CrossRoadsNews, February 22, 2014

BLACK HISTORY

HOLIDAY

FINANCE

Jamie Foxx’s portrayal of blues legend Ray Charles is one of two films about groundbreaking black entertainers being screened at local libraries. 4

County employees modeled red fashions during the second annual American Heart Health luncheon. 7

Business owners and operators on Candler Road will get an update on the construction that has snarled traffic for almost a year. 9

Performers’ stories on screen

Decked out for a cause

Traffic talk on agenda

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

Copyright © 2014 CrossRoadsNews, Inc.

February 22, 2014

Volume 19, Number 43

www.crossroadsnews.com

School Board favors remaining at nine members

By Ken Watts

Despite a 2011 state law calling for the number of DeKalb School Board seats to be reduced to seven, board members voted overwhelmingly recently to stay at a nine-member body.

The 6-3 vote came after vigorous debate at the board’s Feb. 8 retreat.

Board Chairman MelMelvin Johnson vin Johnson, District 6; John Coleman, District 1; Dr. Joyce Morley, District 7; Dr. Michael Erwin, District 3; Karen Carter, District 8; and David Camp-

bell, District 5, favored keeping the board at its current size.

Marshall Orson, District 2; Jim McMahan, District 4; and Thad Mayfield, District 9, voted no.

Morley, one of six people appointed by Gov. Nathan Deal in March 2013 to replace six suspended members, said the board should not forget the strides the nine-district panel has made toward solving some of the school system’s governance, budget and student performance issues and that now is not the time to change its size.

“We are under a mandate to turn things around with SACS telling us what we ought to do and where we ought to be, and our ship is still limping trying to get to the other

shore,” Morley said.

She was making reference to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools’ recent upgrade of the district’s accreditation status from “probation” to “warned” and the work still to be done to regain full accreditation.

Orson said opposing the law could do more harm than good.

“You can ask for anything, but if it’s unwise you run the risk of ill will from the Legislature,” he said.

But Johnson said lawmakers invited the board into the conversation.

“It’s only a recommendation that we’re giving to the Legislature,” Johnson said. “So if you want to keep it at nine, let’s write it down as one of our suggestions.”

Mayfield said a significant number of people want the smaller board.

“You can’t undermine that,” he said.

DeKalb House delegation Chairman Howard Mosby confirmed that he asked the board for its input as lawmakers draw district boundaries according to the law.

In 2011, the state Senate passed SB 79 that required DeKalb to reduce the number of School Board seats to no more than seven. But the bill made no provisions to accomplish this in light of the fact that the members’ terms went beyond 2012. It would have been illegal to put any of the incumbents out of office.

Please see SCHOOL BOARD, page 2

Families push for trial in crash involving cop Candlelight vigil held at site where two women died

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker

Three years after DeKalb Police Officer Kristina Hambie slammed into a white Nissan Ultima carrying Shelley Scott Amos and Cheryl Blount Burton, family and friends are still waiting for justice.

The best friends of more than 20 years died in the mangled wreckage on Feb. 19, 2011, at the Kristina Hambie intersection of Covington Highway and Kensington Road in Decatur.

They had just left an Avondale Estates thrift store where they had been shopping. Amos, who lived in Decatur, was 56. Burton, 51, lived in Stone Mountain.

Amos, who was in the front passenger seat, had to be cut from the wreckage.

The coroner’s report said that every bone in her body was broken and that she died instantly.

Hambie, then 25 years old, was a threeyear DeKalb police officer.

She was on duty at the time of the accident, but her Sept. 29, 2011, indictment said that she was not on an emergency call and did not have her blue lights on when she slammed into the women’s car.

When Amos’ son, Devron Cunningham, saw the violent wreckage, he knew his mother and Burton didn’t stand a chance.

“The car looked like you had stepped on a soda can,” he said.

The first police report said the women’s car had run the red light, but the crash scene told a different story.

“You could see where the impact occurred and how far the car was crushed and thrown,” said attorney Robert Bozeman. “It ended up across the street on a pole. You

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Desmund Nicely (left), son of Cheryl Blount, and Devron Cunningham (right), son of Shelly Amos, join family and friends at a Feb. 19 vigil.

could not throw a car that far at 35 miles per hour.”

After reconstructing the accident scene, experts hired by his Decatur law firm Davis Bozeman disagreed with the police report of the accident.

He asked for the police Shelley Amos cruiser’s black box.

DeKalb County, claiming it is part of an ongoing investigation, never released its content, but it settled the case in June 2011 for the maximum insurance benefit and fired Hambie.

On Sept. 29, 2011, a DeKalb grand jury indicted Hambie on two counts of vehicu-

lar homicide in the first degree, reckless driving, and violation of oath by a public officer.

The indictment said that Hambie was traveling above the posted speed limit when her police cruiser slammed into the Cheryl Burton car driven by Burton as it pulled into the intersection of Covington Highway and Kensington Road.

She was arrested on Oct. 4, 2011, but wasn’t arraigned until September 2013. She pleaded not guilty at her arraignment and was released on a $50,000 bond.

Since then, the families say nothing has

happened with the case.

On Feb. 19, grandchildren, sisters, brothers, aunts and friends of the women journeyed from Augusta, Thomson, Riverdale, College Park and Covington to join Cunningham and Burton’s son, Desmond Nicely, to light candles for the women at the site of the accident and press for a resolution to the criminal case against the former police officer.

Nicely said they have been waiting for a long time for the case to go to trial.

“It hurts to keep lingering on,” he said.

“We really want to have closure to this.”

Burton’s older sister, Patricia Ramsey, said Please see CRASH, page 2

2

CrossRoadsNews

Community

February 22, 2014

“There has been no unsusal timelin. This case has not been languishing here. As soon as the case was indicted, we began preparation.”

Barnes Sutton pushing on after dispute with longtime boyfriend

By Jennifer Ffrench Parker and Ken Watts

DeKalb Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton returned to work at the Board of Commissioners on Tuesday with her left foot in an orthopedic boot after a week’s medical leave.

Barnes Sutton, who represents Commission District 4 in Stone Mountain, said she broke her left toe during a Feb. 12 domestic dispute with her longtime boyfriend and campaign manager Warren Mosby that prompted a 911 call.

Ten police officers, including the DeKalb Police domestic violence unit, a major, a captain and two lieutenants, assisted in the investigation.

The Feb. 11 police reports made at 3:36 p.m. said Sutton got into an argument with Mosby when she found another woman’s car parked in the driveway of his home on Habersham Drive in Decatur.

Two separate police reports were filed for the incident. Both call the commissioner Sutton-Barnes, instead of Barnes Sutton, her correct name.

One report written by Officer T. Barnes lists Barnes Sutton as the complainant.

A second report written by Officer QD Lloyd lists Mosby as the victim and Barnes Sutton as the offender. Both reports list pending charges as simple assault and simple battery.

Barnes Sutton told Officer Barnes that

Sharon Barnes Sutton

Warren Mosby

she was at Mosby’s home because he had agreed to assist her with getting kerosene for her heater.

When she arrived at the house, she said she tried to reach Mosby by cell phone and by knocking on his door without response.

When Mosby finally came to the door, Barnes Sutton said he stated that he was in a meeting with “Doreen Carter, an acquaintance known to Ms. Sutton-Barnes.

“She stated they had an argument over his meeting with Mrs. Carter,” the report said.

During a scuffle, Barnes Sutton said that “Mosby pushed her down onto the driveway and threw her against the car as she was trying to run.”

“She stated that Mr. Mosby grabbed her and she reached for his glasses during the incident,” the report said. “She stated that Mr. Mosby put his knee in her chest below her throat. She stated that she could barely

breathe and could not get up from his restraints. … She advised that there had been other incidents where she was assaulted by Mr. Mosby. … She advised at the time she could not breathe and her left ankle was hurting.”

Barnes Sutton, who hosted her second annual American Heart Month Red Fashion for county employees on Feb. 19, said she was pushing ahead.

“I just decided I need to get back to work,” she said. “I am pushing forward. I am serving my constituents.”

In Mosby’s report to Officer Lloyd, Mosby said that Barnes Sutton knocked on his door saying she wanted to speak to his female friend, witness Doreen Carter, who was visiting.

He told the officer that he exited out of the side door of his house, leaving Carter inside, and spoke with Barnes Sutton.

“Mr. Mosby said stated that Ms Sutton Barnes became upset he had a female visitor and began trying to enter his home, trying to force herself past him into the home,” the report said. “He blocked the entrance to the door by standing in the doorway. He stated that Ms Sutton-Barnes continued to be aggressive and began to hit him in the chest with her fist.”

Mosby said Barnes Sutton grabbed his glasses off his face and threw them in the front yard.

“Mr. Mosby stated he grabbed Ms. Sut-

Officer’s arraignment took 2 years; trial not set CRASH,

from page

1

their 92-year-old mother, Essie Blount, whom she cares for in Augusta, is waiting for closure too for her baby daughter.

“It was a police officer and they are taking their time about it,” she charged.

Bozeman, whose professional connection to the case ended with the civil settlement, attended Wednesday’s candlelight vigil. He said he has pledged to assist the family in whatever way it can and that his firm sent out the news alert to the media about the vigil.

Bozeman said the length of time it has taken for the case to come to trial is unusual.

“It is abnormal,” he said. “Since this accident, we have seen the Sneiderman case go to trial. We have seen the Burrell Ellis case come up. Why not this one? ” Nicely said he called the District Attorney’s Office all the time.

“I spoke to the Victims Unit last week,” he said. “They told me the DA was in court and that they are working on other cases.”

District Attorney Robert James said Thursday that he is ready to go to trial with the case.

“There has been no unsusal timeline,” he said. “This case has not been languishing here. As soon as the case was indicted, we began preparation.”

James said they had to locate an expert in accident reconstruction and it took time and money.

“We found one in mid 2012 and it took time to get the report,” he said.“If the trial is called next week, we are ready.”

Superior Court Judge Clarence Seeliger, who has been assigned the case, said Thursday that he did not know why Hambie’s arraignment took two years and that his trial calendar is set by the District Attorney’s Office.

“Generally I leave it in the hands of the DA,” he said.

“The statute put the scheduling of trials in the hands of the DA when they are ready to go to trial. I don’t know why they have not scheduled it.”

When the case comes to trial, the sons of the deceased women said that they plan to be in court every day.

“I am ready for it to be over with,” Nicely said. “What’s the holdup? We would like a court date.”

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In 2012, the House passed HB 1290 that delayed implementation of SB 79 until the end of 2014. The bill also reapportioned districts 1 through 7 and set the end of the terms of the seats up for election in 2012 to 2014. Thus all seats become vacant on Dec. 31, 2014. Districts 8 and 9 were already properly apportioned so they were not addressed. New district maps were submitted and approved for preclearance by the U.S. Department of Justice.

Mosby said lawmakers are racing the clock to finalize boundaries of the seven approved School Board districts in this year’s shortened General Assembly session – a schedule now even tighter due to the snow and ice storm.

“So we were interested in the board’s ideas and concepts,” he said. “We felt their input could be helpful.”

Carter, who voted to keep nine members, said there was more at stake besides the number of board seats.

“We keep telling our young people to dream big. We risk our credibility if we don’t do the same.”

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ton-Barnes and began to hold her against a 2006 Blue Ford 500 parked in his driveway belonging to Mrs. Carter,” the report said, “Mr. Mosby stated that Ms Sutton-Barnes bent the front passenger side windshield wiper to the vehicle during the struggle. Mr. Mosby stated he pulled a muscle in his right leg while attempting to physically restrain Ms. Sutton-Barnes as he placed her onto the ground restraining her.”

In an email Sunday, Mosby referred inquiries to his lawyer, Ashley Bell with Atlanta law firm Bell & Washington LLP. Bell did not respond to emails and telephone calls.

Police made no arrests and no charges were officially filed in the case.

Officer Barnes wrote: “I observed Ms. Sutton-Barnes with dirt all over her left side and back. She was being treated by Medic 55. Ms Sutton-Barnes was visually upset, crying, and rubbing her chest. Her left shoe was partially off.”

Barnes Sutton told officers she did not want to seek charges “at this time.”

“Both parties were provided a case number and advised of the legal process,” the police report said. “Ms Sutton-Barnes stated she was able to drive home. She left the location without further incident.”

Police warned her that she could be arrested and charged with criminal trespass if she returned to Mosby’s property.

“She stated, ‘I’m never coming back here … trust me,’” the police report said.

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February 22, 2014

Community

“Since 2007, I have helped bring more than $250 million home to the district for schools, roads and police.”

Qualifying begins March 3 for special election, other contests Qualifying for the DeKalb sheriff special election and the general primary and nonpartisan elections takes place March 3-7.

Seven candidates – DeKalb Sheriff’s Deputy Chief Jeffrey Mann, retired DeKalb Sheriff ’s Deputy Dale Bernard Collins, DeKalb Police Sgt. Romaldo Tony Hughes, Atlanta Police Sgt. Melvin Mitchell, former Georgia Piedmont Technical College Assistant Police Chief Melody Maddox, former DeKalb CEO Vernon Jones and law enforcement veteran LaSalle Smith – already have announced

their intention to run for sheriff. The office is being vacated by Sheriff Thomas Brown on Feb. 28. Brown is challenging U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson for the 4th District seat.

The special election for sheriff will be held in conjunction with the May 20 primary and nonpartisan elections. Qualifying starts at 9 a.m. on March 3 and ends at noon on March 7. Fees range from $400 for state representatives and senators to $5,220 for U.S. representatives.

All state House and Senate seats are up

for re-election. Three county commissioners – Elaine Boyer, District 2; Larry Johnson, District 3; and Stan Watson, Super District 7 – are up for re-election this year. Candidates for state office and county commission will qualify with their respective party.

The DeKalb Democratic Party will be qualifying at 3203 Glenwood Road in Decatur. The DeKalb Republican Party will be qualifying at 1532 Dunwoody Village Parkway, Suite 100, in Dunwoody.

Superior Court Judges Dan Coursey,

Asha Jackson and Courney Johnson are up for re-election. They will qualify with the Secretary of State’s Office, 200 Piedmont Ave. S.E., Suite 1402 – West Tower, in Atlanta.

On the State Court bench, Judges Johnny Panos and Al Wong are up for re-election.

Candidates for State Court judges, School Board and sheriff will qualify at the DeKalb Voter Registration & Elections Department, 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 300, in Decatur.

For more information, visit dekalbvotes.com or call 404-298-4020.

Johnson kicking off re-election bid with open house on Feb. 22

Lithonia Council candidates to square off in March 4 forum

U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson is kicking off his reelection bid on Feb. 22 with the grand opening of his campaign headquarters in Lithonia. The office at 2853 Panola Road next door to This Is It restaurant opens officially at 11 a.m.

Hank Johnson Johnson, who was elected in 2007, is running for his fifth term. He will face DeKalb Sheriff Thomas Brown in the May 20 Democratic primary.

Johnson says he will focus his campaign on economic issues facing families in the 4th

Three candidates vying for a vacant seat on the Lithonia City Council will face off at a March 4 candidate forum at the LithoniaDavidson Library.

Former Lithonia City Council member Al T. Franklin Al T. Franklin; Timalyne Horton, a graduate student; and Nakkeya Sparrow, an accountant, qualified for the March 18 special election to fill a vacant seat on the six-member council.

The seat became vacant when Van-

District, which includes portions of DeKalb, Rockdale, Gwinnett and Newton counties.

He says he has made a difference in the lives of his constituents.

“Since 2007, I have helped bring more than $250 million home to the district for schools, roads and police,” he said this week. “From my main district office in Lithonia, I have worked to help secure more than $30 million for constituents seeking help with specific federal agencies.”

Johnson points to his close work with President Barack Obama on the Affordable Care Act and says he supports the president’s call for raising the minimum wage to $10.10.

ROWE & ROWE, LLC Attorneys at Law

neriah Hawk, who was elected in last November’s election, filed a notice in December that she would be unable to take office in January.

The special elecNakkeya Sparrow tion takes place March 18.

The candidate forum is sponsored

by CrossRoadsNews. It takes place 6 to 8 p.m. at the Lithonia-Davidson Library, 6821 Church St. in Lithonia.

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

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February 22, 2014

“Dr. Du Bois knew that to lose one’s history is to lose one’s self-understanding and with it the roots of pride.”

Black Press is vital weapon in our fight for rights

By Kevin Oliveira

February is African-American History Month, and it is only fitting that I am writing this piece for a newspaper that serves the second-largest African-American population per capita income in the United States – DeKalb County.

Today, some African-Americans still appreciate the relevance of newspapers like Cross­Roads­News that inform and serve the community with necessary information to equip citizens to be more engaged in the growth and development.

However, many of us take the African-American media outlets for granted today. The Black Press has been a powerful tool in helping African-Americans liberate themselves from the bondage of systemic and institutional oppression, repression, and the brutality of a racist society. The pen is one of the most powerful weapons to combat injustice. Even after wars are fought treaties must be written – to establish the social order.

The Black Press is no less powerful. It has been a vital weapon, and continues to be, in our struggle for self-identity, self-liberation, respect, and honor. It has been through historical and modern history as the mouthpiece of hundreds of millions of oppressed people.

The first recognized black newspaper, Freedom’s Journal, was published in New York on March 16, 1827. The publishers were John B. Russwurm and the Rev. Samuel Cornish, whose primary goal was to see slavery abolished. In addition, the paper focused on educating the black masses. They understood the value of teaching people how to read and comprehend what they were reading. Four months after the paper was established, slavery was abolished in New York state. They also understood the oppression is different from outright slavery.

So on March 28, 1829, Russwurm

“The Black Press is very important today! And to perpetuate its existence, we must financially support our various publications. In addition, we must encourage our young, promising writers to write, so we can sweep away the ‘filth of falsehood’ from the pages of revisionist history.”

Kevin Oliveira

decided to close the paper, joined the American Colonization Society and immigrated to Liberia where he founded the Liberian Herald.

W.E.B. Du Bois (1868-1963), who held a Ph.D. from Harvard University, was one of the founders and the editor of the NAACP’s Crisis magazine, first published in November 1910. Widely considered the “Father of Black Scholarship” and the “Father of Pan-Africanism,” he immigrated to Ghana to begin writing an African American Encyclopedia. He died two years later in Ghana in 1963. He was 95.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once wrote: “Dr. Du Bois was a man of priceless dedication to his people.”

On Feb. 28, 1968, at Carnegie Hall in New York, King paid tribute to Du Bois when he said “Negroes were robbed on so many things decisive to their existence that the theft of their history seemed only a small part of their losses. But … Dr. Du Bois knew that to lose

one’s history is to lose one’s selfunderstanding and with it the roots of pride. This drove him to become a historian of Negro life.”

Du Bois was an example of committed black manhood grounded in spiritual truth and integrity. His voice was never stilled nor was his pen, which is why it is so important for our community to read, especially our children, to have fundamental and practical understanding our place in history. We must know our history … not his-story.

The Black Church, historically black colleges and universities, and the Black Press have been primary vehicles for African-Americans to receive empowering knowledge to advance as a people in America.

The Black Press has journeyed a long way – through the horrific enslavement, the Great Depression, the Northern migration, Jim Crow, the civil rights movement, and the imprisonment and assassinations of our prophetic leaders.

The Black Press has documented it all. African-Americans should support African-American newspapers through advertisement buys and subscriptions. We never miss a good thing until it’s gone.

We must teach our children to read, especially African-American newspapers and books, to equip them to be confident that our history, gifts, and talents have always mattered in the development of this great nation called the United States of America.

The Black Press has been instrumental in recording the AfricanAmerican saga. However, the Black Press and the appreciation for reading have taken a back seat to TV, radio, computers, iPhones, iPads, mp3s, and electronic media.

Our issues, and concerns, have always been reported by the Black Press. It has always been our honest source of information.

During the 1960s, the Black Press, specifically black publishers, were harassed and investigated by J. Edgar Hoover’s FBI. They understood their God-given responsibility to help black people survive in the belly of the beast of oppression, repression and discrimination in “the land of the free.”

Thank the Lord for courageous black publishers and black ministers who understood eternal things do matter. They were fearless! That is why they never wanted slaves to learn how to read!

The Black Press in very important today! And to perpetuate its existence, we must financially support our various publications.

In addition, we must encourage our young, promising writers to write, so we can sweep away the “filth of falsehood” from the pages of revisionist history. Let’s tell our story as only we can tell it. Not just for Black History Month, but from generation to generation.

Kevin Oliveira lives in McDonough.

‘Ray,’ ‘Cadillac Records’ showcase legendary performers The biopic “Ray” starring Oscar winner Jamie Foxx and the musical drama “Cadillac Records” featuring Adrien Brody and Beyoncé Knowles will be screened on Feb. 26 at two library branches in Decatur.

“Ray,” also starring Kerry Washington and Regina King, will be shown at 2 p.m. at the Scott Candler Library.

The 2004 film follows the life and career of the legendary rhythm and blues musician Ray Charles (1930-2004) from his humble beginnings in the South, where he went blind at age 7, to his meteoric rise to stardom during the 1950s and 1960s as well as his battle with drug addiction.

The PG-13 film, which runs 152 minutes, is directed by Taylor Hackford.

2014 marks the 10th anniversary of the death of the Georgia native. Foxx won a Best Actor Oscar for his portrayal of the singer/song-

Circulation Audited By

Producer Leonard Chess (Adrien Brody) talks with singer Etta James (Beyonce) in “Cadillac Records” screening Feb. 26 at Flat Shoals Library.

writer and composer. The film also won an Academy Award for Best Achievement in Sound Mixing.

Scott Candler Library is at 1917 Candler Road. For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary.org or

call 404-286-6986.

“Cadillac Records,” which also stars Cedric the Entertainer, Emmanuelle Chriqui, Gabrielle Union, Mos Def and Jeffrey Wright, will be screened at 2 p.m. at the Flat Shoals

Library.

The 2008 film chronicles the compelling true story of the Chicago record label, Chess Records, that helped the world discover such legendary artists as Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Little Walter, and Chuck Berry in the 1940s and ’50s. Brody plays record producer Leonard Chess and Beyoncé portrays troubled singer Etta James.

The label was nicknamed “Cadillac Records” because its artists were given Caddies as rewards – out of the artists’ own royalties.

It is directed by TV veteran Darnell Martin.

The film is rated R and runs 109 minutes. It is open to the first 25 participants. Funding is provided by the Friends of the Flat Shoals Library.

The library is at 4022 Flat Shoals Parkway. For more information, visit www.dekalblibrary.org or call 404-244-4370.

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February 22, 2014

Black History

CrossRoadsNews

5

“Black and white together, they sought to hold America to the true meaning of the Constitution.”

Legacy of Joe Louis House bill seeks medal for Freedom Riders on display at Emory The Freedom Riders, who “Through their bravery, the Freedom Rid-

ers paved the way to full integration of public braved firebombs and violent transportation,” he said. “Their quiet bravery beatings, could be honored and unshakable resolve gave us the strength to

by Congress if a bipartisan fight for what was right, for justice, equality resolution by U.S. Reps. Hank and for moral righteousness.”

Johnson and Doug Collins Hank Thomas of Atlanta, one of three finds support. original Freedom Riders, said the rides were Johnson, a Democrat and a seminal event in the fight for equality and the 4th District representative, Hank Thomas human dignity. and Collins, a Republican who “I thank Congressman Hank Johnson and my friend, Andy represents the 9th District in Young, for their efforts to get us this recognition,” he said. northeast Georgia, introduced Collins said it’s a privilege to join Johnson in leading the effort a bipartisan resolution callfor Congress to recognize the Freedom Riders. ing on Congress to award the “With their tested, tried, and yet unwavering dedication to Congressional Gold Medal to peace, liberty, and justice – for all – the Freedom Riders brought the Freedom Riders, who rode people together amid division half a century ago,” Collins said. integrated buses throughout Hank Thomas was one of “It’s a testament to their legacy that they still do today.” the South between May and three original Freedom Riders.

Andrew Young, a lieutenant of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. November 1961.

More than 50 members of Congress from both sides of during the civil rights movement, praised the congressmen and the aisle joined Johnson and Collins to co-sponsor the bill, Thomas for their efforts to gain recognition for the Freedom Riders, whom he called American patriots.

H.R. 4041.

“Black and white together, they sought to hold America to During the Freedom Rides, more than 400 black and white Americans risked their lives to challenge Jim Crow laws – in the true meaning of the Constitution,” he said.

“As much as anyone, they risked their lives to defend the public transportation – in the South.

They braved vicious attacks and imprisonment for travel- promise of America.”

If approved by Congress, the Freedom Riders would receive ing together on buses and trains.

Johnson said the Freedom Riders challenged bitter racism the medal as a group and it would be displayed at the SmithsoT:7.446” nian Museum. and mob violence with nonviolent activism.

© 2013 McDonald’s

The traveling exhibit “Joe Louis Barrow: A Life and Career in Context” is on display until April 1 at Emory University’s Woodruff Library.

The exhibit on the life and legacy of the former world heavyweight champion is based on photographs, periodicals and archival materials from Emory’s Manuscript, Archives, and Rare Book Library. It is located on Joe Louis Level 2 of the Woodruff Library and features large panels with text and images of Louis highlighting his childhood, his family’s move to Detroit, his decision to turn professional, his key fights, and his years in the Army.

Joe Louis Barrow, who boxed under the name of Joe Louis, was born on May 13, 1914, in Chambers County, Ala. As his 100th birthday commemoration nears, the exhibit will travel this spring to his birthplace; his hometown of Detroit; and the cities that hosted his key bouts – Chicago and New York, before returning to Emory.

Louis is considered by many to be the first wellknown African-American athlete. He was born the seventh of eight children to sharecropper parents who were the children of slaves. When he was about 12, his family moved to Detroit, part of the Great Migration of African-Americans from the rural South to urban life in the Northeast, Midwest and West.

Louis became interested in boxing while hanging out at a youth recreation center in Detroit. He made his professional debut in 1934 in Chicago and held the title of world heavyweight champion from 19371949, earning the nickname “The Brown Bomber.”

He retired in 1949, hanging up his gloves for good in 1951 with a record of 68-3. He was much admired for his clean image and gentle demeanor outside the ring during his career, but his retirement years were rocky. He died on April 12, 1981, at age 66.

The exhibit, which opened last November with the help of Louis’ son, Joe Louis Barrow Jr., is part of Emory’s Race and Sports in American Culture Series.

The Robert W. Woodruff Library is at 540 Asbury Circle in Atlanta. For more information, contact Julie Braun at jkbraun@emory.edu.

Writer to discuss religion and theater T:10”

Author Craig R. Prentiss will discuss the role of religion in African-American theater during the first half of the 20th century on Feb. 25 at Emory University’s Woodruff Library.

The book reading and signing will begin at 6:30 p.m. in the Jones Room.

Prentiss’ book, “Staging Faith: Religion and African American Theater from the Harlem Renaissance to World War II,” examines the intersection of religion and theater as a reflection of African- Craig Prentiss American life during the first Great Migration (roughly 1910-1930).

Those were tumultuous years, when large numbers of black people moved from the largely rural South to cities in the Northeast, Midwest and West in search of jobs and greater possibilities for their futures.

Prentiss, a professor of religious studies at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Mo., discusses nearly 40 African-American-written plays from about 1915 to 1940 in his book. Most of the plays are obscure and unpublished, and many were performed in community centers and churches. He said the plays reflect the mounting class tensions of the time period that caused many African-Americans to question their long-held religious beliefs.

Prentiss will read from the book, answer questions, and sign books after the event.

The library is at 540 Asbury Circle in Atlanta.

Parking is available in the Fishburne deck. For more information, contact Julie Braun at jkbraun@ emory.edu.

From left: Leanna Archer, Beverly Johnson, Roland Parrish, Gladys Knight, Dr. Steve Perry, Kenny Williams, and Charles Orgbon III.

We applaud the few that inspire the many.

For this year’s 365Black® Award recipients, each day is exceptional. They stand for greatness and bow with selessness. Through their dedication and service, they inspire a world of change. We’re proud to honor them all for staying Deeply Rooted in the Community,® 365 days a year. To learn more about this year’s honorees, go to 365Black.com.

6

CrossRoadsNews

Wellness

February 22, 2014

“A text message program may not be appropriate for everyone; however, for a large subset of people, this may be a feasible, acceptable, and useful strategy.”

Recognition for the contributions of black scientists, doctors The “countless contributions” of AfricanAmerican scientists, doctors and public health experts are being recognized by Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius in February as the nation celebrates Black History Month.

Sebelius, who noted the persistent racial and ethnic health disparities in the United States, said America can draw inspiration from the courage of trailblazers like Dr. Rebecca Lee Crumpler, the first African-American woman in U.S. history to receive a M.D. degree.

“In the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, Crumpler overcame the deeply entrenched discrimination Rebecca Crumpler of her time and in 1864 graduated from New England Medical College,” she said in a Feb. 3 statement.

Crumpler, who was born in 1831, gradu-

ated from New England Female Medical College and became the first black female doctor in the United States and a key role model for future minority female physicians entering the field. Her book, “Medical Discourses,” published in 1883, detailed her medical advice and experiences treating disease. It was one of the first medical publications by an African-American. Crumpler died in 1895.

The nation also honors the legacy of innovators like Dr. George Washington Carver, who earned global recognition in the early 20th century for his groundbreaking research in the fields of agriculture and nutrition, Sebelius said.

“A brilliant scientist, Dr. Carver used his skills to help the most vulnerable in society, educating poor farmers on ways to cultivate alternative crops that would yield more abundant and nutritious harvests.”

Carver (circa 1864-1943), who was invited by Booker T. Washington to lead the Agriculture Department at the Tuskegee Normal

and Industrial Institute (later Tuskegee University), established an agriculture extension in Alabama and founded an industrial research lab where he worked tirelessly on the development of hundreds of applications for new plants. He discovered more than 300 uses for peanuts and hundreds more uses for soybeans, pecans and sweet potatoes.

This year commemorates the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, offering a time for reflection on how far America has come and on how much work remains, Sebelius said.

The act was a critical turning point in the fight against racial segregation and discrimination, she added.

“This administration has made reducing the longstanding disparities in health care in the African-American community a top priority. African-Americans suffer from higher rates of a range of illnesses as compared to the general population, yet are 55 percent more likely to be uninsured than white

Txt4health raise awareness of diabetes risks Could texting be good for your health?

New University of Michigan research says text messages on your phone may help decrease your risk for Type 2 diabetes.

A majority of people enrolled in txt4health, a customized texting service that was piloted in Detroit and Cincinnati last year, said the free mobile education program made them more aware of their diabetes risk and more likely to make diet-related behavior changes and lose weight.

While only 39 percent of participants stuck through all 14 weeks of the study, the program worked well for them.

The findings appear in two new studies published online in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, the Georgia Department of Public Health reports.

Lorraine R. Buis, lead author of both studies and an assistant professor in the Department of Family Medicine at the university’s Medical School, said researchers found that the mobile method of health intervention had great reach and potential to significantly influence health habits.

“It’s clear that a text message program may not be appropriate for everyone; however, for a large subset of people, this may be a feasible, acceptable, and useful strategy to motivate positive behavior changes,” she said.

Most participants reported that after completing the program, they were more likely to replace sugary drinks

with water (78 percent); have a piece of fresh fruit instead of dessert (74 percent); substitute a small salad for chips or fries when dining out (76 percent); buy healthier foods when grocery shopping (80 percent); and eat more grilled, baked, or broiled foods instead of fried (76 percent).

The majority of respondents also reported that texts were easy to understand (100 percent) and that the program made them knowledgeable of their risk for developing Type 2 diabetes (88 percent) and more aware of their dietary and physical activity habits (89 percent). Eighty-eight percent also said they enjoyed participating in the program.

The txt4health initiative is a large, public health-focused, text message-based program that aims to raise Type 2 diabetes risk awareness as well as facilitate weekly weight and physical activity self-monitoring to lower diabetes risk.

Researchers enrolled 1,838 participants in the program who were asked to answer background questions to get personalized health tips and recommendations over 14 weeks.

Roughly 74 percent completed the diabetes risk assessment, 89 percent tracked their weight, and 55 percent reported their physical activity at least once during the program.

“Text message programs may be a useful tool when used as a component in a broad-based public health campaign,” Buis said.

For more information, visit http://dph.georgia.gov.

Americans,” Sebelius said.

The Affordable Care Act is expanding access to affordable health coverage, a critical step toward improving the health of communities of color, she said.

“Through the Health Insurance Marketplace, 6.8 million uninsured AfricanAmericans have new options for affordable health coverage that covers a range of benefits, including important preventive services with no out-of-pocket cost.”

A recent HHS study said that six out of 10 uninsured African-Americans are currently eligible for Medicaid, the Children’s Health Program or financial assistance to purchase private coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. If all states took advantage of new opportunities to expand Medicaid coverage under the law, 95 percent of uninsured African-Americans would be eligible for Medicaid, CHIP or financial assistance to buy Marketplace coverage. For more information, visit HealthCare.gov.

‘Health Is a Human Right’ exhibit at CDC The exhibit “Health Is a Human Right: Race and Place in America,” offering a historical perspective on health care, is on display through Feb. 28 at the David J. Sencer CDC Museum in Atlanta.

It features historic photographs, documents and objects that illustrate the struggles of diverse groups to pursue their health as a basic human right in the past 120 years in the United States.

One featured image includes a picture of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with the Rev. Carson Black taken during the March on Washington 50 years ago.

Visitors also can check up on the health of their communities through interactive atlases; view historic photographs, documents, and objects; and watch videos, including one with first lady Michelle Obama talking about access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

Admission and parking are free. Visitors need a valid, government-issued photo ID. Vehicles will be inspected.

The museum is open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays with extended hours to 7 p.m. on Thursday.

The museum is at 1600 Clifton Road N.E. in Atlanta.

For more information, email museum@cdc.gov or visit www.cdc.gov.

New study seeks to improve asthma therapy for African-Americans Emory University School of Medicine and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta are lead recruiters for The Best African American Response to Asthma Drugs study that seeks to improve asthma therapy for AfricanAmericans.

The multicenter trial will assess different drug regimens and explore genetics of treatment response.

Nationally, researchers will enroll about 500 African-American children and adults who have asthma in the new clinical trial, which will take place at 30 sites in 14 states.

It is aimed at understanding the best approach to asthma management in AfricanAmericans, who suffer much higher rates of

serious asthma attacks, hospitalizations, and asthma-related deaths than whites.

The new National Institutes of Health study is under the auspices of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute of the National Institutes of Health.

Dr. Gary H. Gibbons, director of the NHLBI, said the large-scale clinical effort is expected to provide new insights into how health care professionals can better manage asthma in African-Americans to improve outcomes.

Anne M. Fitzpatrick, Emory’s director of the Asthma Clinical Research Program, is the site principal investigator of the clinical trial at Emory and Children’s Healthcare.

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“There is conflicting evidence that the clinical ‘response’ to common asthma treatments may differ across racial groups,” said Fitzpatrick, who is also an assistant professor of pediatrics in Emory School of MediAnne Fitzpatrick cine. “This study will help us determine whether differences do exist, and if so, what the best treatment may be for African-Americans.”

The study will examine the effectiveness of different doses of inhaled corticosteroids used with or without the addition of a long-

acting beta agonist. Inhaled corticosteroids reduce inflammation and help control asthma in the long term. It will compare multiple combinations of medications and dosing regimens to assess the response to therapy and track whether children and adults respond similarly to the same treatment. It will also evaluate how genes may affect treatment response.

The BARD study began enrolling patients on Feb. 10.

People interested in participating can contact Jennifer Dodds, the lead Emory study coordinator, at jcdodds@emory.edu or 404727-5176. For more information, visit http:// asthmanetresearch.org.

7

CrossRoadsNews

February 22, 2014

Wellness

““Visit your doctor, take his advice and eat wisely.”

County employees step out in red to celebrate heart month Heart disease is a leading killer of women, so health advocates are focusing attention on womens’ heart disorders throughout February, which is American Heart month. At the second annual DeKalb County American Heart Health luncheon hosted by Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton Feb. 19, county workers heard about symptoms from Emory University assistant professor of Medicine Ijeoma Isiadinso. They also got statistics from DeKalb Health director Dr. Elizabeth Ford, and modeled red dresses and outfits in honor of the American Heart Association‘s Go Red for Women movement.

Barnes Sutton said that 14 months ago she had to leave a Board of Commissioners meeting rush to Emory University Hospital where she was diagnosed with a thoracic aortic aneurysm.

“Here I am today, a survivor,” she said.

Nationally, almost 1 million Americans die from cardiovascular disease each year, which includes heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure. The Centers for Disease Control say it is leading cause of death and disability and costs the country more than $300 billion each year in health care services, medications, and lost productivity.

Donna Murray, who had four heart procedures, told Wednesday’s luncheon audience she was modeling her surgical scars because they show she is a survivor. When she was first stricken with the disease, said

DeKalb Commissioner Sharon Barnes Sutton, third from right, poses with county employees who modeled in the GoRed Fashion Show.

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

she thought she had asthma. “I was fatiqued,” she said “I was tired all the time.”

Murray said things got so bad she had to swap her big pocketbook for a small purse.

The day she ended up at the doctor, she was also very weak.

“It was too hard to carry a purse that day,” she said.

Interim CEO Lee May said he did not know until last year when Barnes Sutton hosted the first Heart Health luncheon that heart disease was the number one killer of women.

“Visit your doctor, take his advice and eat wisely,” he told the employees.

Healthcare meeting in Towers community Residents who have questions about the Healthcare Marketplace or need help to sign up for coverage can attend an Affordable Care Act session on Feb. 25 at Towers High School in Decatur.

The 6-to-8 p.m. event is sponsored by state Rep. Michele Henson, Principal Ralph Simpson, Joscelyn O’Neil of the Greater Towers Community, and Super District 7 Commissioner Stan Watson.

Oakhurst Medical Center personnel will be available to help residents with signing up or explaining how it works.

The school is at 3919 Brookcrest Circle. For more information, contact Joscelyn O’Neil at 770-771-3750.

May thanked Sutton for being an advocate for heart disease. She pointed out that one in three deaths a year are attributed to heart disease.

“That is approximately one woman every minute,” she said. “It causes more deaths than all cancers combined.”

Isiadinso, who works in the Emory School of Medicine’s Division of Cardiology, said the symptoms of heart disease can range from shortness of breath to chest pain and may include profuse sweating, nausea, and back, neck, jaw or shoulder pain. She said that risk factors include hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, smoking, age, physical inactivity,

obesity. and family history.

She said that 35-million Americans with high blood pressure don’t know they have it, and that obesity has climbed from 15 percent of the population in 1970 to 30 percent of the population today, and that 60 percent of Americans don’t engage in exercise.

Statewide, Ford said that cardiovascular disease killed 20,755 Georgians, 18 years and older, in 2011. In DeKalb County, it claimed 1,157 that year.

“That was 29 percent of all deaths in DeKalb County in that age group,” she said.

“What you eat affects your risk of having heart disease and poor blood cirulation which can lead to heart attack and stroke.”

Between 2007 and 2009, death rates due to heart disease were the highest in the South and lowest in the West.

Race and ethnicity also affect your risk.

Nearly 44 percent of African-American men and 48 percent of African-American women have some form of cardiovascular disease.

African Americans are also more likely than any other racial or ethnic group to have high blood pressure and to develop the condition earlier in life.

The CDC says that about 2 in 5 AfricanAmerican adults have high blood pressure, and fewer than half of them have the condition under control.

For more information visit gored.org or http://www.cdc.gov.

License plates support breast cancer awareness Georgia motorists who buy a breast cancer awareness license plate are helping to support screenings, education and treatment of disadvantaged women who are uninsured.

A portion of the tag fee – $22 – aids in the fight against breast cancer, the Georgia Department of Public Health says.

The money funds grants that pay for screenings for uninsured Georgians who are also below the federal poverty level.

Georgia CORE – the Center for Oncology, Research and Education – administers the Georgia Access, Care, Treatment and Services grants on behalf of the Georgia State Office of Rural Health, part of the Department of Community Health.

In 2012, the grant program was able to award nearly $1.1

million to 16 community organizations from the sale of the breast cancer license tags. The organizations used the funds in 2013 to expand breast cancer education, screening, access, outreach and treatment to residents in need.

Angie Patterson, Georgia CORE vice president and lead administrator of the ACTS Breast Cancer Grant, said breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death among women in the state and urged more people to buy the tags for expansion of the treatment and early detection services.

For more information, visit the Georgia Department of Revenue at http://motor.etax.dor.ga.gov/motor/RegistrationSection/rs_SpecialWhereWhen.aspx or your local county tag office.

For more information on other cancer care initiatives and resources, visit www.GeorgiaCancerInfo.org.

8

CrossRoadsNews

Forum

February 22, 2014

“No longer can the dope pusher and street hustler become the models for young black boys and girls who look to get ahead.”

Board of Commissioners need citizens’ input on budget

By Sharon Barnes Sutton

When I was elected in 2008, I was eager and excited to continue my career in public service as a DeKalb County commissioner. Little did I know what severe economic times were ahead. My first budget vote in 2009 saw a $30 million decline, and we didn’t know how we would get through it.

That was followed by an additional $48 million cut in 2010 and a $18 million cut on top of that in 2011.

How on earth did we do it? We offered early retirement to reduce our number of employees. We reduced the number of police and firefighters hired. We paved fewer roads and deferred maintenance on government buildings. We greatly reduced the number of books bought for our libraries and delayed maintenance in our parks. It wasn’t enough. We then adjusted our employee pension contribution and eliminated employee cost of living raises. As a last resort, there was a millage increase. Due to the decline in the housing market and economic downturn, which led to the erosion of our tax digest, we reduced the budget even further.

These were tough decisions, but they were the right decisions at that time.

Today, our police and fire departments are lacking adequate staff, our roads are in desperate need of repair, our parks are in need of maintenance, and the best and brightest of our county work force are leaving for better opportunities elsewhere.

However, there is hope for improvement. Our prudence has positioned us to take advantage of the economic turnaround, and that is now taking place.

In interim CEO Lee May’s 2014 budget recommendations, there is an increase in available funding. This windfall is due partly to the stabilization of the digest, and partly due to tight control on spending in 2013. The amount we are talking about is $13.3 million.

“There is a public hearing Feb. 25 at 9 a.m. at the Maloof Auditorium – please be there.

The future, safety and well-being of our county depend on it.”

Sharon Barnes Sutton

I support the interim CEO’s 2014 budget recommendation because it addresses four key priorities without a tax increase: 1) Public Safety: In this budget we will hire 160 police officers and 100 firefighters. Everyone agrees we need more police officers and firefighters to ensure the safety of our communities.

2) Attractive Communities: In this budget we will hire more Code Enforcement officers, increase cleanups on major roads, including street sweeping, and increase mowing schedules on rights of way and parks. We will have the resources to fill more potholes and street patching. There is also an exciting gateway and interchange beautification program – the people of our neighborhoods and commercial districts need and want this.

3) Investing in Our Employees: This budget provides for a long overdue raise of 3 percent for our employees. The vast majority of these employees have not had any such salary adjustment since in more than seven years. We should not have to balance our budget on the backs of our employees.

4) Government Oversight: We are contracting with efficiency experts in our Watershed Department, which should save us millions.

Additionally, for the first time our county budget is

investing in our youth. Government, as a whole, has been lax in meeting the needs of our youth. Look no further than our court system and our youth detention centers to see proof of that. I have been at the forefront of advocating for our youth and youth programs. We must give our most precious resource, our children, positive guidance and proper resources in order to ensure good citizenship, excellent education, low crime rates, better economic outcomes and a better quality of life for us all. This office will work to pull key stakeholders together to ensure that we are working in a collaborative manner to create a sustained and strong foundation for our youth.

All of these important priorities are in jeopardy, if we continue making budget cuts without investing in our strategic priorities, regardless of the implications or damage they could cause.

To borrow a line from President Barack Obama, “Cutting [expenses] by gutting our investments in innovation … is like lightening an overloaded airplane by removing its engine. It may make you feel like you’re flying high at first, but it won’t take long before you feel the impact.” DeKalb County needs to make prudent investments in its own operations, lest we feel a similar impact.

DeKalb County’s future is bright, but our re-investment in public safety, our neighborhood streets, and core county services is needed now to ensure our continued prosperity and economic competitiveness as we emerge from our recent recession without a tax increase.

Your commissioners need to hear from you to find out what your priorities are.

There is a public hearing Tuesday, Feb. 25, at 9 a.m. at the Maloof Auditorium – please be there. The future, safety and well-being of our county depend upon it.

Sharon Barnes Sutton represents Commission District 4 in Stone Mountain.

Community colleges and empowerment of the African-American community

By Jabari Simama, Ph.D.

Black History Month should be a time when we do more than recall famous African-Americans and recount obscure facts about who invented what. It should be a time when we reflect upon how much progress has been made by the African-American community toward full participation in the American dream and chart a course for a brighter future.

I contend that greater achievement in education at all levels will be the key to achieving the aforementioned brighter future.

There has been a century-old debate around what models best address the educational needs of the African-American community. It began with the establishment of historical black colleges and universities prior to and in the 1860s and 1890s. It reignited in 1895 after Booker T. Washington suggested that blacks should “cast down their buckets” in a sea of vocational and industrial education in his address before the Atlanta Exposition in Piedmont Park.

In 1903, W.E.B. Du Bois in his article, “The Talented Tenth” from The Negro Problem, countered, suggesting a liberal-arts educated “talented tenth” of African-American men would lead the way to black salvation.

He wrote, “If we make technical skill the object of education, we may possess artisans but not, in nature, men.” Du Bois was often thought to be prophetic, if not a seer, based on his prediction that race or what he referred to as the “color line” would plague America throughout the 20th century. Yet, even Du Bois could not have known that the education of black men would prove to be a major problem for the 21st century, but it has come to be.

New educational paradigm African-American educators today have not moved the debate much beyond the dichotomy of technical and liberal arts education. And this phenomenon is unfortunate, some would say tragic, considering the chronic and widespread high school dropout and unemployment rates among African-Americans. Despite these problems,

just African-American students – it addresses the needs of the entire community. Many “The time has come to resolve the technical colleges provide adult education, debate in the community once and for that is, education that focuses on helping all over whether a liberal arts or technical adults who have dropped out of high school education is needed to complete the long get their GEDs, a prerequisite for getting into struggle for authentic liberation. ” any form of higher education or securing livable wage jobs. In Georgia alone, there Dr. Jabari Simama are over 1.3 million adults without a high school diploma. Many of them are Africanmany educators today still approach middle gree. Sixty percent graduate on time. There Americans. and high school education as if they are are as many students at my college over 50 ground zero for training students for liberal years of age as there are under 25; thus, we Create culture of learning Further, our economic development diviarts colleges or research-oriented universities are truly intergenerational. Students who only. The truth is only 46 percent of black complete two years of study at my college sion provides continuing education courses students graduate from high school on time have the option of transferring to a four-year for the community on a noncredit basis in in Georgia and only 21 percent are deemed college or university or they can go directly areas such as photography, computer literacy, and work force fundamentals as well as ininto the work force. to be college-ready.

We are building a 21st century education- dustry training like building maintenance Nationally, only 18.7 percent of AfricanAmericans 25 years of age and older hold a al environment focused on using data to de- and transit studies. It does take a village, and bachelor’s degree or higher. Of the 44 million velop a “culture of evidence.” We believe this technical and community college educators blacks who live in America, only 3.7 percent will lead to meaningful, systemic structural understand that in order for first-generation are enrolled in college. These numbers are change that will positively impact student- college students to achieve, it will require learning outcomes. In addition to regular creating a culture of learning for the entire unacceptably low.

Michael Thurmond, superintendent for college courses, we offer remedial courses, community.

No longer can the dope pusher and street DeKalb School System, commented that referred to as learning support, for students his school system has its educational model who are nontraditional learners. We provide hustler become the models for young black inverted. “We focus 90 percent of our effort tutors and specialized laboratories equipped boys and girls who look to get ahead. The and budget on just 10 percent of our stu- with the latest computers and educational publically funded community and technical dents,” he exhorted. “What about the other software. As a member of Complete College colleges must make community learning Georgia, we place considerable emphasis on affordable, attractive, and accessible to all.

90 percent?”

Moreover, community colleges must be We need a new educational paradigm to retention and completion. about economic, work force, and community address the educational needs of the black development. In essence, they must empower community. Some would argue there is a Needs of entire community In 2015, the state of Georgia will change the community. moral imperative to challenge the educaThe time has come to resolve the debate tional status quo in hopes of identifying a from allocating funds to colleges and uninew pathway toward illumination and inspi- versities based on head count to funding in the community once and for all over ration. Community and technical colleges, at based on measurable results such as reten- whether a liberal arts or technical education, graduation rates and job placement. tion is needed to complete the long struggle their best, provide this.

As president of a fast-growing public This has its advantages and disadvantages, for authentic liberation. The answer is the technical college, I continue to encounter but it forces us to think not just in terms of black community needs both – and in a way, prejudice and lukewarm reception from recruitment and getting students to show community colleges offer both. The Africanhigh school principals and college coun- up at our doors. It encourages us to manage American community needs an education selors when I present them with data that our enrollment in a way that improves the that will provide essential skills that lead to demonstrate the benefits of technical and student experience, which will hopefully high-demand jobs, but they also need crecommunity college education. Consider this: result in students persisting and complet- ative and critical thinkers.

Community and technical colleges today All students at my college are guaranteed ing. In doing so, students reap the ultimate entrance if they graduate from high school award – 98 percent of them who complete do not have to choose between the artisan and artist – we produce both. or earn a GED. Ninety-eight percent of our their studies get jobs.

Dr. Jabari Simama is president of Georgia Community and technical education adgraduates obtain jobs in their fields of study upon receiving a certificate, diploma or de- dresses more than the educational needs of Piedmont Technical College in Clarkston.

9

CrossRoadsNews

February 22, 2014

Finance

“This workshop will show you how to attract, engage and retain customers in the digital marketplace.”

Workshop to offer strategies for effective local digital marketing Business owners can pick up tips on local Internet marketing at a free workshop on March 4 at the DeKalb History Center in Decatur.

“Integrating Local Internet Marketing for Your Business,” sponsored by Joseph Mohay CrossRoadsNews, will be held from 9 a.m. to noon.

Joseph Mohay, chief digital officer with

Integrated Digital Strategies in Orlando, Fla, will be the presenter.

Mohay has more than 10 years experience working with local, regional and national businesses on local internet marketing strategies. Topics will include Local Search Engine Optimization 101, Best Practices to Optimize Your Google+ Local Presence, How to Generate Online Reviews and Get an Edge Over Your Competition, and Managing Your Online Reputation and Social Media Marketing.

Curtis Parker, CrossRoadsNews vice president of Digital Operations, said business owners will gain new insights in digital marketing.

“Participants will learn learn how an integrated approach to their marketing strategy, utilizing multiple online, mobile and legacy channels, can yield higher ROI for their marketing dollars,” he said.

Parker said the workshop will be useful to businesses of all sizes and types.

“This workshop will show you how to

attract, engage and retain customers in the digital marketplace,” he said.

One participant will receive a free “Local Search Toolkit” to gauge his or her Web site’s local search performance.

Seating is limited and advance registration is required.

To register, call 404-284-1888 or email cparker@crossroadsnews.com.

The DeKalb History Center is in the Old Courthouse on the Square at 101 E. Court Square.

Free computer classes at library, and DeKalb Workforce offices DeKalb residents can improve their computer literacy skills and enhance their understanding of computers at workshops on Feb. 24-27 offered by DeKalb Workforce Development.

The basic computer skills classes will be held at the DWD facility located at 774 Jordan Lane, Building 4, in Decatur.

The workshops are offered free of charge on: n Feb. 24 from 10 a.m. to noon and noon to 2 p.m. n Feb. 25 from noon to 2 p.m. n Feb. 26 from noon to 2 p.m. n Feb. 27 from 10 a.m. to noon.

For more information, call 404-687-3400.

Classes at Covington Library Learn the basic parts of a computer, basic terminology, how to use a mouse, and Microsoft Word basics at sessions offered on Feb. 24 at the Covington Library.

Mouse, Computer and Keyboard Basics takes place from 10:30 a.m. to noon. No prior computer experience is necessary, but the ability to type is helpful.

It is open to the first five participants – call or visit branch to register.

Microsoft Word Basics I and II will be held from 2 to 4 p.m.

Library patrons can learn how to create, edit and save simple documents, cut and paste, and use other Word features. They will design a flier usSing a sample file.

Mouse and typing skills and some experience with Windows are required. It is open to the first eight participants. Call or visit branch to register.

Covington Library is at 3500 Covington Highway. For more information, visit dekalblibrary.org call 404-508-7180.

Explanation for Candler Road businesses Business owners and operators on Candler Road will get an update on the ongoing construction on the corridor that has been snarling traffic and chasing customers away for almost a year.

DeKalb District Three Commissioner Larry Johnson is hosting the Business Owner Meeting meeting on Feb. 24 at the Scott Candler Library to discuss the construction projects.

“Representatives from DeKalb County and AGL will provide updates and answer questions,” he said.

Business owners along the corridor have been complaining about the lack of information about the projects.

The $7.1 million construction projects have been underway since last

April. It includes the installation of underground water mains and gas lines.

When the underground work is done, Johnson said the road will be repaved and the cooridor beautified.

Business owners say they were never informed about the extent of the work and were not prepared for the length of time it is taking to complete.

They say the lane closures and traffic backups have been hurting their businesses by keeping customers away.

The meeting takes place at 9:30 a.m.

JThe library is at 1917 Candler Road in Decatur.

For more information call Margaret Britton at 404-964-4936.

You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiffís attorney whose name and address is Angela J. Ricetti Atlanta Legal Aid Soc. 246 Sycamore St, Suite 120 Decatur, Ga 30030-3434. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of, January 31, 2014 Witness the Honorable Tangela M. Barrie Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 31st day of January, 2014.

1/25, 2/1, 2/8, 2/15

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

Civil Action # ++14CV1165-3++ Leontyne Scott Plaintiff Vs. Anthony Jackson Defendant

By Order of the Court service for service by publication dated January 15, 2014 you are hereby notified that on January 7, 2014 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Divorce You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiffís attorney whose name and address is553 Wynbrooke Pkwy, Stone Mountain Ga, 30087. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of, January 15, 2014

Workshop on starting nonprofit “Starting a Nonprofit Organization: 7 Things You Should Know” will be offered on Feb. 25 at the Decatur Library.

The first session in a four-part series takes place from 7 to 8 p.m.

Participants will learn about the seven essentials all nonprofit business owners must know to ensure the success of their organization. This is a basic class for anyone interested in starting a nonprofit business as well as those who can use additional insight into growing their organization.

Register at 404-370-8450, Ext. 2259.

The library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. Visit dekalblibrary.org.

Zachery Coton. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within 30 days after the petition was filed.

Dated: February 4, 2014 Karen Cotton Petitioner, Pro se 3649 Platina Pk Ct Decatur, Ga 30034 (770)-323-1127

Legal Notices 02/8, 2/15, 2/22 3/1 NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia Civil Action # ++13CV10657-10++ Erika Garcia Valente Plaintiff Vs. Marco Lorenzo Bibiano Defendant

By Order of the Court service for service by publication dated January 28, 2014 you are hereby notified that on November 4, 2013 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Divorce

Jennifer Ffrench Parker / CrossRoadsNews

Water main installation along Candler Road continues to snarl traffic and frustrate business owners, who have seen a drop off in sales as customers avoid the area.

2/22, 3/1, 3/8, 3/15

Witness the Honorable Clarence Seeliger Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 15th day of January, 2014.

2/15, 2/22, 3/1 ,3/8

Notice of Petition to Change Name of Adult in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 14CV11908-7++ Karen Lee Walker filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on February 7, 2014 to change the name from: Karen Lee Walker to Karen

Notice of Petition to Change Name of MINOR CHILDREN in the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia

Civil Action Case Number: ++ 13CV12456-9++ Tracey Astin filed a petition in the DeKalb County Superior Court on December 9, 2013 to change the name of the following minor child(ren): Tarri Amanda Harris to Tarri Ward Harris Astin. Any interested party has the right to appear in this case and file objections within 30 days after the petition was filed.

Dated: February 7, 2014 Tracey Astin Petitioner, Pro se

3666 Stanford Cir Decatur, Ga 30034 (440)-241-2440 2/22 3/1, 3/8, 3/15 NOTICE OF PUBLICATION In the Superior Court of DeKalb County State of Georgia Civil Action # ++14CV1840-3++ Delania Adams Plaintiff Vs. Robert Vaughn Adams Defendant

By Order of the Court service for service by publication dated February 14, 2014 you are hereby notified that on February 5, 2014 the above-named Plaintiff filed suit against you for: Divorce You are required to file with the Clerk of Superior Court, and to serve upon the plaintiffís attorney whose name and address is Delania Adams 4268 Wyndham Park Circle, Decatur, Ga 30034. Answer in writing within sixty (60) days of, February 14, 2014 Witness the Honorable Clarence Seeliger Judge of the DeKalb Superior Court.

This the 18th day of February, 2014.

10

CrossRoadsNews

Scene

February 22, 2014

“I’ve been swimming and training for so many years and I’m extremely happy to see that all the hard work is paying off.”

Swimmer makes waves at state meet Chamblee Charter High junior Jacob Jordan is making waves in competitive swimming.

Jacob, a member of the Swim and Dive Team, made a Junior National time of 21.59 in the 50 freestyle at the GHSA Swim 1-5A State Swimming and Diving Meet held Feb. 6-8 at Georgia Tech. He placed first in the 50 freestyle at the DeKalb County meet held at the Dynamo Aquatic Center on Jan. 25.

The year-round swimmer who has competed since age 7 takes it all in stride.

“I’ve been swimming and training for so many years and I’m extremely happy to see that all the hard work is paying off,” he said.

Jacob, who lives in the Brook Glen subdivision in Decatur, began swimming in his subdivision at the South DeKalb Y. He helped his team place first at the county meet in the 4x100 freestyle and the 4x100 medley relays. The Chamblee High boys team placed first in the county for the second time, beating out their longtime rival, Lakeside High.

At the GHSA state meet, Jacob anchored the 4x100 free relay to medal for third place and finished 12th in the 100yard breaststroke.

The Chamblee boys came in fourth in the state.

“I was absolutely thrilled when he reached his swim goal but not shocked,” says his mother, Carol Jordan, a 24-year resident of South DeKalb.“Since Jacob was very little, he has always strived to be the best at whatever he does.”

Jacob is not only an accomplished swimmer but an excellent student as well.

As an aspiring doctor, the magnet student maintains a 4.184 grade-point average, holds the office of vice president of his junior class, and was recently elected treasurer of the

offers lots of alternatives

Students who want to explore options to four-year college after high school graduation can attend the Decatur High School College Alternatives Fair on March 3.

The free event takes place from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Decatur High Performing Arts Center.

Senior Haegen Altizer has gathered representatives from many different post-high school opportunities to share alternatives with students and parents, from gap-year programs to career training and apprenticeships.

The Decatur High Performing Arts Center is at 310 N. McDonough St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, contact Haegan Altizer at haeganAltizer@gmail.com.

Poet hosting library love fest

Jacob Jordan, posing with state trophy, is headed to the swimming nationals in March with Chamblee Charter High.

National Honors Society.

The Junior National Competition will take place March 18-23 in Orlando, Fla.

Book talks on relationships and mysteries “The Last Woman Standing” by Tia McCollors and “The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie” by Alan Bradley nare up for discussion Feb. 25 and 26 at local branch libraries.

On Feb. 25, readers will tackle “The Last Woman Standing” at the Wesley Chapel Library at 6 p.m.

The 2009 novel offers a look into the marriage of “Ace” and Lynette Bowers, who were married to their careers instead of each other for 10 years. Four years later after calling it quits, they find out that their love never ended.

McCollors, a former public rela-

Decatur High’s College Fair

tions professional, has emerged as an inspirational speaker and author of faith-based novels. She lives in metro Atlanta with her husband and son and encourages readers to visit her online at www.TiaWrites.com.

The library is at 2861 Wesley Chapel Road. For more information, visit dekalblibrary.org or call 404286-6980.

On Feb. 26, the discussion of “The Sweetness at the Bottom of the Pie,” begins at 7 p.m. at the Decatur Library.

The Flavia de Luce mystery is set in the summer of 1950 at the once-

grand mansion. It includes a passion for poison, a dead bird on the doorstep with a postage stamp pinned to its beak and a man taking his last breath in the cucumber patch.

The debut novel, published in 2009, earned Bradley the Crime Writers’ Association Debut Dagger Award. It went on to win the Agatha Award, the Barry Award, the Dilys Award, the Arthur Ellis Award, the Macavity Award and the Spotted Owl Award. The library is at 215 Sycamore St. in downtown Decatur. For more information, visit dekalblibrary.org or call 404-370-3070.

South DeKalb’s award-winning poet Gwen Russell Green will host “Love Anytime: Celebrating Love Through Poetry” on Feb. 24 at the Stonecrest Library.

This annual tribute to “the one you love” gets under way at 6 p.m.

Audience members can share their original work during open mic. Funding is provided by the Friends of the G. Russell Green Stonecrest Library. The library is at 3123 Klondike Road in Lithonia. For more information, visit dekalblibrary.org or call 770-482-3828.

Thurmond to dish on education DeKalb School Superintendent Michael Thurmond will offer an update on “The State of Education in East DeKalb” on Feb. 26 at This Is It restaurant in Lithonia.

The 11:30 a.m.-to-1 p.m. program is presented by the Greater Lithonia Chamber of Commerce.

Thurmond will discuss the progress of education over the past year in DeKalb MIchael Thurmond County with the business community, which recognizes the significance of education to economic development and job creation, organizers say.

Thurmond is also a distinguished attorney, author and lecturer. The restaurant is at 2853 Panola Road.

For cost and other information, visit www.greaterlithoniachamber.com or call 770-482-1808.

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Reader Notice As a service to you – our valued readers – we offer the following information: This newspaper will never knowingly accept any advertisement that is illegal or considered fraudulent. If you have questions or doubts about any ads on these pages, we advise that before responding or sending money ahead of time, you check with the Attorney General’s Consumer Fraud Line and/or the Better Business Bureau. They may have records or documented complaints that will serve to caution you about doing business with those advertisers. Also be advised that some phone numbers published in these ads may require an extra charge. In all cases of questionable value, such as promises or guaranteed income from work-at-home programs, money to loan, etc., if it sounds too good to be true –­ it may in fact be exactly that.

This newspaper cannot be held responsible for any negative consequences that occur as a result of you doing business with any advertisers. Thank you.

11

CrossRoadsNews

February 22, 2014

financial

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12

CrossRoadsNews

February 22, 2014

one

day sale

Free shippinG at macys.com with $99 online purchase. no promo code needed; exclusions apply.

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9am-1pm Friday & saTurday

doorbusTers geT Here early, wHile THey lasT

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2/10/14 4:25 PM