. Jennifer, for keeping me on my toes. Happy 20th Anniversary! Leslie Royal, writer

Problem is economics: Real, black-owned business needed By Richard Younge

The subject is Baltimore. The problem solvers are coming out of the woodwork. The majority seem to think it is a political or social problem. “The kids need mentoring and role models.” “The politicians need to step up and the government needs to provide answers!” Surely these things can Richard Younge help, but the idea that they target the problem is a misnomer. The problem is economics! We need to build real, black-owned, small businesses in such areas. They use the term “small business” loosely. The fact is most of them do not fit the definition of small business. The overwhelming majority are micro-enterprises with no employees (see chart).

Circulation Audited By

Total Number Total Number Businesses w/out Gross Receipts Average Gross Race of Businesses of Employees Employees All Businesses Per Business White 22,595,146 52,518,201 17,955,403 $10,240,990,714 $453,142 Black 1,921,864 909,552 1,815,298 135,739,834 71,421 Nat. Amer. 236,691 185,037 213,029 34,353,842 149,565 Asian 1,549,559 2,807,771 1,152,134 506,047,751 337,334 Hispanic 2,260,269 1,908,161 2,011,417 350,661,243 152,435 Note: U.S. Financial Census 2010

It is common knowledge that black unemployment is at least twice as high as white. These statistics are very revealing as to why African-American unemployment is the highest in the U.S. We don’t employ our own people. The percentage of employees in: n Black businesses is 47 percent. n Native Americans 78 percent. n Asians 181 percent. n Hispanics 84 percent. n Whites 232 percent. Also, notice the mean average gross sale for black business is only $71.421; that is not a

small business. If you misjudge the problem, you come with a hammer when what you need is a key. The solution is business development, not economic development. Corporate America is not coming to rescue our neighborhoods. We need equity investment pools, funded by those who have made it out, to provide access to capital to create small black businesses to provide jobs for these black people and we should know by now that no one else is going to do it! Richard Younge lives in Lithonia.

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Georgia Power................................................ 3 Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home........6 Jason & Bradley, LLC Attorney at Law............. 2 Jeffrey Person................................................ 11 Johnson Hopewell Coleman LLC................... 11 Law Office of Trichelle Griggs Simmons........ 11 Macy’s............................................................12

MARTA............................................................6 Marten Transport........................................... 11 Ousley United Methodist Church................... 11 Preferred Home Repair................................. 11 Stewart Unlimited Inc..................................... 11 The Davis Bozeman Law Firm, P.C................. 11 The Teacher’s Lawyer, LLC............................. 11

Wells Fargo . .................................................. 5 Wright Vision Care.......................................... 7 Walgreens...............................................Inserts Walmart..................................................Inserts Healing Community Center High Tea.... Online Michael L. Hickman Salsa Dancing........ Online

May 9, 2015

CrossRoadsNews

Finance

May 9, 2015

The Urban League launched the Entrepreneurship Center to address inadequate minority business development.

Urban League offers workshops The Urban League of Greater Atlanta is offering a series of entrepreneurship workshops and events throughout May. Upcoming events, which will be held at 229 Peachtree Center, International Tower, Suite 300, in Atlanta, include: n May 12 – Using the Internet to Market Your Business, 6 to 8:30 p.m. The session includes information about Web sites, using social media and other marketing tools. n May 14 – Write Your Business Plan: Session 2, 1 to 4 p.m. The marketing plan, funding the business, and projecting sales will be discussed. On May 19, the Contracts, Capital & Capacity Summit takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Atlanta Metro Chamber of

Commerce, 235 Andrew Young International Blvd. N.W. in Atlanta. The third annual Access to Capital event sponsored by Wells Fargo and the Urban League will cover all aspects of growing your business. Small and minority firms will benefit by connecting with capital, contracting and capacity-building resources and experts. In October 2004, the Urban League launched the Entrepreneurship Center to create alliances and marshal resources to better address the problem of inadequate minority business development in traditionally distressed communities. For more events or to register, visit http://www. aultec.org and http://ulgatl.org.

Class on growing your business Presenter Cornelia Hicks will talk about new marketing strategies and trends at Engineering Business Growth on May 14 at the Stonecrest Library in Lithonia. The two-hour program starts at 11 a.m. Hicks, who holds an M.B.A., will discuss how businesses, entrepreneurs and job seekers can market and grow their brand using the latest engagement strategies. Participants

will learn branding and marketing fundamentals, social media strategies, how to apply cross-promotional concepts to highgrowth industries, mobile marketing, and new rules for customer engagement. Funding for the program is provided by the Friends of the Stonecrest Library. The library is at 3123 Klondike Road. For more information, call 770-482-3828.

METROPOLITAN ATLANTA RAPID TRANSIT AUTHORITY

Notice of Public Hearings May 11, 12 & 14, 2015 Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority will hold public hearings for the purpose of considering the

Proposed Fiscal Year 2016 Operating & Capital Budgets MARTA continues its fiscal sustainability with balanced FY16 Proposed Operating and Capital Budgets. New fare products are included to provide customers with additional purchasing options and more secure fare products are scheduled to be implemented December 2015:

DeKalb residents can bring up to five standard-sized boxes of documents to shred on May 16 at Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain. Gently used shoes also are being collected.

Document shredding, shoe drive Residents can dispose of old tax records and legal papers as well as recycle gently worn footwear at a sensitive document shredding and shoe collection event on May 16 at Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain. Keep DeKalb Beautiful hosts the 9 a.m.to-noon event in partnership with Berean in the church parking lot. Participation is free and open to DeKalb residents. All documents will be shredded on-site, and each participant will be limited to five standard-sized boxes of documents.

Shred-it North Atlanta will provide services. Participants also can donate gently used shoes for recycling and repurposing. All shoes, except ski/winter boots, slippers and rubber flip-flops, will be accepted. The church is at 2201 Young Road. For more information on this event or how to plan a beautification project with KDB, a unit of the DeKalb Sanitation Division, email kdb@dekalbcountyga.gov, visit www.keepdekalbbeautiful.org or call 404-371-2654.

• Breeze Card surcharge increase from $1 to $2 featuring a more secure card •

Breeze Ticket surcharge increase from 50¢ to $1.00 featuring a more durable and secure ticket

•

New discount tier levels Convention/Visitors passes that allow minimum purchase comprised of any combo of 1,2,3,4, or 7-day passes effective July 1, 2015.

•

Holiday Group Fare One-day Breeze Tickets - $7 per pass (min 2- max 5) effective January 2016

Monday, May 11

Tuesday, May 12

7200 Church St., Riverdale 30274 1300 Commerce Dr., Decatur 30030

Thursday, May 14 2424 Piedmont Rd., NE 30324

Riverdale Town Center

Maloof Auditorium

Community Exchange: 6-7 p.m.

HEARING: 7 p.m.

Riding MARTA: Bus Route 196 from College Park Station.

Riding MARTA: Walk one block west of Decatur Rail Station.

Riding MARTA: Across the street from the Lindbergh Center Station.

Monday, May 11

Tuesday, May 12

Thursday, May 14

55 Trinity Ave., Atlanta 30030

7741 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs 30350

3717 College St., College Park 30337

Atlanta City Hall Council Chambers

North Fulton Government Center

Community Exchange: 6-7 p.m.

HEARING: 7 p.m.

Riding MARTA: Bus Routes 32 and 55 from Five Points Station.

Riding MARTA: Bus Route 87 from Dunwoody or North Springs Stations.

Copies of the proposed Operating and Capital budgets will also be available for public viewing at MARTA’s Headquarters Office of External Affairs, 2424 Piedmont Road, N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30324 during regular business hours, Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. For formats (FREE of charge) in accordance with the ADA and Limited English Proficiency regulations contact, (404) 848-4037. For those patrons requiring further accommodations, information can be obtained by calling the Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD) at 404 848-5665. In addition, a sign language interpreter will be available at all hearings. If you cannot attend the hearings and want to provide comments you may: (1) leave a message at (404) 848-5299; (2)

MARTA

Headquarters Community Exchange: 6-7 p.m.

College Park Public Safety Complex Community Exchange: 6-7 p.m.

HEARING: 7 p.m. Riding MARTA: Bus Route 172 from College Park Station.

write to MARTA’s Office of External Affairs, 2424 Piedmont Road, N.E. Atlanta, GA 30324-3330; (3) complete an online Comment Card at www.itsmarta.com; (4) or fax your comments no later than May 21, 2015 to (404) 848-4179. All citizens of the City of Atlanta and the counties of Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton and Gwinnett whose interests are affected by the subjects to be considered at these hearings are hereby notified and invited to appear at said times and places and present such evidence, comment or objection as their interests require.

Keith T. Parker, AICP, General Manager/CEO

Small-business forum in Clarkston Small-business owners can glean insight from some of the top business leaders in Georgia at a forum and panel discussion on May 16 at the Conference Center at Georgia Piedmont Technical College in Clarkston. The 8:30 a.m. event is presented by Thompson Management Consulting LLC. Invited participants include the U.S. Small Business Administration, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, Small Business Development Center, Project Management

Institute of Atlanta, Technology Association of Georgia, Business Plans & More Inc., the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce, and Oh Nellie Promos. There also will be a raffle to support the Wounded Warrior Project. The center is at 495 N. Indian Creek Drive. To register, visit www.nsbw2015. com. For more information, contact Austin Thompson at info@nsbw2015.com or 404587-3949.

May 9, 2015

Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

“Ideally, employees should be standing up and moving around for about three to five minutes for every 60 minutes of sitting.”

Movement can offset health risks of sedentary lifestyle “Sitting is the new smoking” is a new phrase that underscores the health risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle. A recent analysis in the Annals of Internal Medicine says that “the amount of time a person sits during the day is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and death, regardless of regular exercise.” For employees with sedentary, computerbased jobs, that means they have to get moving at work, says E. Susanne Koch, work site wellness coordinator for the Georgia Department of Public Health. “Ideally, employees should be standing up and moving around for about three to five minutes for every 60 minutes of sitting,” Koch said in a May 4 statement. “As we assume repetitive postures, our body adapts Susanne Koch to those positions. For example, extended sitting causes tightness through the chest and front of the shoulders, slouching and over-curvature of the upper spine and neck. The lower body is also affected by tight hips and hamstrings while the gluteal muscles become weakened.” Commute time, television watching and other sedentary activities should be included along with the six hours or more of the workday spent sitting. While the study revealed that meeting regular exercise recommendations does not completely offset the effects of a sedentary lifestyle, it also demonstrated that those who were sedentary or did not exercise at all are at an even higher risk for the negative effects. Koch said people who find opportunities to move throughout the day are better off.

Fitness motivator Rae Rae Clark shows young and old how to get moving at a CrossRoadsNews’ Health and Wellness Expo.

“Find reasons to talk face-to-face with a co-worker versus sending an email, walk around and get a drink of water every hour, stand during phone calls, and set aside time in the evening to engage in physical activities that you enjoy,” she said. Lack of exercise also can contribute to diabetes, a serious chronic illness that prevents the body from using energy produced from foods you eat. If left uncontrolled, diabetes can lead to severe complications such as blindness, nerve damage, increased risk of infections, poor circulation, amputations, and organ damage or failure. Allison Smith, policy, program and plan-

ning analyst for the DPH Chronic Disease Prevention Section, said there are a million Georgians who have diabetes and 350,000 of them don’t know they have the disease. “The common staples of a healthy lifestyle, such as eating a well-balanced diet and regular physical activity, are proven methods to stopping the development of diabetes or aiding in the control of blood glucose levels of those who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,” Smith said. To incorporate more movement into your day, Koch recommends starting off with small, incremental fitness milestones you can attain. “In order to reduce the amount of time

spent sitting each day, you can start measuring the amount of time you sit during the day and then try eliminating two to three hours of sitting during a 12-hour period,” she said. “You can always try to work in more time at the gym, but that’s not the only way to get moving. If a fitness center setting is not your preference, consider conducting a walking meeting in the office, performing stretching and strengthening exercises at your desk, or choosing the stairs over the elevator.” This year, DPH celebrated Get Fit Don’t Sit Day with the American Diabetes Association, a national observance on May 6 that inspires Americans to get active. For more information, visit www.diabetes.org.

Mental Health Month observances Nearly one in four adults experiences mental illness in a given year, and mental health issues affect one in every five young people at any given time. The DeKalb Community Service Board is raising awareness of the important role mental health plays in our lives as the nation observes Mental Health Month in May. Advocates are marking Children’s Mental Health Awareness Week through May 9, “Mental Health Matters,” by wearing green. An estimated two-thirds of young people with mental health issues and their families are not getting the help that they need, the DeKalb CSB says.

Resource symposium On May 13, Grady’s Behavioral Health team will host “Housing & Employment as a Gateway to Recovery,” a free celebration, educational and resource symposium. Commissioner Frank W. Berry of the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities will be the keynote speaker at the 9 a.m.-to-1:30 p.m. event in the Grady Trauma Auditorium, 80 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive S.E. in Atlanta. Participants include Sherry Jenkins Tucker, executive director of Georgia Mental Health Consumer Network; Neil Campbell, executive director of Georgia Council on Substance Abuse; Leonard Adams, CEO of

Quest 35; Jean Toole, CEO of Community Friendship Inc.; Michael Claeys, executive director of Grady Mental Health; and representatives from the Task Force for the Homeless and Veterans Affairs. To register, visit www.facesandvoicesofrecovery.org/events/2015/05/housingemployment-gateway-recovery.

Mental health fair/walk Sponsors and vendors are needed for the second annual Mental Health Fair & Walk on May 16 at the Morehouse School of Religion in Atlanta. The 9 a.m-to-3 p.m. event is presented by nonprofit Mental Health in the AfricanAmerican Community. The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority is among sponsors. It includes a two-mile walk, a fashion/talent show, food, and live entertainment plus a children’s play/activity area. There will be mental health and blood pressure screenings, mental health educational sessions, and HIV testing as well as social services vendors. Stockbridge-based MHIAAC (mhiaac. org) provides mental and behavioral health education, awareness, support and referral services for African-American families and the professionals serving them. The theological center is at 700 MLK Jr. Drive S.W. To register, visit www.mentalhealthfair.com.

Class helps identify domestic abuse the potential to be an abuser. Janie Deadwyler, founder and The nonprofit Angels in Distress CEO of Angels in Distress, will (www.angelsindistress.org) profacilitate a program on identifying vides training in domestic violence the red flags of domestic violence awareness and prevention for civic on May 11 at the Stonecrest Library and teen groups, law enforcement in Lithonia. agencies, and women empowerDomestic Abuse, Awareness ment and faith-based groups. and Prevention starts at 6:30 p.m. The library is at 3123 Klondike Class participants will learn Janie Deadwyler Road. Call 770-482-3828 for more how to recognize the signs that they are in an abusive relationship or if they have information.

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CrossRoadsNews

Youth

May 9, 2015

The two friends wowed the judges with their “hopping and ticking” choreography, leaving the other seven teams in their wake.

Columbia High pair steps off with state championship title Zion Moore and Solomon Smith, members of Columbia High School’s Chi Eta Sigma Duet Step Team, won the the state title on April 26 at Clayton State University.

Columbia High School junior Zion Moore and senior Solomon Smith stepped away with the Georgia State High Schools Step Championship and a more than 5-foot-tall trophy on April 26. During the competition at Clayton State University, the two friends who competed as the Chi Eta Sigma Duet Step Team wowed the judges with their “hopping and ticking” choreography, leaving the other seven teams in their wake. The duet competition included teams from DeKalb, Clayton, Cobb, Gwinnett and Troup counties. The high schools competing included Martin Luther King Jr., Stone Mountain and Towers, also from DeKalb, and South Gwinnett, Sprayberry, LaGrange and Mundy Mill. The state step championships offer Georgia high schools an opportunity to showcase traditional forms of competitive step inspired by elements of gymnastics, break dance, tap dance or march. The competition seeks to ensure that participants are well-equipped with the ability, training, determination and confidence to perform competitively on a national and/or regional level. Competitors had to demonstrate an understanding of the history and significance of step. Zion has been a step performer since age 6. Solomon is graduating on May 22.

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

CrossRoadsNews scholarship fund gets a boost CrossRoadsNews The CrossRoadsNews Foundation reowners Jennifer ceived a $5,000 donation from the proceeds and Curtis of CrossRoadsNews’ 20th Anniversary Gala Parker present on May 5. a $5,000 The donation helps fund the foundadonation to tion’s scholarship program for high school CRN Foundation seniors. President DeKalb high school seniors who will Deborah pursue a communications career have until Jackson to May 11 to apply for the scholarships. help fund The April 25 black-tie celebration, atscholarships tended by more than 450 readers, supporters, for high school and community leaders, took place at the graduates. Ramada Plaza Hotel in downtown Atlanta. The foundation is offering a $1,000 and two $500 scholarships to students graduating in May and planning Majors in journalism, graphic or Web design, photography, and advertising. The scholarship is named for Elizabeth Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews Andrews, the late DeKalb School Board member who served 29 years on the board. Community Newspapers Are Still Relevant in tion, visit www.crossroadsnews.com/ Eligible applicants must have a GPA of the Age of the Internet.” scholarship or email Deborah Jackson at 2.5 or more, write a 500-word essay on “Why For an application and more informa- dajassociates@att.net.

May 30 deadline to apply for PUSH scholarships The award will be paid directly to the High school and college students have until May 30 to apply for PUSH for Excel- college or university the student will be attending. lence Scholarships. Eligible students must be a U.S. citizen Applications are available at http://www. and a senior attending high school who pushexcel.org/pages/scholarships. will graduate in spring or summer of 2015 Cirilo McSween Scholarship and accepted to an accredited four-year The $2,500 Cirilo McSween Scholarship degree program at a college or university is awarded to students who are majoring in in the United States for the academic year business, achieve academic success, and play commencing in the year the scholarship is an active role in their communities. granted. Scholarships are given in honor of New They must have a minimum cumulative York Life’s first African-American agent, GPA of 3.0. Cirilo A. McSween, who became an agent Students must submit a minimum 500in 1957. McSween, who died in 2008, was a word essay to address the following: renowned civil rights activist who worked n Identify five prerequisites for success closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and n explain in detail your personal philosophy a noted businessman. for the pursuit of excellence; He was a member of Rainbow PUSH n explain the obstacles or hardships you Coalition’s board of directors had to overcome on your journey to achieve The scholarship may be renewed for a academic success; and total of four years. n Explain how you will use your college

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education to achieve your personal goals and pursue excellence.

Jesse Jackson Fellows The Jesse Jackson Fellows Scholarship is a $25,000 award to college students who are U.S. citizens; will have sophomore status as of Aug. 1, 2015; are in financial need; and who have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. It is renewable each year for a maximum three-year period. Students also must demonstrate participation in community service, major in either STEM or business, and be willing to work two Summer Co-op Terms (minimum) at a Toyota location. They must submit a minimum 500-word essay to address the topic: Why engineering and business majors are important to industry. For more information, visit www. PUSHExcel.org.

GPC pair awarded Cooke scholarships Georgia Perimeter College engineering students Yitbarek Kazentet and Rozhin Parvaresh have been awarded the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Foundation undergraduate scholarship. Kazentet, 34, a nontraditional student and native of Ethiopia, and Parvaresh, 21, from Iran are the recipients of the scholarship that offers up to $40,000 a year for three years to continue their undergraduate educa- Yitbarek Kazentet tion and earn bachelor’s degrees. It is the largest private scholarship for two-year and communitycollege transfer students in the country. The scholars, both Honors students and members of Phi Theta Rozhin Parvaresh Kappa, were nominated by their professors and selected by a national committee based on high academic ability and achievements, financial need, persistence, leadership and a desire to help others. Recipients may use the award for tuition, room and board, books and required fees, and they may pursue any area of study. Kazentet is interested in pursuing a degree in petroleum engineering, while Parvaresh plans to study chemical or petroleum engineering. An Honors student carrying a 3.9 GPA, Kazentet has been accepted to Georgia Tech and the University of North Dakota. Parvaresh has been accepted to Georgia Tech and the University of Minnesota. She and Kazentet are among 90 recipients of the JKC scholarship in 2015, making it the largest cohort of students since the program began. Selected from 2,061 applicants across the nation, they became the 13th and 14th GPC students to receive the scholarship since the program was initiated in 2002.

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CrossRoadsNews

May 9, 2015

People

“Greenforest kids have been learning about South Korea in class. Now they get to see the people … up close.”

Contest caps Macy’s ‘Parade of Hats Fashion Show’ at S. DeKalb mall May 10 is Mother’s Day, and moms, grandmas and women who love to sport fabulous lids will be strutting hats in all the hues of spring. At a May 2 “Parade of Hats Fashion Show,” Macy’s at the Gallery at South DeKalb showed women some of the latest hat fashions available at the store to complement and showcase Mother’s Day or spring outfits. The event, billed as a “Hats Off to Mom’s Day,” featured hat models Helen Corbett, Regina Gregory and Candice Dixon from the Decatur Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. Eight Macy’s customers vied for prizes in a hat contest. They donned their own hats and hats from the store’s collection. Jennifer Simpson, a New Life Baptist Church member, wore a bright pink hat from Macy’s Spring Collection and walked away with the first-place prize. Sarah Height from the Holy Family Baptist Church nabbed second place, and Jean Freeman from Changing a Generation Full Photos by Jennifer Parker / CrossRoadsNews Gospel Baptist Church won third place. Jennifer Simpson (center) took first place in a bright pink hat from Macy’s Spring Collection. The contest was judged by DeKalb Second place went to Sarah Height (left), and Jean Freeman finished third. District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson, Store manager Terry McDonald said that blue, yellow and pink hues to meet the needs The annual Hats Fashion Show was CrossRoadsNews Editor/Publisher Jennifer Parker, and House of Hope event coordinator just in time for Mother’s Day and spring, the of South DeKalb’s churchgoing ladies and for arranged by Macy’s sales manager Shirley store stocked a full line of hats in purple, teal, women who just love fashionable headgear. Tredway. Fabienne Tate.

Korean Children’s Choir showcases hymns, spirituals in concert By Ken Watts

An audience of about 150 students from Greenforest McCalep Christian Academic Center and members of DeKalb County senior centers and the Korean community got a visual and gospel music treat from the Far East Broadcasting Co. Korean Children’s Choir at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center. The hour-long song-and-dance concert on May 1 kicked off a weeklong U.S. tour for the choir that includes stops in Georgia, Tennessee and South Carolina. The choir of 40 boys and girls ages 9 to 13 also performed at the arts center in 2014. The singing missionaries, wearing colorful traditional Korean clothing, showcased Christian hymns and Negro spirituals in English, including favorites like “Amazing Grace,” “Jesus Loves Me,” and “Swing Low Sweet Chariot.”

The students also danced and played the Korean stringed instrument “kayagum” and the “buk,” a Korean drum. It was the students’ first stop after a 13hour flight from Seoul, South Korea. District 3 DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson, who hosted the program, said it’s a valuable cultural exchange for DeKalb students. “Greenforest kids have already been learning about South Korea in class,” he said. “Now they get to see the people they’ve been studying about up close and personal.” The Greenforest students sang along and gave the choir several standing ovations. Johnson also invited members of the Greenforest Marching Band drumline onstage for a close-up look at the Korean percussion instruments. At the end of their performances, the Korean students left the stage to hug members of the audience and whisper “God bless The Far East Broadcasting Co. Korean Children’s Choir appears at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center during a weeklong U.S. tour. The choir also performed there in 2014. you” to them.

DeKalb County Sheriff Office

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

Legal Notices 05/02, 05/09, 05/16, 05/23

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV3603-2++ Monica Jones Plaintiff Vs. George A. Calloway, Jr. Defendant To: 4144 Deacon Lane Doraville, GA 30341 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Apr. 17, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Mar. 26, 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: Monica Jones, 5400 Memorial Drive, Stone Mountain, GA 30083. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of Apr. 17, 2015. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson,

Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 20th day of April, 2015. 05/02, 05/09, 05/16, 05/23

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

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV4660-3++ Shaneeka Kowlessar Plaintiff Vs. David Kowlessar Defendant To: 25 Treeview Drive Lithonia, GA 30038 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated Apr. 28, 2015 you are hereby notified that on Apr. 14, 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: Shaneeka Kowlessar, 5663 Saint Thomas Dr., Lithonia, GA 30058. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days

of Apr. 28, 2015. Witness the Honorable Clarence Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 28th day of April, 2015. 04/18, 04/25, 05/02, 05/09

Notice of Petition to Change Name of ADULT

Sex Offender

Todd Brinson 1175 Dantel Ct Stn Mtn, GA 30083 Charge of Lewd and Lascivious Child Under 16 Convicted on 2/28/2007

in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 15CV4179-10++ Gregory Stanton filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on Apr. 9, 2015 to change name from: Gregory Stanton to: Gregory Paige Stanton. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: Apr. 9, 2015 Gregory Stanton Petitioner, Pro se P.O. Box 830687 Stone Mountain, GA 30083 404-748-8257

Sex Offender

Gregory McIlwain 4815 Buford Highway Chamblee, GA 30341 Charge of Assault to Commit Criminal Sexual Convicted on 6/3/2004

Sex Offender

Curtis Moore 5400 Memorial Drive Apt 15-H Stn Mtn, GA 30083 Charge of Aggravated Child Molestation Convicted on 4/1/2010

Sex Offender

Joseph Park 3293 Raymond Dr Doraville, GA 30340 Charge of Child Molestation Convicted on 9/29/2003

Sex Offender

Marlando Rhodes 3136 Cedar Street Scottdale, GA 30079 Charge of Rape Convicted on 5/8/1992

Sex Offender

Luciano Vasquez 2205 Raven Circle Lithonia, GA 30058 Charge of Indecency with a Child Sexual Contact Convicted on 12/2/1996

Sex Offender

Carlton Woods 1708 Lake Point Drive Stn Mtn, GA 30088 Charge of Sex Assault Sexual Abuse 1st Degree Convicted on 6/8/2000

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

Scene

May 9, 2015

“It is our law firm’s sincere hope that this acknowledgment will continue to shine a bright light on the ongoing struggle against the issues of police brutality.”

2015 Seniors of the Year crowned at Lou Walker gala Longtime DeKalb resident and business owner John “Mr. John” Yates is the Lou Walker Center’s 2015 Senior of the Year. Yates was selected from a field of 10 finalists at the May 2 Theresa Walker Senior of the Year Silver Awards Gala. Jackie McCollum was first John Yates Jackie McCollum Yvonne Lester runner-up, and Yvonne R. Lester was second runner-up. elementary school, a high school, and 70 Yates has been a benefactor to the Not by families at an extended-stay facility. Bread Alone Feed the Hungry Pantry at the His wife of more than 50 years, Kathleen, Bouldercrest Church of Christ since June says the father of three is “a good man, a won2012, helping to serve more than 5,000 fami- derful husband and a great father.” Yates, who lies. His weekly donations of fresh fruits and has lived in DeKalb for 46 years, is owner of vegetables, dairy products, and pantry staples John’s Bargain Corner. have supplemented the program. McCollum, who was employed with He also helps two other churches, an DeKalb Workforce for more than 21 years,

Film series probes African roots The 10th annual “Conversations on Afrikan Spirit Through Film” series is underway on Wednesdays weekly in May at First Afrikan Church in Lithonia. The film festival kicked off on May 6 with “Circle Unbroken: The Gullah Tradition,” the African Roots in Our Praise Film. Show times are noon and 6:30 p.m. The evening screenings are followed immediately with discussion. Upcoming movies: n May 13 – “This Far by Faith,” the African Roots in Our Prayers to God Film. n May 20 – “Quest for the Lost Ark,” the African Roots in Our Bible Film. n May 27 – “God in America: The Black Church,” the African Roots in Our Preaching Film. First Afrikan Church is at 5197 Salem Road. For more information, including dinner tickets, call 770-981-2801.

volunteers with the American Cancer Society, the Lou Walker Gift Shop, the Partnership in Community Action, CASA, and premarital counseling at New Birth, where she is a church member and an adviser to the junior usher board. Lester, who worked as a licensed practical nurse for more than 50 years in Shreveport, La., and as a pre-certification nurse at DeKalb Medical for 15 years, has served as president of the Riverlake Estates Homeowners Association and the DeKalb Medical Alumni Retirees, program director for the Saint Philip Seniors and Retirees Group, a member of its Stewardess Board, and a class leader. The gala, named for late activist Theresa Walker, honors DeKalb seniors who continue to serve in their community.

Seniors urged to take charge of their health Georgia’s senior residents are urged to “Get Into the Act” to take charge of their health, get engaged in their communities, and make a positive impact in the lives of others as the nation celebrates Older Americans Month. Dr. James Bulot, director of the Division of Aging Services, said older Georgians have much to offer. “Mature adults who stay active and engaged in community life play a key role in strengthening our families, schools, economy and state heritage,” Bulot said. “Older Americans Act programs and services contribute to quality of life by helping Georgia’s elderly live with independence, dignity and gusto.” For more information, including activities and resources, visit www.aging.ga.gov.

First Luminary Award goes to attorney Mawuli Davis Decatur attorney Mawuli Davis will be honored by the Southern Center for Human Rights with its inaugural “Luminary Award” on May 12. Other honorees include former Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Norman Fletcher and attorney Lawrence Bracken. The awards will be presented at the center’s annual Atlanta benefit reception, “Justice Taking Root,” which begins at 6 p.m. at Summerour Studio, 409 Bishop St. N.W. Davis, a partner at the Davis Bozeman Law Firm, will be recognized for his work holding police accountable for misconduct and acts of violence. “I am deeply honored and humbled to be selected to receive the 2015 inaugural Luminary Award from the Southern Center for Human Rights,” Davis said on May 6. “It is our law firm’s sincere hope that this acknowledgment will continue to shine a bright light on the ongoing struggle against the issues of police brutality and mass incarceration in America.

Attorney Mawuli Davis is being recognized for holding police accountable for misconduct.

“I am proud to share this recognition with those protesters, activists, community members, and the SCHR family, who simply believe that it is our duty to fight.” Davis’ partner, attorney Robert O. Bozeman, said Davis’ recognition reaffirms the law firm’s commitment to “taking personal what happens in our community – from the car accidents we handle to the incidents of

police shootings – it’s all personal to us.” SCHR Executive Director Sara Totonchi said the center is humbled and honored to have worked alongside Fletcher, Davis and Bracken as partners in the struggle for equal justice for all. The Davis Bozeman Law Firm at 4153C Flat Shoals Parkway practices civil rights, personal injury, and criminal defense law. It has established a Community Affairs Division to support community building and activism. The Southern Center for Human Rights, a nonprofit law firm based in Atlanta, provides legal representation to people facing the death penalty, challenges human rights violations in prisons and jails, seeks through litigation and advocacy to improve legal representation for poor people accused of crimes, and advocates for criminal justice system reforms on behalf of those affected by the system in the southern United States. For more information, visit www.davisbozeman.com or call 404-244-2004.

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

CrossRoadsNews

May 9, 2015

Scene

“I know that Atlanta is a diverse and unique community, and this will be reflected in our storytelling.”

New chief tapped at Public Broadcasting Atlanta High Tea Party Atlanta native Wonya Lucas is the new president and CEO of Public Broadcasting Atlanta. Lucas, a Georgia Tech graduate with a B.S. in Industrial and Systems Engineering, was selected after a national search. She also holds an M.B.A. in Finance and Marketing from the Wharton Wonya Lucas School at the University of Pennsylvania. “It’s an incredible opportunity to lead PBA, and I am personally passionate about the mission of public media,” Lucas said. “In addition to our national content at PBA, I am very excited about our focus on local content. I know that Atlanta is a diverse and unique community, and this will be reflected in our storytelling.” She has served as a media executive with

Discovery Channel and Science Channel, Discovery Communications, the Weather Channel, CNN and CNN.com. She also held senior roles at TNT and TV One. Lucas has led major strategic initiatives and helped produce both revenue and audience growth. Before beginning her career in broadcasting, she held brand management roles at the Coca-Cola Co. and Clorox and worked as an engineer at Westinghouse. Dr. Louis Sullivan, board chair of Atlanta Educational Telecommunications Collaborative Inc., said Lucas will lead PBA into its next phase of excellence. “Our retiring President and CEO Milton Clipper has led our organization with distinction during the past two decades, and we have every confidence that Wonya will build upon his legacy of many outstanding accomplishments,” Sullivan said. Kevin Ross chaired the board’s 10-mem-

ber search committee, and Atlanta-based Boardwalk Consulting conducted the search. “Wonya’s depth and breadth of executive broadcast experience combined with her deep knowledge and love for Atlanta will make her a great asset to PBA for years to come,” Ross said. A mother of two, Lucas has been active in Atlanta’s civic community and serves on the boards of the Children’s Museum of Atlanta, the Georgia Tech Advisory Board and the Georgia Tech Alumni Board of Trustees. She also serves on the boards of the National Environmental Education Fund and the Girl Scouts USA, where she chairs the $1 billion national Girl Scouts’ “To Get Her There” funding campaign. PBA’s broadcast licenses (WABE-FM 90.1 and WPBA-TV 30) are held by the Atlanta Board of Education. AETC manages and operates the broadcast facilities.

funds scholarship A High Tea Party fundraiser on May 16 at the Ramada Inn Plaza features fashion, food, fun and a little friendly competition. A portion of the proceeds from the event, which begins at 1 p.m., will benefit the HEALing Community Center Women’s Initiative Scholarship. There will be entertainment, a fashion show, door prizes and a “Hat and Tea Cup Competition.” The overall mission is to raise money for a scholarship fund that will provide assistance through the community center to underserved female patients, including healthy meals and transportation. The hotel is at 550 Capital Ave. in Atlanta. For tickets and more information, visit www. healingourcommunities.org and click on Support Us or contact Dr. Beverly Jones at bjones@healingourcommunities.org.

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.

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CrossRoadsNews

May 9, 2015

REMEMBER MOTHER’S DAY IS MAY 1O

ONE

DAY SALE

FREE SHIPPING & FREE RETURNS AT MACYS.COM FREE SHIPPING WITH $99 PURCHASE. FREE RETURNS BY MAIL OR IN-STORE. U.S. ONLY. EXCLUSIONS APPLY; DETAILS AT MACYS.COM/FREERETURNS

SATURDAY, MAY 9 SHOP 9AM-11PM (IT’S A SALE TOO BIG TO FIT IN A DAY!)

ALSO SHOP TODAY, MAY 8 FROM 9AM-1OPM

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EXCLUDES: Everyday Values (EDV), specials, super buys, cosmetics/fragrances, electrics/ electronics, floor coverings, furniture, mattresses, rugs. Also excludes: athletic apparel, shoes & accessories; Dallas Cowboys merchandise, gift cards, jewelry trunk shows, New Era, Nike on Field, previous purchases, selected licensed depts., services, special orders, special purchases. Exclusions may differ at macys.com. Cannot be combined with any savings pass/coupon, extra discount or credit offer, except opening a new Macy’s account. Dollar savings are allocated as discounts off each eligible item, as shown on receipt. When you return an item, you forfeit the savings allocated to that item. This coupon has no cash value and may not be redeemed for cash, used to purchase gift cards or applied as payment or credit to your account. Purchase must be $25 or more, exclusive of tax & delivery fees.

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ONE DAY SALE PRICES IN EFFECT 5/8 & 5/9/2015 OPEN A MACY’S ACCOUNT FOR EXTRA 20% SAVINGS THE FIRST 2 DAYS, UP TO $100, WITH MORE REWARDS TO COME. Macy’s credit card is available subject to credit approval; new account savings valid the day your account is opened and the next day; excludes services, selected licensed departments, gift cards, restaurants, gourmet food & wine. The new account savings are limited to a total of $100; application must qualify for immediate approval to receive extra savings; employees not eligible. N5040198F.indd 1

4/28/15 10:48 AM