CrossRoadsNews, Thanksgiving 2013 by CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

COMMUNITY

HOLIDAY

Chow down with Santa

Beating the leftover blues

Thousands marched and demonstrated for civil rights in the 1960s. Now the DeKalb NAACP wants to honor the movement’s less famous soldiers. 4

From Decatur to Stone Mountain, jolly old St. Nick will be eating and drinking with kids at breakfasts, teas, and cookies and milk events. 6

After the Thanksgiving meal, what to do with all those leftovers? DeKalb Cooperative Extension offers lots of useful tips. 9

Foot soldiers sought

WELLNESS

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

Thanksgiving 2013

Volume 19, Number 31

www.crossroadsnews.com

Thanksgiving need great, community to the rescue By Ken Watts and Jennifer Ffrench Parker

lot at the Gallery at South DeKalb, waiting for the DeKalb NAACP Turkey Giveaway to begin at noon. In the line were young people and senior citizens, some in wheelchairs and others supported by walkers and canes. Windy Hinesman of Decatur said she got to the parking lot at 6 a.m. so she would be among the first in line. She said she needed the turkey she received. “I just couldn’t afford one,” she said. Hinesman said her husband, Joe, died on Jan. 29 and she has yet to receive his Social Security benefits. “I am still fighting for it,” she said. “It’s been extremely hard. I haven’t paid my light bill or gas bill either.”

Ida Jackson, who is on a fixed income, stood in line for hours on Nov. 23 so that she could get a turkey for Thanksgiving from the DeKalb NAACP.

Forklift operator Edward Crenshaw hasn’t seen a paycheck since 2003. That’s how long he has been unemployed. Crenshaw said chronic obstructive pulmonary disease forced him to go on disability. “Right now I don’t have much income and I’m staying with my mom,” he said. On Nov. 23, he was one of more than 300 people who lined up outside Saint Philip AME Church’s food pantry hoping to get a turkey for his family’s Thanksgiving meal. Two miles down Candler Road, hundreds of men and women circled a Macy’s parking Please see THANKSGIVING, page 10

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Family Thankful for Son’s Recovery Because of his fight to recover from a stroke, 4-yearold Jeremiah Truesdale, front right, was the first to ride the Macy’s Pink Pig train at Lenox Square. With him are his mother, Kay; father Benny; and little brother Joshua.

Jeremiah worked hard after suffering debilitating stroke By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Kay Truesdale will never forget how helpless she felt six months ago watching her 4-year-old son Jeremiah in the throes of a massive stroke. At the time, she didn’t know it was a stroke, but luckily for both of them, it happened while Jeremiah was hospitalized at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta at Egleston. The family was scheduled to leave for a long-planned vacation on May 13 when Jeremiah became ill and was hospitalized. Two days later, Truesdale, who had taken up residence in his hospital room, said her “miracle baby” was unusually clingy. “All of sudden his right arm started dangling,” she said. “He was whining and groaning and his face became distorted.” She shouted for the nurse, and then she began to pray, familiar turf for Truesdale who had been in and out of doctor’s offices and hospitals since August 2011, when her 2½-year-old toddler first collapsed in the kitchen of their Stone Mountain home. Truesdale said that he just fell to the floor and couldn’t get up. When she scooped him in her arms, his small chest was just pounding away. “His heart was beating like a drum,” Truesdale remembers. “We could tell this was not normal.” On Aug. 20, 2011, little Jeremiah was diagnosed with restrictive cardiomyopathy – a disease that weakens the muscles of the heart so that it cannot pump blood the way it should. Truesdale calls Jeremiah her miracle baby because he was born after four miscarriages. She said that she and husband, Benny, had all but given up on having a baby together.

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

“I am most thankful that God allowed us to be at that hospital when Jeremiah had that stroke. Had we been on vacation, the outcome would have been very different.” Kay Truesdale

When they married in July 2003, her husband became a doting father to Destiny, her then 4-year-old daughter. Still, Truesdale said they both thought they would grow their family. “But I could never get out of my first trimester,” she said. Believing it was not in the cards for them, they settled down to raise Destiny. Truesdale said she enrolled at Beulah Heights College and was busy with her stud-

joy.” He was followed by Joshua on July 13, 2010. Truesdale said Jeremiah was full of energy, running around and playing hard, but months before his 2011 collapse, he began complaining that his back was itchy. “I would scratch his back,” she said. “He would lay on me for a while, then he would be up and gone again.” Soon his mother noticed that he was stopping to rest when he was playing in the back yard. “I would look out the window and he was panting,” she said. “And he always sweat so easily.” One day he came into the kitchen and told her, “‘Mommy, I need to go to the doc-

ies when her pastor asked her if she was pregnant. After effusive denials, she and Benny got confirmation from a home pregnancy kit, and then the doctor. It turned out she was three months along, and on Dec. 13, 2008, she gave birth to a healthy, 7-pound-plus baby boy. “Of all the babies we lost before, God willed him to be here,” she said. “It was hard to believe that after all these years, God had blessed me with this little life. It was pure Please see JEREMIAH, page 4

CrossRoadsNews

Introducing New

Talk to your doctor to learn more or visit www.tivicay.com

Thanksgiving 2013

Community

CrossRoadsNews

Thanksgiving 2013

“The General Assembly is absolutely unrestricted in its power to legislate, so long as it does not undertake to enact measures prohibited by the Constitution.”

Supreme Court upholds Deal’s removal of DeKalb School Board By Ken Watts

The outsted DeKalb School Board members last resort for reinstatement evaporated Nov. 25 when the Georgia Supreme Court unanimously upheld the 2010 state law that authorized Gov. Nathan Deal to suspend and remove six members from office in February. In the 47-page ruling, the court said that few things are more important than the education of our children. “As the people of Georgia seek to improve Georgia’s educational system, this Court must be mindful of the broad discretion granted by the Constitution to local school boards to manage and control local school systems.” the justices wrote. “For all the reasons set forth herein, however, we conclude that OCGA § 20-2-73 is not an unconstitutional infringement upon the governing authority of local school boards, nor

“This is a big blow to the Constitution and to public education. The Constitution provides for the removal of local officials by recall, not the whim of the governor.” Eugene Walker

is it a violation of any other constitutional provision or right.” Dr. Eugene Walker, the former District 9 boardmember and the board’s chairman when he was removed, challenged the constitutionality of the law on March 1. He said that he was disappointed at the Supreme Court’s ruling but was not really surprised. “This is a big blow to the Constitution and to public education.” he said hours after the ruling was released. “The Constitution provides for the removal of local officials by

recall, not the whim of the governor.” Gov. Nathan Deal suspended and later removed six of the school board’s nine members – Walker, Nancy Jester, District 1, Sarah Copelin-Wood, District 3, Jesse “Jay” Cunningham, District 5, Donna Edler, District 7, and Dr. Pamela A. Speaks, District 8, in the wake of SACS, the school district acrediting agency, placing it on probation for governace and other issues. The remaining three board members were new to the board and were not on the board when the SACs made its Dec. 14, 2012 decision. Deal appointed six new members to the board on March 16. Walker filed a lawsuit in the United States District Court, alleging that the law violates both the United States Constitution and

Georgia Constitution, and seeking declaratory and injunctive relief. The court denied him relief and sent the the constitiutional issue to the Supereme Court. “The General Assembly is absolutely unrestricted in its power to legislate, so long as it does not undertake to enact measures prohibited by the State or Federal Constitution,” the justices said. The justices said that while local boards of education have authority to manage and control the school system within their territory, they must do so in compliance with applicable constitutional and statutory laws. With the ruling, the lawsuit now goes back to U.S. District Court where Judge Richard Story is expected dismiss it. The case is also getting an administrative hearing in Fulton County Superior Court. Judge Cynthia Wright on Nov. 19 heard a challenge to the removal of late board member Donna Edler.

Supporters packed courtroom for hearing into Donna Edler’s removal By Ken Watts

hearing weeks before her death, and Edler’s family Friends and family and lawyer E. Brian Watof the late Donna Edler, kins decided to go ahead former District 7 DeKalb with it in an effort to clear School Board member, her name. packed a Fulton County Gov. Nathan Deal susSuperior Courtroom on pended and later removed Nov. 19 for an appeal Edler and five other board E. Brian Watkins Donna Edler hearing that had been members in February scheduled before her death. after the school district’s accrediting agency Edler, who died Oct. 29, fought her replaced it on probation. Deal replaced the six moval from the board until her death from board members with his appointees. complications of breast cancer. The Georgia Attorney General’s OfJudge Cynthia Wright granted the fice said at the hearing that due to Edler’s

Rev. Jeremiah Wright for FAPC’s 20th On Dec. 7, he will be among The Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright, panelists discussing African-cenpastor emeritus of Trinity United tered Christianity at the Franklin Church of Christ in Chicago, will be Auditorium on the Interdenominathe guest preacher at First Afrikan tional Theological Center campus Church’s 20th anniversary worship in Atlanta. Other panelists for the service on Dec. 8. 2-to-4 p.m. event are the Revs. Wright, who was President BaSusan Oyabi Mitchell and Derrick rack Obama’s former pastor, came under scrutiny during the presi- Jeremiah Wright Rice, co-pastors of Sankofa United Church of Christ; Dr. Itihari Toure, dent’s first run for office in 2008. He will speak at the Lithonia’s church’s adjunct professor of Christian education at ITC; and the Rev. Dr. Mark Ogunwale Lo10 a.m. worship service. Wright was Trinity’s pastor for 36 years max, First Afrikan’s pastor and an associate before his retirement in 2008. He spends his professor of homiletics at ITC. First Afrikan Church is at 5197 Salem time preaching, teaching and leading study Road. For information, call 770-981-2601. tours to Africa, Brazil and the Caribbean.

Awards honor three pinnacles of success city councilGeorgia Piedman, took mont Technical over the helm College President of GPTC on Jabari Simama, Sept. 1, 2012. Juanita B ates WashingWashington of ton is CEO Anuschka Health and president Care Management of Anuschka, Group and lifestyle Jabari Simama Juanita Washington which offers expert/chef Sean Sean O’Keefe O’Keefe will be honored at the Dec. 5 Pinna- wellness coaching, yoga, meditation, massage, nail care, and facial treatments. cle Awards & Scholarship Gala in Atlanta. Celebrity chef O’Keefe is a designer, nonThe ceremony hosted by the Live Healthy & Thrive Youth Foundation recognizes peo- profit specialist and event stylist. Lori A. Manns, Live Healthy & Thrive ple who have reached the pinnacle of success in their field and embody philanthropy. It founder and president, says the foundation takes place at 7 p.m. at Georgia Power, 241 serves one child, one family and one community at a time. “I’m so excited about the work Ralph McGill Blvd. in Atlanta. Four DeKalb County and Atlanta Public we are doing to empower and support high Schools students planning to major in medi- school students … as well as honoring excine, health care, education, hospitality or traordinary Atlanta professionals who excel culinary arts will get $500 book scholarships in their careers and embody philanthropy.” There will be a gourmet dinner buffet, for their freshman year of college. Atlanta Schools Superintendent Erroll silent auction and live music. For more information and tickets, visit B. Davis Jr. is the keynote speaker, and Elle http://2013pinnacleawardsgala.eventbrite. Duncan of WXIA-TV/11 Alive is host. Simama, an author and former Atlanta com.

death, the “plaintiffs no longer have a party involved.” Watkins argued that if the governor had not removed her, Edler’s family might still have rights to her remaining salary from August to the day of her death, which would give them standing in the dispute. He also said voters have a constitutional stake in the case since Edler was a lawfully elected member of the board and had more than a year and a half left in her term. Wright said she will forgo the constitutional issues in the dismissal because the matter is already under review by the State Supreme Court. Dr. Eugene Walker, ousted

District 9 board member, sued the state, saying that state law 20-2-73, which gave Deal the authority to remove local board members, is unconstitutional and was against the will of the voters. A ruling in Walker’s favor could reinstate the ousted board members. Wright told Watkins to file a brief on the issue of “substitution of parties” by Nov. 25 explaining how Edler’s estate still has standing in the case. Watkins said on Nov. 21 that it’s a difficult and tricky legal issue. “But I got the impression that the judge was interested in our argument as well as the other side’s and will give us due consideration,” he said.

CrossRoadsNews

Community

Thanksgiving 2013

“These people are dying off. We don’t want to lose their stories. We want them to know we have not forgotten their bravery.” Thousands of people marched, demonstrated and staged sit-ins during the 1960s civil rights era. The NAACP will recognize them on Jubilee Day on Jan. 1.

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 Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Copy Editor Brenda Yarbrough Editorial Intern Vince Bailey Jr. Advertising Sales Jeanette Ross Kathy E. Warner Billing Clerk Charmyne Montfort Circulation Manager Jami Ffrench-Parker CrossRoadsNews is published every Saturday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsNews 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

NAACP seeks civil rights foot soldiers for honor By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

It was 50 years ago, but the DeKalb NAACP thinks it’s time to recognize the foot soldiers of the civil rights movement who are still among us. For its annual Jubilee Day ceremony on Jan. 1, the chapter plans to honor as many of the men and women who marched, demonstrated and participated on Freedom Rides and in lunch counter sit-ins

that they can find. Dee Smith, Jubilee Day chair, said they know the big names of the movement but not the names of the foot soldiers. “We know that DeKalb County citizens participated in events held in DeKalb County and in Washington, Selma, Birmingham and other places,” she said. “These people are getting older and dying off. We don’t want to lose their stories. We want them to know we have not

forgotten their bravery.” To honor the DeKalb unsung heroes of the 1960s civil rights movement, the chapter first has to find them. Smith is asking for names and contact information. She is appealing to families who have relatives who were active in the movement to identify them so they can record their stories. “Anyone who was a foot soldier or knows someone who was a foot soldier should contact the DeKalb

NAACP branch office,” she said. The NAACP has partnered with the University of Georgia School of Social Work to get these historical stories recorded. Jubilee Day, which commemorates the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation, takes place Jan. 1 at 10 a.m. at Rainbow Park Baptist Church in Decatur. To identify a foot soldier, email naacpdek@comcast.net or call 404241-8006 by Nov. 30.

Stone Mountain family grateful for medical team that cared for son JEREMIAH,

from page

tor.’” After the stroke in May, Jeremiah was in a medically induced coma in the intensive care unit for nine days. On May 24, he was transferred to Scottish Rite Critical Intake Rehabilitation in a wheelchair, unable to sit up without help and support. “He couldn’t talk, he wore Pampers and Pull-Ups again,” she said. “He couldn’t use the right side of his body at all, but most of all his beautiful smile was lost.” But four days later, Jeremiah spoke his first word again. He hasn’t looked back. Heather Markley, his physical therapist, said Jeremiah worked hard on his recovery every day from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. “He had a great attitude,” she said. “He just did such an amazing job.” Before long, Jeremiah was inspiring and encouraging other children going through therapy. When he began running again, she said he called himself “Jaguar Jeremiah.”

Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Jeremiah Truesdale (center) posed on the Pink Pig ride with sister Destiny, parents Benny and Kay, and brother Joshua on Oct. 30.

“He gave nicknames to all the other children,” Markley said. “Everybody had a better time when he was around.” Because of his fighting spirit and his remarkable recovery, when the call came to nominate a patient to be the first child to ride the Macy’s Pink Pig train on Oct. 30 at Lenox Square, Markley said he

was the first kid that popped into her head. “When he came here, he couldn’t walk or do much,” she said. “When he left, he was running and jumping. For such a young kid, he was really motivated.” His mother called Jeremiah’s doctors and rehabilitation team “amazing people.”

“I am most thankful that God allowed us to be at that hospital when Jeremiah had that stroke,” she said. “Had we been on vacation, the outcome would have been very different.” Truesdale says her son is speaking, dressing himself and running again because he is a fighter and because of all the prayers that went up for him. “He likes to see the amazement on people’s face when he accomplishes something,” she said. On Nov. 28, when her family gathers at her mother’s home for a Thanksgiving dinner, Truesdale said they will be thankful for a lot more than the fried turkey, corn bread dressing, sweet potato souffle, lima beans, and black-eyed peas. Jeremiah’s recovery will be at the top of their list of things to be thankful for. She says that he still sleeps in his hand brace and he is still taking outpatient therapy once a week, but his outlook is good. “People think we are crazy when we say this, but it’s true!” she said. “Our faith is in God to bring Jeremiah through it all.”

index to advertisers

Circulation Audited By Art Awakening............................................... 11 Big Bear Supermarket..................................... 3 Decatur Business Association..........................6 DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court.................... 10 First Ladies Palace.......................................... 5 GlaxoSmithKline............................................. 2 JenCare Medical Centers.................................9

L&H Healthcare Communications................... 8 Law Office of Trichelle Griggs Simmons........ 11 Macy’s............................................................. 7 Meat Masters Outlet...................................... 11 North DeKalb Mall.......................................... 5 Optiworld Medical and Vision Center............. 7 The Fruitgrass Company, LLC.........................9

The Law Office of B.A. Thomas..................... 11 Walmart.........................................................12 Wright Vision Care.......................................... 8 Ashley Furniture Homestore...................Inserts Best Buy Co. Inc......................................Inserts Holistic Health Management Inc.............Inserts

Walgreens...............................................Inserts Walmart..................................................Inserts Allstate - Rochelle Bridges Johnson....... Online Decatur Business Association................. Online Georgia Military College........................ Online Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center. Online

CrossRoadsNews

Thanksgiving 2013

Holiday

“This is a really great event and we hope it continues for years to come.”

Festival of Trees kicks off with Nov. 30 holiday tree lighting Yvonne Gunter loves Christmas, and all her friends and church members know it. So when they heard that the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center was doing a Festival of Trees for the holidays, somebody sent her name to the center. On Nov. 30, Gunter’s “Princess Palace” Tree will be among 14 decorated Christmas trees on display in the center’s first Festival of Trees. All the Christmas trees are decorated by businesses, civic and community groups, families, and a sorority. On Nov. 23, Gunter, her granddaughter Leah Goodman, and daughter-in-law Ebony Reid were transforming their tree with black and white ribbons, silver bells and red balls. “I call it my black and white tree,” Gunter said. Across the lobby, Patricia Williams and her helper Daysa Horn, a McNair Middle School eighth-grader, were hanging handmade ornaments on their “Sunshine Tree,” named for Sunrise Park Home Owners Association, which is sponsoring the tree. Williams said the Festival of Trees is a wonderful idea and that her community jumped at the chance when they were approached.

Yvonne Gunter, her granddaughter Leah Goodman, and daughterin-law Ebony Reid decorate their “Princess Palace” tree at the Porter Sanford Center on Nov. 23.

“They chipped in lights and money,” she said. Williams said she found a recipe online for dough ornaments. She made the dough and Daysa cut the dough. She also painted the ornaments. “This is a really great event and we hope it continues for years to come,” Williams said. The fest kicks off at 7 p.m. on Nov. 30 with a community tree lighting ceremony featuring performances by Stone Mountain-based poet Hank Stewart, “The Voice” contestant Sera Hill, poet Andrea Mills, and the MLK Jazz Ensemble. Santa will be in the house, and there will be lots of activities for children. Stepp Stewart, creator of the Chocolettes’ “A Soulful Christmas,” and Commissioner Larry Johnson will share master of ceremonies’ duties. The Christmas trees will be on display in the lobby through Dec. 22 and can be viewed free of charge weekdays during opening hours and special events. The Porter Sanford III Performing Arts Center is at 3181 Rainbow Drive. For more information, call 404687-2731 or visit www.eventbrite.com/e/first-annualporter-sanford-festival-of-trees-tickets-836109124.

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

East metro cities hosting tree lightings, Santa arrivals First Ladies Holiday parade at 4:30 p.m. with the tree lighting immediately after the parade at about 6:30. This year’s theme, “Lights, Camera, Action, Christmas!” will feature performances by local choirs and dance groups and a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus, who will light the Christmas tree. The Rockdale County Fraternal Order of Firefighters will sell pizza, popcorn and hot chocolate. Proceeds benefit financially struggling families. For more information, contact Tonya Parker at tonya.parker@rockdalecounty.org or 770-278-7056.

Palace

DEZ

Braids By Theresa

$30 Quick Weave $40 Relaxers $25 Curl Only

Goddess Braids $35 Silk Press $40 Individuals$120

"The Weave Guru"

Specializing in Healthy Hair NO CHEMICALS

10% off styles $50 or more expires 12/21/2013

404-246-0680

www.firstladypalace.com 3129 Glenwood Road • Decatur GA 30032

Cookies and Milk with Santa! .00 2 $ y Onl rson e per p

The city of Lithonia will again light up Kelly Park for the holidays. Its Christmas tree lighting takes place Dec. 8 with carolers, cheer dancers, and cookies and hot chocolate and cider.

East metro towns and cities are dressing up for the holidays and hosting tree lighting ceremonies with parades, caroling and performances. The Stone Mountain Village Christmas Parade and Fireworks will take place from 4 to 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 29 with marshmallow roasting, a letter-writing station, and the annual Santa visit. Elves, bagpipers, the amphibious duck from Stone Mountain Park, classic cars and motorcycles, floats, choirs and the Conundrums Women’s Drumming group will be part of the parade down Main Street that starts at 6 p.m. The tree lighting will be followed by a fireworks extravaganza at 7 p.m.

cookies at Avondale First Baptist Church. Caroling begins at 6:30 p.m. After the tree lighting, cider and donuts will be served at 7 p.m. and Santa Claus will officially ring in the Christmas season. The spectacular “Christmas Tree on the Lake” lighting starts at 6 p.m. on Dec. 7 on the banks of the city’s lake.

Music and more in Lithonia Lithonia will light its Christmas tree on Dec. 8 in Kelly Park. The festivities take place from 5 to 7 p.m. with performances by the TAP Cheer team from the Terraces at Parkview and the First St. Paul AME Church Choir. Santa Dee will make an appearance, and the city and local businesses will serve cookies, hot chocolate and hot apple cider. Kelly Park is at the corner of Max Cleland Boulevard and Main Street in downtown Lithonia. For more information, call City Hall at 770-482-8136.

Times two in Avondale Estates Avondale Estates is hosting not one, but two tree lightings. The city’s Christmas celebration kicks off on Dec. 2 with the lighting of the Christmas tree at the intersection of Clarendon Avenue and South Avondale Road. Then on Dec. 7, it hosts the 17th annual lighting of the “Christ- Lights, Camera, Action, Christmas! Rockdale’s annual Tree Lighting Cermas Tree on the Lake.” For the Dec. 2 tree lighting, Boy Scout emony takes place Dec. 7 in Conyers. Festivities begin with the Hometown Troop 6 will provide free hot chocolate and

Saturday, December 7, 2013 9:00am – 10:00am Food Court

Sponsored by

2050 Lawrenceville Hwy, Decatur, GA 30033

www.northdekalbmall.com

CrossRoadsNews

Holiday

Thanksgiving 2013

The gingerbread creations and decorations take center stage in Hazelwood Hall.

Santa ready for breakfasts, teas, cookies and milk events St. Nick didn’t get his rotund size staying away from the table, and once again he is ready to chow down with kids all over DeKalb County. This holiday season, Santa will have breakfasts, teas, and cookies and milk with his little fans at the Gallery at South DeKalb, at North DeKalb Mall, in the Village of Stone Mountain and at Callanwolde.

The first 150 kids who arrive at the Gallery at South DeKalb on Dec. 7 for breakfast with Santa Charles will eat free.

Breakfast With Santa Kids can enjoy a free breakfast with the jolly old elf at the Gallery at South DeKalb on Dec. 7 and at Stone Mountain United Methodist Church in the Village of Stone Mountain. The Gallery’s Breakfast With Santa event takes place 8 to 10 a.m. It is free for the first 150 children 10 and younger. The mall is at 2801 Candler Road in Decatur. For more information, visit www.galleryatsouthdekalb.com or call 404-241-2431. The church’s Breakfast With Santa takes place 7:30 to 10 a.m. The cost is $6 per person, and children under 3 eat free. Stone Mountain UMC is at 5312 W. Mountain St. For more information, visit www.stonemountainvillage.com or call 770-413-0607. Santa and Teddy Bear Tea The Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, which is decked out for the holidays, is hosting Breakfast With Santa on Dec. 7 and 14 and Teddy Bear Tea on Dec. 8 and 15. Breakfast With Santa, catered by Chick-fil-A, begins at 9 a.m. both days. There will be live entertainment and kids can share their wish list with Santa. It is $20 per person and includes a tour of the decorated home. Teddy Bear Tea starts at 3 p.m. both days and features charming tabletops, tea and hot chocolate, sandwiches, pastries, and live entertainment. Santa will make a special visit. The event is $25 per person, including a tour of the decorated home. Both events are advance reservation only. The Callanwolde Fine Arts Center is at 980 Briarcliff Road N.E. in Atlanta. For more information and tickets, visit Santa and special guest Aimee Copeland will welcome kids to www.callanwolde.org or call 404-872-5338. FODAC’s Santa Breakfast at the Evergreen Conference Center.

person and all proceeds benefit Toys for Tots. Register at Cookiesandmilkwithsanta.eventbrite.com. North DeKalb Mall is at 2050 Lawrenceville Highway. For more information, visit www.northdekalbmall.com.

FODAC Santa Santa will have breakfast with the FODAC family and special guests Aimee Copeland and WSB’s Capt. Herb Emory at the Marriott Evergreen Conference Center in Stone Mountain Park on Dec. 7. Copeland is the 24-year-old UGA graduate student who lost her hands, feet and her entire right leg to a rare flesheating bacteria after a May 2012 zip-line accident in the Tallapoosa River. The event includes a gourmet breakfast buffet, free park admission, an all-attractions pass for Stone Mountain Park, a magician, a toy for each child, and photos with Santa. Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 5 to 11. Children younger than 5 attend free with a paying adult. Proceeds benefit Friends of Disabled Adults and Children Mall in Decatur. Cookies and milk Too! Inc. medical equipment programs. The event, which is sponsored by Costco Wholesale, takes Kids can bring their Christmas list when they nosh on Doors open at 9:30 a.m. and seating is limited. To order cookies and milk with ol’ St. Nick on Dec. 7 at North DeKalb place from 9 to 10 a.m. in the food court. The cost is $2 per tickets, visit fodac.org/breakfast or call 770-491-9014.

One-of-a-kind gifts at holiday bazaar

Mayors to bring cheer

One-of-a-kind paintings, jewelry and craft items will be available at the DeKalb Community Service Board’s annual Crossroads Holiday Bazaar on Dec. 6 in the Richardson Health Center in Decatur. The bazaar features items created by the service board’s clients. It takes place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Bohan Auditorium. The DeKalb CSB offers mental health, developmental disabilities and addiction services. The Richardson Health Center is at 445 Winn Way. For more information, visit www.dekcsb.org or call 404-370-7460.

Lithonia and Avondale Estates mayors will join the Mayors Motorcade on Dec. 4 to bring holiday cheer to patients at the Georgia Regional Mental Health Hospital. Deborah Jackson, mayor of Lithonia, and Avondale Estates Mayor Ed Rieker will join the event coordinated by the Georgia Municipal Association to provide Christmas gifts to the patients. Residents can donate unwrapped gifts and make monetary contributions at Avondale City Hall through Dec. 3. Avondale Estates City Hall is at 21 N. Avondale Plaza. For more information, call 404-294-5400.

Gingerbread houses and other holiday decorations will be on display at Columbia Presbyterian’s Dec. 8 Advent Festival in Decatur.

to Ga. Regional patients

Gingerbread houses star at Advent Fest

visitdecaturgeorgia.com visitdecaturgeorgia.com Decatur-crossroads-nov30-2013-spot-citron.indd 1

Enjoy holiday deals at Sq/Ft, Greene’s Fine Foods, Fabu Face Spa and more than 25 other shops all around the city of Decatur during Terriﬁc Thursdays. Get the inside scoop at our friendly Visitors Center at 113 Clairemont Ave. 11/15/13 3:32 PM

Gingerbread houses and colorful holiday decorations will greet members and visitors at Columbia Presbyterian’s annual Advent Festival on Dec. 8 in Decatur. The festival starts at 4 p.m. The gingerbread creations and decorations take center stage in Hazelwood Hall. In addition to the 10 craft tables, the two-hour festival ushers in the Advent Season with fellowship, song, food and worship. A soup and sandwich buffet will be served after worship service in the sanctuary.

Highlights include the gathering of the congregation outside with candles to sing a wide selection of Advent and Christmas carols. The event is open to the public, and children are especially welcome. Advent Music Worship begins at 11 a.m. on Dec. 22, and Christmas Eve Worship starts at 6 p.m. on Dec. 24. Columbia Presbyterian Church is at 711 Columbia Drive. For more information, visit www.cpcdecatur.org, email columbiapresby terian@gmail.com or call 404-284-2441.

CrossRoadsNews

Thanksgiving 2013

OUR STOREWIDE

THANKSGIVING

SALE CONTINUES!

bLAcK frIdAy doorbusters hURRy IN WhIlE SUpplIES laST!

shop noW ‘tIl 1PM toDay & 7AM-1PM sat, nov. 3o

or, use the $1o off† PAss fri ’til 1PM or sAt ’til 1PM WOW! $1o off all sale & clearance apparel anD select home Items

frI ‘tIl 1pm or sat ‘tIl 1pm

1O Off

your purchase of $25 or more. valID 11/29 ‘tIl 1pm or 11/30/13 ‘tIl 1pm. lImIt one per customer. cannot be useD on specIals or super buys

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

†

or, tAke An extrA 15% or 1o% off WITh yOUR MaCy’S CaRD OR ThIS paSS NOW-TUES WOW! pASS

extra savIngs on all sale & clearance apparel (ExCEpT SpECIalS & SUpER bUyS)

extra 15% Off

select sale & clearance apparel for hIm, her & kIDs

extrA 1o% off All sAle & CleArAnCe fIne & fashIon jeWelry, Watches, text “save” to 62297 to get coats, suIts, Dresses, Impulse, coupons, sales alerts & more! IntImates, suIt separates & Max 3 msgs/wk. Msg & data rates may apply. By texting SAVE from my mobile number, I agree to receive marketing sportcoats for hIm; select shoes text messages generated by an automated dialer from & select home Items Macy’s to this number. I understand that consent is not required to make a purchase. Text STOP to 62297 to cancel. Text HELP to 62297 for help. Terms & conditions at macys.com/mobilehelp Privacy policy at macys.com/privacypolicy VAlid 11/28-12/3/2013

†ExClUSIONS apply; SEE SavINgS paSSES.

free onlIne shIppIng every Day + extra 15% or 1o% off! free shipping with $99 purchase. use promo code: tHANKs for extra savings; offer valid 11/28-12/2/2013. exclusions apply; see macys.com for details.

go to macys.com/blackfrIDay anD shop black frIDay Doorbusters WhIle supplIes last!

hours may vary by store. vIsIt macys.com & clIck on stores for local InformatIon & furnIture gallery openIngs. thanksgiving saLE PRiCEs in EffECt 11/24-12/3/13. MERChanDisE WiLL BE On saLE at thEsE & OthER saLE PRiCEs thROUgh 1/4/14, EXCEPt as nOtED. N3100330F.indd 1

11/19/13 9:40 AM

CrossRoadsNews

Wellness

Thanksgiving 2013

“Just because a child was healthy before they had influenza does not mean they cannot be impacted by the virus.”

Flu can claim the lives of healthy kids quickly, study finds Four in 10 children who died of flurelated complications were healthy and had no high-risk medical conditions, a CDC study finds. The new report from the national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is a sobering reminder that the virus can be deadly, even for healthy children, the Georgia Department of Public Health says. The study, published in the November issue of the journal Pediatrics, reported that 830 children died of flu-related complications in the eight flu seasons between October 2004 and September 2012. Of those kids, 43 percent were healthy and had no high-risk medical conditions like asthma, developmental disorders or heart disease, which can make flu complications more serious. Audrey Martyn, the DPH’s influenza surveillance coordinator, called the report a startling reminder for parents. “Just because a child was healthy before they had influenza does not mean they cannot be impacted by the virus. Even healthy children can succumb to the illness.”

The CDC recommends annual flu vaccines for all children ages 6 months and older.

The study says that most of the deaths reported occurred in children who had not been vaccinated against the flu, highlighting the importance of the CDC’s recommendation that all children age 6 months and older receive an annual flu shot. Martyn said one of the most startling findings is how quickly the flu can kill. Nearly two-thirds of the children died

within one week of the onset of symptoms, and 35 percent died before they could be admitted to a hospital, including 18 percent who died in the emergency department and 16 percent who died outside the hospital. Children without other medical conditions were more likely to die before being admitted to a hospital. The flu vaccine is still the most reliable

way to prevent the flu, and the CDC notes that some children ages 6 months to 8 years may require two doses of the vaccine. But Martyn said it’s also important for parents to remember that protecting their children, especially young babies, means getting flu shots for themselves. “Children younger than 6 months of age are not able to receive the influenza vaccine. They rely on those around them to be immunized to protect them from influenza,” she said. Other findings include: n Pneumonia was the most frequently reported complication among children who died. n Bacterial co-infections also were a frequently reported complication, most commonly staph and strep. n The median age of children who died was 7 years. n 57 percent of the children had one or more high-risk medical conditions. For more information, visit www.cdc .gov.

Free testing for World AIDS Day Solar power class at library Free HIV/AIDS testing and educational events are being offered by the DeKalb Board of Health for World AIDS Day, observed on Dec. 1. “Getting to Zero: Zero new infections, zero discrimination and zero AIDS-related deaths” is the theme of the events designed to focus attention on HIV/AIDS, which continues to be a major public health concern in DeKalb County. Statewide, DeKalb is second only to Fulton in the rate of people living with HIV/AIDS. Events include: n Free 20-minute HIV testing and safe sex kit

giveaway on Dec. 2 from 8 to 10 p.m. at Scores Sports Bar and Video, 2425 Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur. n Free 20-minute HIV testing on Dec. 5 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Vinson Health Center, 440 Winn Way in Decatur. n Safe sex kit giveaway and free 20-minute HIV testing on Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Gallery at South DeKalb, 2801 Candler Road in Decatur. For more information, email mlcarter@dhr. state.ga.us or call 404-270-2429.

Sol Haroon, lead systems engineer at Norcross-based Suniva, will discuss solar power on Nov. 30 at the Decatur Library. Haroon, who has 20 years of experience in electronics engineering design and system architecture, will speak on “Dealing With a Solar Spill – Harnessing the Sun and Living Sustainably.” The presentation, which takes place 10:30 a.m. to noon, is part of the library’s Living the Green Life series. He will provide a look into how solar electric power works and how the sun’s energy is harnessed, and participants will find out if solar electric power will work for them. The Living the Green Life series is sponsored by the Wylde Center, the city of Decatur, and DeKalb County Public Library. The library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, call 404-370-3070.

OPTI WORLD MEDICAL & VISION CENTER Services Include: • Comprehensive Eye Exam (KIDS WELCOME) • Advanced Diagnostic Procedure (Glaucoma, Dry Eyes, Diabetes) • Contact Lens Exam and Fitting • Sport Vision Services, Safety/Industrial Glasses

• Pre and Post Operative (Lasik, Cataract, Diabetes) • Designer and Affordable Frames • Military/ Veterans & Families Welcome • Google - “Optiworld”

We Accept Most Insurance Plans and Discount Plans

2851 Candler Road Decatur, GA 30034

BRING IN THIS AD FOR 20% DISCOUNT

404-244-8787

OFFER EXPIRES NOV. 30, 2013

WALK-INS WELCOME AND SAME DAY APPOINTMENT

9:30am-6pm (Mon - Fri) • 10am-2pm (Saturdays) Every Saturday!!

Located Outside South DeKalb Mall

(In front of Bank of America /behind Big Bear)

Know Your Options:

Exploring an FDA-approved treatment for MS relapses

!444# !"# %#RRRFFF#CCC! GGG*FFF! FFFOOORRR SSS-OOOOOO!"*# LLLOOO/#RRRSSS !"#$%&&&HHH)))

If you’re looking to learn about different options for treating your MS relapses, you plus one caregiver or friend are invited to this FREE educational session where MS healthcare professionals will discuss: The difference between MS relapses and pseudo-relapses The importance of treating your MS relapses How to talk about your MS relapses with your healthcare provider Available treatment options for MS relapses Insights shared by others living with MS

Register by Sun., December 8, 2013 Call 1-877-219-0410 or visit www.msrelapseprogram.com Use Program ID # 9853. Complimentary meal and parking will be provided.

Location

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites 7846 Stonecrest Square Lithonia, GA 30038 Presented by Roza K. Adamczyk, MD Griffin, GA Rhonda W., Pt. Ambassador Columbus, GA Time 6:00 PM Check-in 5:45 PM Date Monday, December 9, 2013

FFFrrruuuiiitttgggrrraaassssss -‐-‐- SSSmmmoooooottthhhiiieee BBBoooooosssttteeerrr GGGiiifffttt SSSeeettt*** MMMaaakkkeee !"#$%"$&'())$*+,#,,, ooorrr SSSuuupppeeerrrccchhhaaarrrgggeee YYYooouuurrr JJJuuuiiiccceee(((sss))) aaannnddd SSSmmmoooooottthhhiiieeesss tttooo eeennnjjjoooyyy nnnaaatttuuurrraaalll eeennneeerrrgggyyy,,, aaannn eeennnhhhaaannnccceeeddd iiimmmmmmuuunnneee sssyyysssttteeemmm &&& bbbeeetttttteeerrr hhheeeaaalllttthhh !"#$%"&&'...

OOORRRDDDEEERRR::: KKK...FFFRRRL*!GGGRRRAAASSSSSS...CCCOOOOOORRR CCCAAALLLLLL::: (((888777777-‐-‐-555444777-‐-‐-111333444777)))

!FFFrrruuuiiitttgggrrraaassssss (((222666 ssseeerrrvvviiinnngggsss))),,, aaa SSSmmmoooooottthhhiiieee CCCuuuppp aaannnddd aaa RRReeeccciiipppeee BBBooooookkkllleeettt -‐-‐- gggiiiffftttwwwrrraaappppppeeeddd... Remember: You and a guest are welcome at this FREE educational session. All MS relapse therapy decisions should be made under the guidance of your healthcare professional.

FFFrrruuuiiitttgggrrraaassssss iiisss aaa pppooowwwdddeeerrreeeddd bbbllleeennnddd ooofff AAAcccaaaiii,,, NNNooonnniii,,, GGGooojjjiii,,, MMMaaannngggooosssttteeeeeennn,,, PPPaaapppaaayyyaaa,,, PPPooommmeeegggrrraaannnaaattteee,,, YYYuuummmbbbeeerrrrrriiieeesss,,, AAAmmmlllaaa FFFrrruuuiiittt,,, SSSeeeaaa BBBuuuccckkkttthhhooorrrnnn,,,WWWhhheeeaaatttgggrrraaassssss,,, CCChhhlllooorrreeellllllaaa &&& SSSpppiiirrruuullliiinnnaaa...

Thanksgiving 2013

Wellness

CrossRoadsNews

First, make sure you have clean hands, work surface, utensils, and an apron when you begin to work.

Use correct temp for your turkey More than 45 million turkeys will be cooked and eaten this year during the annual Thanksgiving observance, but to serve the best the bird, some basic steps must be followed. The DeKalb Cooperative Extension says selecting, thawing and cooking a turkey require a little planning to keep the holiday safe and uneventful. Begin with the correct oven temperature set no lower than 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the turkey on a rack in a shallow roasting pan large enough to hold the turkey and a meat thermometer. For food safety and uniform doneness of the turkey, cook stuffing separately in a Thaw turkey completely and roast it in a dark pan to speed up cooking time. Cook casserole dish. stuffing in a separate casserole dish for uniform doneness and food safety. Whole poultry is safe when cooked to a minimum internal temperature of 165 A frozen or partially frozen turkey takes longer to degrees as measured with a food thermometer. cook than a completely thawed turkey. Use a food thermometer to check that the internal A turkey will cook faster in a dark roasting pan. temperature of the stuffing has reached 165 degrees in The use of a foil tent for the entire cooking time can the middle, thickest part. actually slow cooking. Putting a lid on the roasting pan Even if the turkey has a “pop up” temperature indica- speeds up cooking and an oven-cooking bag will shorten tor, it is also recommended that a food thermometer be cooking time. used to test in several places. A fresh or thawed turkey that is 12 to 14 pounds takes Check the internal temperature in the innermost 3 to 3½ hours to cook at 325 degrees. part of the thigh and wing and the thickest part of the The only way to accurately determine doneness is by breast. using a thermometer. For reasons of personal preference, it is still best to When the turkey is removed from the oven, let it cook turkey to higher temperatures, such as 180 degrees, stand for 20 minutes. to remove the pink appearance and rubbery texture. Carve the bird with a clean knife on a clean work Many factors can affect the roasting time of a whole surface. turkey. For more information, call 404-298-4080.

Handy leftover primer After the Thanksgiving feast on Nov. 28, what to do with the leftovers? Store them safely, says the DeKalb Cooperative Extension, which offers four important steps to follow for the safe storage of leftovers. First, make sure you have clean hands, work surface, utensils, and an apron when you begin to work. Second, separate the turkey, stuffing and gravy into shallow containers. Be sure to cut the turkey into small pieces. Third, chill all leftovers within two hours of cooking. It also says that the refrigerator temperature should be 40 degrees F or below, and the freezer temperature 0 degrees F. Here are some other tips: n Wrap and seal leftovers tightly for best quality and be sure to thaw frozen leftovers in the refrigerator. n Do not overload the refrigerator or freezer with leftovers. This causes the temperature to rise above the recommended storage temperature. n Keep an appliance thermometer in the refrigerator and freezer to monitor safe temperatures. n Chill all leftovers within two hours of cooking. n Use turkey and stuffing within three to four days and gravy should be used within one to two days. n Reheat leftovers to 165 degrees and check the internal temperature of the thickest part with a food thermometer. n Bring gravies, sauces and soups to a rolling boil. For more information, call 404-298-4080.

‘s t ime to Choose! ItJenCare Brings Better

Healthcare to Seniors.

Seniors choose JenCare because we treat patients like family! JenCare provides outstanding primary and preventive medical care. And additional services such as:

A Courtesy transportation A On-site pharmacy A Digital x-ray and ultrasound A Acupuncture A On-site diagnostic testing A Extended time with physicians

855-844-2999 JenCareMed.com

MEDICARE OPEN ENROLLMENT PERIOD IS October 15-December 7

Now Open A East Point

2084 Headland Dr. East Point, GA 30344

A South DeKalb 2124 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30021

A West End

1325 Ralph David Abernathy Blvd. SW Atlanta, GA 30310

A Druid Hills

A Morrow

3371 Buford Hwy. NE 1331 Mount Zion Rd. Atlanta, GA 30329 Morrow, GA 30260

Call TODAY to schedule a free tour!

All services not covered under all plans. Please check your plan documents for details. Please check service availability at each individual center. Due to space and time limitations, not all services are available at all centers. Please call or visit your local center for details.

CrossRoadsNews

Finance

Thanksgiving 2013

“I don’t have a job and it’s been very difficult to meet expenses or even put food on the table. … My job prospects aren’t the best.”

Higher Black Friday sales forecast, shorter holiday season As consumers get ready to hit the stores for Black Friday bargains, retailers are projecting higher sales, but surveys also find that many shoppers are unaware that this holiday season is nearly a week shorter because of the late arrival of Thanksgiving. A survey by Forest City Enterprises, which owns the Mall at Stonecrest, projects that in-store retailers will see a 20 percent increase in Black Friday shoppers, and the International Council of Shopping Centers is forecasting a 3.4 percent sales increase, slightly stronger than 2012. Those shoppers say they will spend an average of $774, up 1 percent from last year, and most say they will spend more on children’s apparel (32.7 percent), accessories (28.7 percent) and toys (26.7 percent). But Jane Lisy, Forest City’s senior vice president of marketing, said shoppers may be caught short because many were unaware that there are fewer shopping days this year. Last year, Thanksgiving was Nov. 22, providing 32 shopping days between Thanksgiving

Many consumers may be unaware that this holiday season is shorter by nearly a week because of the late arrival of Thanksgiving, cutting into shopping time, marketers say.

and Christmas Day. This year, it comes on Nov. 28, providing 26 shopping days. “The survey pointed out that almost twothirds of shoppers might get caught short because they weren’t aware that there are

six fewer holiday shopping days this year,” she said. Consumers also are projected to be quite active online. But while 25.8 percent said they will be shopping “often” via the Internet,

more than two-thirds (67.2 percent) of shoppers say they will look at newspaper inserts as part of their pre-shopping preparations. John Ross, Inmar Analytics president, said the circular is still an important tool for shoppers when planning their purchases. “Newspaper inserts are convenient, transportable, visually informative, very useful for product and price comparisons, and effective in creating excitement regarding a prospective purchase,” Ross said. Wherever they shop, consumers say they will be bargain hunting. The Christmas & Holiday Shopping Forecast, released Nov. 14 by America’s Research Group and Inmar, found that almost a third of shoppers (31.2 percent) say they will be motivated only by 40 percent- to 50 percent-off sales. America’s Research CEO Britt Beemer says that bodes well for the shopping season. “If retailers give consumers mega discounts throughout the season, it will be a very strong season,” he said.

Hundreds line up for turkey giveaways, enjoy free holiday meals THANKSGIVING,

from page

Despite the economic recovery, lines have been long everywhere help has been offered to struggling families. Civic groups say people are still hurting from the effects of the recession and foreclosure crisis that ravished the community. This month, SNAP benefits were reduced by an average of $36 for Georgians. Relief agencies say the need seems to be increasing while food stamp benefits are decreasing. President Barack Obama’s temporary spending boost in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program is expiring without a new budget from a deadlocked Congress. Also, the job market is improving but wages haven’t recovered from the recession. “In this market, employees have a very limited ability to bargain for higher wages,” says Michael Thompson, managing director of S&P Capital IQ investment research. “The economy’s not strong enough, and they don’t feel secure enough to push” for a raise. Anna Sutton, chair of Saint Philip AME’s 10th annual Thanksgiving Basket Giveaway, said they prepared 260 boxes loaded with frozen turkeys and all the trimmings but had

a plan just in case more people showed up. Three hundred and eight people showed up, including the 115 who had pre-registered with the church. Sutton said they had two dozen extra turkeys just in case. “That took care of half the overflow crowd and we put together boxes with fresh vegetables, canned goods, dressing and brownie mix for the rest,” she said. “So everybody left with something.” Before its turkey giveaway started, NAACP members and volunteers knew they wouldn’t have enough for everyone in line. Teresa Hardy-Agee, the chapter’s third vice president, said they had 300 tickets to give out for turkey. “When the last one goes, that’s it.” Becky Carter from Lithonia was among the first in line at the mall. “I got here at 6:30 a.m.,” she said. “It was cold out here but we made it.” Vivian Metts of Ellenwood, who was standing next to her, said she waited in line for 5½ hours because she just didn’t have the money to buy a turkey for herself. “It’s been a tough year,” she said. She said her turkey will make dinner for five children and 25 grandkids.

Ida Jackson of Decatur said she is on a fixed income and funds are short. “I waited because I need this turkey.” She will share Thanksgiving dinner with seven or eight family members. Leta Clayton, a bookkeeper, was one of the first in line Saturday at Saint Philip. She has been unemployed for two years. “I don’t have a job and it’s been very difficult to meet expenses or even put food on the table,” she said. “I turn 62 on Dec. 3 and my job prospects aren’t the best.” Clayton said the help from the church is a real blessing, which she will share with five or six relatives and friends who will have Thanksgiving dinner at her Decatur home. At the VFW Post 4706 on Covington Highway, 10 families got boxes with turkey, canned yams, greens, instant mashed potatoes, dressing and cranberry sauce. Commander Harold Roberts said Publix donated the turkeys. “Our mission is to take care of veterans and their families, widows and orphans, but we also assist in the community,” Roberts said. “We want to reach out to the less fortunate, and the extent that we can, we want to help them.”

Roberts said the VFW also will give away food boxes for Christmas. At Columbia High and New Life Christian Church in Decatur, hundreds of homeless families and individuals were served hot Thanksgiving meals with all the trimmings. The students prepared the meals and served them to the people who came from neighborhoods in Decatur and Atlanta. The meals were Columbia’s seventh annual Thanksgiving dinner made possible by donations from the community. New Life Church members served a hot Thanksgiving meal to about 1,000 men, women and children at their 10th annual Thanksgiving Fellowship Dinner for the homeless and those at risk of homelessness. The meals were prepared and served by volunteers from food donated by members. Sutton of Saint Philip’s food pantry said they see evidence of growing hunger in the community every day. On Nov. 15 when they got to the church, she said the line was already out the door. “We served 65 people in two hours,” she said. “We bought groceries on Monday and we’re empty and have to close on Friday. That tells you there’s a growing need.”

Dated: October 22, 2013 Willie Thomas Eberhart Jr. Petitioner, Pro se 1833 Sangabriel Ave Decatur, Ga 30032 (404)-288-4215

Legal Notices 11/16, 11/23, 11/27, 12/7

NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action # ++13CV10352-7++ ShyRonda Johnson Plaintiff Vs. Michael Carter Defendant TO: Michael Carter 2167 Panola Rd Lithonia, Ga 30058 By Order of the Court service for service by publication dated October 29,2013 you are hereby notified that on October 23,2013 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Complaint for Divorce You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is 2200 Acelia Court Decatur, Ga 30034. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of, October 29, 2013. Witness the Honorable Daniel M. Coursey, Jr. Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 29th day of October, 2013 11/09, 11/16, 11/23, 11/27