CrossRoadsNews, November 14, 2009 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

FINANCE

SCENE

WELLNESS

Homeowners whose homes were damaged in this year’s floods may be eligible for a national insurance program that can help if floods strike again. 5

Operation Christmas Child is collecting shoe boxes that can be filled with simple gifts for children around the world facing poverty, war, famine and other disasters. 7

While metro Atlanta waits for more flu vaccines to arrive, people can strengthen their immune system by eating salmon and other foods. 9

Future protection

Kid-sized relief

November 14, 2009

Defense mechanism

Volume 15, Number 28

www.crossroadsnews.com

Clarkston declares new mayor over advice of attorney By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

The Clarkston City Council voted Thursday night to declare Howard Tygrett the winner of the Nov. 3 race for mayor, over the advice of its city attorney. At a special called meeting, council members voted four to one for a resolution which reaffirmed the city’s long-standing practice of electing its council members and mayors with a plurality of votes. Council members Warren Hadlock, Karen Feltz, Wayne Foster and Emanuel Ransom voted for the resolution after a long and heated discussion that included input from city residents. Councilwoman Pat DavisMorris, who was a candidate for mayor in the race, did not recuse herself but did not vote for the resolution. In his presentation to the council, city attorney Bryan A. Downs said that the city’s 1970 ordinance that provided for a plurality of votes in the city’s election was repealed when the city codified its ordinances in 1981. He said it must follow state law which calls for a majority of votes to win an election. “A runoff is required where no candidate got a majority of the votes,” Downs said. Tygrett got 44.68 percent of the votes in the four-person race to succeed Mayor Lee Swaney, who did not seek re-election. Davis-Morris came in second with 28.7 percent

“This is an overwhelming amount of information,” she said. “This is an important issue. “We have not had eight days to look at this. If we have to come back every day for three days, maybe we should table this. I want it to be supported through a mechanism that is not going to be contested.” After a motion to table the resolution got only two votes, the council members eliminated two paragraphs and put the resolution to vote. Angela Moore, the first lady of Clarkston First Baptist Church, called the resolution illegal. “The lawyer clearly showed them that what they are doing is against the law,” she said. “They totally disregarded what the lawyer had to say and what the people had to say.” State Sen. Gloria Butler, whose District 55 includes Clarkston, attended the meeting. She said afterward that the resolution was “just confusing.” “It’s like changing the law they can’t change,” she said. “They should have withdrawn it and started over.” Despite the approval of the Clarkston City officials confer (top) during a packed resolution, Downs said the runoff meeting to decide whether a runoff is needed in the is going forward because the law mayor’s race. City attorney Bryan Downs (left) said Photos by Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews state law requires a runoff. requires the runoff. “I am not aware of any petition supervisor Tracy Ashby later set cussion at the standing-room-only being filed with the Superior Court of the vote. Tygrett and others who watched the Dec. 1 runoff, after consulting meeting. judge by a candidate or anyone,” he Before voting for the resolution, said. “You can’t stop the runoff.” the returns at city hall on election with Downs. Thursday’s resolution followed Feltz worried that it could be chalnight left there thinking he had won the race, but city clerk and election a long and sometimes heated dis- lenged and suggested tabling it. Please see CLARKSTON, page 3

Turkeys for annual Hosea Feed the Hungry dinner arrive at jail Hosea Feed the Hungry’s Elisabeth and Afemo Omilami greeted corporate and government leaders at the DeKalb County Jail Thursday where hundreds of turkeys were delivered for this year’s Thanksgiving Dinner for homeless people. Atlanta-based HFTH expects to serve more people than ever at the Nov. 26 dinner at Turner Field. Elisabeth Omilami said the need is even greater for the annual dinner that her father, civil rights icon Hosea Williams, started 40 years ago. She said HFTH has seen requests for help rise 45 percent this year while corporate and individual contributions have fallen 35 percent. “That’s why these contributions are so important,” she said. The food donations came from Kroger, Publix, Sodexo and Harry Norman Realtors. Dennis Boyden, AT&T’s regional manager for external affairs, presented Thurbert Baker and DeKalb Sheriff Omilami said they still need food and a check for $25,000 to the organiza- Thomas Brown encouraged citizens to cash donations, as well as volunteers to tion, and Georgia Attorney General help make the annual dinner a success. help prepare and serve the dinner.

Elisabeth Omilami (left photo, at right) shares a laugh with Publix media and community relations manager Brenda Reid during Thursday’s “Great Turkey Drop.” At right, a dock worker unloads boxes of turkeys that will be prepared for the annual Hosea Feed the Hungry Thanksgiving Dinner.

Photos by Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Community

CrossRoadsNews

November 14, 2009

Grigsby was a popular music teacher at the school and more than 200 students and parents protested his suspension.

The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority Public Notice 1st Annual Public Hearing The Board of Trustees of The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority will hold its 1st annual public hearing on Monday, November 16, 2009. The purpose of the meeting is to discuss: (a) financial performance, (b) progress towards quality and service benchmarks comparable to similar urban teaching hospitals in the Southeast, (c) provision of indigent and charity care, and (d) other matters requested by the Authority and/or DeKalb County regarding the Grady Memorial Hospital Corporation. What:

The Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority Public Hearing

When:

November 16, 2009 7:00 p.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9:00 p.m.

Where:

DeKalb County Government Center Manuel J. Maloof Auditorium 1300 Commerce Drive Decatur, Georgia 30030

Put CrossRoadsNews to Work for You! Call 404-284-1888 for Advertising Rates & Information

Former chorus teacher pleads not guilty to charges related to lewd dance Former Southwest DeKalb High the classroom when the video was chorus teacher Nathan Grigsby made, that he was not aware of pleaded not guilty Nov. 9 in DeKalb what the students were doing and State Court to charges that he alhe did not condone it. lowed male students to perform Grigsby, a teacher for 22 years, a lewd dance on female students taught at Southwest DeKalb for when he worked at the Decatur eight years. He entered not guilty school. pleas to six counts of public indeGrigsby was fired in the wake of Nathan Grigsby cency and four counts of contributthe Dec. 10, 2008, incident that was ing to the deprivation of a minor videotaped and placed on Facebook. He was and is expected back in court on Dec. 4. a popular music teacher at the school and Each count of the misdemeanor charges is more than 200 students and parents pro- punishable by up to a year in jail. tested his suspension in front of the school DeKalb Solicitor General Robert James on Jan. 23 and 26. He was eventually fired by said the tape of the simulated sex acts was the school system. the worst thing he had ever seen from a Students say that even though he was in classroom.

Two appointed to MARTA board Two DeKalb County residents will be taking seats on the MARTA board. Fred Daniels Sr. and Jim Durrett were appointed Nov. 10 by the DeKalb Board of Commissioners. Fred Daniels Sr. Daniels, who will serve a four-year term that ends Dec. 31, 2013, is the senior vice president at Citizens Trust Bank in Atlanta. He is involved with numerous profes-

sional and community organizations and is a graduate of Leadership DeKalb. He replaces Ed Wall, whose term expires on Dec. 31, 2009. Durrett, who will serve until Dec. 31, 2010, is the executive director of the Jim Durrett Buckhead Community Improvement District. He has served with numerous nonprofit and community groups. He replaces Mike Patel, who resigned from the MARTA board.

Wonderland offering organic vegetables Fresh organic vegetables grown by local farmers are available for this Thanksgiving meal at Wonderland Gardens. The nonprofit garden on Rainbow Drive in Decatur is taking orders now for collards, mustard, kale, turnips and sweet potatoes from Oaktree Farms for delivery before Nov. 24. It is also offering homemade chow chow, pepper sauce and Spicy Tomato Jelly, made by garden founder Sheldon Fleming. Proceeds benefit the School Garden Initiative sponsored by Wonderland Gardens

and the Organization of DeKalb Educators, which is working to put gardens into local schools to help fight diet-related conditions like obesity, high blood pressure and diabetes among children. Funds raised will support school gardens at Knollwood, Glen Haven, , Toney, Rowland, Towers and Miller Grove elementaries and Bethune Middle schools. Christmas and New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vegetables will also be available. For more information, visit www.wonderlandgardens.org or call 404286-6163, ext. 1.

November 14, 2009

Community

CrossRoadsNews

“The October jobless claims report provides a revealing snapshot of the condition of Georgia’s job market.”

Draft plan for Hidden Hills Unemployment claims rise again in October from September, when Michael Thurmond. “Most striking The number of laidOverlay to be discussed 66,614 claims were filed. is the lack of improvement in initial off Georgians continued The draft of the overlay code for the proposed Greater Hidden Hills District will be discussed during a public meeting on Nov. 16. The public comment meeting will be at 6:30 p.m. at the Lou Walker Senior Center, 2538 Panola Road in Lithonia. The Atlanta Regional Commission, the DeKalb County Planning Department and the Greater Hidden Hills Steering Committee have been refining the code, which will dictate growth plans for the proposed district in Stone Mountain. The 15 neighborhoods making up the proposed Hidden Hills Overlay District are marked by aging infrastructures, rampant foreclosures and declining housing stock. The four-square-mile district has more than 5,000 homes and includes the abandoned Hidden

The average length of to climb in October, and time jobless workers drew the average time out of unemployment benefits work also increased. increased from 11.6 weeks According to the in October 2008 to 14.4 Georgia Department weeks in October 2009. of Labor, 70,597 laid“The October jobless off workers filed initial claims for state unem- Michael Thurmond claims report provides a ployment benefits in October, a revealing snapshot of the condition decrease of 2.8 percent from Octo- of Georgia’s job market and viber 2008. The number of claimants ability of the nascent economic reincreased by 3,983, or 6.0 percent, covery,” said Labor Commissioner

claims, which showed a decline of only 2.8 percent over the year.” The number of jobless workers receiving state unemployment benefits rose 32.8 percent over the year, from 98,530 in October 2008 to 130,812 in October 2009. Another 146,000 claimants are receiving federally funded extended benefits, which brings the total number of unemployment insurance beneficiaries to 276,812.

Some fear election may be headed to court CLARKSTON,

from page

Downs suggested that the council come back to look the issue later, when the election was over, and create an ordinance. Cathy Burroughs, a six-year resident of the city, said historical precedent should mean something

in the city which has voted plurality for 40 years. “It is clear that Howard won the election,” she said. “But no matter what happens now, the credibility of the whole race is challenged and unless we go to runoff, it’s been put into question.” After the vote, the council went

into executive session. Burroughs said she is hoping the issue is not headed to court. “I doubt they will want to spend the money,” she said. “That can be quite expensive. I think they are going to try to find a consensus. I hope they do because I don’t want to see this dragged out.”

Executive tribute to event honoring breast cancer survivors

OUR MISTAKE

Asha Jackson

Hills golf course and a proliferation of fast food restaurants and grocery stores. Goals for the district – which is bounded by Covington Highway and South Hairston, Redan, Panola and Young roads – include: n Make the district’s shopping centers more attractive, competitive and economically sound. n Improve the streetscapes with desirable lighting, signs, sidewalks and green buffers. n Keep out undesirable businesses. n Preserve and enhance green space. n Promote multi-modal access that reduces reliance on cars. n Protect established residential areas. For more information, contact overlay district coordinator Jan Costello at hhcamail@yahoo.com or 770 815-0105.

Simone Bell

The Dec. 1 runoff in House District 58 will be between attorney Asha Jackson and community organizer Simone Bell. In the five-person race on Nov. 3, Jackson got 26.6 percent of the votes and Bell 23.9 percent. The two are seeking to finish the term of Robbin Shipp, who resigned in April. The results in the Nov. 7 edition of CrossRoadsNews were incomplete and did not include the Atlanta precincts. We regret the error.

DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis presents Olga Stanley with a congratulatory letter during the DeKalb 100 Black Women Pink and Black Affair on Nov. 7 at the Holiday Inn Conference Center in downtown Decatur. Stanley was one of 10 breast cancer survivors honored at the event which raises awareness about breast cancer. “This disease does not care if you are young or old, rich or poor, black or white. This disease affects wives, mothers, grandmothers, sisters, teachers, secretaries, administrators, nurses, church members and any and everyone from all walks of life,” Ellis said. The evening’s other honorees were Luretha Anderson, Dawn Blackwell, Dorothy Carter, Deborah Jones, Dee St. Laurent, Barbara Miller, Ameshal Brooks Raines, Sharron Rogers, and Sharon Thomas. Ellis also presented a proclamation declaring Saturday, Nov. 7, 2009, as “National Coalition of 100 Black Women Decatur-DeKalb Chapter Inc. Day” in DeKalb County.

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November 14, 2009

It’s often forgotten that since the beginning of time, women have served in all wars and conflicts.

Support for our women in the military 2346 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007 www.crossroadsnews.com editor@crossroadsnews.com

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The recent tragedy at the Fort Hood Army post in Texas reminds us just how much we value and appreciate the men and women who bravely serve our nation. This Army post houses soldiers who have returned from deployment in Gloria Butler the Middle East and others who will travel to combat zones shortly. On Wednesday, we recognized Veterans Day, a time for all Americans to celebrate the patriotism, service and sacrifice of those who have proudly put their own lives on the line to keep us out of harm’s way. Police Sgt. Kimberly Munley is a retired member of the armed forces and she is rightfully hailed as a hero for her role in stopping the gunman in Fort Hood. Every day in the media, we see women in military roles that

were once thought unimaginable and unattainable. Our women veterans span generations and all branches of the military including the National Guard and Reserve components. Currently there are almost 2 million women veterans in America, and Georgia is one of the states with the largest number of women veterans. There are 75,198 in Georgia alone. It’s often forgotten that since the beginning of time, women have served in all wars and conflicts. The history of women in the military is a history of love for country, service, commitment, dedication and courage, and it includes sacrifices that have largely gone unrecognized. That is changing, but we must be part of that change. With a rapidly increasing number of women serving in the military today and returning from deployments as seasoned veterans, Veterans Affairs facilities and veterans service organizations such

as the Disabled American Veterans are working overtime to ensure that the unique needs of women veterans are met. For decades the VA has been at the forefront for health care and lifestyle solutions affecting an aging male population; however, now we must identify innovative courses of treatment and solutions to obstacles that are unique to women veterans such as pregnancy, breast cancer and other medical concerns. In the coming months I plan to stand heart to heart with the National Foundation for Women Legislators and the Center for Women Veterans at the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to identify and implement new strategies to meet the everyday challenges that women veterans face. I hope you will join me in this effort. I encourage women veterans and their families to bring specific needs and concerns to our attention.

our children that is necessary for their daily well-being? There should be enough school taxes collected and enough excess food thrown away to give children a complete meal. Taking food out of the mouth of a child is not a smart thing to do. Continued funding of the school food program is necessary, even if it means curtailing other expenditures and more accountability by county authorities. We also must be reminded that people are losing their homes for lack of a job, recent flooding and other things that cause hardship. We don’t need insult added to injury by denying our children a good hot meal. Let’s put food in the mouths of all our children and do away with NOPE – No Pay, No Eat – for our children in the school system.

I would like to start off by saying that I have been reading CrossRoadsNews for almost six years and I am happy that a local paper was started so that DeKalb residents can stay informed with our community’s news and events. I think that it is important for us to stay aware not only of the broad surroundings of Atlanta, but also of our own back yards. I am writing in response to the article “Election shenanigans afoot in Lithonia Council race.” First, I would like to say that this article is good for Lithonia residents who don’t know certain details of what is going on in their city. Personally, I feel as though there is in fact some corrupt politics going on and the older residents of the city recognize that something is definitely out of order with the election and the candidates. As far as the billboard is concerned, quite frankly I think that it was childish to post it and then it was even worse not to take responsibility for it. It doesn’t make things any better when the candidates start criticizing one another and trying to overpower each other’s advertisements. The residents who are aware of the troubling politics sense an ulterior motive of the council. Seventytwo-year-old John Daughtery, who has lived all his life in the city, said he smells a fish. “I don’t want to name names,” he said. “They are trying to put somebody on the council that will do what they want.” It seems the candidates are more concerned with mudslinging than actually improving Lithonia and correcting issues within the community. According to former Councilwoman Barbara Lester, the candidates haven’t even held a survey or a public forum for voters. It’s a shame that corrupt politics can occur any and everywhere, no matter how small or large the community.

Miriam Knox Robinson lives in Decatur.

Breanna Lampkin lives in Tucker.

Sen. Gloria Butler represents District 55 in Stone Mountain.

Denying children a hot lunch isn’t smart Programs like Hosea Feed the Hungry and others do a good service for people in need of food. We see programs on television to send money to feed children in impover ished areas. Somehow, we don’t realize that one place facing a lack or Miriam Robinson denial of food can be right in our child’s school. My 13-year-old grandson is in middle school. The other day, he had to sit at the table in the cafeteria and watch his classmates and other kids eat lunch because his lunch card was lacking funds. Since the Web site was down, my daughter could not put money on his card and thus forgot to check when it was up again during the course of her workday. She has only one child and has always paid full price

without a problem. Because of this oversight, he was refused food and went all day without eating. Prior to this incident, we did not know that DeKalb County Schools decided as of this year to stop giving lunch to children who do not have money starting at the middle school level. In the past, children without money for food would get a peanut butter or cheese sandwich and something to drink, but not anymore. I call it the NOPE ACT, i.e., No Pay, No Eat. This new policy can possibly cause innocent children to go hungry all day and still be expected to stay focused on their studies. The lack of eating also subjects them to being ridiculed by their peers when they have to sit and watch everyone else eat. How often do we hear about “No Child Left Behind” and meeting AYP (adequate yearly progress), but we are willing to deny food to

Quick Read

Former chorus teacher pleads Closures put on hold; task not guilty to charges 2 Force to develop plan Former SWD chorus teacher Nathan Grigsby pleaded not guilty to charges that he allowed male students to perform a lewd dance on female students at the school.

Overlay plan draft to be discussed

Lithonia antics alarm reader

Right foods can help body 6 fight off disease

The DeKalb School System has backed away from its recently announced plans to start closing schools next August.

In the fight against the novel H1N1 virus and the seasonal flu, families can arm themselves with a stronger immune system just by the foods they eat.

Bikini Bottom buddies to be at Stonecrest 7 DeKalb gets first shipment of 3 injectable H1N1 vaccine 9 Nickelodeon’s animated stars SpongeBob

The draft of the overlay code for the proposed Greater Hidden Hills District will be discussed during on Nov. 16.

and Patrick will be at the Mall at Stonecrest on Nov. 21 for a Bikini Bottom Christmas live show.

DeKalb’s first shipment of injectable H1N1 vaccine is now available at the county’s five health centers.

Flood insurance available to Managing holiday stress can Seminar addresses holiday protect homes 5 help limit its effects 8 grief after loss 10 Circulation Audited By

This week’s flood watch following Tropical Storm Ida’s journey across North Georgia had flood victims very nervous.

More Atlantans are stressed this year and the holiday season is just getting under way.

The holidays are always tough on people who have lost loved ones, but the good news is they don’t have to suffer alone.

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CrossRoadsNews

November 14, 2009

Finance

“We will be bringing in the best and brightest business minds to lead entrepreneurs through a series of comprehensive workshops.”

Flood insurance available to protect homes

Advice for flood protection

This week’s flood watch following Tropical Storm Ida’s journey across North Georgia had homeowners still recovering from the Sept. 20-21 floods very nervous. The Federal Emergency Management Agency estimates that nearly 25 percent of flood claims come from areas with low to moderate risk of flooding. In high-risk areas, there is at least a one-in-four chance of flooding during a 30-year mortgage. Since standard homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover flooding, it’s important to have protection from the floods associated with hurricanes, tropical storms, heavy rains and other conditions that impact the United States. In 1968, Congress created the National Flood Insurance Program to help property owners be able to protect themselves financially. The NFIP offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters and business owners if their community participates in the program. Participating communities agree to adopt and enforce ordinances that meet or exceed FEMA requirements to reduce the risk of flooding. The NFIP is administered by FEMA, which works closely with nearly 90 private insurance companies to offer flood insurance to property owners and renters. It offers flood insurance, which can be purchased through property and casualty insurance agents. Rates are set and do not differ among companies or agents. The rates depend on many factors, including the date and type of construction of the home, along with the building’s level of risk.

By Dom Grayson

The National Flood Insurance Program offers flood insurance to homeowners, renters and business owners if their community agrees to adopt ordinances to reduce the risk of flooding.

Homeowners and renters who get financial assistance from the federal government after a presidential-declared disaster are required to purchase flood coverage as mandated by the 1994 National Flood Insurance Reform Act. The requirement is imposed when a building has been damaged and is located in an area that is at high risk of flooding, often called a Special Flood Hazard Area. FEMA requires that homeowners who get federal financial assistance maintain flood coverage even if their damaged building is replaced with a new one. If you sell your home, you are required to inform the new owner that they must maintain flood insurance coverage on the building. Renters who get federal assistance must maintain flood insurance coverage on the contents at the flood-damaged rental property for as long as they live there. Flood victims who get a certifi-

cate of flood insurance from FEMA are covered for three years under the Group Flood Insurance Policy that comes with a presidential disaster declaration. To avoid lapse in coverage, it is important for flood victims to apply for new coverage at least 30 days before the expiration of their Group Policy. Participation in the Group Policy can be canceled at any time during the three years if they buy their own NFIP flood insurance coverage. FEMA says that even without the flood insurance requirement, it is a wise decision for homeowners and renters to purchase flood insurance. It says victims who get federal assistance and do not get flood insurance may become ineligible for future disaster assistance. To find out more about the National Flood Insurance Program and how it can help you protect yourself, visit www.floodsmart.gov, where you can also learn your risk or find an agent.

n Buildings detached from main

dwelling. The recent floods in Georgia n Losses from damage to landclaimed more than a dozen lives scaping, trees and swimming pools. and caused an estimated n Basements/crawl space: $250 million in damFloor coverings, cabinets age. and cases, refrigerators, They led to more etc. than 1,200 houses in 17 Just a few inches of counties being inspected water can cause tens of for flood damage by thousands of dollars the Federal Emergency worth of damage. AcManagement Agency. Of Dom Grayson cording to FEMA, 25 those, only 89 had flood insurance policies. There are just percent of flood claims come from 91,000 flood insurance policies in areas not required to have insurance by lenders. Nearly everyone all of Georgia. is eligible to buy flood insurance That’s not enough. Unlike a standard homeown- regardless of risk level. The National Flood Insurer’s policy, only flood insurance covers losses caused by floods as- ance Program is administered by sociated with hurricanes, tropical FEMA, which works closely with a storms, heavy rains and other con- select number of private insurance ditions. Purchasing both structure companies to offer flood insurance and contents flood insurance to homeowners, renters and busibefore a flood is the first and most ness owners. To find out if your important way to protect your community is a member of NFIP, home and personal property. visit www.floodsmart.gov or call n Structure coverage: Furnace, your insurance provider. water heater and air conditioner, The average NFIP premium in flood debris cleanup, structural Georgia is under $450 a year. Your damage, flooded surfaces such as building coverage cannot exceed carpeting and tile. $250,000, your content coverage n Content coverage: Furniture, can be no more than $100,000, collectibles, clothing, jewelry, and your deductible must start artwork, etc. at $1,000. With a few exceptions, n Types of policies: Dwelling there is a 30-day wait before the (most homes), general property policy takes effect. (apartment and businesses), resiIt’s a good idea to consider dential condominiums, etc. getting flood insurance even if you are not required to and it can’t General exclusions hurt to get a quote and research n Money or currencies, gold, your flood exposure. platinum, stock certificates. Dom Grayson is managing din Cars and other vehicles and rector of Global Insurance Group goods located outside dwelling. in Tucker.

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CrossRoadsNews

November 14, 2009

“This is the first time in DeKalb County history where we will develop a redistricting plan with a certified planner leading the community outreach effort.”

School closures put on hold; Task Force will develop ‘balancing’ plan By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

The DeKalb School System has backed away from its recently announced plans to start closing schools next August. Instead, Bob Moseley, the district’s chief deputy superintendent of school Bob Moseley operations, says it will appoint a 20-member Citizens Planning Task Force in January that will review and garner consensus on the enrollment balancing process facing the school district. The new proposed date for closing schools is now August 2011. Each of the nine school board members will appoint two members to the task force and School Superintendent Crawford Lewis will appoint the other two. With declining enrollment brought on by

Key milestones of the Citizens Planning Task Force January 2010 . . . . . . Appointment of Task Force members. April 2010 . . . . . . . Consensus on the enrollment and capacity numbers. May 2010 . . . . . . . . Provide input for two to three school closures and line changes. July 2010 . . . . . . . . Recommend a preferred scenario. Aug.-Sept. 2010 . . . . Draft Plan presented to the public at community meetings. October 2010 . . . . . Recommend a final plan based on public input received. November 2010 . . . . Final Plan presented at public hearings. December 2010 . . . . Board approval of plan. Summer 2011 . . . . . School closure and other changes begin.

demographic shifts, the school system, which saw enrollment peak at 102,330 in the 200506 school year, is now anticipating flat to declining enrollment over the next six years. Its preliminary forecast calls for as many as 16,000 empty seats or more than 500 excess classrooms being put on the chopping block in the next six years. While the anticipated downsizing is countywide, the bulk of the changes will

Lovett

At The Lovett School, ours is a whole education for the whole child. Whatever your child’s interests, whatever your child’s gifts, here is a place to discover, to grow, to find excellence. At The Lovett School, that’s the whole idea.

Please Join Us for an Open House: Sunday, December 13, 2009 K–Grade 5, 1:00–3:00 pm Grades 6–12, 3:30–5:30 pm The Lovett School practices a nondiscriminatory admission policy. Financial aid is available.

4075 Paces Ferry Road, N.W., Atlanta, Georgia 30327-3099 n (404) 262-3032 n www.lovett.org

be felt in south and central DeKalb County and will affect many elementary schools in Decatur, Lithonia and Stone Mountain. Moseley said the system adopted the new timeline and new approach for its enrollment balancing effort because it is listening to Dan Drake, the professional planner it hired in September. He said Drake has persuaded Dan Drake them to update the 2006 McKibben enrollment forecast and streamline the numerous “capacity” definitions to provide adequate and ongoing outreach and buy-in by the community. “This is the first time in DeKalb County history where we will develop a redistricting plan with a certified planner leading the community outreach effort,” Moseley said last week at a media briefing. From its 2005-06 peak, enrollment at DeKalb Schools this year is back at 97,887, the enrollment levels of the 2001-02 school

year, if charter school enrollment is backed out of this year’s 99,905 enrollment. Officials expect elementary enrollment to drop by 3,000 students and middle school to increase by only 500 students. Only high school enrollment will increase by 2,000 students. For the 2010-11 school year, it is projecting enrollment of 96,366, which would leave 6,782 open seats in 29 elementary schools and 3,236 open seats in 10 middle schools. It is also projecting 2,952 open seats in eight high schools, while four schools will be over capacity by 924 seats. By the 2016-17 school year, it anticipates enrollment at 95,973 with 9,054 open seats in 38 elementary schools and 3,343 open seats in nine middle schools. In its high schools, it is anticipating 3,574 open seats in seven high schools, while six schools will be over capacity by 1,492 seats. To balance enrollment, the school system is proposing to close low enrollment schools to decrease operational costs and increase its entitlement to state dollars. Drake, a trained city planner and civil engineer who was most recently director of public works for the city of Milton, says capacity is a complex, changing issue and that it is important for everyone to be on the same page about the definitions for instructional, design and building capacities. The appointments to the Citizens Planning Task Force will be made at the Jan. 11 school board meeting. Drake said that it will begin shortly thereafter reviewing enrollment projections and capacity numbers, developing alternative scenarios of school closure and line changes, and will select a recommended plan.

Health students earn scholarships Two DeKalb students have won $2,250 scholarships from Decatur internist Gulshan Harjee. Sasha Matthews, a 2009 Southwest DeKalb High School graduate, won a $1,500 scholarship, and Chamblee High Sasha Matthews School graduate Darrill Byrd got a $750 scholarship. Sasha is now a freshman at Florida A&M University and Darrill is at Brandeis. Harjee, the doctor, chief executive officer

and president of First Medical Care Inc., awards the annual scholarships to high school seniors who plan to pursue careers in medicine or allied health care. A native of Tanzania, Harjee also serves on Darrill Byrd the board of directors of DeKalb Medical and DeKalb Medical Society and on the Southeastern region advisory board of UNICEF, focusing on global HIV/ AIDS awareness and prevention.

CrossRoadsNews

November 14, 2009

Scene

“The shoe boxes carry a message of hope that transcends all barriers – language, cultural, religious, geographical and political.”

Worldwide effort collects shoe boxes for kids

‘A Doll’s House’ staged at GPC

Kids can help other kids this holiday season by filling a shoe box with simple gifts for children suffering from poverty, war, disease, famine and natural disasters. Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse, an international Christian relief and evangelism organization, is collecting shoe boxes that can be filled with practical items like school supplies, soap and socks and fun items like stuffed animals, toys and candy and letters of encouragement. Organizers are hoping to collect 100,000 boxes in metro Atlanta. Kathy David, an Atlanta volunteer with Operation Christmas Child, said Atlanta’s small effort can impact a child’s life forever. “The shoe boxes carry a message of hope that transcends all barriers – language, cultural, religious, geographical and political,” she said.

Henrik Ibsen’s classic story “A Doll’s House,” about one woman’s attempt to break free of stifling gender roles to find her own identity, is onstage at Georgia Perimeter College’s Dunwoody campus Nov. 15, 20 and 22.

Shoe boxes filled with practical items like school supplies, soap and socks and fun items like stuffed animals, toys and candy are delivered to children around the world.

Participants collect and donate the boxes, which are delivered by trucks, trains, planes, helicopters, boats, camels and even dog sleds. Starting Nov. 16, gift boxes can be dropped off at Mountain Park First Baptist Church, 5485 Five Forks Trickum Road in Stone Mountain, and Briarcliff Baptist Church, 3039 Briarcliff Road in Atlanta.

Samaritan’s Purse launched Operation Christmas Child in 1993 with 28,000 shoe box gifts. Since then, the project has collected more than 69 million shoe box gifts and handdelivered them to needy children in more than 130 countries. For more information, visit samaritanspurse.org or call 1-800353-5949 or 1-800-686-1622.

Performances take place in Building C-1100 at 7 p.m. on Nov. 20 with a 3 p.m. matinee Nov. 15 and 22. General admission tickets are $10. Students get one free ticket with GPC ID. For reservations, call 770-274-5270.

Singing for fun in East Lake Adults who enjoy singing can join the Monthly Sing-along on Nov. 21 in East Lake. The group, which sings just for the fun of it, gets together once a month to sing folk music, old

standards, gospel, pop, freedom songs, show tunes and more. The singing starts at 7:30 p.m. For directions and more information, call Bob Goodman at 404378-5424.

Sts. Peter and Paul Catholic Church sponsors

FRIDAY NIGHT BINGO!! (Every Friday Night)

Bikini Bottom buddies to be at Stonecrest “SpongeBob SquarePants,” created by Stephen Nickelodeon’s animated stars Hillenburg, chronicles the adventures of an unSpongeBob and Patrick will be at the conventional sea sponge who Mall at Stonecrest on Nov. 21 for a Bikini lives in a two-story pineapple Bottom Christmas live show. located in the sub-surface city The stars of “SpongeBob of Bikini Bottom and whose SquarePants” will appear in good intentions and overzealous four live musical productions nature usually create chaos in his underat 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m. and water world. 3:30 p.m. after Santa’s arrival at It is Nickelodeon’s highest-rated series 10 a.m. with kids ages 2-11. Donald Bieler, the mall’s marThe Mall at Stonecrest is at I-20 and Turner Hill keting director, said parents can bring the kids and their cameras to take photos of the stage presentation, Road in Lithonia. For more information, visit www .mallatstonecrest.com or call 678-526-9880. but there will not be a meet-and-greet.

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CrossRoadsNews

Wellness

November 14, 2009

Diabetes, heart disease, obesity and high blood pressure are some of the diseases linked to chronic stress.

Managing holiday stress can help you limit its debilitating effects More Atlantans are stressed this year and the holiday season is just getting under way. The American Psychological Association, which released its 2009 Stress in America survey on Nov. 3, says that the number of residents citing the economy as a significant cause of stress grew from 67 percent in 2008 to 74 percent in 2009. The preoccupation with economic issues knocked health concerns off its usual top spot. Dr. Angela LondoĂąo-McConnell, public education coordinator for the Georgia Psychological Association, said that whatever the cause, it is alarming that more than half of us are still so stressed. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When stress is ignored or managed in unhealthy ways, it will most likely lead to further health problems. This is why itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crucial

â&#x20AC;&#x153;When stress is ignored or managed in unhealthy ways, it will most likely lead to further health problems. This is why itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s crucial for people to pay attention to their stress levels and take action.â&#x20AC;? Angela LondoĂąo-McConnell, Georgia Psychological Association

for people to pay attention to their stress levels and take action.â&#x20AC;? Psychologists worry about the effects of long-term stress and its contribution to chronic health disorders. Diabetes, heart disease, obesity and high blood pressure are some of the diseases linked to chronic stress. In the survey, nearly 70 percent of Atlanta residents said they have been told by a health care provider that they have a chronic

condition. Thirty-nine percent reported having high blood pressure, versus 30 percent nationally. More Atlantans also have high cholesterol, 32 percent versus 29 percent nationally. The nationwide survey of 1,568 adults ages 18 years and older was conducted online between July 21 and Aug. 4 by Harris Interactive, a global leader in custom market research. In Atlanta, 201 adults were surveyed.

The Georgia Psychological Association offers these tips to help manage chronic stress: n Set limits. List all of the projects and commitments that are making you feel overwhelmed. Identify those things that you absolutely must do in order to survive. Cut back on anything nonessential. n Tap into your support system. Reach out to a close friend or relative. Let them know you are having a tough time and accept their support and guidance. There is no need to face challenging life circumstances alone. n Make one health-related commitment. One small step like cutting back on caffeine can have a positive effect. Studies show that without caffeine, people report feeling more relaxed, sleeping better and having more energy. Regular

aerobic exercise, such as taking a brisk walk, can lessen anxiety. n Strive for a positive outlook. Looking at situations more positively, seeing problems as opportunities, having realistic expectations, and refuting negative thoughts are all important aspects of staying positive and trying to minimize your stress. n Seek additional help. If feelings of chronic stress persist, or you are experiencing hopelessness or trouble getting through your daily routine, seek consultation with a licensed mental health professional, such as a psychologist. Psychologists are trained to help you develop strategies to manage stress effectively and make behavioral changes to help improve your overall health. For more information, visit www.apahelpcenter.org.

Free prostate screens offered Free prostate cancer screenings will be available this month and next at Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia centers in Decatur and Conyers. The prostate specific antigen, or PSA, test is a simple blood test that detects the presence of protein levels made by the prostate cells. One in six men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer at some point in their lives. Men with a family history of prostate cancer, African-American men 40 and older, and all men 50 and older should be

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1SPTUBUF $BODFS 1SFWFOUJPO 8FEOFTEBZ %FDFNCFS UP Q N BU UIF %F,BMC .FEJDBM 5IFBUSF PO NBJO DBNQVT Join us to hear Bert Chen, M.D. talk about Prostate Cancer and the advances being made in the treatment of this disease, using the da Vinci Surgical SystemÂŽ. A â&#x20AC;&#x153;behindthe-scenes,â&#x20AC;? tour and demonstration of the da Vinci will accompany the doctor talk. From 6-7 p.m., the da Vinci will be demonstrated in the outpatient waiting area in the Heart Center (across from 1100 on the first floor). People wishing to tour the da Vinci demonstration should meet in the theatre at 6 p.m.

Light refreshments will be served and parking is free. Appointments are required. Call 404.501.WELL to reserve your space in this FREE lecture. XXX EFLBMCNFEJDBM PSH

screened. If detected early, prostate cancer can be cured. Screenings will be offered at Radiotherapy Clinics of Georgia, 2349 Lawrenceville Highway in Decatur, on Nov. 18 from noon to 6 p.m. No appointment is necessary. For more information, call 404-320-1550. Rockdale County Radiation Therapy Center, 1293 Wellbrook Circle in Conyers, will offer screenings Nov. 20 and 23 and Dec. 4, 7, 14 and 21 from 9 a.m. to noon and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. No appointment is necessary. Call 770-922-2012.

CrossRoadsNews

November 14, 2009

Wellness

Building a strong immune system is important all year, but it’s crucial during flu season.

DeKalb gets first shipment of injectable H1N1 vaccine

Right foods can help body fight off disease In the fight against the novel H1N1 virus and the seasonal flu, families can arm themselves with a stronger immune system just by the foods they eat. Dr. Johnny Garcia, a Decatur chiropractor and mind-body stress expert, says building a strong immune system is important all year, but it’s crucial during flu season. Although DeKalb County finally got 7,000 of the H1N1 injectable vaccines this week, it is only available to priority groups at high risk for the flu. Garcia says that even though senior White House adviser David Axelrod says the United States will have more H1N1 vaccine in “very short order,” it is possible that many people will undoubtedly have to go without the recommended vaccinations. “Their immune systems will be their only line of defense,” he said. Garcia, whose Stone Mountain Chiropractic and Injury Center is on Covington Highway, offers these tips for bolstering your line of defense: n Eat to build immune system strength. Foods that contain ample amounts of vitamin C (fresh spinach, kiwi fruit, broccoli, papaya and guava fruit); omega-3 fatty acids (fresh salmon, mackerel, flaxseed oil); and other immune-boosting foods (fresh garlic, parsley, red peppers) can be added to the diet today and are relatively inexpensive. n Avoid immune system toxins. Consuming too much alcohol can

DeKalb’s first shipment of injectable H1N1 vaccine is now available at the county’s five health centers. The DeKalb Board of Health says it got a shipment of 7,000 novel H1N1 injectable vaccine on Nov. 6 and made them available starting Nov. 9. Because the supply is limited, the agency is focusing on reaching priority groups and other medical partners who serve those groups. The county’s district health director, Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford, said the shipment represents a very limited portion of the overall amount of vaccine that they have requested and hope to still receive in the near future. Ford urged those people who are not in the priority groups to continue to be patient until more vaccine arrives. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends these groups get priority for the injectable vaccine: pregnant Foods such as (clockwise from top left) kiwi, papaya, broccoli, red peppers, fresh spinach and salmon can help boost the immune system.

depress immune function. Other toxins to avoid include foods containing monosodium glutamate, or MSG, a common preservative/ food additive. n Relieve immune system stress. Get plenty of rest. Lack of sleep

can cause your immune system to become run-down. n Stimulate your immune system and relieve stress. Mild to moderate exercise of just 15 minutes a day can help to stimulate immune function and also relieve stress.

The

women; health care and emergency medical personnel; people who live with or care for infants younger than 6 months; anyone from 6 months to 24 years of age; and anyone from 25 to 64 years who has medical conditions that put them at higher risk for flurelated complications. The Board of Health says the vaccine will be provided at no charge to people in priority risk groups until the supply is depleted. It advises people to call each health center prior to their visit to ensure that an adequate supply is available. An administrative fee may be charged to Medicaid, Medicare or private insurance cards at the time of service. People are encouraged to bring their cards with them. The health centers accept walk-ins between 8:15 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. For more information, call 404-508-7880 or visit www .dekalbhealth.net for your nearest health center location.

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11/10/09 11:34:56 AM

CrossRoadsNews

Ministry

“Whatever you are going through, you can survive this through Christ, who can do all things.”

Seminar addresses holiday grief after loss

Beulah Missionary Baptist celebrating 113th year Beulah Missionary Baptist Church is turning 113 years old, and its congregation is celebrating Nov. 22 at its 7:30 and 10:45 a.m. services. T h e Re v. Maurice Watson, pastor of the Beulahland Bible Church of Macon, will preach at both services. Maurice Watson A dynamic preacher and teacher, Watson has been in the pulpit since he was 16. He became a pastor when he was 28 years old and has been at Beulahland Bible Church, his third congregation, since April 2004. On Nov. 20, the church also will host a pre-anniversary Night of Prayer at 7 p.m. in the main sanctuary for members and friends. The anniversary theme is “A Quest for Unity: Celebrating the Goodness of God From Genera-

November 14, 2009

tion to Generation.” The Rev. Jerry D. Black, the church’s pastor, said Beulah is blessed to have members of all ages spanning five generations. “We give thanks to God for blessing us to make it to this point in the history of our church,” he said. Beulah Baptist was started in 1896 by the Rev. W.F. Paschall and eight people who met in a grocery store on Mayson Avenue in Atlanta for Bible study. The church formally organized in November 1896 and Paschall led the church for 33 years. Since then it has had 11 pastors including Black, who became pastor in August 1991. Today the church, which moved to its third location at 2340 Clifton Springs Road in October 1999, has more than 8,000 members and 90 ministries. For more information, visit www.beulahbaptist.org or call 404-241-3307.

Women’s Day services at Big Miller Grove The weeklong focus on women at Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist Church culminates on Nov. 15 with two “Satisfaction Guaranteed” Women’s Day services. Ministers Charlene Alexander and Helen Heath, who are both on staff at the Lithonia church, will speak at the 7 and 10 a.m. services. Alexander said the theme, taken

from Isaiah 55:1, is an invitation to abundant life, offering water, wine, milk and bread for free. “We will show that these are metaphors for what Christ will do years later when he comes and dies for our salvation,” she said. A mass women’s choir numbering up to 100 will perform. On Nov. 18, the dramatic production “Pleading My Case” will

Dixieland band to be at Music for Missions Ruby Red’s Band is bringing its brand of Dixieland jazz and blues to Music for Missions at Lawrenceville Road United Methodist Church on Nov. 15. The 40-year-old group, which bills itself as Atlanta’s party band, will perform at the Tucker church’s 166th concert at 7 p.m. Ruby Red’s has performed around the Southeast since its in-

Jesus,” she said. “Whatever you are going through, you can survive this through Christ, who can do all things.” She says there are a number of positive ways to remember a loved one. “You can preserve the memory of those who have died by establishing a scholarship or supporting a charity they loved,” she said. The seminar is free, but the cost for materials is $10. The church is at 240 Candler Road, at the intersection with Memorial Drive. Space is limited. To register, call 770-987-3977.

Delbra Thomas, a 17The holidays are always year church member. tough on people who have She says the seminar will lost loved ones, but the help people navigate the good news is they don’t holidays by offering them have to suffer alone. tools to deal with grief On Nov. 21, people and support. who are grieving can share Saint Philip also has a their pain and get tools grief support group. for coping at “Getting Delbra Thomas Thomas said particiThrough the Holidays After Losing a Loved One” in the pants will learn about grief and its DeVeaux Conference Room at Saint stages and will find out how to plan Philip AME Church’s Family Life for the holidays so that they won’t be alone. Center in Atlanta. “We’ll talk about the real meanThe seminar, which starts at noon, will be led by social worker ing of Christmas, the birth of

ception in the mid-1960s at Ruby Red’s Warehouse on Ellis Street in downtown Atlanta, before relocating to Underground Atlanta. This will be the first Music for Missions concert for the group, which performs most often as a trio, quartet or quintet. Jack Sartain, who produces the Music for Missions series, said the group will perform as a quintet at

the concert. The concert is free but donations will be taken. Proceeds benefit the church’s missions and outreach programs. Lawrenceville Road UMC is at 3142 Lawrenceville Highway. For more information, visit www.LRUMC.com, e-mail LRUMC@bellsouth.net or call 770-939-3717.

be onstage at 7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall. Admission to the courtroom drama about a young woman in trouble and in need of a good attorney and judge is free. Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist is at 3800 Big Miller Grove Way. For more information, call 770-981-3800.

History of gospel on stage The history of gospel music will be dramatized Nov. 21 and 22 in “The Bridge That Brought Us Over” at Kelly Lake Church of God in Christ in Decatur. The musical depicting the history of gospel centers around a sanctified grandmother from the “old-time way” who discovers that her wisecracking, hip-hop generation grandson knows nothing of

the music’s history. She takes him on a journey to the past for a lesson that he will never forget. A production of the church’s music and drama department, the free program starts at 7 p.m. The church is at 2411 Whites Mill Road. For more information, visit the Kelly Lake Music Department at www.facebook.com or call 404-241-1810.

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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.

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SERVICES Handyman, 27 years experience. Plumbing repairs, water lines, hotwater heaters, showers, toilets, sinks, bathtubs, sewer drain cleaning, pressure washing, gutters cleaned. Call 404-2449193 or 404-838-6541. Rent tables, chairs, linens, tents and much more Call your community rental store today at

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Vendors Wanted!

5 YEAR FIXED INCOME OPPORTUNITY

COST: Minimum 50K BENEFITS: - Guaranteed 8% net annual return each year, paid in advance. - Receive double your money back in 5 years upon maturity. - No hassles or maintenance required. - Capital Guaranteed

Call 1-800-935-6851 REMAX RP Joe Salesman

404-525-6902

MARKETPLACE RATES

The 2009 Holiday Expo Spring 4th Center December 5, 2009 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. Promote your business, product, service or organization. To purchase a table, email info@busybeeconsulting.com or call 678-432-1348.

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.

HOLIDAY SPECIAL Open Monday 12:30 P.M. - 5:30 P.M. Wed. - Fri.: 10:30 A.M. - 6:30 P.M.

Affordable Wedding Photography $500 and up

Sat: 8:30 A.M. - 2:00 P.M.

Hourly Rate for Special Events

** Closed on Tuesday **

Contact Newburn Reynolds at

“RENTAL INCOME PROPERTY” TERM: 5 years

The Law Office of B.A. Thomas, LLC

6 ft. table $30

INVESTORS “8% GUARANTEED ANNUAL RETURN”

CrossRoadsNews

November 14, 2009

All photo gr are ca aphs pture d digita lly

770-722-6096

733 Main Street, Suite B • Stone Mountain, 30083 Offer expires 12/31/2009

Newburn.reynolds@gmail.com http://www.newburnreynolds.smugmug.com

DON’T LET THE BANK TAKE YOUR HOME!

2-DAY FORECLOSURE SEMINAR & WORKSHOP • Proven Methods to Stop Foreclosure Actions Wingate by Wyndham Hotel • Intro to Federal Consumer Right Laws 2920 Clairmont Rd • Learn if you are a victim of Mortgage Fraud Atlanta, GA 30329 • Methods to Discharge Mortgage Debt Saturday November 21 & • Learn to Inspect your note for Breach of Contract Sunday November 22, 2009 More information visit www.stopforeclosureslegally.com or Call Client Services Rep. 678-648-8208 Voice mail: 404-537-6788 or 229-389-7574. Unanswered Questions? Free Conference Calls on Thursday 8-9pm EST (724) 444-7444 access code: 63322# (on the web: www.talkshoe.com)

Offer Good at Ellenwood Location Only. 1775 Panola Road Ellenwood, GA 30294

678-814-4140

CRN2

CrossRoadsNews

rd y Bi pires l r Ea r Ex 0! e Off Nov. 2

November 14, 2009