CrossRoadsNews, Nov. 19, 2011 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

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

November 19, 2011

Volume 17, Number 29

www.crossroadsnews.com

Officers caught in act of beating handcuffed suspect By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

When burglary suspect Tavarrius Williams spat on the two DeKalb Police officers who arrested him Oct. 15, he reportedly got a lot more than he deserved. The officers, Blake Norwood and Arthur Parker, drove the handcuffed Williams in their squad car behind a garage at the South Precinct on Tavarrius Williams Candler Road and were beating him when a third officer came up on the scene, according to reports. The colleague initially thought the offi-

cers needed help and was rushing to their assistance when he saw that the suspect was cuffed. He reported the incident to his supervisor. At a Nov. 16 news conference at the department’s Tucker headquarBlake Norwood ters, Police Chief William O’Brien said Norwood and Parker, who have both been with the force for three years, have been charged with battery and violating the oath of office. The suspect reportedly spat on Parker, who drove him to the back of the garage and was joined by Norwood in the beating.

O’Brien called the incident embarrassing for the Police Department. “We acted swiftly,” he said. “We will not condone this type of behavior.” Williams, who was arrested at the Wellington Court apartments in Arthur Parker Decatur and charged with criminal attempted burglary, was treated at Grady Memorial Hospital for a chipped front tooth and bruised ribs. “This is certainly not the kind of behavior that we expect from our officers,” O’Brien said. “It tarnishes law enforcement everywhere.”

At the news conference, DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis praised O’Brien and the department for taking swift and appropriate action and for being transparent about what had occurred. “The Police Department has a responsibility to protect citizens,” he said. “We will not condone inappropriate actions.” Ellis said the actions of the two officers are not reflective of the department and that the officer who reported it did the right thing. O’Brien said that had the officers responded to the spitting with a push or a single strike, that would be something difPlease see BEATING, Page 5

DeKalb seeks delay on creating new cities Commissioners Feasibility of Brookhaven as a city concerned about impact on services By Mary Swint

DeKalb County commissioners are finally worrying about the impact that the creation of new cities will have and are asking state legislators to delay action on new cities and annexations. They also want them to supervise a study of the impact of annexation and incorporation on the county’s capacity to provide services. The commissioners adopted a resolution on Nov. 15 calling on the 19-member DeKalb delegation to the state capital to appoint a study committee to look into the matter. The resolution comes in the wake of a new study by the Carl Vinson Institute that says a new city of Brookhaven is feasible. The proposed study would look at a method for determining reasonable boundaries for existing or new cities; the fiscal capacity of the annexing/newly incorporating areas and the remaining unincorporated area to provide basic public services; and alternatives to annexation and incorporation such as townships and special service districts. It also would analyze the impact of widespread annexation or incorporation on the provision of higher-level services, such as 911 and Emergency Management; traffic signal and roadway maintenance; storm water management; and non-basic police services including aerial support unit, SWAT team, bomb squad unit, intelligence, K-9 division, gang task force and drug task force. Last week, Citizens for North DeKalb released a study they commissioned from the Carl Vinson Institute on the estimated revenues and expenses for a proposed 12-square-mile city of Brookhaven. The population would be 49,188 and 51.5 per-

The proposed city of Brookhaven would cover 12 square miles, bounded by Fulton County to the west, Dunwoody to the north, Chamblee to the east and a portion of I-85 to the south. n It would include DeKalb’s portion of DeKalb-Peachtree Airport. n It could have a population of 49,188 that would be 51.5 percent white. n Its estimated annual revenues would be $28.5 million. n Its estimated annual expenses would be $25 million. n It would receive about $5 million from HOST funds for capital projects. n It would include eight DeKalb County parks. n It could acquire those parks for $24,950 each. Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

cent white, making it the county’s largest. The area studied was bounded by Fulton County to the west, Dunwoody to the north, Chamblee to the east and a portion of I-85 to the south. The proposed city would include eight county parks and DeKalb’s portion of the DeKalb-Peachtree Airport, but the report did not discuss the airport. The airport is supported by fees such as hangar leases that go into a special fund and the operations come under the Federal Aviation Administration. Under state legislation passed before the incorporation of Dunwoody, the new city could purchase county facilities such as police and fire stations and parks based on a formula in the law and the square foot-

age. The Vinson study estimated the cost for Brookhaven to acquire the parks from DeKalb would be $24,950 each. It estimated Brookhaven would have annual revenues of $28.5 million and annual expenses of $25 million. It would receive about $5 million from HOST funds for capital projects. Ironically, the push for incorporation of Brookhaven appears to be helped by the service delivery strategy agreement the county and existing cities approved last December. The Vinson report noted the millage rate in unincorporated DeKalb for services went from 3.5 mills in 2010 to 6.39 mills this year, an 82 percent increase. Part of that increase is due to the service

delivery strategy. It separated out millage rates for police, parks and street services and allowed cities for the first time to opt out of paying for some county services. It resulted in lowered county millage rates for larger cities that did not depend as much on county services. For instance, Stone Mountain property owners were charged 1.59 mills for police, parks, recreation and street-related services in 2010, but they were taxed only 0.55 mills in the 2011 midyear budget. Decatur, Doraville and Chamblee also saw millage for these county services lowered. The millage rate for these services remained Please see STUDY, Page 5

CrossRoadsNews

Community

November 19, 2011

“We have had enough. We are not going to be dragged through the mud any longer. It’s a mess. ... This is some crazy junk.”

Write-in candidate weighs next move after votes thrown out By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

It’s hard enough to get people to vote in Lithonia, so when 92 people showed up to write in candidate Drucilla Woods in the Nov. 8 City Council election, she was very happy. Woods, a lifelong resident, entered the race after qualifying closed on Sept. 2 because only two candidates had qualified for two vacant seats on the City Council. Without her candiDrucilla Woods dacy, the two candidates – former Mayor Darold Honoré and funeral director Shameka Reynolds – would have automatically won the seats. Woods said she was a serious write-in candidate and worked really hard to tell voters how to type her name in, since it wouldn’t be on the ballot. Her joy at winning was short-lived. At its Nov. 11 meeting, the DeKalb Board

of Elections, which had certified her writein candidacy on Oct. 13, threw out all her votes on the grounds that she did not run the public notice of her candidacy in a timely manner in The Champion newspaper, the county’s legal organ. “I was actually shocked that they would throw all of those votes away and let my supporters down,” said Woods. Marcia Glenn-Hunter, Woods’ campaign manager, said that Lithonia’s city clerk told them that On Common Ground newspaper was the city’s legal organ. To cover all the bases, they also ran the notice in CrossRoadsNews, a weekly newspaper in general circulation in the city, before the deadline and followed up in The Champion on Sept. 15. When the Board of Elections certified her candidacy on Oct. 13, Elections Director Maxine Daniels pointed out that the law “stipulates that at the point of computation and certification of votes that the superintendent of elections will then have to determine if the notification was properly executed.”

Woods said she is disappointed, not just for herself but for the people who took the time to vote for her. “I am disappointed for the people who thought enough of me to go out and vote,” she said. “I am disappointed for Lithonia.” She said she does not understand how the Board of Elections could certify her and then throw out her votes. “After they certified me, I was not notified about any problems,” she said. At the Nov. 11 meeting, Daniels said that while Woods’ notice of intent to be a write-in candidate was given in a timely manner, it was not published in the official legal organ within seven days after the end of qualification, which would have been Sept. 9. “Documentation shows her notice was not published in The Champion, the legal organ for the city of Lithonia, until Sept. 15,” Daniels said. “Therefore, staff recommendation is for her votes not to be counted as a certified write-in candidate.” Daniels said Wednesday that she could not comment on Woods’ case.

“We are in discussion with our attorney and I cannot respond,” she said, pointing out that the process for contesting an election is in the Georgia Code. Daniels said the Board of Elections attorney also could not speak on the case. Glenn-Hunter, who is a former mayor of Lithonia and Woods’ sister, said that Woods filed as soon as she could after qualifying closed on Friday, Sept. 2. She pointed out that all county offices were closed for the weekend and Labor Day holiday on Sept. 5. Woods said they are exploring all options, including appealing the board’s decision. The last day to file an appeal was Nov. 18. At press time Thursday, they had made a final decision, but Glenn-Hunter said they want to make sure the write-in process works properly and follows what is outlined in the Georgia Code. She said state law says you can file your notice in the “town’s gazette.” “Under the law we are not required to file in the county’s legal organ,” she said. “The water is muddy and we want to be able to clear the mud.”

Swearing-in on hold as Lithonia answers Justice Department questions By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

The winners of the Lithonia City Council special election have not been seated, and it was unclear this week when Pat Miller and Tracey-Ann Williams will take the oath of office. They were the top vote-getters in a threeway race to succeed former council members Deborah Jackson and Al T. Franklin, who ran for mayor. The two were scheduled to be sworn in on Pat Miller Nov. 14, but it was canceled after a Nov. 11 called meeting of the council at which it was made public that the U.S. Justice Department had asked a number of questions about the special election. Miller, a registered nurse, got 132, or 43.4 percent, of the votes, said she was shocked and really sad to hear of the developments at last Friday’s meeting.

“Once again, this little city is looking foolish and I want to see that change,” she said. Williams, who got 101, or 33.2 percent, of the votes, said she was disappointed at the postponement and is now hoping that the swearing-in won’t be any later than the council’s Dec. 6 meeting. “I am anxious to just get this over with and get about the business of getting the city together,” she said. Tracey-Ann Williams

While the two wait, the council has been down two members since Jackson qualified on Aug. 29 and Franklin on Sept. 2. Both were in the middle of their four-year terms and had to resign when they qualified. Before pre-clearing the election, the Justice Department has asked the city to provide documentation of the decision to hold the election and reasons for it.

City Attorney Winston Denmark said Thursday that he could not list the questions from the Justice Department because he did not “know them off the top of my head.” “Questions have been asked and we are answering them,” he said. The council had been asked to produce minutes of the meeting at which the decision was made to hold the special elections and has been unable to do that. Council members are expected to sign affidavits attesting to the decision at their Nov. 21 work session. The city did publish a notice of the elections in the Champion, the county’s legal organ on Sept. 9. At the Nov. 11 meeting, Councilwoman Kathleen De Cocq raised questions about Shameka Reynolds’ residency. Reynolds, a funeral director, got 182 votes, the most votes of any candidate in the Nov. 8 election. She lives on a property that spans city and county boundaries. She says that her family has always paid city taxes and that she has always voted in city elections. No challenge has been filed to her elec-

tion. De Cocq said that even though Reynolds is on the city’s voter rolls, she does not live in the city. “Look it up,” she said. “The address is unincorporated.” Lithonia resident Barbara Lester called De Cocq’s assertion “so petty.” “The citizens of this town have spoken,” she said. “We have had enough. We are not going to be dragged through the mud any longer. It’s a mess... This is some crazy junk.” Johnnie Daugherty, who also lives in the city, said if there was an issue, the council should have raised it before the election. “You all should have told us this before the 8th, before we went over there to vote.” he said. “Y’all had time to stop this then.” Reynolds and Darold Honore, who got 89 votes and won the election when the Board of Elections decertified the 92 votes cast for Drucilla Woods on Nov. 11, will begin their four-year terms in January. Carla Parker contributed to this story.

Community

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011

“Nationwide, community prosecution is known as a grass-roots approach to law enforcement.”

Ex-clerk of court abandons lawsuit

Officer killed on I-20 laid to rest

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Doraville Police Detective Robert Shane Wilson, who was killed in a wrong-way crash on I-20 in south DeKalb County, was laid to rest Thursday. Wilson, 27, died on Nov. 14 when an alleged drunken driver hit him head-on on I-20 between Wesley Chapel and Panola roads. Gene Jones of Dunwoody was charged on Nov. 15 with vehicular homicide and driving under the influence in connection with the crash. Wilson, who lived in Conyers, was the overnight on-call detective on Monday and was responding to a home invasion in progress call. Gene Jones Police said he was driving westbound on I-20 when his Ford Edge was hit head-on by a Jeep Laredo being driven eastbound by Jones in the Robert Shane Wilson westbound lanes. Wilson died at the scene, and Jones, 37, was taken to a local hospital. He was booked into the DeKalb County Jail on Nov. 15. His bond was set at $2,000, but he was still in jail at press time Thursday. Wilson started with the department as a dispatcher in 2003 and became a sworn officer in 2007. He was promoted to detective corporal in September. He is survived by his wife, Katy, and son Liam. Also surviving are his father J.D. Wilson, who is a retired DeKalb police officer, and his mother, Gail Hanson.

The lawsuit filed by former DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court Linda Carter against Debra DeBerry, her longtime friend and successor, has been dismissed. Leroy Parks Jr., Carter’s attorney, filed the notice of dismissal on Oct. 20. “Plaintiff Carter dismisses with prejudice all of her claims in this case against defendant DeBerry,” the notice said. It added that both women Debra DeBerry would each bear her own costs, attorneys’ fees and any other expenses of litigation. Carter sued DeBerry in April after her March 24 resignation from the office she had held for 10 years. In the lawsuit filed on April 14, she said she was duped into resigning and naming DeBerry as her replacement. DeBerry was sworn into office on March 25 and is finishing Carter’s third term that

ends on Dec. 31, 2012. She has filed a declaration of intent to run for the office in 2012. Frank Swindle, a former Superior Court senior case manager, also has announced that he will run for the office. The Office of Clerk of Superior Court manages all of the county’s court and land documents. DeBerry was Carter’s chief deputy during the 10 years Carter was in office. DeBerry and Gov. Nathan Deal also had filed to Linda Carter have the case dismissed. Carter, who was elected in 2000 and reelected in 2004 and 2008, said in her lawsuit that she signed the document presented to her “not knowing or understanding the document’s contents at that moment in time.” In her motion, DeBerry argued that Carter, who suffers from early onset Alzheimer’s disease, resigned to avoid media scrutiny into her mental condition.

Brown joins Solicitor’s Office Sonja N. Brown has joined the DeKalb County Solicitor’s Office as its first full-time community prosecutor. Solicitor-Gener al Sherry Boston, who announced Brown’s addition to the office on Nov. 7, said her arrival is part of the effort to take a more proactive approach to crime reduction. Brow n pre v iously Sonja N. Brown served as a chief senior assistant district attorney in Fulton County, where she was most recently assigned to the Crimes Against Women and Children Unit, and served as the director of Victim Services. She supervised the Child Support Enforcement Unit and the Victim Witness Assistance and Volunteer programs. Brown is also a former South Fulton community prosecutor and director of Offender Re-entry Services, which helps ex-offenders reintegrate back into society. Boston said she was excited to bring Brown and her experience to her team. “Nationwide, community prosecution is known as a grass-roots approach to law enforcement,” Boston said. Brown will work with law enforcement, community, and homeowner and business associations.

Open For Thanksgiving Dinner!

Book Your Holiday Party Now!

$400 OFF

Purchase of $30 or more

Lunch BUFFET

Dinner BUFFET

Mon.-Sat. 11am-3:30pm (Not Including Sunday)

Mon.-Sat. 3:30pm-Close (Sunday All-Day Dinner)

Adult $6.59

Adult $8.99

Kids By Height: 35-45" – $2.99 • 45-55” $4.59 Under 35” – Free

Kids By Height: 35-45" – $3.99 • 45-55” $5.59 Under 35” – Free

(Excludes Drink Prices)

Most Popular Items Include Create-Your-Own Hibachi Stir-Fry, Rib-Eye Steak, Salmon, Black Pepper Shrimp, Fried Fish, Crabmeat, Many Selections of Sushi, General Tso’s Chicken, Cheese Spinach, and Large Selection of Salads, Fruits, Cheese & Desserts

One coupon per ticket • Dine in only NO PHOTOCOPIES ACCEPTED. Expires December 10, 2011 NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS or WITH ANY OTHER OFFER

% OFF 10 Lunch or Dinner Buffet One coupon per ticket • Dine in only NO PHOTOCOPIES ACCEPTED. Expires December 10, 2011 NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS or WITH ANY OTHER OFFER

$250 OFF

Purchase of $20 or more

10%

Military & Senior Citizen Discount DINE IN ONLY

Dine in only • One coupon per person NO PHOTOCOPIES ACCEPTED. Expires December 10, 2011 NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS or WITH ANY OTHER OFFER

$100 OFF

Purchase of $10 or more Dine in only • One coupon per person NO PHOTOCOPIES ACCEPTED. Expires December 10, 2011 NOT VALID ON HOLIDAYS or WITH ANY OTHER OFFER

Community

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

Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Graphic Design Curtis Parker Staff Writers Carla Parker Jennifer Ffrench Parker Advertising Sales Kathy E. Warner Alison White

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.

L CA LO ODS! GO

AL ! LOC ICES RV SE

www.eastmetromarket.com

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011

“The first job I had we only made $5 a week and we worked from seven in the morning to seven in the evening.”

Birthday girl thankful to reach 100 By Carla Parker

Anna Dillard didn’t want to make a big fuss about her 100th birthday. “It’s just another day,” she said with a laugh. Dillard, who lives in Conyers, became a centenarian on Nov. 11 and celebrated the milestone at a birthday bash at New Covenant Christian Ministries in Lithonia. For the occasion she was surrounded by her three daughters, 18 grandchildren, 40 great-grandchildren, 20 great-great-grandchildren, church family and Sen. Ronald Ramsey. “I’m thankful to reach 100 years,” she said on the eve of the big day. “I’m still able to do for myself and I am blessed that I am able.” Dillard travels, dances, crochets, knits and loves word-find puzzles. “I love to sit in my rocking chair and do my puzzles,” she said. She is the oldest of four children born to the late Thannie and Augustus Lewis, and she has outlived all but one brother, Lafayette Lewis, who is 98 and still drives a car. Dillard remembers life being tough. At the age of 9, she relocated to Rahway, N.J., with her mother and brothers to rejoin her father. “When we went to New Jersey, things got easier for me,” she said.

Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Anna Dillard of Conyers celebrated a century of living on Nov. 11 at her church with a host of family and friends.

She attended school for the first time in Rahway but had to leave in the eighth grade to work as a live-in cook to help her family. “The first job I had we only made $5 a week and we worked from seven in the morning to seven in the evening.” In her adult years, she worked

as a chemical glass washer and lab tech for M&T Chemicals in Rahway for 28 years before retiring at the age of 65. Dillard had four daughters and outlived three husbands. One daughter died in 1973. She moved back to Georgia in 1991 to live with her youngest

daughter, Margo Parson. Dillard said longevity is a family trait. Her mother, Thannie, lived to be 101 years old and was active until her death in 1990. Two young brothers, Gus and Paul Lewis, who are both deceased, lived to be 76 and 93 respectively.

And new baby makes 14 for Adkins family Jerome and LaChelle Adkins, who are parents of 13 children, begin their reality TV journey with the birth of their 14th child by C-section on Nov. 17. “The Adkins Family Is a Reality” show is following the McDonough family, whose children are ages birth to 21 years old. The couple have been married 18 years. Jerome Adkins is a major in the U.S. Army Reserves and general manager of the Lithonia Walmart store on Fairington Road. He is a pastor of a start-up church in Conyers. His wife is a stay-at-home mom. Their older children – Brenndon, 21; Taylor, 19; Christian, 18; Jonathan, 17; Alexandria, 15; Mackenzie, 13; Victoria, 12; Elisabeth, 11; Olivia, 8; Danielle, 7; Jeremiah, 4; Joshua, 3; and Jordan 19 months – are at every stage of education: from pre-k to college. The reality show will explore how a family this size can make it in tough economic times

Quick Read

The Adkins family, seen here in CNN’s studios, grew by one on Nov. 17 with the arrival of baby No. 14.

with just one income. It will focus on how Je- extracurricular activities and church. The name and gender of the new baby was rome juggles multiple jobs and roles, and how his wife juggles the schools, homework, cooking, not available at press time Thursday.

Candidate weighs next move after votes thrown out 2

Woman charged with stealing services 5

‘Twilight’ star to be at Stonecrest

It’s hard enough to get people to vote in Lithonia, so when 92 people showed up to write in candidate Drucilla Woods on Nov. 8, she was very happy.

DeKalb Section 8 tenant Avis Larose Daniels was arrested this week for allegedly stealing government assistance.

Actor and singer Booboo Stewart, who portrays Seth Clearwater in the international hit “Twilight” movie series, will perform and meet with fans on Nov. 26.

Ex-clerk of court abandons lawsuit 3 The lawsuit filed by former DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court Linda Carter against Debra DeBerry, her longtime friend and successor, has been dismissed.

CW Price now in Belvedere Plaza 6 District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson was on hand for the Nov. 1 ribbon cutting as New York-based CW Price opened for business in the building formerly occupied by AJ Wright on Memorial Drive.

Sentence overturned in accident

Shirley Ogilvie, who was sentenced to a year in prison for running over a Princeton second-grader last year, has had her sentence overturned.

index to advertisers

Circulation Audited By 3 Girls & A Needle, Inc...................................9 ALS Career Institute...................................... 10 Bankers Life & Casualty Company..................6 BJH Attorneys & Counselors at Law.............. 10 Cajun Turkeys............................................... 10 Chapel Hill Orthodontics.................................9 Children First................................................... 8 Children of the Future Daycare, Inc............... 11

Curbside Recycling......................................... 3 DeKalb County Dept. Watershed Management.5 Dish Network................................................. 11 Ella’s Caring Hands Adult Day Care.............. 10 F.I.E.R.C.E. Dance Team................................ 10 Garage Door Medics LLC.............................. 10 Gwinnett Federal Credit Union....................... 5 Hibachi Grill.................................................... 3

Kool Smiles P.C...............................................9 Law Offices of Chris M. Toles........................ 10 North DeKalb Mall.......................................... 7 Padgett Business Services...............................6 Pretty Faces Spa............................................. 11 Ruby Tuesday.................................................. 7 Soul Discount Fabrics..................................... 11 South DeKalb YMCA...................................... 11

The Davis Bozeman Law Firm, P.C.................. 5 The Herb Lady.............................................. 10 The Law Office of B.A. Thomas.................... 10 The Mall at Stonecrest...................................12 INSERTS Best Buy Co. Inc......................................Inserts Holistic Health Management Inc.............Inserts Walgreens...............................................Inserts

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011

Community

“The fact that they drove around behind a garage to conceal themselves is alarming to us. They tried to conceal what they were doing.”

Woman charged with stealing services

Lithonia Blueprint workshop meets

ing $6,270 for utilities but failed to DeKalb Section 8 tenant Avis pay for the services. Larose Daniels was arrested this She got the money for governweek for allegedly stealing government assistance as a part of the ment assistance. Section 8 Program, but between The DeKalb County Sheriff’s December 2008 and June 2011, she Office Fugitive Squad arrested owed $3,093.88 worth of electricDaniels on Nov. 14 on charges of ity from Snapping Shoals power theft by conversion, theft of sercompany and did not pay for it. vices and interference with a public She also is accused of removutility. She was arrested at her resi- Avis Daniels ing a security clip and bypassing the gas dence at 3523 Parc Circle in Atlanta. According to the warrants, Daniels re- meter at her home. Daniels bonded out of ceived $209 per month for 30 months total- jail with a $3,000 bond on Nov. 17.

Lithonia residents can discuss redevelopment concepts for the downtown core of Lithonia at the Lithonia Community Workshop on Nov. 21. “Blueprints for Successful Communities,” a Georgia Conservancy growth management program, is hosting the 6-to-7:30 p.m. workshop. The Georgia Conservancy is partner-

DeKalb could go the way of Fulton STUDY,

from page

about the same for Avondale Estates, Clarkston, Pine Lake and Lithonia. (Additional millage was charged for fire, hospitals, bond debts and state-required services such as courts, sheriff and jail.) At the Oct. 13 meeting of the County Operations and Public Safety Committee, Commissioner Jeff Rader said Fulton

County experienced a “domino process” with incorporations, leaving only a small part of Fulton unincorporated. He said taxes doubled and there is still a deficit in Fulton. Rader, who said he is not opposed to the incorporation of Brookhaven, is concerned the same thing would happen in DeKalb. Commissioner Kathie Gannon said she had asked that the Vinson study be broadened to cover these issues but it was not.

Burglary suspect released on bond BEATING,

from page

ferent. “The fact that they drove around behind a garage to conceal themselves is alarming to us,” he said. “They tried to conceal what they were doing.” He said that such incidents do not occur often and that there might have been about 10 incidents of inappropriate behavior this year. “We do a lot of training to remind of-

ing with Lithonia to re-examine and refine visions of the past and boil them down into an implementable strategy. The workshop will be held at Lithonia First United Methodist, 3099 Stone Mountain St. For more information, contact Leah Barnett at lbarnett@gaconservancy.org or 404-876-2900, Ext. 109.

Two opportunities to shred it DeKalb residents can shred their sensitive paper documents for free at the Keep DeKalb Beautiful “Shred & Tread” event on Nov. 19. From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., citizens can bring up to five boxes of documents for free on-site shredding at the DeKalb Sanitation Division – Central Transfer Station in Decatur. Items from commercial businesses and vehicles will not be accepted. Citizens also can dispose of up to 10 car tires for a $1 each. Commercial grade tires will not be accepted. The Central Transfer Station is at 3720 Leroy Scott Drive in Decatur.

For more information, visit www.keep dekalbbeautiful.org.

Saint Philip shredding it on Nov. 26 South DeKalb residents can clear out some clutter by bringing sensitive documents to be shredded on Nov. 26 at Saint Philip AME Church’s Community Shredding Event. The shredding, which takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., is free. It is sponsored by the Saint Philip Community Development Corp. The church is at 240 Candler Road S.E. in Atlanta, at the corner of Candler and Memorial Drive.

ficers of the ethical and moral behaviors.” Norwood and Parker are both on administrative leave with pay. O’Brien said the violation of oath of office is a felony and that the officers also may face a number of disciplinary and administrative charges that could result in termination from the force. DeKalb Sheriff Department records show that Williams paid a $2,500 bond on Nov. 16 and was released from jail.

DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis reminds you to dispose of FOG properly!

FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) FOG enters plumbing through garbage disposals, sinks and toilets. It coats the inside of plumbing pipes and also empties into DeKalb County's sewer system. Here are three simple guidelines to help keep FOG out of our pipes and sewers:

Do not pour fats, oils, or grease down the drain or the toilet. Pour it into a sealable container, allow it to cool and throw it in the trash.

Scrape plates and cookware before washing. Do not throw food scraps of any kind down the drain. Instead, place them in waste containers or garbage bags.

Wipe excess FOG from all plates, pots, pans, utensils, and surfaces before washing. Throw greasy paper towels away. Plumbing and sanitary sewer systems are simply not designed to handle the FOG that accumulates in pipes. When it gets into the pips and hardens, blockages occur and cause sewage to backup and overflow out of manholes or into homes. This is expensive for you, and for the County. The damages caused by fats, oils, and grease in the sewer system are costly to repair. Over time, they increase the costs of our water and sewer services.

5381 Panola Industrial Boulevard | Decatur, Georgia 30035 Branch & Drive-Thru Hours of Operation: Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Saturday 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. 678.889.GFCU (4328) | www.gwinnettfcu.org

CrossRoadsNews

Finance

“The idea of initiating a luxury mixed-use development in DeKalb may have been difficult for some to imagine.” The mixed-use, 10 acre-plus development on Covington Highway was dedicated on Nov. 11. It includes brownstones, condos and retail space.

Panola Slope to open in 2012 By Carla Parker

Panola Slope, a mixed-use development that stalled on Covington Highway in Decatur, is now on track to open in spring 2012. Atlanta-based APD Solutions, a neighborhood revitalization firm, hosted a dedication ceremony on Nov. 11 for the 10 acreplus development, located at 5600 Covington Highway. The development of 23 luxury brownstones, midrise condominiums, and more than 12,000 square feet of street-level retail space was originally constructed in 2007. Then it was called Dominiques Villas but was foreclosed on before it was completed. APD Solutions acquired it from the three banks that owned it and will complete the $5 million project. Vaughn Irons, APD Solutions CEO, said the company’s goal is to not only set the standard for distinctive urban living, but to demonstrate its commitment to DeKalb over the long haul. “The idea of initiating a luxury mixeduse development in DeKalb may have been difficult for some to imagine, but APD Solutions’ shared vision with the community makes this project special and will be the hallmark of our success,” he said. “We want Panola Slope to be the catalyst for making Covington corridor vibrant again.” In 2007, the development’s housing units were listed for $449,000. Irons said they now will be priced at $189,900 to $224,900. “We plan to reposition the asset to provide the same level of quality and luxury but at an affordable price. We call it ‘Luxability.’” The first phase of the three- and four-

bedroom brownstones includes 10-foot ceilings, upgraded lighting, hardwood floors and gourmet kitchens. A public square with an outdoor terrace, benches, fountains, a lighted walking trail, pocket parks and security patrol also is planned. Putt Guttz, a Savannah-based bakery, will be one of the first businesses to move in when the project is completed. Owner Sheree Campbell, who is now home-based, said accepting this opportunity was a no-brainer. “In today’s economy, it’s hard to get money for a store front,” she said. “I did it the hard way – going door to door basically. And it was successful, but I’m ready to get some structure and be in a place that I can call home.” The project is also an effort to revitalize the Hidden Hills area. Wendall Ervin, president of the Hidden Hills Civic Association, said he thinks the project will be a magnet. “It’s going to draw people who live in the community who won’t have to go to different counties and cities to get the goods and services they want,” he said. To commemorate the Nov. 11 dedication, a time capsule was planted on the property. In keeping with its 11-11-11 theme, the container was filled with 11 items including local newspapers, photos and a letter from Irons to future residents. The container will be opened on Nov. 11, 2022. Super District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson said revitalization efforts like Panola Slope can accelerate job growth and generate new revenue. “Eleven years from today, this time capsule will serve as a reminder of our collective efforts to transform this community into a thriving urban oasis.”

For All Your Legal, Accounting and Tax Services “There Is No Better Time to Plan Your Legal & Tax Strategies”

Matthew Ware

Law Office of E. Noreen Banks-Ware, P.C.

(770) 593-9848

(770) 593-9849

Specializing in Small Business Monthly Accounting, Personal and Business Taxes (Electronic Filing), and Business Consulting (Payroll Service, Business Plans & Audit Service)

Family Law (Divorces,Child Support Modiﬁcations, Custody), Business Law (Incorporations, LLC, Business litigation defense), Wills, Probate, Estates, Personal Injury

E. Noreen Banks-Ware

Accountant/CEO

Attorney

Salem Panola Library

Ware Professional Building

State’s jobless rate dips in October The state’s unemployment rate dipped to 10.2 percent in October as Georgia added 26,500 jobs. However, there was an increase in firsttime claims for unemployment insurance benefits statewide. Initial filings for benefits also rose in DeKalb County. The seasonally adjusted jobless rate declined to 10.2 percent, down one-tenth of a percentage point from 10.3 percent in September, as well as from October a year ago. The rate dropped because Georgia added 26,500 jobs, up seven-tenths of a percentage point to 3,818,800 from 3,792,300 in September. While growth came in several sectors, 12,200 of the jobs occurred from early hiring in retail, transportation and warehousing as employers prepared for the holiday season. Labor Commissioner Mark Butler said the state doesn’t usually see a spike in retail hiring in October. “However, even though this is a good sign, we will be cautiously watching the hiring trends from now until the end of the year,” he said in a Nov. 17 statement.

Job growth also occurred in professional and business services, educational and health services, and leisure and hospitality. But the number of jobs in Georgia remained 32,600, or nine-tenths of a percentage point, below Mark Butler October of last year. In DeKalb, first-time claims for UI benefits rose to 3,557 from 3,428 in September, up 129 or 3.8 percent. There were 3,934 initial claims in October 2010 for an over-the-year decrease of 377 or 9.6 percent. Statewide, the number of first-time claims rose to 55,865, up 4,598, or 9 percent, from 51,267 in September. Most were filed in manufacturing, administrative and support services, and construction. There was an over-the-year decrease of 1,629 claims, or 2.8 percent, from 57,494 in October 2010. October is the 51st consecutive month Georgia has exceeded the national jobless rate, which is 9 percent. For more information, visit www.dol.state.ga.us.

CW Price now in Belvedere Plaza Discount retailer CW Price opened in Belvedere Plaza to fanfare and a queue of eager customers earlier this month. District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson was on hand for the Nov. 1 ribbon cutting along with store manager Darren Holloman and district manager Dean Stead as the New York-based retailer Larry Johnson opened for business in the building formerly occupied by AJ Wright on Memorial Drive. “We welcome CW Price to the community and I am glad to see that the Georgia Department of Labor, who has worked

with the CW Price Co. on providing the work force, has ensured that the sales associates are from the area close to the store,” Johnson said. “This makes a difference – employees who work in the community have a vested interest in the community and a personal goal of ensuring that their store is one of the best.” More than 100 people were waiting in line for the clothing and home goods store to open in Decatur. Johnson said the store was part of the ongoing revitalization of Memorial Drive. “It began with Aldi’s, followed by Walmart, and the plaza underwent a face lift and added the Hibachi Grill, and we also have SunTrust Bank coming to the community,” Johnson said.

Call Now To Schedule Appointment!!!

days

Mon

thru

days

Thurs

Y! ONL

pires

r Ex

Offe

5/11

12/1

Full Head Sew-Ins | Enclosures | Alopecia Net Weaves | Private Suites Lashes, Make-Up & Brows | Premium Remy Hair

Under One Roof! Padgett Business Services

November 19, 2011

3636 Panola Road • Lithonia, GA 30038 (Across from the Salem Crossing Shopping Center)

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011

Scene

“I am hoping that our friends and supporters will register and sign up two ghost runners.”

‘Twilight’ star at Stonecrest Booboo, 17, is also a dancer, Actor and singer Booboo Stewgymnast, stunt performer, model art, who portrays Seth Clearwater and musician. He was thrust into in the international hit “Twilight” the global limelight with his role movie series, will perform and meet of Seth in “Twilight Eclipse” in with fans at the Mall at Stonecrest 2010, and he reprised the role in Lithonia on Nov. 26. in “Twilight Breaking Dawn,” From noon to 3 p.m., “Twilight” which opened in theaters nationfans can attend a live free perforwide on Nov. 18. mance with Booboo and his sisters Booboo Stewart He also can be seen opposite Fivel and Maegan. Following the live show, fans can meet him up close and Val Kilmer in the Indy feature “American Cowslip” and the family film “Smitty,” with personal. Fans interested in meeting Booboo are Mira Sorvino and Peter Fonda. The Mall at Stonecrest is at I-20 and required to purchase an autograph or photo for $20 or the entire package, autograph and Turner Hill Road. For more information, visit www.mallatstonecrest.com. photo, for $35. Nat George appeared as Sam Cooke at the Porter Sanford Center in 2009.

Release party for Christmas album Recording artist Nat George, who has starred in “A Change Gon’ Come: The Sam Cooke Story” stage play, is releasing his Christmas album on Nov. 27 at the Jazz Café ATL in Morrow. George wrote and performed the story of gospel/pop impresario Sam Cooke’s life, music and legacy in the stage play that premiered in July 2007. It played at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center in Decatur in February 2009. Admission to the album release party is $10. Doors open at 4 p.m. and showtime is 4:30 p.m. Jazz Café ATL is at 1225 Mount Zion Road in Morrow. For more information, call 770-9607334.

Turkey Trot to raise funds for foster kids By Benjamin Burton

Turkey Day is around the corner and on Nov. 19, adults and kids can burn some calories at the 13th Annual Cross Country 5K Turkey Trot … Fun Walk Run. The one-mile event, which is hosted by the Elks Aidmore Inc., begins at 9 a.m. in Conyers. Elks Aidmore Inc. has been a fixture in Conyers since the 1930s. The 141-acre property was owned at one time by Colleen Moore, a silent film actress. On her death, it transferred to the Free Methodist Church, and in the 1960s was home to Jolly House, a home for orphaned youths. More than 250 participants are expected at the run this year. Another 200 “ghost runners” who don’t participate in the activities just make a donation. Dawn Robinson Butler, the Elks develop-

ment and communications director, said that she is hoping for last-minute registrations. “I am hoping that our friends and supporters will register and sign up two ghost runners [family, friends, and co-workers],” she said. Registration is $25 on event day and $20 before. Children pay $10 before and $15 on Saturday. Sign up at www.elksaidmore .com. Proceeds go to helping the public understand the challenges and opportunities of children in foster care and support programmatic activities. Runners who preregister get a long-sleeve T-shirt. There also will be awards and special prizes for youngest and oldest runners, the family with the most members, neighborhood with the largest group, and for best turkey outfit. For more information, call 770-483-3535.

Parade to welcome Gallery’s new Santa The Gallery at South DeKalb’s new Santa will be parading in the mall on Nov. 19. He will arrive at 6 p.m. and will be ushered throughout the mall in a parade that includes the Columbia High School Marching Eagles as well as various community groups, entertainers and holiday characters. He will be at the mall through Dec. 24. The Gallery at South DeKalb is at 2801 Candler Road in Decatur.

Community service of Thanksgiving Three Lithonia churches will be cohosting their annual Community Thanksgiving Service on Nov. 22. First Afrikan Presbyterian, Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist and Ousley United Methodist churches will worship together this year at Big Miller Grove. It starts at 7 p.m. First Afrikan Presbyterian’s pastor, the Rev. Mark Lomax, will preach and the Ousley UMC Choir will sing. The churches, which are located within a mile of each other, have co-hosted the annual worship service for more than 18 years. The community is invited. Big Miller Grove Baptist Church is at 3800 Big Miller Grove Way. For more information, call 770-981-3800.

Welcome Santa! November 25th - 9 a.m.

3025 Turner Hill Road Lithonia, GA 30038 • (678) 323-8223

ww w. M ar lin An dR ay sS ea fo od .co

Enjoy cookies and milk with Santa

Saturday, November 26th 9:30 a.m. - Food Court Please RSVP at Accessory Square - Macy’s Wing Only $3.00 per family (Limit 7)

2050 Lawrenceville Hwy, Decatur, GA 30033

www.northdekalbmall.com

Sponsored by

what’s turf without surf?

Enjoy our tender, juicy steak seasoned and seared to perfection. Right now we are pairing it with our succulent broiled lobster tail for an unbelievable price. Because after all, steak without lobster is just unsophisticated.

$12

And k a e T S . 9 9 Lobster

Receive a Lobster Tail & Petite Sirloin for $12.99. Please present coupon at time of order. Not valid with daily specials, other coupon or holiday offers, gift card purchases, for alcoholic beverages, or in conjunction with our GiveBack program. Limit one coupon per check. Duplicated or altered coupons will not be accepted. Tax and gratuity excluded. Valid for dine-in only. Coupons cannot be resold, traded or used multiple times and have no cash value.

CLT3TH1 Valid: November 18 - 27, 2011

Youth

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011

“She was elated, but at the same time she wanted everyone to know that she still regrets that this terrible accident occurred.”

Holidays no excuse for taking break from being healthy There’s more to Thanksgiving than the food, and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta wants parents and their kids to be healthy this holiday and year-round. Dr. Stephanie Walsh, the hospital system’s medical director of Child Wellness, says Thanksgiving has become increasingly focused on food and eating. She said it is important to remember the purpose of the holiday is Stephanie Walsh not simply to overeat. “Childhood obesity continues to be a threatening epidemic in Georgia,” Walsh said in a Nov. 15 statement. “Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta is continuing to see cases of obesity at all three of its hospitals.” She said that the consequences of obesity

on children include health issues that are typically seen only in adults, such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, sleep apnea, joint problems and high cholesterol. Walsh points to Strong4Life, an initiative of Children’s Healthcare that helps families bring together four essential building blocks every kid needs to be healthy – Eat Right, Be Active, Get Support and Have Fun. “You don’t have to take a break from trying to be healthy just because it’s the holidays,” she said. “Instead, try incorporating one or two of the tips below into your family’s holiday routine.”

Eat right Try to incorporate more whole fruits and vegetables into your Thanksgiving meal. You’ll save on the calories that are often added to fruits and vegetables to make heavy

casseroles. Serve water with sliced lemon or lime with your meal instead of sugary beverages like lemonade, alcohol and sweet tea. You’ll get more flavor with less sugar and calories.

Be active Leading up to Thanksgiving, encourage your family to spend one less hour in front of the television and one more hour of physical activity per day to help offset the extra calories consumed on Thanksgiving Day. On Thanksgiving, consider leaving the TV and computers off all day so your family will have more opportunities to be active.

holiday eating has become an unhealthy habit and work together as a family to make better choices. If you are concerned about childhood obesity, talk to your health care provider about more steps your family can take to lead a healthier lifestyle.

Have fun Play a game of touch football, Frisbee or kickball after the meal to help everyone feel energized rather than lethargic. Promote playtime and encourage fun, physical activities such as hopscotch, jumping rope, tag or hide-and- seek. Walsh said parents should remember that they serve as role models for their children Get support and should make sure their actions are ones Sometimes overindulging at the holi- that they want their children to follow. days can lead to eating unhealthy all of the For more information, visit www.choa time. Try to recognize when your family’s .org/healthandsafetytips.

Sentence overturned in accident

Cash for promising new teacher

finding that the incident was an Shirley Ogilvie, who was senaccident. tenced to a year in prison for Ogilvie’s attorney, Jackie Patrunning over a Princeton secondterson, told WSB-TV News that grader last year, has had her senshe was overjoyed. tence overturned. “She cried and cried,” he said. The Georgia Appeals Court re“She was elated, but at the same versed her conviction on Nov. 14. time she wanted everyone to On Feb. 2, 2009, Ogilvie, who know that she still regrets that lives in Snellville, struck and killed Shirley Ogilvie this terrible accident occurred. 7-year-old Kameron Dunmore in the crosswalk in front of Princeton Elemen- Every accident that takes place is not a crime.” tary School in Lithonia. Ogilvie, 42, was found guilty of secondPolice reports say she ignored a handheld stop sign from a DeKalb Schools cross- degree vehicular homicide and failure to yield to a pedestrian on Sept. 29, 2010. ing guard and struck the child. DeKalb Solicitor-General Sherry BosThe Appeals Court said that a DeKalb State Court trial judge erred in his jury in- ton said she could ask the Appeals Court structions by not giving jurors the option of to reconsider its decision.

by a public school in Georgia, and Decatur High School Spanish demonstrate a high aptitude for teacher Carlos Cardoza-Oquendo teaching. was among 40 of Georgia’s best and Kevin Fletcher, Georgia Power’s brightest new teachers to receive a vice president of Community and $1,000 New Teacher Assistance Economic Development, said Grant from Georgia Power. teacher retention is a national Cardoza-Oquendo, a graducrisis and an important goal in ate of Armstrong Atlantic State the state. University in Savannah, can use C. Cardoza-Oquendo “Research shows that approxithe grant to purchase items such as books, educational materials, computers mately one-third of teachers leave the profession within five years of being hired,” Fletcher and other supplies. Teacher nominations were submitted said. “In order to support and keep these to Georgia Power by the 20 Georgia public highly qualified teachers in the classroom, colleges and universities that have a school we have found that providing them with of education. To be eligible, candidates had incentives early in their professional careers to be in the top 25 percent of their class aca- encourages them to continue educating the demically, be a first-year teacher employed future work force of the state.” Jordan Price signs on with Auburn University under the watchful eyes of his mother, Felisha Price, at Southwest DeKalb High, where he is a top shooting guard.

Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Shooting guard inks Auburn deal By Carla Parker

Jordan Price, a top DeKalb shooting guard, will be taking his skills to Auburn University next fall. The Southwest DeKalb ballplayer signed an athletic scholarship with the Auburn Tigers on Nov. 11 in the Decatur high school’s media center surrounded by family, teammates and coaches. The 6-foot-6, 218-pound senior, who is ranked fourth in Georgia and 10th nationally as a shooting guard, said he is ready to do what he can to make Auburn’s men’s basketball team better. “I want to bring some energy to the squad and leadership,” he said. “I’m an all-around player and I like to do everything.” Jordan averaged 19 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.9 assists per game as a junior at Southwest DeKalb and help lead his team to the Elite Eight of the Class AAAA state playoffs last season. He has 1,353 career points going into this season. He also racked up some awards last season, including the 2010-2011 DeKalb

County Tipoff Club Class AAAA Boys Player of the Month, 2010 DeKalb County Holiday Tournament MVP, and 2010-2011 DeKalb County Tipoff Club Boys Top 20 Player of the Year. As a sophomore, he played at McCallie High School in Chattanooga, where he was named Tennessee’s Mr. Basketball. Before relocating to Chattanooga, Jordan helped lead the Chapel Hill Middle School boys basketball team to a 21-0 undefeated season in 2007-2008 where they won the middle school championship. Before head basketball coach Dwayne McKinney was hired at Southwest DeKalb, he said he always admired Jordan more as a person than a player. “I was so impressed in how he carried himself,” McKinney said. “He has a nature about him that attracts people. He’s a better person than a player.” Jordan said he’s looking forward to having fun with his teammates in his senior season, which began on Nov. 15 – “just having fun with my guys that I’ve been with most of my life and finishing up with a bang.”

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011

Wellness

“If someone is around you smoking, then you are absorbing that into your system – through your hair, your skin and your clothing.” Dr. S. Elizabeth Ford launch smoke-free campaign with help of Lithonia Mayor Tonya Peterson and DeKalb Commissioner Larry Johnson.

Holiday to dos for empty-nesters Empty-nesters who may be feeling a bit forlorn for the holidays can start new traditions. That’s the advice from baby boomer consumer specialist Kate Forgach. Instead of feeling sorry for themselves, Forgach, who has been featured in national newspapers and TV shows, of- Kate Forgach fers these tips:

And take advantage of gift cards at such sites as www.giftcardgranny.com/buy-gift-cards to reduce your bill up to 30 percent.

Spend the day at a shelter Forgach said one of her favorite activities is cooking dinner at her local homeless shelter. “Actually, I don’t cook the turkey dinner itself. Instead, I use the leftovers to create future meals for the shelter. It just seems a huge waste to throw away all those bird bones when the makings for broth and casseroles are readily available.” Visit HomelessShelterDirectory.org for a list Host an orphan’s dinner It really helps to remember you’re not alone in of volunteer opportunities. this boat, Forgach says. There are plenty of people who would greatly appreciate an invitation to Brighten someone else’s day Many nursing homes and hospitals would socialize while enjoying a touch of turkey. “I threw such a party last year and asked greatly appreciate a visitor who will bring some everyone to bring a dish to pass. The only thing friendship into what may otherwise be a very I had to buy and prepare was the turkey, which lonely day. Check out http://blog.cleveland.com/ made it even easier than being a parental unit in health/2008/12/dos_and_donts_for_visiting_hos. html for guidelines for visitors. this scenario.” Retire to a restaurant Dine out at one of the many eateries that do all the work for you. You’ll enjoy the football games much more if you don’t have to leap up every 15 minutes to baste a bird.

Get out of town “A childless couple I know make a point of leaving home for the holidays, usually preferring to spend the long weekend scuba diving.” Or team up with another single or pair and rent a cabin.

Put safety and preparation in holiday travels Thousands of families will be on the move for the Thanksgiving holiday, and the Better Business Bureau says staying safe should be a top priority. Fred T. Elsberry Jr., local BBB president and CEO, says motorists need to be more vigilant because of weather and increased traffic. “Before loading up the family, make sure the car is in good shape and you’re prepared for bad weather,” he said this week. “While you’re driving, put down your cell phone or GPS and focus on the road ahead.”

For safe driving this holiday season, BBB urges motorists to create a car safety kit. Basics include a blanket, flashlight with extra batteries, radio, first-aid kit, jumper cables, non-perishable foods like granola bars and nuts, bottled water, an ice scraper, and warm gloves. Also, take the car in for a checkup. At the very least, check fluid levels, wipers and tire pressure. Start early and slow down, and drop the distractions. For more information, visit www.bbb .org/us/consumer-tips-holiday.

Start the Holiday Season with a Beautiful Smile!

• Receive $100 OFF Comprehensive Orthodontic Treatment • 50% Off Clear Braces and 24K Gold Braces • Treatment for Children, Teens & Adults

We Offer No Interest Low Payment Plans

Special Discounts For All of Our Heroes: Including Educators, EMTs, Firefighters, Health Care Workers, Law Enforcement, Military, and Parcel Workers

Call Today To Schedule Your Free Consultation! Dr. Allise M. Calloway 4919 Flat Shoals Parkway, Suite 210

(678) 418-3000

Please Visit our Website for More Information: chapelhillortho.com

Carla Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Secondhand smoke targeted By Carla Parker

The DeKalb Board of Health wants DeKalb residents to picture DeKalb healthy and free of secondhand cigarette smoke. “Picture DeKalb Healthy,” which launched on Nov. 16, will encourage residents to imagine and create a healthier county by reducing their secondhand smoke exposure. The campaign will include radio, online and newspaper advertisements in English and Spanish. It also will host special events to educate the community on the dangers of secondhand smoke. District Health Director S. Elizabeth Ford said there is simply no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. “[Secondhand smoke] is not just a nuisance and it’s not just an irritation,” Ford said. “If someone is around you smoking, then you are absorbing that into your system – through your hair, through your skin and through your clothing.” Even though only 11 percent of DeKalb adults smoke, compared with 21 percent nationally, the board says everyone is at risk for exposure

to secondhand smoke, which contains hundreds of toxic chemicals. Risks associated with secondhand smoke include cancer, heart disease, asthma attacks, respiratory and ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome. “What the studies have shown is that there is really just no risk-free level of smoke,” Ford said. District 3 Commissioner Larry Johnson said he is happy to welcome this campaign to DeKalb. “As a county, it is very important that we come together and think about the way we reduce our exposure to secondhand smoke. This initiative in particular will help protect air quality in our community and reduce the incidence of respiratory disease, asthma attacks and other health issues.” People interested in creating and supporting smoke-free environments can join Live Healthy DeKalb, a group of organizations, faith-based groups, businesses and residents working together to create a healthier DeKalb. For more information, visit www .dekalbhealth.net. Residents looking for support and resources to quit smoking can call the Georgia QuitLine at 1-877270-STOP.

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011

Marketplace Call 404-284-1888 to Advertise in the CrossRoadsNews Marketplace attorneys

Chrismtoleslaw.com

CALLING ALL DANCERS!

GARAGE DOOR MEDICS LLC.

is looking for dance team members. Specializing in jazz, lyrical, hip hop, and modern dance technique.

Call Now for More Information (678) 278-8403

Food

School Law Attorney Representing Teachers Attorney Chris M. Toles Criminal Defense Personal Injury • DUI 770-827-4836

home services

F.I.E.R.C.E. Dance

Reach More of the People Who Matter Most – Local Customers! attorneys

dance

School of Nursing Assistant • State of the Art facility • Affordable tuition • Payment plans available • Uniforms, stethoscope, blood pressure cuff and other items included in tuition • Convenient to MARTA

A safe, comfortable place to leave your loved ones. Offering devotions, games, crafts & more.

0 35ION

$UIT

T ECI SP

Your road to success

1999 Candler Road • Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-3030 • ALSIIc@bellsouth.net

3355 Snapfinger Road•Hwy 155•Lithonia, GA 30058

decaturbiblechapel.org

Reach more than 15 million households served by over 1,020 suburban and community newspapers around North America and Canada. 25-word ad starts at $240 weekly. Discount Contact Rates Available. For more information, call 404-284-1888

CASH FOR CARS! Any Make, Model or Year. We Pay MORE! Running or Not. Sell Your Car or Truck TODAY. Free Towing! Instant Offer: 1-888-545-8647

Adoptions ADOPTION- A loving alternative to unplanned pregnancy. You choose the family for your child. Receive pictures/info of waiting/ approved couples. Living expense assistance. 1-866-2367638 A DREAM IS A Wish Your Heart Makes. Our Wish Is A Child To Love. 877-742-6556 www. richandmyriam.com

Business Opportunity PAID IN ADVANCE! Make $1000 Weekly Mailing Brochures from Home. Income is guaranteed! No experience required. Enroll Today! www.national-mailers.net Make Up To $2,000.00+ Per Week! New Credit Card Ready

Employment Opportunities Earn up to $150 per day Undercover Shoppers Needed to Judge Retail & Dining Establishments Experience Not Required Call Now 1-888-891-4244 Help Wanted!!! Make $1000 a Week processing our mail! FREE Supplies! Helping Home-Workers since 2001! Genuine Opportunity! No experience required. Start Immediately! www.national-mailers. net Local data entry/typists neeed immediately. $400 PT- $800 FT weekly. Flexible schedule, work from own PC. 1-800-798-1763

Education & Training EARN COLLEGE DEGREE ONLINE. *Medical, *Business, *Criminal Justice. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 800-488-0386 www. CenturaOnline.com AIRLINES ARE HIRING- Train for high paying Aviation Maintenance Career. FAA approved program. Financial aid if qualified- Housing available. CALL Aviation Institute of Maintenance (877)818-0783

Open Monday & Friday

Now Offering Hourly Accommodations To Schedule An Appointment, Call 770-322-1973

multi-newspaper placement service!

DONATE YOUR VEHICLE Receive $1000 GROCERY COUPONS. UNITED BREAST CANCER FOUNDATION. Free Mammograms, Breast Cancer Info www.ubcf.info FREE Towing, Tax Deductible, Non-Runners Accepted. 1- 800-728-0801

(404) 244-5565

www.herbsistah.com

A Ministry Of Decatur Bible Chapel “Serving Our Community”

One-order, one-invoice,

Drink-Snack Vending Machines. Minimum $3K to $30K+ Investment Required. Locations Available. BBB Accredited Business. (800) 962-9189

CALL TODAY– 404-732-7526

services

Burroughs Johnson Hopewell Coleman

Autos

• Military Discounts • Superior Customer Service

Serving Our Communities Since 2001 100% Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed

Email: info@herbsistah.com

education

“Taking Care of Your Legal Needs”

• Free Estimates • Senior Citizen Discounts

Wholistic Education Consultant Organic Master Gardener Formulator of The Herb Lady Herbals Naturally work on: • Fibroids • Parasites • Children’s Issues • Menopause • Seasonal Issues • Kleanzing & Detox • Men’s Nature For Your Wholistic Education Consultation, Classes, Lectures & more, Visit online or call today!

$45 and up

attorneys

4262 Clausell Court • Decatur, GA 30035 404/289-2244 • bjhlawyers.com

GARAGE DOOR MED ICS

Health / Nutrition

404-525-6902

• Bankruptcy • Personal Injury • Divorce/Family Law

24/7 Emergency Service

Repairs • Replacements • Frame Ins

Eshe Faizah Herbalist/Master Formulator

The Law Office of B.A. Thomas, LLC

Attorneys at Law

“We Cure All Garage Door Ills”

ALLIED HEALTH CAREER TRAINING- Attend college 100% online. Job placement assistance. Computer available. Financial Aid if qualified. SCHEV certified. Call 800-481-9409 www.CenturaOnline.com

Health & Fitness

infection! Call 866-993-5043

tee. Call Today! 1-888-799-3451

ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a FREE Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-903-6658

DISH Network. Starting at $19.99/ month PLUS 30 Premium Movie Channels FREE for 3 Months! SAVE! & Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL - 877-992-1237

Local STD/HIV Testing Did you know you can have an STD and show no symptoms? Early detection and treatment can prevent permanent damage? Highest levels of privacy and discretion. Call 1-888-737-4941

Lose 7-15 lbs. In 7 Days Eat the Foods You Enjoy Quickly and Dramatically Shrink Your Waistline Lose Weight and Keep it Off www.lose15poundsin7days.com

Affordable Health Insurance for EVERYONE!! Uninsured? Dissatisfied? Been Turned down? Call Now We Can Help Licensed Agents Standing By 1-800-9512167

PROFLOWERS. Send Flowers for Every Occasion! Anniversary, Birthday, Just Because. Starting at just $19.99. Go to www.proflowers.com/fresh to receive an extra 20% off your order or Call 1-866-684-6172

Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90 percent on all your medication needs. Call Today 888-459-9961 for $25.00 off your first prescription and free shipping. ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA SUFFERERS with Medicare. Get FREE CPAP Replacement Supplies at NO COST, plus FREE home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial

Misc. For Sale

100% Guaranteed Omaha Steaks - SAVE 64% on the Family Value Collection. NOW ONLY $49.99 Plus 3 FREE GIFTS & right-to-the-door delivery in a reusable cooler, ORDER Today. 1-888-543-7297 and mention code 45069SKS or www.OmahaSteaks.com/fvc11 READERS & MUSIC LOVERS. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. BONUS: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guaran-

Living in Pain? Real Time Pain Relief Lotion Relieves Pain in Minutes. 10 Single Application Travel Packs only $9.95 Call 888225-1522. Smells Good Too! Dish Network lowest nationwide price ONLY $19.99 a month. GET FREE HBO/Cinemax/ Starz, FREE Blockbuster, FREE HD-DVR and installation. Next day install. CALL NOW!!! 1-800298-4509

Miscellaneous Advertise your product or service nationwide or by region in up to 12 million households in North America’s best suburbs! Place your classified ad in over 750 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466 or go to www. classifiedavenue.net Are you over-paying for Home Insurance? Call NOW and SAVE up to $556 per yr! Compare multiple quotes in mins from Travelers, Hartford, Progressive, etc. Call: 1-888-704-6933 Earn $1000 a week Mailing

Brochures from Home. Free Supplies! Guaranteed Income! No experience required. Start Today. www.national-mailers.net AT&T U-Verse for just $29.99/ mo! SAVE when you bundle Internet+Phone+TV and get up to $300 BACK! (Select plans). Limited Time Call NOW! 1-866944-0810 FREE GAS! Receive $300 Gasoline Savings! Gasoline Stimulus Program provides $300 gas savings to participants of driving survey. Local Stations- Major Brands! Call now 877-301-1681

Real Estate 15 ARIZONA RANCH LOTS! 50% OFF! AAA+ View Lots. $0 Down! Starting $99/MO! Guaranteed Financing! Near Tucson’s Int’l Airport www.sunsiteslandrush.com 1-800-659-9957 Promo Code 7

Land for Sale LAND LIQUIDATION 20 Acres $0 Down $99/mo. ONLY $12,900 Near Growing El Paso, Texas Owner Financing NO CREDIT CHECKS! Money Back Guarantee Free Color Brochure 800-7558953 www.sunsetranches.com

Timeshares Ask yourself, what is your TIMESHARE worth? We will find a buyer/renter for CA$H. NO GIMMICKS- JUST RESULTS! www.BuyATimeshare.com (888)879-7165

Wanted to Buy WANTED YOUR DIABETES TEST STRIPS. Unexpired .We buy Any Kind/Brand. Pay up to $22.00 per box. Shipping Paid. Hablamos espanol. Call 1-800267-9895 www.SellDiabeticstrips. com

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011

youth services

BUILDING MATERIALS

Marketplace

Steel Buildings. Reduced Factory Inventory. 30x36 - Reg $12,100 Now $9,700. 36x58 - Reg $19,550 Now $16,300. 866-6094321. Source: 1KC

EMPLOYMENT Delivery Drivers: CDL-A. Great Benefits/Hometime. AVG Pay $60,000. MBM’s Newnan Distribution Center - Coming Jan 2012 1yr TT Exp Req. Apply: www. mbmcareers.com

750 rent/ 350 deposit. Call Harold 678-939-6591 Section 8 welcome.

REAL ESTATE Stone Mtn 4bd 3ba, LR DR Den, $79k $900 dn, $675 @mon 1 888 269 6795 x138 TL Rlty Stone Mtn forclosure, 4bd, 2ba, LR Dr den, Southland 160k, $965 @mon 1888 269 6795 x191 TL Rlty

WHERE EVERY KID PLAYS

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.

miscellaneous

2bd 2bath condo,Stone Mountain, new appliances, washer dryer hook up, fireplace, wood floors.

spa / salon

2273 Brockett Rd. • Tucker Ga. 30084 678.438.5585

Pretty Brows & Lashes Combo $15 15% Off Jewelry Expires 11/30/11

Paint & Sip

An evening of artistic expression and a glass of wine

Sat., Nov. 19 • 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. • $10 p/person

RSVP 678.438.5585

services

retail

Big End of Year Sale! Soul Discount Fabrics & Upholstery to Up Off 50% Sale

YOU CAN GET THIS AD FOR ONLY $75/WK!

279 Candler Road • Atlanta, GA 30317 Open Mon-Sat • 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

404-963-6485 • 404-966-8320

ALSTON DRIVE SE

ROA

✓ Dress Fabric ✓ Designer Fabric ✓ Upholstery Fabric ✓ Drapery Fabric

MEMORIAL DRIVE SE

R DLE

Call 404-284-1888 for details.

Novs Start . 19

CAN

(It’s like passing out 28,000 business cards!)

NOW REGISTERING

SOUTH DEKALB FAMILY YMCA Ages 3-17 • www.ymcaregistration.com Call 770-987-3500 for details legal Notice

FOR RENT/LEASE

November Special

YOUTH SPORTS Basketball

GLENWOOD ROAD

NOTICE OF SALE UNDER POWER Georgia, DeKalb County Under and by virtue of the Power of Sale contained in a Deed to Secure Debt and Security Agreement given by Daydreams Early Learning Center, Inc. to Children of the Future Day Care, Inc, dated January 31, 2006, recorded February 10, 2006 in Deed Book 18408, Page 763, DeKalb County Records, recorded in the Office of the Clerk of the Superior Court of DeKalb County, Georgia, conveying the after-described property to secure a Note in the original principal amount of NINE HUNDRED TWENTY-THREE THOUSAND AND NO/100 DOLLARS ($923,000.00), with interest thereon as set forth therein, there will be sold by the under signed at public outcry to the highest bidder for cash before the courthouse door of DeKalb County, Georgia, within the legal hours of sale on the first Tuesday in December 2011, the following described property: All the tract or parcel of land lying and being in Land Lot 61 of the 15th District of DeKalb County, Georgia, being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at an iron pin found on the southeasterly right-of-way line of Flakes Mill Road (100í R/W), said iron pin being located a distance of 200.0 feet southwesterly, as measured along the southeasterly right-of-way line of Flakes Mill Road, from the intersection of the southeasterly right-of-way line of Flakes Mill Road and the right-of-way line of Flat Shoals Road; thence leaving the southeasterly right-of-way line of Flakes Mill Road and running South 74 degrees 24 minutes and 45 seconds East a distance of 300.0 feet to an iron pin found; running thence South 19 degrees 40 minutes 00 seconds West a distance of 124.0 feet to an iron pin found; running thence North 74 degrees 24 minutes 45 seconds West a distance of 300.0 feet to an iron pin found on the southeasterly right-of-way line of Flakes Mill Road; thence running in a northeasterly direction a distance of 124.0 feet, as measured along the southeasterly right-of-way line of Flakes Mill Road, to an iron pin found on the southeasterly right-of-way line of Flakes Mill Road and the Point of Beginning. The above described property is described according to a survey prepared for Children of the Future Day Care, Inc., and Decatur Federal Savings and Loan Association, said survey being prepared by Eston Pendley & Associates, Inc., Eston Pendley, R.L.S. No. 945, said survey being dated March 11, 1988. The debt secured by said Deed to Secure Debt and Security Agreement has been and is hereby declared due because of, among other possible events of default, failure to the indebtedness as and when due and in the manner provided in the Note and Deed to Secure Debt and Security Agreement. The debt remaining in default, this sale will be made for the purpose of paying the same and all expenses in this sale, as provided in the Deed to Secure Debt and Security Agreement and by law, including attorneyís fees (notice of intent to collect attorneyís fees having been given). Said property will be sold subject to an outstanding ad valorem taxes (including taxes which are a lien, but not yet due and payable), any matters which might be disclosed by an accurate survey and inspection of the property, any assessments, liens, encumbrances, zoning ordinances, restrictions, covenants, and matters of record superior to the Deed to Secure Debt and Security Agreement first set out above. To the best knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the party in possession of the property is Daydreams Early Learning Center, Inc. or a tenant or tenants and said property is more commonly known as 3616 Flakes Mill Road, Decatur, GA 30034.

CrossRoadsNews

November 19, 2011