COMMUNITY
WELLNESS
FINANCE
Neighborhood, civic and home owners associa tions will compete for a $1,000 “Most Connected” award at DeKalb’s sixth annual Neighbor hood Summit. 6
Health offi cials hoping to calm residents’ jitters about the Ebola virus hosted a question-andanswer forum on Oct. 14. 8
Members of the Stonecrest Business Alli ance teamed with Parks of Stonecrest to clean up trash along Turner Hill Road. 10
Building better connections
Confronting crisis head-on
Clean streets team
EAST ATLANTA • DECATUR • STONE MOUNTAIN • LITHONIA • AVONDALE ESTATES • CLARKSTON • ELLENWOOD • PINE LAKE • REDAN • SCOTTDALE • TUCKER
Copyright © 2014 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.
October 18, 2014
Volume 20, Number 25
www.crossroadsnews.com
Jurors struggling to reach a verdict in Ellis trial By Ken Watts
Burrell Ellis (in glasses) has been waiting eight days for a verdict. Attorney Craig Gillen waits with him.
agreements and shouting in the jury room. Ellis, who is on his second four-year term as the county’s elected CEO, is fighting a 13-count indictment alleging that he strong-armed DeKalb vendors for campaign donations during his 2012 bid for re-election. He also is charged with bribery, extortion, theft by taking and perjury for using county employees to solicit donations during their county workday. On Tuesday, jurors asked Johnson for a replay of a conversation that was secretly recorded by former Purchasing Director Kelvin Walton on Sept. 28, 2012. In the recorded meeting with Walton, Ellis, who was trying to retire more than
After telling DeKalb Superior Court Judge Courtney Johnson that they were deadlocked, jurors deliberating the fate of suspended DeKalb CEO Burrell Ellis took her advice and went back to work. But after putting in 35 hours over eight days, they still had no verdict at press time Thursday. They were scheduled to resume work Friday morning after working a shortened session on Oct. 16 without reaching a verdict in Ellis’ corruption trial. Their note Tuesday that they were deadlocked came the day they resumed deliberations after a long weekend off. Jurors were sent home Oct. 10 after open dis- Please see TRIAL, page 3
Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews
Early voting off to a brisk start in DeKalb Lively races for governor, Senate, statewide offices By Jennifer Ffrench Parker
In the first three days of early voting, 5,319 DeKalb voters cast ballots. Along with 2,242 people who voted by mail, through Oct. 15, the number of DeKalb voters who have already cast ballots in the Nov. 4 general election was 7,561. That more than quadrupled the first three days of early voting for the May primary elections. For the May 20 elections, only 1,577 early and absentee ballots were cast in the first three days. Voting was brisk at the DeKalb Elections Office on Oct. 15, the third day of early voting. A steady stream of mostly elderly voters showed up for the early polls that opened for Oct. 13-31 at four locations – the DeKalb Voter Registration & Elections Office and the Gallery at South DeKalb in Decatur, the Tucker Recreation Center in Tucker, and the Chamblee Civic Center in Chamblee. On Oct. 27, three more early polls will open at the Clark Harrison Building in Decatur, the Brookhaven City Hall in Brookhaven, and at Berean Christian Church Community Center in Stone Mountain. The hot races for the Nov. 4 general election include those for U.S. Senate and governor and five statewide offices being sought by African-American women. Democrat Michelle Nunn is in a heated race with Republican David Perdue, and Gov. Nathan Deal is facing a spirited challenge from Democrat Jason Carter. For the first time in Georgia and national politics, five African-American women are seeking statewide offices – Connie Stokes for lieutenant governor, Robbin Shipp for labor commissioner, Valarie Wilson for state school superintendent, Liz Johnson for insurance commissioner, and Doreen Carter for sec-
Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews
Spirited races for U.S. Senate and governor and five African-American women candidates on the Nov. 4 ballot are drawing voters to the early polls.
retary of state. Harold and Ossie Jones of Clarkston, who voted on Oct. 14, said they came out early because they are going to be out of town on Election Day. “Elections are important to me,” Harold Jones said. “I never miss any of them.” Other early voters said they cast ballots early to avoid lines, to “get it over with,” or “get it out of the way.” After voting Wednesday morning, Fannie Gardner of Decatur said she was trying to avoid Election Day lines. She said she voted down the ballot because she wants a say in who gets elected.
For her, the people on the ballot are the most exciting thing about the general election. “I am a woman,” she said. “I feel good about the women on the ballot. I love seeing all those black women running.” Julian Relf, who lives off Candler Road in Decatur, said that voting is very important to him. “The first time I registered to vote in Montgomery, Ala., in 1962, they said I didn’t pass the test,” he said. On his second attempt in 1963, he made it and he hasn’t looked back. Relf, who was accompanied by his wife,
Dorothy, said he looks at the lineup of candidates and their philosophies. “I look for people who believe in the same things that I believe in,” said Relf, a retired City Schools of Decatur principal. He said he picked Jason Carter for governor and Michelle Nunn for the U.S. Senate. “They both come from good lineage,” he said. “I think Carter will be a great man for education. He is young, which means he has fresh ideas.” He says he and Nunn think alike. “We are the same when it comes to our Please see POLLS, page 3
2
CrossRoadsNews
October 18, 2014
October 18, 2014
Community
3
CrossRoadsNews
“It is entirely appropriate for Elaine Boyer’s pension to be docked as restitution to DeKalb County taxpayers.”
Boyer starts getting county pension in November Elderly voters
taking advantage of early voting
By Jennifer Ffrench Parker
Disgraced former DeKalb Commissioner Elaine Boyer will begin receiving a county pension in November. County press secretary Burke Brennan said the $2,092.92-a-month pension will be retroactive to October. The full pension benefits mean that Boyer will collect $25,115.04 a year tax-free for the rest of her life, including while she is prison if she gets prison time when she is sentenced on Dec. 3. Boyer, 57, resigned from the Board of Commissioners on Aug. 26 prior to pleading guilty to federal mail and wire fraud charges. In her Sept. 24 application to the DeKalb County Pension Board, Boyer listed her last day as Aug. 24. She is free on a $25,000 bond. She is taking the 75 percent joint and survivor benefit option, which means she gets $1,921.72 and her beneficiary gets $1,441.29. Boyer, who was the lone Republican on the BOC, was the county’s longest-serving commissioner. She was elected to the Board of Commissioners in 1992 and joined the county on Jan. 1, 1993. She represented an affluent swath of North DeKalb that includes Tucker, Smoke Rise, Dunwoody and Brookhaven and positioned herself as a watchdog over public spending. U.S. Attorney Sally Yates, who is seeking jail time for Boyer, said she took $90,000 in DeKalb taxpayer money in fraudulent schemes dating back to September 2009. Boyer pleaded guilty to filing false invoices to the county for an adviser who kicked back 75 percent, or more than $58,000, to her personal bank account and to abusing her county-issued purchasing card. The federal criminal filing said the adviser “performed no services for Boyer, constituents of District 1, or DeKalb County” for the funds and that she made more than 50 personal purchases for things like airline tickets and hotel rooms for herself and her family for personal travel. Altogether, she pleaded guilty to taking more than $93,000. Under Georgia law, public officials and employees convicted of crimes related to their duties should have their benefits reduced by three times the economic impact
Jurors ask to hear tape again TRIAL,
from page
1
$150,000 in campaign debt, complained about vendors not returning his phone calls asking for contributions. Ellis is heard telling Walton that the county should stop doing business with Brandon Cummings, owner of Power and Energy Services in Austell. “He don’t even know my platform,” Ellis said. “He does business with us and he was asking me why he should give to my political campaign.” Ellis also was heard complaining about another vendor who hung up on him when he asked for a contribution. Ellis viewed the slights as “poor customer service.” “I’m your customer,” Ellis said about the vendors. “They cannot give [a political contribution] but they can’t be not returning phone calls.” Three extortion counts against Ellis involve Power and Energy Services and National Property Institute of Ellenwood. On Thursday afternoon, jurors sent a note to Johnson saying that for the second time this week they have been unable to reach verdicts on “all” 13 charges. Johnson told them to keep working and reminded attorneys that the jury has been deliberating only 35 hours.
POLLS,
Former DeKalb Commissioner Elaine Boyer’s pension will be retroactive to October. She resigned from the Board of Commissioners prior to pleading guilty to federal mail and wire fraud charges.
of their misdeeds. Based on that calculation, Boyer would have given up nearly $300,000 of her benefits, but attorneys for both the pension board and the county determined that she falls within a legal loophole. Both the county and Boyer contributed to her pension.
Walton, Hall have not applied Residents also are watching for what the county will do for two other former employees, Kelvin Walton and Nina Hall. Walton is the county’s former contract compliance director who admitted to lying to the grand jury that indicted suspended CEO Burrell Ellis on charges of strong-arming county vendors for campaign contributions, and Hall was Ellis’ executive assistant and Watershed Management’s special projects manager. Hall admitted to taking monetary gifts from county vendors. Both were suspended with their $153,000and $75,000-a-year salaries, respectively, pending their testimony in the Ellis trial. Walton resigned from the county on Oct. 7 and Hall was fired the same day.
Brennan said Oct. 16 that neither has yet applied for pension. State law calls for forfeiture for specified state felony convictions for any employee and for federal convictions for those who joined a public retirement system after July 1, 2008. Boyer joined the pension plan on Jan. 1, 1993. State Rep. Mike Jacobs (R-Brookhaven) says it is absurd that Boyer is getting her full pension. He says he will look at closing the loophole in next year’s legislative session that begins in January. “It is entirely appropriate for Elaine Boyer’s pension to be docked as restitution to DeKalb County taxpayers,” he told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “Losing the pension entirely seems like an appropriate penalty.” Boyer could still have to forfeit some of her pension payments if the U.S. attorney garnishes them as part of a court-ordered restitution plan. There are two years left on Boyer’s term of office. Five candidates are seeking the office in the special election being held in the district alongside the Nov. 4 general election.
from page
1
thinking,” he said. “The minimum wage needs to go up.” Dorothy Relf said it is wonderful to see all the women on the ballot. “I would like to see them win,” she said. “Valarie Wilson will make an excellent superintendent of education because of the experience she has. Connie has served in the state Legislature. She has great experience.” She admitted that she didn’t know the other three African-American women seeking statewide office. “I voted for them anyway,” she said with a laugh. V.J. Addy, a retired counselor, said change is needed in the governor’s office. “I voted for Jason Carter,” she said. “I think he is more for the people. Hopefully his emphasis on education won’t change.” Addy said the black women on the ballot give her a positive feeling. “Changes are happening,” she said. “Women are more sensitive to the needs of the people. They are more sensitive to women, to children and to the community.” Robert Brooks, who went to vote with his wife, Janice, said it’s time to make a change in the Governor’s Mansion. “I voted for Jason Carter and Michelle Nunn,” he said. “I think well of both of them. I hope all the women on the ballot will win. They have more compassion.” His wife said she feels real good to see the women on the ballot. “It’s getting minority now,” Janice Brooks said. “We need a change. We done did it the same way for so long – why not try something new.” Alvin Reid of East Lake says Nunn will be good for the Senate. He said that all he wants of elected officials is for them to work hard and represent him. “Carter is going to surprise a lot of people,” he said. “I know what I am talking about. I am no baby. I am 86 years old.”
Discover your passion. Attend a GPC Open House. RSVP at openhouse.gpc.edu
GPC Open Houses, October 11–28 • Receive a $20 GPC application fee waiver • Learn about Dual Enrollment and Transfer Admission Guarantee options • Enjoy snacks and refreshments
#OpenGPC
A BETTER WAY FORWARD
4
Forum 2346 Candler Rd. Decatur, GA 30032 404-284-1888 Fax: 404-284-5007 www.crossroadsnews.com editor@crossroadsnews.com
Editor / Publisher Jennifer Parker Staff Writers Jennifer Ffrench Parker Ken Watts Graphic Design Curtis Parker Copy Editor Brenda Yarbrough Advertising Sales Kathy E. Warner Billing Clerk Catherine Guy Circulation Manager Jami Ffrench-Parker CrossRoadsNews is published every Saturday by CrossRoadsNews, Inc. We welcome articles on neighborhood issues and news of local happenings. The opinions expressed by writers and contributors are not necessarily those of the publisher, nor those of any advertisers. The concept, design and content of CrossRoadsN ews are copyrighted and may not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part in any manner without the written permission of the publisher. Advertisements are published upon the representation that the advertiser is authorized to publish the submitted material. The advertiser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless from and against any loss or expenses resulting from any disputes or legal claims based upon the contents or subject matter of such advertisments, including claims of suits for libel, violation of privacy, plagiarism and copyright infringement. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement.
CrossRoadsNews
October 18, 2014
Since the Supreme Court’s decision, eight of the 15 states released from the submission requirement have made voting harder.
These elections demand large voter turnout By Norman Hill and Velma Murphy Hill
The 2014 elections are almost here, and the focus is whether the Republicans can gain control of the U.S. Senate, which would be a first since 2006. Thirty-six seats are being contested, and Republicans need only six gains to win a majority. The stakes are extraordinarily high for the nation. But for African-Americans in particular, the outcome of the midterm elections next month may not only be a game changer, but also a game ender. First off, Republicans consistently oppose civil rights legislation. A GOP majority in the Senate would also likely put in jeopardy measures that help moderate and low-income Americans, including one essential initiative: an increase in the national minimum wage. The current rate is a poverty wage of $7.25 an hour. President Obama wants to increase it to $10.10 in three stages. But if the Republicans control both houses of Congress, the outlook for any significant increase will be grim. Further, last June, the U.S. Supreme Court eliminated Section 4 of the Voting Rights Act. This means that states and localities with a history of voting discrimination against minorities no longer have to submit proposed changes in voting rules to the U.S. Department of Justice. Clearly, this makes it much
“In this race for a bright, inclusive American future of racial equality and economic justice, we have to do more than cheer for winners, we must on Nov. 4 show up, stand up and be counted. Vote.” Norman Hill and Velma Murphy Hill
easier for Republicans to erode the black vote, which, by the way, is overwhelmingly Democratic. Since the Supreme Court’s decision, eight of the 15 states released from the submission requirement have made voting harder by establishing photo ID requirements, cutting voting hours, purging voting rolls, or ending same-day registration. The Supreme Court’s decision can be reversed by legislative action, but that won’t happen if the Republicans recapture the Senate. Equally alarming are the likely consequences on the health of many African-Americans and modest- and low-income American workers if the Republicans win. The president’s Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, will be more vulnerable to the Republicans’ efforts to erode or eliminate it if there is a GOP Senate. Similarly disruptive will be a Republican Senate’s power to block Obama judicial nominations. Such a majority is certain to force Obama to compromise and propose more conservative judges than otherwise.
The ripple effect would mean more federal rulings adversely affecting racial and ethnic minorities, women, workers, organized labor, and all of society’s more vulnerable. Lastly, since the 1960s, the number of blacks attending college has increased dramatically. But so has its soaring costs. Most students leave undergraduate schools with debts in the tens of thousands of dollars from borrowing to pay for tuition and fees. Obama has taken executive action to cap monthly payments, in many cases, at a low percentage rate based on the graduate’s income. But legislative action for further relief would be much more difficult with Republicans ruling Congress. Fortunately, there is something that black voters can do. In many close Senate races, blacks constitute a significant proportion of the population: 32 percent in Louisiana, 31 percent in Georgia, 22 percent in North Carolina, 16 percent in Arkansas, 14 percent in Michigan, and 8 percent in Kentucky. In 2012, black voter turnout was
higher than that for whites – a first. This was also true for the great majority of the Southern states where blacks are most concentrated. That year, black turnout was 1.7 million votes greater than in 2008, an increase of nearly 10 percent. But caution is advised. The AfricanAmerican vote has typically dipped dramatically during off-year elections. Reversing this tendency is made more difficult by the new strategic voting restrictions. More than ever, organizations like the NAACP, the A. Philip Randolph Institute and the AFL-CIO and its affiliated unions need to rise to the task. This year, more Democratic than Republican Senate seats are up for grabs. In 2016, that ratio will be reversed. And if the GOP gains the Senate, Republicans will have a good chance to grab the White House and the full Congress. That would be a trifecta of bad bets. In this race for a bright, inclusive American future of racial equality and economic justice, we have to do more than cheer for winners. We must on Nov. 4 show up, stand up and be counted. Vote. Norman and Velma Hill have spent a lifetime in the trenches and high offices of the American civil rights and modern labor movements. They are writing a memoir, “Climbing Up the Rough Side of the Mountain,” that reflects the importance of A. Philip Randolph and Bayard Rustin in their lives.
Charter schools often focused on profit, not students By Ron Gilliam
The concept of charter schools has been around for a number of years. Originally started in NYC, it was later abandoned for fear of loss of union control. It has since rebirthed, but not without serious implications. What was once thought of as an alternative to the conventional school system, free from bureaucratic regulations with more community input, is now becoming a cash cow for big business. Charter schools are rapidly being taken over by private-for-profit corporations whose chief interest lies in the accumulation of profit rather than the education of our children. They have become so lucrative they are attracting foreign investment from as far away as China, Russia, Nigeria and Australia. Under the Clinton administration, policies were adopted to provide huge returns on investment under the New Markets Tax Credit and Community Development Entity in which investments could double in seven years. In other words, charter schools are moving from community-based to national private education management systems, publicly funded but privately run. While some in our community may not see charter schools as a
Circulation Audited By
“Charter schools must be responsive to the community, particularly our community, where the infusion of our history and culture is so important for our total development. The bottom line is that we should only support charter schools that we can control.” Ron Gilliam
problem, they do not represent a panacea – mainly because most will not serve our overall needs. First of all, private public schools offer little or no transparency and practically no community input. Parents now become customers with no return policy. It has been reported that at least one private company appoints its own school board and makes members sign a letter of resignation before they ever start work. Here are other areas where the Center of Research on Education Outcomes says private-for-profit schools are failing: n Only 17 percent of charters outperform public schools. n 37 percent performed worse. n 46 percent performed about the same as public schools. Other factors listed in various studies: n Teacher qualifications and compensations lower (average one-two years’ experience and less likely to
be certified). n Large attrition rate of 25 percent to 50 percent among teachers. n Parents have little or no control of curriculum. n Charters can design mechanisms to screen out “undesirables” such as requiring parent interviews (parents don’t show), written essays by students, and recommendations and test scores, and scrutinizing attendance records. n Charters drain dollars and resources from public schools. n Charters are highly unregulated, from programming to landscaping. n Because of lack of transparency, many private charters are mired in corruption and financial scandal. n Some schools were found to have inadequate or nonexistent equipment, no gyms or lunch rooms – food brought in, sometimes from fast-food stores. n Chicago, Philadelphia and New Orleans are examples of failed
charter schools.
Who invests? To name a few, the Koch brothers, Mark Zuckerberg of Facebook, David Brain-Entertainment Properties Trust, Andre Agassi Charter Facilities Fund, Bill Gates and real estate developers. This is not to say there are no charters that are effective, but the most successful ones are smaller, teacher-led, not supported by the larger, for-profit organizations. Charter schools, like public schools, which are also funded by taxpayer dollars, must be responsive to the community, particularly our community, where the infusion of our history and culture is so important for our total development. The bottom line is that we should only support charter schools that we can control. For more information, read Rethinking Things Magazine, Alternet March 9, 2012, and May 8, 2013; Diane Ravitch Oct. 1, 2013, Op-ed; Solon.com July 24, 2012, and Center of Research on Education Outcomes. I sincerely hope the DeKalb School District has done its homework before it approves charter schools and that the School Board will vote for what is right rather than what’s profitable for some. Ron Gilliam lives in Decatur.
index to advertisers BaSix Knowledge Academy............................6 Committee To Elect Connie Stokes................. 5 DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court.................... 10 First African Presbyterian Church....................9 Flat Rock Archives...........................................9 Freddy Holley Campaign Committee, Inc....... 5
Georgia Health Services Network................... 8 Georgia Perimeter College............................. 3 I-Storage........................................................ 11 Johnson Hopewell Coleman LLC.................. 11 Johnson’s Antiques & Flea Market................. 11 Macy’s............................................................. 7
Saint Philip AME Church.................................9 Successful Journeys, LLC................................. 8 The Colwell Law Firm, LLC............................. 11 The Mall at Stonecrest...................................12 Ware’s Padgett Business Services...................6 Best Buy Co. Inc....................................... Insert
Holistic Health Management Inc.............. Insert Sam’s Club............................................... Insert Walgreens................................................ Insert Walmart................................................... Insert Committee To Elect Connie Stokes........ Online The Davis Bozeman Law Firm, P.C......... Online
5
CrossRoadsNews
October 18, 2014
Community
“We were just given reassurances that they were not taking this lightly in considering that federal charges could be an appropriate action.”
Feds to look into botched drug raid that injured toddler By Ken Watts
U.S. Attorney Sally Yates is disappointed that a Habersham County grand jury refused to indict law officers involved in a botched May drug raid that left 19-month-old Bounkham “Baby Bou-Bou” Phonesavanh’s face severely disfigured by a flash grenade explosion. Attorney Mawuli Davis, who represents the family, said Oct. 14 that he received “reassurances” that the U.S. Justice Department is investigating the case. “The concern for the family is that they have not received justice, Bounkham Phonesavanh that no one has been held accountable,” Davis said after the meeting with Yates and her staff at the Richard B. Russell Federal Building in Atlanta. Davis, whose Davis Bozeman Law Firm is based in Decatur, was accompanied by 4th District U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson and state Sen. Vincent Fort (D-Atlanta). They met for about an hour with Yates and her team. Davis said he gave her a letter from Alecia Phonesavanh in which she appealed to Yates to make sure the individuals who disfigured her son are held responsible. The toddler suffered third-degree burns to his face and chest from a flash-bang grenade tossed into his playpen by Habersham Police SWAT officers during a May 28 raid on the family’s home. He was sleeping when the grenade exploded. Doctors had to surgically reattach the toddler’s nose. Officers were executing a “no-knock” warrant for a drug suspect based on a faulty tip from an informant that a suspect who sold methamphetamine to an undercover cop was at the home along with armed guards and a cache of weapons. On Oct. 6, a Habersham grand jury recommended
The Habersham Board of Commissioners has said law prevents the county from paying the toddler’s medical expenses, which exceed $800,000. Davis said he knows of no legal barriers to payment of medical bills. “The child will have to have surgeries every two to three years until he’s 20 years old as his face matures and reshapes because nerve endings were so badly damaged,” he said.
Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews
Attorney Mawuli Davis (from left), U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson and state Sen. Vincent Fort met with U.S. Attorney Sally Yates.
no criminal charges against deputies involved in the raid. Though critical of the police investigation that led up to the tragedy, grand jurors concluded that deputies did not intentionally injure the child and were not criminally negligent. In a 15-page presentment, the grand jury called the police investigation “sloppy and hurried” and “not in accordance with best practices.” While it wants law enforcement to pursue drug dealers, it said that “the zeal to hold them accountable must not override cautious and patient judgment,” and SWAT entries into homes should be done only when absolutely necessary. After the grand jury report, Yates issued an Oct. 7 statement saying the federal authorities have been participating in the investigation “of this terrible incident and now that a state grand jury has declined to return an indictment, we will be reviewing the matter for possible federal charges.”
No timetable for Justice probe Davis said Yates did not offer any timetable for a federal investigation or whether charges would be brought. “We were just given reassurances that they were not taking this lightly in considering that federal charges could be an appropriate action against at least one of the officers,” he said. Johnson said he attended the meeting to support the Phonesavanhs, who moved back home to Jamesville, Wis. “This was an example of the use of military-style equipment by local police and the effect that it can have.” Johnson is co-sponsor of the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act seeking to curb the Pentagon’s 1033 Program that gives free surplus military gear to police departments. Fort, whose District 39 includes part of Atlanta and East Point, said he told Yates that if her office does not act, something like the Habersham raid could happen again. He said lawmakers will consider action in the General Assembly session that starts in January. “Legislatively, we’re going to look at how to reform use of the no-knock warrant in Georgia, but today is about justice for Baby Bou-Bou,” he said. Unlike state law, federal law doesn’t allow for charges of criminal misconduct. Davis said federal law requires that there be evidence of intent to violate a person’s civil rights. “That’s a challenge,” he said.
Johnson’s bill to demilitarize police departments getting attention U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson’s bill to “demilitarize police departments” and keep civil disorders from escalating is getting a lot of attention in the wake of the unrest in Ferguson, Mo., after the fatal police shooting of unarmed teen Michael Brown on Aug. 9. The bipartisan measure – called the Stop Militarizing Law Enforcement Act of 2014 (H.R. 5478) – introduced on Sept. 16 and cosponsored by Republican Rep. Raul Labrador of Idaho would curb a U.S. Department of Defense program that transfers free surplus military equipment to state and local law enforcement agencies. The Pentagon’s 1033 Program permits surplus U.S. military equipment like MineResistant Ambush Protected vehicles, Humvees and automatic weapons from war zones in Iraq and Afghanistan to be transferred to municipal police departments free of charge. Johnson said that while appropriate in a war, much of the equipment is not suited for civilian law enforcement. “Militarizing America’s Main Streets won’t make us any safer, just more fearful and more reticent,” Johnson said. “Before another small town’s police force gets a $750,000 gift from the Defense Department that it can’t maintain or manage, it behooves us to press pause on Pentagon’s 1033 Program and revisit the merits of a militarized America.” Labrador said the United States was founded on the principle of a clear line between the military and civilian policing. “The Pentagon’s current surplus property
program blurs that line by introducing a military model of overwhelming force in our cities and towns,” he said. “Our bill would restore the focus of local law enforcement on protecting citizens and providing due process for the accused.” The bill seeks to: n Prevent transfers of equipment inappropriate for local policing, such as highcaliber weapons, long-range acoustic devices, grenade launchers, armed drones, armored vehicles, and grenades or similar explosives. n End incentives to use equipment in circumstances when use is unnecessary. Under the program, police are required to use the equipment within a year, an incentive to use it in inappropriate circumstances. n Require that recipients certify they can account for all equipment. In 2012, the weapons portion of the 1033 Program was temporarily suspended after Defense found that a local sheriff had gifted out surplus Humvees and other supplies. This bill would prohibit re-gifting and require recipients to account for all equipment received from Defense. It also seeks to add tracking requirements to control transfers of equipment and implement policies ensuring that police agencies can’t surplus the equipment for resale. Andy Phelan, Johnson’s press spokesman, said on Oct. 7 that the bill has been referred to the House Armed Services Committee. “My understanding is that the issue will get a hearing in the committee after the election,” he said.
Elect
CONNIESTOKES "Lt. Governor " November 4, 2014
Jobs Right Now “for real” Contribute at www.conniestokes.com Ph 404-867-8021 Paid for by Connie Stokes for Lt. Governor, Inc
Police in military combat gear in Ferguson, Mo., watch protesters on Aug. 11.
Early Voting Is Now Under Way A Trusted Candidate for State House District 83
Fred Holley is Uniquely Qualified • Born June 19, 1948 • Served in U.S. Marine Corps during Vietnam Conflict • Retired from City of Atlanta as a Sr. Construction Inspector • CEO of Group of Trinity, LLC - Land Developer and a Licensed Real Estate Broker • Earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Education from Beulah Heights University • Earned a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Strayer University • Developer & Real Estate Broker: Build up scalped homes in South DeKalb in Promised Land Subdivision
Fiscally Responsible • Fred has a passion for building up stronger families and communities. He wants to change the family law structure with a stronger focal point on the roles of fathers. • Stop putting deadbeat parents in jail over child support; it is cheaper to find them jobs. • He wants to keep Obamacare, and make changes where necessary. • He is committed to helping restructure the current education system to give our children the tools necessary to excel in the future. • He will be a watchful eye over how the government spends your tax dollars. PAID FOR BY FREDDY HOLLEY CAMPAIGN FINANCE COMMITTEE, INC. • WWW.ELECTFREDDYHOLLEY.COM
6
CrossRoadsNews
Community
October 18, 2014
One arrest has been made and 69 citations and 41 warnings issued this school year by members of the Sheriff’s Office Field Division.
Summit promotes neighborly competition, connections DeKalb interim Chief Financial Officer Gwen Brown Patterson leads a session on county budgeting at the 2013 Neighborhood Summit.
Neighborhood, civic and homeowners associations can compete for a $1,000 “Most Connected” award at DeKalb’s sixth annual Neighborhood Summit on Nov. 1 at Tucker High School. For the Most Connected award, competitors had to submit a 500word essay by Oct. 10 describing how their group connects with neighbors, county, faith community, schools, police precincts and youth. The winner will be announced during the summit, which takes place from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The 2014 summit offers participants workshops, exhibits and idea exchanges. They also will find out how to partner with county departments to sustain and improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. New this year, the summit will feature Curbside Consulting from 9 a.m. to noon in rotating sessions. Each 25-minute session will be a chance for attendees to sit down with a consultant and ask questions specific to their group. The small-group session of one to three individuals from the same group or organization is free of cost. Topics will include Community Organizing/Building, Marketing/Social Media, Fundraising/Grant Writing, Meeting Facilitation, Volunteer/Board Management, Program Planning and Development, and Neighborhood Nexus/Community Needs Assessment. Tucker High School is at 5036 LaVista Road in Tucker. Registration is required to attend. To register, visit www.onedekalb .com or call 404-371-2881.
Curtis Parker / CrossRoadsNews
Deputies after drivers who pass stopped school buses
New number to call for water, wastewater issues
DeKalb Sheriff’s Deputy Kenneth Byner demonstrates how drivers have been approached when observed violating school bus stop laws in high-traffic areas like Memorial Drive.
Motorists who pass a stopped school bus in DeKalb County can get arrested. The DeKalb Sheriff’s Office is cracking down on drivers who pass school buses that are loading or unloading passengers. More than 70,000 students ride 960 DeKalb School System buses weekdays, and Sheriff Jeffrey L. Mann said his deputies frequently observe drivers breaking the law when they are in the community serving warrants and other processes. “When this occurs, they are taking action immediately to protect our schoolchildren,” Mann said. Since the start of the school year in August, Mann said deputies have made one arrest and issued 69 citations and 41 warnings to violators. Motorists who break the law face fines of up to $430 and six points assessed to their driver’s license. Donald Smith, the School District’s Public Safety chief, said the safety and health of students is a primary concern. “We welcome the enhanced enforcement actions of the DeKalb County Sheriff ’s Office,” he said.
Residents with water and wastewater system issues can call the Watershed Management Emergency Dispatch Office at its new telephone number – 770270-6243. The office is at 1580 Roadhaven Drive in Stone Mountain. The DeKalb Watershed Management Construction and Maintenance Division offers 24-hour, seven-days-a-week service to respond to water leaks, sewer backups, sewer spills, and any emergency situation involving the water and wastewater system.
Wells Fargo seeks student leaders
Jail automates information system
College students have until Oct. 31 to apply for Wells Fargo’s Sophomore Leaders Conference & Summer Program that offers participants the opportunity to increase their understanding of financial services. The 2015 conferences will be held in San Francisco on Feb. 4-6; Chicago on Feb. 11-13; Charlotte, N.C., on Feb. 18-20; and Atlanta on Feb. 25-27. Participants get to interact with Wells Fargo team members, including senior leaders and financial analysts from across the country. The all-expense-paid program is open to high-achieving students, including minorities; females; protected veterans; people with
The DeKalb Jail now has an automated information system to guide the general public. The information hotline, installed Oct. 7, offers an option for Spanish and informs callers about the Sheriff ’s Office Web site. The jail’s main telephone number fields about 700 calls a day on everything from inmate charges, releases, visitation, court dates, medical condition and bond amounts to commissary purchases, and the officer on duty is required to provide information, transfer the call, or engage in database research to fill requests about the status of a prisoner. Within an hour of activation, the automated system had handled nearly 100 calls. Sheriff Jeff Mann said the AIS meets one of his commitments to improve inmate and citizen services. “When we receive a call from an inmate’s family member or friend, they are generally
disabilities; and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender students. Airfare, hotel accommodations, meals, and other transportation will be paid by Wells Fargo. Participants also will have an opportunity to interview for summer internships in commercial banking; commercial real estate; corporate banking; government and institutional banking; specialized lending, servicing and trust; Wells Fargo Capital Finance; wholesale risk; and asset management. Applications are available at www .wellsfargo.com/sophomore.
attempting to help them in some way,” Mann said. “They need information that will either assist them with being able to obtain a bond and leave the jail or to have the financial or emotional support they need while they are here awaiting trial.” He said automating response to the hundreds of calls greatly enhances efficiency. “Because of the advanced technology that drives AIS, we can handle more calls and the information received is more accurate and up-to-date,” Mann said. The system represents an additional benefit of the jail’s existing inmate phone service system and provides savings to the Sheriff ’s Office in its more efficient use of staff time. Callers who cannot find the option they seek can still speak with an officer. Mann said the AIS will make a real difference in how the jail interacts with the community. Visit http://dekalbsheriff.org/web/homev2.php or call 404-298-8100 for more information.
All Your Legal, Accounting & Tax Services Under One Roof! “There Is No Better Time to Plan Your Legal & Tax Strategies”
Padgett Business Services Specializing in: • Small Business Monthly Accounting • Personal and Business Taxes (Electronic Filing) • Business Consulting: Payroll Service, Business Plans & Audit Service)
(770) 593-9848
(770) 593-9849
Family Law (Divorces,Child Support Modications, Custody), Business Law (Incorporations, LLC, Business Litigation Defense), Wills, Probate, Estates, Personal Injury Salem Panola Library
Ware Professional Building
Law Office of E. Noreen Banks-Ware, P.C.
E. Noreen Banks-Ware Attorney
3636 Panola Road • Lithonia, GA 30038 (Across from the Salem Crossing Shopping Center)
October 18, 2014
CrossRoadsNews
7
“You cannot find this education anywhere else.”
We are now accepting applications for the Spring 2O15 Workshop at Macy’s! We invite all minority and women-owned businesses to apply for The Workshop at Macy’s! You’ll gain insight from seasoned Macy’s pros and Macy’s partners, and get the tools you need to succeed and sustain growth in the retail industry. Apply today at macysinc.com/workshop PICTURED: Amber Lee-Forrester, Kane & Couture. Past participant of The Workshop at Macy’s.
50621_N4090491F.indd 1
10/9/14 8:07 PM
8
Wellness
CrossRoadsNews
October 18, 2014
“People don’t know when they have been initially exposed because the symptoms do not manifest themselves immediately.”
Students from Ebola hot spots need CDC approval for school DeKalb Schools will not enroll students from Ebola hot spots in West Africa or the United States without proper documentation from the CDC that they’re unaffected by the virus. Superintendent Michael Thurmond said Thursday that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has “to affirm that the students currently Michael Thurmond are not affected by the Ebola disease.” The infectious disease response protocol directive comes in the wake of a father who relocated from West Africa attempting Oct.
15 to enroll his two children in Dunwoody elementary and high schools. The man had been working in Liberia and Sierra Leone for the aid organization CARE. Thurmond said an alert administrator notified the Central Office. He said the district is working with the parent to get the proper documentation. Among the district’s 99,556 students are 21,000 representing 160 nationalities who speak over 140 languages. Many are refugees from West Africa and other countries. “I want to compliment the staff that followed the protocol and notified Central Office administrators,” Thurmond said. In an Oct. 15 letter, the district’s princi-
pals and administrators were notified that no new students from Ebola-affected West African countries, including Liberia, Sierra Leone and Guinea, and other affected areas in the United States will be enrolled or allowed to attend classes on school campuses without proper medical documentation and approval by the superintendent. The district said in an Oct. 16 statement that it is working in collaboration with the DeKalb Board of Health, the CDC, the DeKalb Emergency Management Agency, the Georgia Department of Education, and the U.S. Department of Education. Thurmond has urged all principals and administrators to be vigilant and to inform
all staff to be observant for anyone exhibiting a fever in the school and to immediately ask if they have traveled to or come into contact with someone who has traveled to an Ebola-affected region. If they encounter individuals exhibiting symptoms, they are to immediately separate the individual from contact with others and report to the regional superintendent. As with any potential or actual communicable disease, the district has guidelines and protocols. If any cases are suspected or confirmed, the district will follow the DeKalb Board of Health’s guidance and direction. For more information, visit www.dekalb .k12.ga.us or call 678-676-2848.
DeKalb health director sets record straight on deadly Ebola virus By Ken Watts
DeKalb Board of Health officials hoping to calm the community’s growing jitters about Ebola hosted a question-and-answer forum about the deadly disease on Oct. 14. “The best way to combat fear is with facts,” District Health Director Elizabeth Ford told an audience of about 60 people at Maloof Auditorium in Decatur. Ford acknowledged that some of the facts are pretty grim but need to be confronted nonetheless. “It used to be called Ebola hemorrhagic fever because one of the main symptoms as it progresses is acute hemorrhage throughout the body,” she explained. “It has an extremely high mortality rate.” Since 1976, there have been 19 Ebola outbreaks in West Africa. The current outbreak, which began in March, is the worst. Ford said that as of Oct. 13, there are 8,400 total cases. “Of those total cases, we have 4,656 confirmed with the virus,” she said. “Of those confirmed, 4,033 have died. So there is no question that this is a deadly virus. However, it is not that easy to contract.” Ford said the virus can only be transmitted from direct contact with body fluids – blood, vomit, urine, stool, sweat, semen, saliva, pus, tears, mucous or cerebral spinal fluid – of an infectious person. She said objects contaminated with a
Commissioner Jeff Rader speaks at a DeKalb Board of Health community forum on the Ebola virus on Oct. 14 at the Maloof Auditorium in Decatur.
Ken Watts / CrossRoadsNews
patient’s fluids can carry the virus and infect another person, but only under specific circumstances. “So a needle would have to puncture the skin of an infected individual for it to be contagious,” she said, “same for other medical equipment or personal items such as sheets or clothing contaminated with blood or other fluids.” Ford said Ebola is not an airborne virus. “That means if you’re sitting in this room right now next to an individual who is ill, you cannot contract the disease,” she said. “They would have to spit on you and on an open
sore or mucous membrane – your mouth or eyeballs. This is how you have the risk of contracting the disease, not sitting next to someone on the bus, in a plane or in a movie theater. That’s why we say this disease is difficult to contract.” Ford said the lack of basic information is generating a lot of fear. “Even exposure to risk factors does not necessarily mean you’ll be infected.” Because Ebola’s incubation period ranges from two days to three weeks, Ford said it is difficult to track and catch early. “People don’t know when they have been
initially exposed because the symptoms do not manifest themselves immediately.” The early symptoms mimic the flu or a cold, but by the time patients show up at the hospital, they’re suffering vomiting, diarrhea, bruising and internal bleeding, abdominal pain and muscle pain, and oozing body fluids that are most infectious to others. Ford said treatment consists of helping the patient’s own immune system to fight off the disease. She talked about the “elephant in the room” – DeKalb’s large refugee community. She’s heard a lot of concern about people who settle here from other countries. DeKalb has the largest refugee population in the Southeast. Prior to entering the United States, Ford said all refugees undergo a robust screening process and receive additional screening at the DeKalb Board of Health. “Our refugees arrive from many countries, including nations in Africa, and you cannot look at a refugee and identify their country of origin. So you cannot make assumptions about where they come from, and everyone who coughs doesn’t have Ebola.” Her last statement brought chuckles from the audience. “You laugh, but I’ve heard some pretty disturbing stories about things that have happened in this county [regarding refugees] and that’s part of the reason why we’re having this forum.” Questions and answers from the forum will be posted at www.dekalbhealth.net.
Dallas nurse becomes Emory’s fourth Ebola patient By Ken Watts
A nurse who cared for an Ebola patient at Texas Presbyterian Hospital in Dallas is now Emory University Hospital’s fourth Ebola patient. Amber Vinson, 29, arrived at the DeKalb hospital on Oct. 15 with police escort from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport where she landed in a specially equipped private jet. Vinson, dressed in a protective suit, walked to a waiting ambulance. She is the second nurse who cared for Thomas Eric Duncan to fall ill from the
deadly virus. The first nurse, Nina Pham, 27, was transported to the National Institutes of Health clinical center in Bethesda, Md. Duncan, who had been in Liberia before arriving in the United States, died Amber Vinson on Oct. 8. Vinson is being treated in the same isolation unit where American relief workers Dr. Timothy Brantly and Nancy Writebol recovered in August. An unidentified third patient
– a World Health Organization doctor working in Sierra Leone – has been undergoing treatment at Emory since Sept. 9. Emory is one of four hospitals in the country with specialized isolation units used for treating cases involving highly infectious diseases. The three-bed unit’s ventilation and water system is physically separate from other patient areas. Before her symptoms, Vinson, who is planning her wedding, flew on a commercial flight to and from Cleveland to Dallas/Fort Worth. On her return flight on Oct. 13, she was running a fever. All health care workers who came into contact with Duncan in Dallas were supposed to monitor themselves for signs of the disease, including fever. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says Ebola is only contagious after an
infected person begins showing symptoms. None of the workers was supposed to take any form of public transportation, including airplanes, while being monitored. It can take up to 21 days for someone infected with Ebola to begin showing symptoms. CDC officials confirm that Vinson checked with them before flying and got the go-ahead even though she had a slightly elevated temperature of 99.5 degrees on Monday, which is below the threshold. At an Oct. 15 news conference, CDC Director Thomas Frieden said that in hindsight, Vinson “should not have traveled.” The Frontier jetliner made five flights after Vinson’s trip, ferrying passengers from Dallas to Florida and Atlanta and back. The CDC has asked the 132 passengers on the flight to contact its hotline, 1-800-CDCINFO (1-800-232-4636).
“Getting Through the Holidays After Losing a Loved One” A seminar providing support and information during this special time. No matter how long it has been, the holidays can be a difficult time.
Grief is a process you CAN get through! Saturday, October 25, 2014 • 10am – Noon The Family Life Center St. Philip AME Church • 240 Candler Road, Atlanta
Cost: $20 • Call 770-987-3977 to register
Sponsored by Successful Journeys, LLC • Delbra Thomas, MSW, ACSW, CEO
Scene Erica Barnes
F. Baldwin-Billingslea
9
CrossRoadsNews
October 18, 2014
“We are excited to do what we can to support them … taking a moment to let them know we are inspired by their courage.”
Pat Culp
Claudean Freemon
Sophia Hunt
Mildred Lamar
Adriane Morris
Lenore Musick
Annie Pope
Robbin Wright
100 Black Women’s Pink & Black Gala honors cancer survivors Fifteen cancer survivors will be honored at the DeKalb 100 Black Women’s ninth annual Pink & Black Ball fundraiser on Nov. 1 at the Courtyard by Marriott in Decatur. The black-tie gala, which begins at 7 p.m., pays tribute to the bravery and resilience of cancer survivors in DeKalb. It will feature dinner, dancing and a silent auction. The 2014 honorees range in age from 44 to 78. They include a doctor, counselor and cosmetologist. Honorees include Erica
Barnes, Francine Baldwin-Billingslea, Pat Culp, Hattie E. Dixon, Dr. Thelma Francis, Claudean Freemon, Sophia Hunt, Mildred Lamar, Adriane Morris, Annie K. Pope, Lenore Musick and Robbin Wright. Cynné Simpson of FOX 5 News will be mistress of ceremony. The newest members of the DecaturDeKalb chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women also will be inducted. Tickets are $65. A portion of the proceeds
will benefit the American Cancer Society and the chapter’s Legacy mentoring program for high school girls. This year’s slate of honorees includes survivors who have battled their disease with strong faith and positive attitudes. More than 1.6 million new cancer cases are diagnosed nationwide, and the disease remains the second most common cause of death in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society.
Pink & Black Ball co-chairs Delois Grizzle and Debra Curtis said they are amazed by the honorees each year. “We are excited to do what we can to support them, and we look forward to taking a moment to let them know we are inspired by their courage,” they said in an Oct. 12 statement. The Courtyard by Marriott is at 130 Clairemont Ave. For more information, call Nicole Lee at 770-841-1518.
Historian to dish on two American music trailblazers Charley Patton Historian and author drew inspiraBen Wynne will discuss tion from museminal American musisical traditions cians Charley Patton and on both sides of Jimmie Rodgers on Oct. the racial divide, 20 at the Carter Presidenand their songs tial Library and Museum. about hard lives, Wynne will read and raising hell, and sign his book, “In Tune: the hope of betCharley Patton, Jimmie Ben Wynne ter days ahead Rodgers and the Roots of American Muspoke to white sic.” and black audiThe event, which takes place at 7 p.m. ences alike. in the museum theater, is free and open to Patton and the public. At a time when segregation formed Rodgers both died young, leaving behind a impassable lines of demarcation in most relatively small number of recordings. Wynne tells their story in “In Tune.” areas of Southern life, music transcended Though neither remains well-known to racial boundaries. Jimmie Rodgers and
Heritage Day & Jazz Festival 6th Annual Flat Rock Archive Flea Market, Arts & Crafts Yard Sale!
First Afrikan Church is an Afrocentric Christian Ministry that empowers women, men, youth and children to move from membership to leadership in the church, community and the world.
Join us for Bible Study Wednesdays at 7 p.m.
Saturday October 25, 2014
5197 Salem Road Lithonia, GA 30038
3979 Crossvale Road, Lithonia
770-981-2601 “We are building far beyond our years.”
Green Forrest Community Civic Association’s second annual Community Fall Festival and Health Fair takes place Oct. 25 at Wadsworth Magnet School. The 9 a.m.-to-2 p.m. fest will include free flu shots and blood pressure and glucose screenings. There also will be food, music and activities for the whole family. The school is at 2084 Green Forrest Drive in Decatur. For more information, call 404-285-0945.
along with the
“Come on and be a part of the vision”
Praise & Devotion Worship Service Sundays at 10 a.m.
mainstream audiences, the impact of their contributions echoes in the songs of today. “In Tune” is the first book to compare the careers of the two musicians, a vital addition to the history of American music. Wynne, a native of Florence, Miss., currently serves as associate professor of history at the University of North Georgia. He is the author of a number of works on the American South, including “Mississippi’s Civil War: A Narrative History” and “A Hard Trip: A History of the 15th Mississippi Infantry, C.S.A.” The Carter Library is at 441 Freedom Parkway in Atlanta. For more information, visit www.jimmycarterlibrary.gov or call 404-865-7100.
Fall fest, health fair on Oct. 25
9AM - 3PM
Flea Market/Arts & Crafts/Yard Sale
Rev. Dr. Mark A. Lomax
$25 Tables Available Limited Space
Fish Fry, Grits, & Drinks for sale RSVP by 10/20/14 by calling.**Vendors needed!
4PM-6PM
African American Art & Antique Appraisals
Come find out the value of your family heirlooms! Bring your collectables! Appraisals will cost $20-$40.
7PM - 10PM
1st Annual Flat Rock Jazz Festival
Tables for rent – Elegant Displays Encouraged!
Bring your best china, silver and tablecloths to enjoy jazz under the stars with jazz musician John Porter in style! Guest soloist Abel Johnson ** Door prize awarded for best decorated table. Tables and chairs will be provided. l era Genission Adm $ on pers per
10
• Table for 2- $20 • Table for 4 - $40 • Table for 6 or more - $70 There will be food for sale Ribs, Hamburgers, Chicken, etc.
**Bring your own choice of beverage • NO FOOD!
Call 770-797-5625 to Reserve Your Space!
10
CrossRoadsNews
Finance
October 18, 2014
“Having your own facility really sends a message that you are part of a community and you deserve to be there.”
Ivy Prep acquires shopping center Ivy Preparatory Academy, which shared the Parkview shopping center with Grady’s Kirkwood Family Medicine Health Center on Memorial Drive, is now the health center’s landlord. The single-gender charter school network, which has an enrollment of 820 in Kirkwood, acquired the shopping center in a $14 million bond deal. The 100,000-square-foot strip center at 1807 Memorial Drive was facing foreclosure when Ivy Prep bought it. It is also home to a Pizza Hut and a LIV Fitness Center. State Charter Schools Commission officials said the bond deal is the “first of its kind” for a state charter school. Gregg Stevens, counsel for the commission, said it’s the first instance that he is aware of in which a charter school is also the landlord. “Ivy Prep will be able to rent out their facilities and use the rent they receive to pay back the bond,” Stevens said. “Having your own facility really sends a message that you are part of a community and you deserve to be there.” Ivy Prep partnered with the DeKalb County Development Authority for the bond to finance the purchase. The shopping center is also home to Ivy Preparatory Academy Kirkwood School for Girls and Ivy Prep’s Young Men’s Leadership Academy. Each school has 410 students. Victoria Wiley, Ivy Preparatory Network
Schools’ executive director, said they are excited to buy the entire complex. “We have and will continue to invest in this community and the students that we serve,” Wiley said. “This Victoria Wiley opportunity provides stability, which ensures we are here for years to come.” Ivy Prep will receive $650,000 from the bond to develop more than 15,000 square feet of space on campus into classrooms and separate the single-gender schools, which currently share an entrance, a cafeteria, and a playground. A ground-breaking ceremony will be held on Nov. 1. Construction is scheduled for late January. Monty Green, vice chair of the academy’s governing board, said Ivy Prep now has the ability to control its own destiny. “This whole thing is a positive step for the school, for the Ivy Prep brand, and for this community,” Green said. The purchase of the shopping center will yield savings for Ivy Prep. It will no longer have to pay property taxes and with the purchase, the strip mall moved from commercial to nonprofit status and commercial tenants’ leases will help the school repay the 30-year bond investment.
Legal Notices 9/27, 10/04, 10/11, 10/18
Notice of Petition to Change Name of Adult in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV9251-1++ Gary Yvonne Broughton, filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court to change the name from: Gary Yvonne Broughton to Gail Yvonne Irvine. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: September 18, 2014 Gary Yvonne Broughton Petitioner, Pro se 1899 Meadow Lane Decatur, GA 30032 9/27, 10/04, 10/11, 10/18
Notice of Petition to Change Name of Minor in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV8709-10++ Ashley Thompson Plaintiff Vs. Christopher Pittman Defendant By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 15, 2014 you are hereby notified that on September 8, 2014 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you to change the name of a minor child. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Ashley Thompson, 951 Pine Roc Drive, Stone Mountain, GA. 30083. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 15, 2014. Witness the Honorable Tangela M. Barrie, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 15th day of September, 2014 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 11/01
Notice of Petition to Change Name of Adult in the Superior Court
of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV9841-3++ Carmen DeCarlo Allen, filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on June 4, 2014 to change the name from: Carmen DeCarlo Lamb to Carmen DeCarlo Allen. Any interested party has the right to appear In this case and file objections within 30 days after the Petition was filed. Dated: June 4, 2014 Carmen Allen aka Carmen Lamb Petitioner, Pro se 4415 Riverwood Circle Decatur, GA 30035 (404) 388-9560 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV8513-4++ Erica Liggians Plaintiff Vs. Erin Liggians Defendant To: 04 Eaton Street Buffalo, NY 14215 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 22, 2014 you are hereby notified that on August 29, 2014 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Erica Robinson Liggians, 1287 Old Countryside Circle, W., Stone Mountain, GA 30083. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 22, 2014. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flake, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 25th day of September, 2014 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV1348-10++
Janene M. Holmes Plaintiff Vs. Theodore J. Holmes Defendant To: By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 24, 2014 you are hereby notified that on Jan. 16, 2014 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Janene M. Holmes, 1103 Fairington Club Drive, Lithonia, GA 30038. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 24, 2014. Witness the Honorable Tangela M. Barrie, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 25th day of September, 2014 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV7545-4++ Cori Mathis Plaintiff Vs. Jonathan L. Mathis Defendant To: Jonathan L. Mathis 2189 Sammertown Drive Norcross, GA 30071 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 23, 2014 you are hereby notified that on July 30, 2014, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Cori Mathis, 3547 Cherry Ridge Trail, Decatur, GA 30038. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 23, 2014. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flake, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 25th day of September, 2014 10/4, 10/11, 10/18, 10/25
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court
Volunteers bag Turner Hill trash About two dozen members of the Stonecrest Business Alliance and the Parks of Stonecrest picked up and removed more than 35 bags of trash from Turner Hill Road on Oct. 11. The cleanup took place between I-20 and Rockland Road. Volunteers, who included McDonald’s operator Van Jakes and Stonecrest City organizer Jason Lary, also picked up trash on Hayden Quarry Road, south of Turner Hill.
Watershed official to talk business MaLika Hakeem of the DeKalb Department of Watershed Management will be the special guest at the DeKalb Chamber’s Coffee & Conversation on Oct. 24 at the Cornerstone Bank Building in Decatur. The two-hour event begins at 8 a.m. in the first-floor Community Room. Hakeem is program outreach coordi-
of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV7313-4++ Sinafkesh Getachew Plaintiff Vs. Dawit Shferew Bekele Defendant To: Dawit S. Bekele 4043 Bayside Cr. Atlanta, GA 30340 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 22, 2014 you are hereby notified that on July 23, 2014, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Sinafjesh Getachew, 4043 Bayside Cr. Atlanta, GA 30340. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 22, 2014. Witness the Honorable Gail C. Flake, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 25th day of September, 2014 9/27, 10/4, 10/11, 10/18
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV4468-7++ Towanda Warren Plaintiff Vs. Lacris Davenport Defendant To: Lacris Davenport By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 10, 2014 you are hereby notified that on September 4, 2014 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Towanda Warren, 3406 Longleaf Drive, Decatur, GA 30032. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 10, 2014. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 11th day of September, 2014 9/27, 10/4, 10/11, 10/18
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV8483-2++ Carla Knowlton
nator for Watershed Management Capital Improvement Projects. Participants will hear how the department can assist them in their business needs and goals. The bank is at 125 Clairemont Ave. For more information, contact Kamika Dillard at SalesandMarketing@dekalbchamber.org or 404-378-8000, Ext. 224.
Plaintiff Vs. Shawn Giles Defendant To: Shawn Giles By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 9, 2014 you are hereby notified that on August 19, 2014 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Carla Knowlton, 320 Halton Drive, #D, Scottdale, GA 30079. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 10, 2014. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 11th day of September, 2014 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 11/1
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV8496-2++ Richard Garfield Messick, Jr. Plaintiff Vs. Olga Amparo Quintero Defendant To: By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 9, 2014 you are hereby notified that on September 9, 2014, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Uncontested Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: No Attorney. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 9, 2014. Witness the Honorable Asha F. Jackson, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 29th day of September, 2014 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 11/1
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV9485-3++ Latoshia Cordova Plaintiff Vs. George Cordova, Jr. Defendant To: George Cordova, Jr. 3319 Old Salem Road, SE Conyers, GA 30013 By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 30, 2014 you are hereby notified that on September 25, 2014, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the
Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: LaToshia Cordova, 88 Clay Street, SE, Atlanta, GA 30317. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 30, 2014. Witness the Honorable Clarence R. Seeliger, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 2nd day of October, 2014 10/11, 10/18, 10/25, 11/1
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV9538-9++ Ruth Marisol Ramos-Marroquin Plaintiff Vs. Andres Morales-Gonzales Defendant To: Andres Morales-Gonzales By Order of the Court for service by publication dated September 30, 2014 you are hereby notified that on September 26, 2014, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Petition For Declaration of Custody. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Donald M. Coleman, Bar #177450, 246 Sycamore Street, Suite 120, Decatur, GA 30030. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of September 30, 2014. Witness the Honorable Mark Anthony Scott, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 30th day of September, 2014 10/18, 10/25, 11/1, 11/08
Notice OF PUBLICATION in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia
Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV9691-7++ Barbara M. Porch Plaintiff Vs. Andre Christopher Porch Defendant To: Andre Christopher Porch 1200 Fairview Street Decatur, GA By Order of the Court for service by publication dated October 15, 2014 you are hereby notified that on October 3, 2014, the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for Divorce. You are required to file with the Clerk of the Superior Court, and to serve upon the Plaintiff’s attorney whose name and address is: Barbara Porch, 1417 Queen Place, Decatur, GA 30035. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of October 15, 2014. Witness the Honorable Daniel M. Coursey, Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court. This the 15th day of October, 2014
11
CrossRoadsNews
October 18, 2014
If This Was Your Ad, Someone Would Be Seeing It Now! Call 404-284-1888 today for rates & information.
Marketplace COUNSELING SERVICES T & L Relations, LLC, Coaching Sessions\Marriage Building/ Restoration Relationship 101, Parenting 101, Authentic MAN/All Pro DAD, 404.988.3801
FOR SALE Living Room Wing Chair, Brand new Pressure Cooker, Patio Furniture, Table & Chairs, Swing, & much more. Please call 404289-7991.
HELP WANTED Drivers-OTR: New Competitive pay package & benefits! Sign-ON, Safety, Fuel Bonuses! Vacation/ Holidays. NO-Touch Freight, NO Hazmat! CDL-A req’d. D&D Sexton, INC. 877-412-7209 DRIVERS: CDL-A. REGIONAL/ OTR, HOME EVERY WEEKEND! Run Southeast/Midsouth/Midwest
advertising
THIS SIZE AD FOR ONLY $
30?
Call 404-284-1888 to find out how.
full medical/dental/vision email acarden@bahexpress.com, 877606-7236 ext 111 & 115
HOME SERVICES Carpet cleaning - 5 rooms $85.00, New carpet $175/room, Vinyl flooring $175/room. Blue Bubble Home Services; www. bluebubbleservices.com; 404286-3945. A Rated by BBB. Visit our showroom inside 285 Flea Market.
REAL ESTATE Stone Mtn. 4 bedrm, 2.5 Ba. LR, DR, Den, w/ fplc. $130,000. $1000 down, $859 per mon. Call 24/7 1-888-269-6795 x174, First United Rlty Want to sell your home? I pay cash - quick close - any condition. Call today. 678 250 9675 (no text) tyler@apextkhomes.com
attorneys
for sale / rent LOOKING FOR GREAT PRICES & SPECTACULAR BARGAINS?
WANTED
ANTIQUE & FLEA MARKET
Cute kids make money in TV commercials; 5 yrs & up; Call Pope Models 404-246-7823; No Classes
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.
WE HAVE A BRAND NEW LOOK • COME VISIT US AT:
6933-B MAIN ST, LITHONIA GA 30058 (across from Wayfield Foods)
NOW Open Mon – Sat 10am - 6pm public notice
JHC
I-Storage 2804 HF Shepherd DR Decatur GA 30034 404-241-3977 x2
Johnson Hopewell Coleman, LLC “EXPERIENCED LAWYERS, EXPERIENCED MINDS”
Family Law Firm handling:
• Divorce • Legitimation • Child Custody • Paternity • Child Support • Visitation
Notice of Sale PURSUANT TO THE GEORGIA SELF STORAGE ACT (210-214) iStorage, LLC LOCATED AT 2804 HF SHEPHERD DR. DECATUR GA, 30034 WILL HAVE A PUBLIC AUCTION ON SITE NOVEMBER, 11 2014 AT 12:00 PM OR THE NEXT BUSINESS DAY. UNITS CONTAIN FURNITURE, BOXES, HOUSEHOLD GOODS, MISC. ITEMS WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY AND ALL BIDS OR TO WITHDRAW ANY UNITS FROM THE SALE. PURCHASER MUST VACATE UNIT WITH IN 48 HOURS. SALE ITEMS ARE CASH ONLY.
FREE TELEPHONE CONSULTATION
770-885-2165 Monday-Friday 9am-5pm
OVER 70 BOOTHS ALL HEATED & AIR CONDITIONED!!!
attorneys
The Colwell Law Firm, LLC
Serving DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett & surrounding counties Located in Lawrenceville, Ga.
ANTIQUES • AFRICAN & AMERICAN ART • BOOKS • CARPETS • CHILDRENS GAMES • COSMETICS (Avon, Mary Kay & more) • ELECTRONICS • FURNITURE • HAND CRAFTED JEWELRY • DESIGNER & CASUAL CLOTHING FOR THE FAMILY (infants, children, men, & women) • HANDBAGS • HATS • HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES • FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS • GREETING CARDS • GAMES • LUGGAGE • SEWING SUPPLIES (w/seamstress available for alterations) • SHEA BUTTER (lotions, oils, hair products, etc) • SHOES • SOCKS • TOYS • VACUUMS (including repair) • & MUCH, MUCH, MORE!!!
Personal Injury & Workers Comp • Family Law/Divorce/Custody • Wills/Probate/Trusts Bankruptcy • Criminal Defense • Corporate & Business Law • Immigration Law
4153 Flat Shoals Parkway | Bldg C Suite 322 | Decatur, GA 30034
P:404.289.2244 F:404.289.2888 www.bjhlawyers.com
J. ROSS C. WRIGHT C. PRIMUS S. SWINGER J. JONES
K. ALLEN S. DAVIS J. JONES S. ANDERSON M. JOHNSON
One-order, one-invoice, multi-newspaper placement service!
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 Adoption ADOPTION - A Loving Choice for an Unplanned Pregnancy. Call 1-866-236-7638 (24/7) for adoption information/profiles, or view our loving couples at WWW. ANAAdoptions.com. Financial Assistance Provided
Autos CASH FOR CARS! Any Make, Model or Year. We Pay MORE! Running or Not. Sell Your Car or Truck TODAY. Free Towing! Instant Offer: 1-888-545-8647 CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Makes!. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call 1-800959-8518
Business Opportunity AVON- Earn extra income with a new career! Sell from home, work,, online. $15 startup. For information call: 888-423-1792 (M-F 9-7 & Sat 9-1 Central)
Education & Training AIRLINE CAREERS Start Here - Get hands on training as FAA certified Technician fixing jets. Financial aid if qualified. Call for free information Aviation Institute of Maintenance 1-877-818-0783 www.FixJets.com Employers need work-at-home Medical Transcriptionists! Get the online training you need to fill these positions with Career
Step’s employer-trusted program. Train at home to work at home! Visit CareerStep.com/news to start training for your work-athome career today.
Employment Opportunities $4500 Monthly for telling the truth? SurveySoup.com connects you to big companies who pay big bucks to hear your opinions. And, it’s free! HELP WANTED!! Make up to $1000 A Week Mailing Brochures From Home! Helping Home Workers since 2001! Genuine Opportunity! NO Experience Required! www.needmailers.com VOID IN WI GREAT MONEY FROM HOME! With our FREE Mailer Program. Live Operators On Duty Now 1-800-707-1810 ex 601 or visit www.pacificbrochures.com HELP WANTED!!! $570/WEEKLY Potential ASSEMBLING CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS from home + GREAT MONEY MAILING BROCHURES or TYPING ADS FOR OUR COMPANY!! PT/FT, No Experience Required. Start Immediately! www.HiringLocalWorkers.com
Financial Guaranteed Income For Your Retirement Avoid market risk & get guaranteed income in retirement! CALL for FREE copy of our SAFE MONEY GUIDE Plus
Annuity Quotes from A-Rated companies! 800-669-5471 PROBLEMS with the IRS or State Taxes? Settle for a fraction of what you owe! Free face to face consultations with offices in your area. Call 855-970-2032 GET CASH NOW for your Annuity or Structured Settlement. Top Dollars Paid. Fast, No Hassle Service! 877-693-0934 (M-F 9:35am-7pm ET)
Health & Fitness Canada Drug Center is your choice for safe and affordable medications. Our licensed Canadian mail order pharmacy will provide you with savings of up to 90% on all your medication needs. Call today 1-800-4188975, for $10.00 off your first prescription and free shipping. Medical Guardian - Top-rated medical alarm and 24/7 medical alert monitoring. For a limited time, get free equipment, no activation fees, no commitment, a 2nd waterproof alert button for free and more - only $29.95 per month. 800-617-2809
Home Improvement All Things Basementy! Basement Systems Inc. Call us for all of your basement needs! Waterproofing, Finishing, Structural Repairs, Humidity and Mold Control FREE ESTIMATES! Call 1-800-998-5574
Items Wanted
Miscellaneous
CARS/TRUCKS WANTED! Top $$$$$ PAID! Running or Not, All Makes!. Free Towing! We’re Local! 7 Days/Week. Call 1-800905-8332
My Computer Works. Computer problems? Viruses, spyware, email, printer issues, bad internet connections - FIX IT NOW! Professional, U.S.-based technicians. $25 off service. Call for immediate help. 1-800-681-3250
TOP CASH PAID FOR OLD GUITARS! 1920’s thru 1980’s. Gibson, Martin, Fender, Gretsch, Epiphone, Guild, Mosrite, Rickenbacker, Prairie State, D’Angelico, Stromberg, and Gibson Mandolins/Banjos. 1-800-401-0440
Misc. For Sale Get a complete Satellite System installed at NO COST! FREE HD/ DVR Upgrade. As low as $19.99/ mo. Call for details 877-388-8575 KILL ROACHES! Buy Harris Roach Tablets. Eliminate BugsGuaranteed. No Mess, Odorless, Long Lasting. Available at Ace Hardware & The Home Depot. KILL BED BUGS & THEIR EGGS! Buy Harris Bed Bug Killer Complete Treatment Program or Kit. Available: Hardware Stores, Buy Online: homedepot.com DIRECTV starting at $24.95/mo. Free 3-Months of HBO, starz, SHOWTIME & CINEMAX FREE RECEIVER Upgrade! 2014 NFL Sunday Ticket Included with Select Packages. Some exclusions apply - Call for details 1-800-8974169
Advertise your product or service nationwide or by region in over 7 million households in North America’s best suburbs! Place your classified ad in over 570 suburban newspapers just like this one. Call Classified Avenue at 888-486-2466 DISH TV Retailer. Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/month (where available.)
T. HARRIS M. JACKSON D. MURRY C. GEORGE
SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 800-2781401 DirectTV - 2 Year Savings Event! Over 140 channels only $29.99 a month. Only DirecTV gives you 2 YEARS of savings and a FREE Genie upgrade! Call 1-800-2793018 Protect Your Home - ADT Authorized Dealer: Burglary, Fire, and Emergency Alerts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! CALL TODAY, INSTALLED TOMORROW! 888-858-9457 (M-F 9am-9pm ET) FREE $50 WALMART GIFT CARD & 3 FREE issues of YOUR FAVORITE MAGAZINES! To claim this free offer, Call 855954-3224 FREE BAHAMA CRUISE. 3 days/2 nights from Ft. Lauderdale, FL. Pay only $59 port charge! Upgrades available! Call Now! 877-916-3235 FREE GOLD IRA KIT. With the demise of the dollar now is the time to invest in gold. AAA Rated! For free consultation: 1-866-683-5664
Reader Notice As a service to you – our valued readers – we offer the following information: This newspaper will never knowingly accept any advertisement that is illegal or considered fraudulent. If you have questions or doubts about any ads on these pages, we advise that before responding or sending money ahead of time, you check with the Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Line and/or the Better Business Bureau. They may have records or documented complaints that will serve to caution you about doing business with those advertisers. Also be advised that some phone numbers published in these ads may require an extra charge. In all cases of questionable value, such as promises or guaranteed income from work-at-home programs, money to loan, etc., if it sounds too good to be true – it may in fact be exactly that. This newspaper cannot be held responsible for any negative consequences that occur as a result of you doing business with any advertisers. Thank you.
12
CrossRoadsNews
October 18, 2014