The

CITIZENS REVIEW
Newsletter of the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association, Inc. March 2008

Vol. 24

Atlanta Police Say Crime Down In Our Area

Zone Two Led the City In Crime Reduction in 2007
manned detail to respond to each vehicle crime and make sure fingerprints and all evidence are collected. The information gained will then be used to build, not only a suspect, but an MO (Motus Operandi) to help us target common locations and suspects involved. Another initiative is the burglary officer/ detail that will respond directly to all home burglaries or attempts so that we can help collect evidence and identify suspects. This detail will operate in the same manner as the Auto Break-In unit. We also are placing a motorcycle officer directly into the neighborhoods, along with the long awaited traffic enforcement car. The two vehicles will be in the neighborhoods daily, ready to respond to any calls of suspicious activity. Since many of the residents shop and By increasing our crime reduction efforts, the Zone Two Precinct has been instrumental in responding to crime and criminal movement within the zone, including auto break-ins and home burglaries resulting in Zone Two receiving numerous awards in 2007. The most notable was the award given by the Atlanta Police Foundation to the Zone that led the city in crime reduction for the year. I accepted this award on behalf of the many men and women in Zone Two. I not only credit the officers of Zone Two who strive daily to obtain a safer environment, but also neighborhood organizations, like the Mt. Paran Security Patrol, made up of retired police officers and off-duty units to work in the area. Many thanks to them and their collaborative efforts to reduce crime in the Zone work in the zone, we are asking that Two area. The Zone has implemented residents take a few easy steps to secure several new initiatives to reduce their valuables and ensure their safety. Prior to arriving to a location where the criminal activity within Zone Two. One initiative is the Auto Break-In driver knows they will not be taking officer/detail, that will enable the certain items with them, they need to
By MAJOR JAMES SELLERS Zone Two Precinct Commander

Atlanta Police credits the efforts of Mt. Paran Security Patrol Officers Doug Cole, Jim Hendrix and Sgt. Ellis (JR) with the drop in crime in our neighborhood. If you see a crime, call 911, then 404 310-7361 for the Mt. Paran Security Patrol. place easily visible items under seats or in the trunk of the vehicle. Upon arriving at the location, glance around for suspicious individuals watching you park. Make sure that all items, including all portable GPS navigation systems, laptops, purses, iPods, cell phones, designer shades, cameras, just to name a few, are placed out of sight. Although car insurance covers most thefts, the timely process that it takes to have repairs and replacements made is not worth leaving items visible. It only takes seconds to make entry and steal, but it takes days to replace these items. There is not one type of car being targeted. Suspects actually shop for visible items that are readily available. Also, we are asking that when residents arrive at home, they take the same safety steps in front of their own homes or in their driveways. Residents should make sure they keep their garage doors closed at all times, even while at home. If a resident has a carport, we are asking that residents remove valuables from the interior area when they are not at home. As always, motion sensor
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IN AND AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

The Presidents Corner

By YOLANDA ADREAN Conway Glen Drive

I have a confession to make. I am one of those people that like HGTV. There is something so appealing to me about seeing messes cleaned up. On a show that aired before the holidays, an Atlanta fire station was featured and the designers turned a dismal facility into a very livable and pleasant environment for the men and women who serve in that fire station. Shortly after that a number of MPNCA Board members attended the Association Annual Holiday Luncheon for the firemen in our neighborhood at Station 27 on Northside Drive. We were in for an eye opening and not at all appetizing sight! The fire station in our neighborhood is in desperate need of repairs! The bathroom facility has a shower with a rusted light fixture and one that is out of service. Tiles are crumbling everywhere. The dorm area is dismal. Grown men are sleeping on twin beds (not extra long) with the only privacy provided by rows of antiquated lockers. Nothing shuts out scurrying noises of rodents in the attic above the dorm.

To make a long story short, this fire station has become a major focus for the Citizens Association Board. A task force, chaired by Marci Vincent, has been formed, and we are exploring what we can do to turn this situation around. We have had preliminary discussions with Bill Liss, consumer and business editor from WXIA/Channel 11 news, who was involved Marci Vincent with getting the fire station on Howell Mill remodeled, and with City Council member Clair Muller to learn what our options are. The fire station on Howell Mill was remodeled after Bill Liss led an effort that resulted in generous donations from Home Depot, Rooms to Go and others. The station now has a brand new bathroom facility, kitchen and furnishings for the dorm, dining area and lounge area. Bill is helping us understand the Bill Liss challenges he had to navigate with the City. This much is clear. There is a mess that needs cleaning up and with the unbridled enthusiasm and generosity of this neighborhood and others who are served by Fire Station 27, I am convinced that we can and will get this done. We are in the preliminary planning stages and have a lot of questions that need answers, but this is our focus and not only will it get done, it will be fun! Look for some fun neighborhood events celebrating the firemen who serve us, including an old fashioned BBQ at the station with fun activities for all ages. We will keep you in the loop through emails, the website and other publications as this huge project unfolds. This is the beginning of something big, important and meaningful to all of us who are served by the men (no women yet) at this station. Did you know that over 80% of their calls are for health emergencies? They are our first responders. Now lets be theirs.

FIREMENS ANNUAL HOLIDAY APPRECIATION LUNCH

Every year since December 1999, the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association shows our appreciation to the dedicated firemen at Station #27 (corner of Northside Drive and West Conway). In keeping with that tradition, on Dec. 21, several board members dished up lunch and some holiday cheer to the B-shift firemen and our security patrol officer. Coronado Drive resident, Harrington Witherspoon, provided his delicious homemade pound cake to everyones enjoyment!
Seated from left: MPNCA Board members Yolanda Adrean, John Feeley, Marci Vincent, Lynne Moscow; neighbor Harrington Witherspoon. Standing from left: Officer Doug Cole, Fireman Bob Howard, Fireman Taccuma Henry, Firefighter/EMT Willie Blankenship, Firefighter Jeff Burton

23rd Annual Meeting and Election of Officers

early 40 neighbors attended the October 23, 2007 annual meeting at Jackson School. After the election of officers and board members, President Yolanda Adrean provided an overview of the Associations activities during the past year; and proudly introduced neighbors to www.mpnca.org the new, user-friendly association website. (Before the meeting, webmasters Pat Daly and John Feeley helped those interested to get familiar with and navigate the site on computers provided in the schools library.) Then presentations were made by Sandy Springs Councilwoman, Karen McEnerny and Chastain Park Conservancy board member, Mary Dodson. Chastain Park Civic Association president, Jim King, updated us on the Chastain Park Athletic Club. The meeting concluded with an enlightening and lively discussion with District 54 State Representative, Edward Lindsey. Rep. Lindsey spoke about current issues including water, property taxes, transportation, Grady hospital and the need to reform Fulton County Government.

Photos by John Feeley, Sheldon Schlegman

Record Set in Presidential Primary Election

By KAREN C. HANDEL

Georgia Secretary of State

On February 5, a record number of Georgians cast ballots in the Presidential Preference Primary. Over 2 million people voted, bringing active registered voter turnout to 45 percent. This far surpasses the 1988 turnout of 40 percent and voter participation of just over 1 million. Nearly 248,000 Georgians took advantage of the convenience of voting by mail-in absentee ballot or during the advance voting week prior to Karen Handel February 5. This compares to the 2004 presidential primary when just over 48,000 Georgians cast votes by absentee ballot or during advance voting week. Registered voters in the Mount Paran-Northside precincts appear to have met or exceeded the statewide turnout numbers. Precinct 8A (Jackson School) had a 45 percent turnout; precinct 8C (Northwest Presbyterian Church) had a 46 percent turnout; and just over 48 percent of registered voters in SS09 (Mt. Vernon Baptist Church) voted in the presidential primary. This is exciting news. Media attention and contested nomination races in both the Republican and Democratic parties likely contributed to the record turnout. Georgians and all Americans are ready to voice their preferences for the next president through the important right to vote. Historical trends suggest that we will experience heavy turnout again in November. This years presidential primary was the first statewide election to be conducted under Georgias requirement that voters show photo ID when voting in-person, and the fourth election overall in which photo ID has been required for in-person voting. County elections officials reported no problems with the photo ID requirement, and no issues were reported directly to our office.

Unfortunately, some voters that arrived at the polls during peak voting hours experienced long lines. I appreciate their frustration and will continue to discuss with county elections officials ways we can all work to improve elections administration. If you happened to encounter lines at your polling place, there are several things you can do to avoid them during the general primaries in July or the general election in November. First, you can request an absentee ballot from your county registrars office. Your absentee ballot will be mailed to you in advance of Election Day. You do not need to provide a reason for voting absentee. You can download an absentee ballot request form from my website at www.sos.ga.gov/elections Also, voters can cast ballots during advance voting week, which is held Monday through Friday during the week prior to the election. During this week, you can vote at any satellite voting center in the county where you are registered to vote. To find Fulton Countys advance voting locations, please contact the Fulton Board of Registration and Elections at (404) 730-7020. Finally, the most helpful way for you to reduce long lines at polling precincts is to become a poll worker. The individuals that staff our polling precincts on Election Day are citizens looking to be more involved in their community. They provide an important service by helping their neighbors participate in the democratic process. Many lines on Election Day are caused by understaffed polling locations. Your help could make the difference and reduce lines in your community. To find out how to be a poll worker, please contact the Fulton Board of Registration and Elections. Overall, this will be an exciting election year that will truly impact the future of our nation. I encourage all Georgians to vote and take this important opportunity to make your voice heard. pay for current year services. Many services that are paid for by all taxpayers in Fulton County are now provided to only 5% of the population. These municipal services should be paid for by direct taxation to the recipients, as they are to citizens of the cities within Fulton County. Once again, the majority of the Board of Commissioners approved a transfer of funds from un-spent reserves of all unincorpoLynne Riley rated areas of the county prior to 2005 to pay for services in the remaining South Fulton service area in 2008. I opposed this action for the same reason I opposed the 2008 general fund budget. Current year services must be paid for from current year revenues. Now that the South Fulton unincorporated tax district has consumed all available reserve funds, AND increased service delivery in 2008, there will be some harsh realities to face in 2009: drastic service reductions and/or tax increases. After a full year of analysis, discussion, and the passage of a resolution by the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, the
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Is Your Government Accountable?

By LYNNE RILEY Fulton County Commissioner, District 3

Financial health and stability requires that you observe certain practices: project what you will earn, plan to spend less than you will earn, and save for future goals. Sadly, the majority of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners chose to ignore these guidelines in the adoption of the 2008 budgets. Five Commissioners (Eaves, Boxill, Darnell, Edwards, and Lowe) voted to approve the use of reserve funds to pay for current year services. Total general fund revenues for 2008 are expected to be $627 million dollars, with budgeted expenses at $671 million dollars, or a net annual operating LOSS of $44 million dollars. There were many opportunities to cut program and department funding in the 2008 budget, but very few were enacted. While I was successful in defeating a proposed tax rate increase for 2008, prudent financial management does not utilize fund reserves to 4

Neighborhood Briefs
Childrens Art Classes: June 30 - July 11
The Romanian Children Artists Program is returning to Atlanta this summer for more art fun. Under the direction of renowned teacher Elena Stoica, each American student will be paired with one of the awardwinning Romanian Children Artists as they explore color theory through a variety of creative exercises. The cost of the art classes is $350, which includes art supplies, a fruit break, lunch and a t-shirt. Two times are offered: The "AM Session" (9:00 12:30) or the "PM Session" (12:003:30). Space is limited to 10 students per session. American students must be 8 or older to participate. The Romanian artists are 12-18 years old. Class location is Saint Anne's Episcopal Church (Moores Mill Road and St. Anne's Lane). The Gala and Exhibition will be Sunday, July 13, 2008, from 4:00 to 6:00 PM at the Huff Harrington Gallery. This nonprofit educational program promotes international understanding through art. The program is unique in the fact that it is a cultural exchange as well as an instruction in the painting techniques used by the Romanian Children Artists in their paintings. One of the most exciting elements of the program is the opportunity for American families to host a Romanian child in their home. These Romanian children are the winners of many international medals and honors. Channel 11 had a feature story on the Romanian Children Artists last summer; and during their Atlanta visit, their art was exhibited and sold at Huff Harrington Gallery. Taxdeductible donations and proceeds from the sale of their paintings are used to buy art supplies for their village school and to pay for their flights. To receive more information about the RCA program, or an application for the summer art classes, or to participate as a host family, or to view and purchase the original gouache paintings by the Romanian Children Artists, contact neighbors Jane and Randy Merrill who have been working with this non-profit program for the past ten years, and they will be happy to answer your questions and send you application forms. One of the Romanian Children Artists, Cosmin Mandita, was only 10 years old when he participated in the RCA program at the Woodruff Arts Center in 1999. In 2007, Cosmin took first place in his country's art competition to receive an all-expense paid university education. He will return to Atlanta this summer with the hope of obtaining commissions to paint his winged horses and other fanciful paintings on the walls of local children's rooms. To see examples of his mural work, and for more information about the art classes, contact

Jackson School News and Plans for School Growth

As most of you know, Jackson opened its new Primary annex this fall at the old Tuxedo school on Northside Drive. We opened to 320 kindergarten and 1st grade students and a wonderful group of enthusiastic students, teachers, and parents. Much time (and money) have been devoted to making that campus a wonderful environment for young children and I hope you have an opportunity to visit. We are looking forward to some additional renovations and perhaps an addition to make that facility a permanent Primary Center for Jackson students as a long term solution to overcrowding in the northside schools. The Atlanta Public Schools is currently looking to purchase land on Wieuca Road to build a permanent Primary Center for Sarah Smith Elementary, as their contract with the Buckhead Church will be ending next year. They are also looking to renovate and expand Mitchell Elementary as a permanent Primary Center for Morris Brandon Elementary School. We believe the Atlanta Public Schools has an excellent plan to address the growth at all three schools and are currently working to finalize that plan so work can begin. If you are interested in the details of the plan, please visit the APS website www.atlanta.k12.ga.us Lorraine B. Reich, Ed.D., Principal, Warren T. Jackson Elementary School
More Neighborhood Briefs on Page 11

New Trash Collection Day: City of Atlanta Department of Public Works Prepares to Launch New Solid Waste Collection Process
The Department of Public Works Office of Solid Waste Services is responsible for the collection and disposal management of municipal solid waste for over 97,000 households. Beginning March 3, the Office of Solid Waste Services will implement a new solid waste collection process that will establish long-term improvements in operations, customer service and environmental sustainability. To ensure efficient, timely and safe collection of solid waste from all customers, the Department of Public Works (DPW) has redistributed households into more balanced service areas, which will result in new collection days for most of Atlantas residents. The new collection improvements will not only create a more cost-efficient collection process, but residents will benefit from a safer, cleaner, greener Atlanta. The most noticeable changes in the new solid waste collection process include: 5 New collection days for most customers. Weekly collection of waste materials (garbage, recycling and yard waste). Yard waste will not be collected in plastic bags. It must be placed in paper yard waste (kraft) bags or a container clearly labeled yard trimmings. Only 5 additional bags of garbage are allowed in addition to the contents of your Herbie Curbie for garbage collection. For additional information and to obtain your new collection day, call the DPW Customer Service Division at 404-330-6333 or visit www.atlantaga.gov. In the box on the left scroll down to Public Works, then scroll down to Office of Solid Waste Services. Then click on Solid Waste Initiative. You will see a list of documents that show street names with a letter. Click on the appropriate letter for your street to learn your new collection day beginning on March 3.

ATLANTA TROLLEY
INSTEAD OF PEACHTREE STREETCAR?
By CLAIR MULLER Atlanta City Council Member, District 8

What about the funding? I propose that we have a city-wide referendum to fund this new attractive circulator trolley and the streetscape improvements. Atlanta citizens have overwhelmingly supported two bond referendain 1994 and in 2000aimed at street improvements and traffic calming and streetscapes and sidewalks. The 2000 bond program is winding down. If this idea is deemed to be a good idea, the residents of the whole city would support itnot just businesses and condo owners in Midtown and Downtown.

In mid 2007 Mayor Franklin formed the Peachtree Corridor Task Force to create a vision for our citys signature street. Peachtree Corridor, as defined by the Task Force, is 14.5 miles long and extends from the Beltline crossing of Lee Street in the south to Club Drive and the city limits in the north. The Task Force recommended a 25-year, $1 billion vision to transform Peachtree into a worldPhoto of Claire taken by Sheldon class boulevard characterized by Schlegman high quality streetscapes, including sidewalks, pocket parks and public spaces, consistent signage, attractive lighting, trees, flowers and other elements. The Task Force also recommended the development of a modern streetcar to connect and unify the corridor. The Task Force objectives apparently were to highlight Peachtree, create transportation pizzazz different from other cities transport, integrate streetscapes & transportation mode, service new high rise residential and create reason to develop on Peachtree. I (and many other Council Members) supported the idea of a streetcar (like Portlands), when the idea was presented months ago, as a way to increase tourism and help Downtown redevelop. But at the time the idea was presented, there was no conversation about how it would be funded. And at the time, no one discussed what routes other than Peachtree might benefit our Atlanta residents. The recommendation from the Task Force of linking our city from the northern city limits to Fort Mac with a new type of vehicle special to Atlanta seems like a good idea. AND, I have never heard any opposition to beautifying Peachtree with streetscapes, lighting and pocket parks. But the idea of imposing a Special Assessment District (SAD) with no referendum to fund the first phase of the streetcar in only Downtown and Midtown needs some more conversation among the six City Council members who represent segments of Peachtree. We already had several conversations about the amount of time it would take to complete the transportation vision, the amount of money needed to fund the vision, the opposition to the type of vehicle with overhead wires, and especially with the idea of imposing a SAD on business and condo owners with no referendum. I think we should go back to the drawing board, partially. My personal view is that we should consider another, smaller attractive vehicle that is not fixed rail and that can be used for circulators for neighborhoods and for tourists. Our objectives should not be just for Peachtree, but city-wide: to provide nonauto transit for short destinations, to provide tourist transport, to be attractive enough to be an alternative to a car or taxi, to service new high rise residential, but which does not interfere with the current flow of traffic. It could also offer a way for Atlantans to get to the Beltline. Rubber-wheeled trolleys are available with low-to-the-curb entrance doors for a much lower cost than streetcars. A lowercost vehicle could allow the vision of whole-city use much sooner. These smaller circulator vehicles might attract more users than big buses and could maneuver more neighborhood routes than just Peachtree. Whether it is sufficiently pizzazy to provide a unique transportation experience for Atlanta would have to be tested.

THE CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS

Financial Condition Excellent

Through Mid-Year Fiscal Year 2008
By KAREN MEINZEN McENERNY City of Sandy Springs City Council, District 6

The City of Sandy Springs is in excellent financial shape. We are in the middle of our second full 12 month budget cycle which, for Fiscal Year 2008, runs from July 1, 2007 to June 30 , 2008. The first budget year was 7 months beginning in December 2005 to June 30, 2006. During the early months of our citys operation we took out a $10 million Tax Anticipation Note (TAN) to provide operating funds until our two largest sources of funds, Local Option Sales Tax Revenues and the Real Estate Taxes could be collected. The city paid the TAN back in full earlier than the State mandated 12 month timeframe. Every governmental entity is concerned about the credit agency ratings on any municipal/county bond offerings issued by that entity. As a brand new City, your Mayor and City council understood early on that it was going to take fiscal prudence to ensure the highest bond ratings for future bond issues for our City. That requires funding the Fund Balance Reserve each year until our target of 16% of our revenues is reached. We budgeted $79 million of revenues for FY 2008, so our target Fund Balance Reserve is approx. $12.7 million. The Mayor announced that we expect to reach that target during the current fiscal year, or within our third year of operations. That is remarkable even in light of the recent metro area wide slow down in Sales Tax collections. Your city executed on the fundamentals. Conservative revenue projections coupled with sound expense oversight, especially seeing cost efficiency in our partnership with CH2M Hill. In FY 2007 we exceeded our $77 million revenue projections by $4.6 million and Operating expenditures came in under by $2.5 million or $55 million. At Fiscal Year end 2007 we had an ending balance of $9 million in our Fund Balance Reserve (rainy day fund) and are on track, as the Mayor noted, to add the balance to our Fund Balance Reserve this year to reach our target of $12.7 million. This compares to the AJC reports that Cobb County was able to add $8 million to its Fund Reserve Balance for FY 2007 based on a $825 million annual budget. Year to date (first 6 months ) for FY 2008 the City of Sandy Springs we collected 5% more than projected for the Real Estate Taxes and Year to Date LOST revenue is also ahead by approx $500,000. Total Revenues YTD are ahead by $6.8 million (rounded). On the expense control side conservative budgeting practices are also evident. As an example, in general the majority of cities
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DO YOU KNOW

WHO YOUR ANCESTORS WERE?

By HOWARD MARGOL Mt. Paran Parkway

well worth it. The literal explosion of the internet caused Other sites are: www.findmypast.com; a similar explosion in the world of geneawww.familysearch.org; www.foot.net; logical research. No longer is it necessary to www.imigrantships.net go to an archive, a courthouse, a library, or Here in Atlanta, we are very fortunate to other site that houses records. You can have the newest, most technologically accomplish a great deal more, in far less advanced Federal Archive in the USA outtime, sitting at home with your computer. side of Washington, DC, It is located just The wealth of information, records, and data south of Atlanta in Morrow, GA. Go south on the internet today is simply amazing. All on I-75 and you will be there in 30 minutes. you need is a computer and an internet connection. Once there, you will find a wealth of records Some sites on the internet require a fee of all types, particularly pertaining to the but, with few exceptions, most are free. One Southeast United States. www.archives.gov/ of the foremost sites is www.cyndislist.com southwest There, you will find many other sites to go Right next door to NARA is the State of to that contain searchable databases that Howard Margol holding a 1907 ships manifest of alien passengers Georgia Archives. It also contains a wealth include thousands and thousands of records. Would you like to find the manifest (passenger list) of the of records pertaining to the citizens of Georgia. ship your grandparents or great grandparents may have www.georgiaarchives.org Your great grandparents, as well as your great, great, arrived on when they entered the USA . If they arrived at Ellis Island, simply go to www.ellisisland,org Databases grandparents died a long time ago. One of the myths is you cannot find anything about them because they are no also exist for other ports of entry as well as Canadian ports. The largest searchable database is www.ancestry.com longer living. Simply not true. They may be gone but the Almost every kind of record imaginable is included on this records still exist. A good example is the individuals who site. You will have millions of records to choose from, i.e., came over on the Mayflower. The Mayflower records are every Federal census recorded in the USA, Civil War military still in existence, including the names of everyone on records, World War I draft registration records, just to name a board when the ship left England. So get busy few. Ancestry charges a fee to access their database but it is and start searching for those ancestors you never knew.

mpnca.org:
Your Window to the World
Many of our neighbors have said they are amazed to discover the wonderful links (laymens lingo for all the wonderful places you can go) after you log onto www.mpnca.org! Here are some comments from current users: "Sometimes if I can't sleep at 4 or 5 in the morning, I've been known to "read" the paper on the AJC website before it arrives at our front door." -L.M. "Having access to the "Fulton County GIS" website has been a great help to me and the agent listing my house which is for sale. With just a few clicks, I was able to get a very detailed topographic map of my lotdown to 1 or 2 foot increments in elevation!" -S.S. "I've considered giving up my daily AJC subscription because it is so easy to access the sections were interested in. But I wouldn't part with the weekend papers." -mpnca Board member "It has been easy to follow the Grady Hospital debacle through the AJC link on the mpnca.org website; I can get archived articles and "Opinions" dating back several
7

months." -Former Grady resident MD. "I was surprised to find out I could get access to the entire contents of the paper and it's an easy way to get reprints of older articles." -RW "Before we pick up guests or family members from the airport, we always check the "Flight Arrivals & Departures" and the Traffic ("Georgia Navigator") links through mpnca.org" -T.D. "I compared property tax bills of my neighbors to my own through the Fulton County Tax Assessors link. It was very illuminating." -P.M. If you would like to send your comments like these or need detailed instructions how to better navigate the site, let us know at "Contact Us" at www.mpnca.org

Tired of talking to a mechanical voice? Wanna talk to a human? Learn what to do on the following websites: www.gethuman.com or www.dialahuman.com

WE HAD A GREAT PARTY!

any thanks to Joan and Rick Smith for hosting the annual Fall Social event in their elegant home on Harris Trail (The home was previously the decorator's show house). Neighbors enjoyed drinks and food on the back veranda and patio which overlook levels of lawns and the pool areawith more drinks and food at the pool house. Looking from the pool back to the house was like standing at a fabulous resort and saying, "What a treat to be here!" The Smiths were very generous to share their incredible home and setting with the 180 neighbors who attended. Marci and Jerry Vincent worked hard yet again to organize the event, organize and supply the bars, and check the details. Thanks too, to all the volunteers who helped, especially our bartenders, Richard and Martha Wilson. It doesnt take a village, but it does take a great neighborhood for a wonderful party like this!

Photos: Yolanda Adrean Shel Schlegman

March 2008

The Crime Report

The Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association produces this public safety report for the benefit of our neighborhood. If you see suspicious activity, or are the victim of a crime, call 911 and then report the details for this newsletter to our Security Patrol (404)310-7361 or Jo Ann Rau

Security Patrol Activity

During the months of September 2007 through January 2008, Officers Doug Cole, Jim Hendrix and Sergeant Ellis (J.R.)

Security Patrol Information The Mt. Paran Security Patrol is a neighborhood funded patrol staffed by retired and active duty Atlanta police officers. Officer Doug Cole and Officer Jim Hendrix work full time8 hours a dayand Sgt. Ellis (J.R.) works part-time3 evenings a week and some weekends as necessary. To date there are 401 patrol members of which 25 live in the Randall Mill Civic Association area. The patrol monitors the Atlanta police radio and responds to alarms in the area. The patrol checks doors and windows daily while you are out of town and picks up newspapers. The fee to join the patrol is $150 a year and covers the time period from January 1 to December 31. The fee for new residents will be pro-rated. Subscribers receive a mailbox decal, telephone stickers and access to the security hotline as well as daily surveillance of your house and property. For information on joining, or to meet the patrol officers, call (404) 310-7361. Be sure to leave a message during off-duty hours and one of the patrol officers will call you back.

Logged 9,673 miles patrolling our neighborhood Made 2,023 house checks for traveling subscribers Responded to 46 alarm calls Investigated 63 suspicious persons or autos Investigated 10 incidents of larceny Investigated 3 break-ins Found 1 open doors Investigated 1 incidents of vandalism

September: A stray German Shepard attacked husband and baby sitter on Harris Trail. Animal Control was called. A Northside Drive neighbor reported back yard gate open and dog missingpossibly stolen. A dog let out for a few minutes on Fairfield Road, disappearedcould not be found. A Mt. Paran Road neighbor reported 2 black males taking pictures of her house and would not leave when asked. They left when a friend came to her aid. A Wickersham Drive neighbor reported small statue taken from the front of the house. Lawn truck with keys left in vehicle stolen by 3 black males driving a red car on West Conway Drive. A young nude male was seen in the bushes at a vacant house on Conway Valley Road. Someone removed mail from a lockable mailbox on Harris Trail. Mail found on the groundunknown if any was taken. October: Attempted theft of a lawn truck on Harris Trail by 3 black males in a silver Chrysler 300 was interrupted by intervention of workers. A homeowner on Conway Valley Road reported hearing gunshots. A vacant house on Northside Drive was broken into and several expensive kitchen appliances were removed. November: Several suspicious people reported in neighborhood. Unlocked doors were found on Broadland Road house but there were no signs of forced entry. Tools were taken from an open carport on Paran Pines Drive. Later, tools and painting equipment were stolen from a locked trailer parked on the street at the same house. December: Vandalism at driveway entrance on Flintlock Road, a decorative masonry pineapple was damaged. Burglars removed several items left behind in a vacant house for sale on Glen Devon Drive. Mail, including credit card convenience checkssome of which were cashedwas taken from a mailbox on Davis Drive. A window was broken and cash and credit cards were taken from an auto on Musket Ridge. A laptop was taken from an unlocked auto on Sentinel Post Road. Tools were taken from an unlocked work truck on Somerset Drive.
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Whats Inside
Atlanta Housing Code Enforcement Sign Violators Punished Lost Pet Signs/Website Notices & Email Blasts Sandy Springs Crime Report Chastain Park/Parking Update Exercise for Seniors C2 C2 C2 C3 C3 C4

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More Crime News: We Need to Work Together Security Patrol Activity

Continued from Page C1

Success! Violators of Atlantas Sign Ordinance Punished

By MARY LOUISE FLOYD Board of Directors, Keep Atlanta Beautiful

January: Two air conditioning units were taken from a house under construction on Harris Trail. An electric saw was taken from the bed of an unattended truck at the same address. The victim saw a suspect run from the truck to a waiting car. No tag number was obtained. A house being renovated on Glen Devon Drive was entered though an unlocked garage door. Another door was forced open to enter the house, but it is not certain what was taken.

Major Sellers: Crime Drops in Zone Two

Continued from Page 1

lights placed at your homes corners home and at the front and rear doors can be valuable to the owner in several ways. For the many residents who visit Chastain Park*, we have increased vehicle and foot patrols along with the Mounted Patrol to add a higher level of police visibility. Chastain is a very important part of this zone, as are all our parks, but we need to work together to identify suspicious persons and make the call to 911. A simple call that may result in deterring a crime is always welcomed. No call is unimportant. If it looks suspicious to you, it is suspicious to us. We have seen an increase in these types of crimes, not only in this zone, but metro wide. This includes Cobb, Fulton, and DeKalb counties. Criminals come from all over the metro area to shop at what we call a target rich environment, meaning that any item they want, they can find after a short drive or walk around this area. All of us need to work together to reduce the opportunities for these criminals to strike and make it a safe and secure area. Although we are comforted by the great accomplishments of crime reduction in 2007 we are challenged to make greater strides in 2008. With your help, we can greatly reduce property thefts in 2008. *For neighbors who frequent Chastain Park, see related article, for the latest on Chastain Park Parking, page C4

Atlanta Housing Code Enforcement Ordinance Enforcement

Report Housing Code violations on private property (such as abandoned and neglected property) by calling 404-330-6190. Report Atlanta City Ordinance violations (such as illegal signage) on the public right-of-way (10 feet from the curb in our area) to the Solid Waste Education Enforcement Team empowered to issue court citations to flagrant violators: publicworks@atlantga.gov or 404-330-6236. Also to this SWEET Team report street outages, traffic light malfunctions, and dump sites on the citys public right-of-way.

Judge Gary Jackson of Atlantas Housing Court and Estee L. Andrews, Administrative Services Manager of the Department of Public Works, are putting teeth in Atlantas Sign Ordinance. Since mid-November nearly a dozen flagrant violators have been issued citations and fined up to $200 per sign. For failure to appear in court, two violators received arrest warrants. The scourge of this litter on a stick or on a utility pole blights Atlanta. Neighborhood groups like Midtowns Green, West Ends Sign Mary Louise Floyd Patrol, and Buckheads Sign Busters have fought this visible pollution of their communities for years. These citizen groups remove the signs, but they are powerless to enforce Chapters 28A and 138 of Atlantas Code of Ordinances which say, No sign shall be affixed within public rights of way, defined as ten feet from the street in our area. Since 2002 Keep Atlanta Beautiful has led a public education campaign about illegal signage. They designed and disseminated a brochure succinctly explaining the law. They contacted illegal advertisers personally, through letters and phone calls. Before the 2002 election, they made a presentation to Atlanta City Council requesting that candidates for reelection post their signs legally. They met with the president of the Atlanta Board of Realtors to request that agents be educated about placement of real estate signs. They asked Georgias Secretary of State to inform all state-wide candidates of Atlantas sign law. They worked with City Solicitor Raines Carter to implement an enforcement strategy. On the Keep Atlanta Beautiful website under What Can YOU Do to Keep Atlanta Beautiful? a section titled Educate/Report Violators of Sign Ordinance provides suggested scripts that can be used to educate violators of the code. Now this section of the KAtlB website has the Solid Waste Education Enforcement Team empowered to issue court citations to flagrant violators. These SWEET officers can be contacted at publicworks@atlanta.gov or 404-330-6236. The Keep Atlanta Beautiful Board of Directors is jubilant that the force of law is now behind Atlantas Sign Ordinance. The elimination of illegal signs in the public right of way will reduce safety hazards, discourage other forms of road-side littering, and send a message to would-be criminals that Atlanta wont be exploited. On behalf of West Ends Sign Patrol, Carl Ness wrote to Estee Andrews and the KAtlB Board of Directors, Kudos to all in this process, including all neighborhoods who resent and remove this low flying street marketing. We should never become inured to visual pollution! Lets keep Atlanta beautiful!

This sign, and multiple copies posted along Northside Drive and Garmon Road, could cost owners large fines in addition to the loss of a beloved pet. Avoid fines. Contact mpnca.org for lost pet postings on our website and via neighborhood email blasts. C2

More Crime News: Stop Crimes of Opportunity

SANDY SPRINGS CRIME REPORT
By STEVE ROSE Lieutenant/Public Information Officer Community Affairs Unit

We are currently involved in signing up for Neighborhood Watch. If you are interested, you can e-mail me and Ill send the information to you. Although we continue to make great progress with our new police department, we need the eyes and ears of the community.

CALL 911 WHEN YOU SEE SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY

Sandy Springs Police continue to expand our services, particularly in the area of uniform and special squads. Currently, we have 111 sworn officers. Our target number, over time, is in the area of 140-150. Arrests are up, calls for service are up. Our crimes against person statistics are down. We are seeing an increase in thefts, particularly thefts from cars. In comparison, both DeKalb County Police and City of Atlanta Police are reporting Lt. Steve Rose similar activity along our borders. There are several reasons for this. First of all, we all have new toys in our cars. The new GPS units are currently the favorite item to steal. All you have to do is stick them to the windshield and they are there for everyone to see. Leaving them there when you park for the day at your office, or a retail parking area, or leaving it in the car overnight is begging for a theft. These units are small enough to fit in a purse or coat pocket. Take them out. Take the suction cup out too. That invites someone to trash your car looking for the GPS unit even if its not there. Other popular items are laptops, purses, wallets, guns, and briefcases with personal and business documents. None of these items need to be in the car, especially overnight. The trunk is a better spot to put items, especially during the day in, for instance, a retail shopping center parking lot. If you use the trunk, dont park the car then take the items out and put them in the trunk. If a thief sees you, hell smash the window, hit the trunk release, and then go into the trunk. Its best to minimize what can be stolen so dont use the car as a storage area during the day. Flat screen, plasma, and LCD televisions are hot items right now. Pretty soon all analog televisions will be obsolete with the new digital and HD technology. Thieves and burglars move in the direction of change too. There arent too many old televisions stolen. One of the best things you can do is copy your serial numbers on all of your major electronic items and keep them for use if they are stolen. You would be surprised at the numbers of stolen items that we auction off because we couldnt find the owners. The bottom line with any criminal act is there has to be an opportunity. Take it away. Two things that will get you in trouble are laziness and procrastination. Just because it hasnt happened to you doesnt mean it wont. When it does, youll be mad at the world so do yourself a favor and start eliminating opportunities for these crooks. Dont put it off. Activity reports are available each week from my office. You c a n s i g n u p b y s e n d in g me a n e - ma i l a t steve.rose@sandyspringga.org Our target date for our police website is May 30th. The site will offer many extras including GIS mapping, downloadable forms, information on programs and activity as well as in-depth information on our department and our personnel. C3

Enjoy Chastain Park this Spring: Park in the Red Lot, Avoid Traffic Make Time to Explore Chastain!
Spring is coming and we will soon be enjoying the beautiful weather at Chastain Park. NYO is about to start, the PATH will be bustling, and the playground will be buzzing with children...but, unfortunately, with so many people enjoying the park, there is sure to be traffic and parking congestion on West Wieuca! The good news is that there is actually plenty of parking at Chastain Park if you follow these helpful parking tips to plan your next visit. If you are coming to Chastain Park to use the PATH or just want to avoid the West Wieuca traffic, park in the Red Lot to make your trip more enjoyable. The Red Lot is located in the 4400 block of Powers Ferry, approximately 2 blocks North of West Wieuca between the Chastain Horse Park and the Amphitheater. The lot is highly visible, regularly patrolled by the Atlanta Police Department and private security, well lit, providing a great place to park, meet your friends, and easy access to the PATH and the North end of the park. As always, you should take prudent steps to leave valuables at home, do not leave items visible, and lock your cars. We strongly suggest you utilize the Red Lot if you come to use the PATH or need a parking spot to park during the peak traffic periods. The peak periods are Monday to Friday 4 to 8 pm, Saturday 8 am to 4 pm and Sunday 12:30 pm to 6 pm. Please note the Red Lot will NOT be available after 4 pm on concert nights, but there are only 60 concerts a year, so the Lot is available the other 305 days! Be sure to visit www.ChastainParkConservancy.org to view the latest concert schedule and plan your trip to the Park. The concert schedule will be available by April 1. The Chastain Park Conservancy, The Chastain Park Civic
Continued on Page C4

If you are not receiving regular email crime alerts from the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association, then we dont have your email address. Please send it to MtParNorCitAssoc@aol.com And, add our address to your on-line address book so our emails wont be caught by your internet providers spam controls. We respect your privacy and never share email addresses.

Parking for Chastain Made Easy

Continued from Page C3

GOOD EXERCISE FOR SENIORS

Your editors just came across this exercise suggested for older people, to build muscle strength in the arms and shoulders. It seems so easy, so we thought wed pass it on. The article suggested doing it three days a week. Begin by standing on a comfortable surface, where you have plenty of room at each side. With a 5-lb potato sack in each hand, extend your arms straight out from your sides and hold them there as long as you can. Try to reach a full minute, then relax. Each day, you'll find that you can hold this position for just a bit longer. After a couple of weeks, move up to 10-lb potato sacks. Then 50-lb potato sacks and then eventually try to get to where you can lift a 100-lb potato sack in each hand and hold your arm straight for more than a full minute. (Were at this level.) After you feel confident at that level, put a potato in each of the sacks.

Association, NYO and the PATH Foundation have worked together to enhance amenities at the Red Lot and make sure you are aware of the ample parking available there. There is a storm shelter at the North end of the Red Lot to use as a landmark if you are meeting friends. There will be stretching stations, a water fountain and picnic benches available for your use. The Master Plan also calls for future improvements and enhancements to the North end of the Park such as extending and connecting the Red Lot to the current PATH loop as well as extending the PATH along the South edge of Park Drive. Directions to the Red Parking Lot: Traveling North or South on Powers Ferry, you will find the lot 2 blocks from West Wieuca between the Chastain Horse Park and the Amphitheater. Traveling from the East side of the Park, turn North on Dudley and turn on either Park Drive (just behind the Playground) or turn further North on Stella. Both roads go to the back side of the Amphitheater, and the Red Lot is just on the other side. Please pass this information along to friends, neighbors, walkers, runners, running groups, boot camps, apartment and condo neighborhoods, dog walkers and strollers. For more information, about the PATH, NYO, the Park and the neighborhood, please visit their websites: Chastain Park Civic Association www.ChastainPark.org NYO - www.NYOSports.com PATH - www.PATHFoundation.org

McEnerny: Fiscal Prudence Pays Off

Continued from Page 6

Riley: Government Accountability

Continued from Page 4

Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority (Grady Board) has yet to commence the re-negotiation of the contract for indigent care services to the citizens of Fulton County. I have worked diligently to defend the taxpayers of Fulton County from the continued funding of services that have not been reconciled, audited, and affirmed to be the true costs of services delivered. The 1984 contract is vague, and does not provide for remedies for noncompliance to the terms of the contract. These examples clearly illustrate the lack of accountability to the taxpayers of Fulton County. We must hold our elected officials to the highest standard of financial and fiduciary responsibility at every level of government. City, county, state and federal governments must be watched closely with our tax dollars. It pays to stay engaged, and it pays to make informed choices at the ballot box. If not, you can expect your personal finances to be affected, and you might not be pleased with the result.

REPORT CRIME TO 911 THEN CALL MT. PARAN SECURITY (404) 310-7361
C4

in Georgia have between 3 and 7 employees for every 1,000 residents. That excludes public safety officers (fire and police). The City of Sandy Springs ratio is 1.4 employees per 1,000 residents. The City of SS has been able to attract qualified personnel through its competitive 401 K retirement benefits program and have therefore no future liability for defined benefits for future pension obligations. Our long term obligations are limited to a 10 year (2017) fully amortizing equipment lease currently paid down to $8,265,000 from a high of $11,500,000 for our fire and police departments. We owe $280,000 per year for 12 years to amortize the $3,360,000 in COPS payments remaining on the Heards Ferry Fire Station that we took over from Fulton County. We have no outstanding bonds. Finally, the budget through December 2007 contains $5.1 million remaining in various Contingency Funds spread throughout various departments. We started out the Year with $5.9 million of contingency funding. This fiscal prudence has also allowed over $25 million in new non-recurring capital to be allocated for capital projects since the citys inception with transportation receiving the lions share at $14,995,643. These funds are in addition to the $9 million on hand in our Fund Balance Reserve mentioned above. Finally, the city, through the outstanding efforts of its financial budgeting staff headed by Steve Rapson, received a certificate of achievement for excellence in Financial Reporting for its comprehensive financial report in our first year of operations, Fiscal Year ending 2006. This certificate was presented by the Government Finance Officers Assoc. of the United States and Canada to governmental units whose comprehensive financial reports achieve the highest standards in government accounting and financial reporting. Your Citys financial affairs are in good hands and we are proud of your confidence in us in that regard. Please stay in touch as we work through the upcoming challenges of the drought and need for water conservation and other pressing matters of concern to you . Office 404-851-1944, Cell 404-358-0068, karen.mcenerny@sandyspringsga.org

Under the Gold Dome

By EDWARD LINDSEY State Representative, District 54

Were back! The 2008 General Assembly returned on January 14 and serious issues are on our plateproperty taxes, education, transportation, water, and the future of Fulton County among them. Property Tax Reform Speaker Richardsons proposed GREAT Plan has been in the press a great deal over the last few months and we have already had two weeks of hearings on the issue. His plan seeks to reduceand eventually eliminatelocal governments dependence on property taxes. The Edward Lindsey Speaker recognizes that property taxes were a 19th Century method for taxing that simply makes little sense in a 21st Century economy. As a member of the House Ways and Means Committee, our ability to eliminate all property taxes in the short run is uncertain but it is opening up the possibilities for significant reform. As many of you know, I have been fighting for property tax reform since my arrival in the House. In 2005, I introduced HR 162 with seven co-sponsors to cap property tax reassessments at no more than 3% or the rate of inflation, whichever is less. We were able to push that proposed constitutional amendment through the House Ways and Means Committee in 2006. This term, we returned with HR 3 to again fight for capping reassessments. The momentum is on our side as shown by the more than 40 co-sponsors we have signed on from every corner of the state. Similar measures have also been introduced in the State Senate by Senator Eric Johnson from Savannah and Senator Chip Rogers of Cobb County, both with broad Senate support. Regardless of which proposed constitutional amendment passes, the time for reform is now. Thirty one states already offer similar protections to homeowners and it is time Georgia be added to this list of property owner friendly states. The logic behind the proposal is simple, property owners should be taxed based on their investment in their property not artificial unrealized value set by bureaucrats. Studies around the country have shown that this kind of protection leads to more stable neighborhoods. It protects both the elderly on fixed incomes and young families who can buy their first home knowing what their future tax expenses will be. By allowing for inflationary increases, local governments can continue to provide for local services if they operate efficiently. In short, HR 3 and the Senate proposals are common sense solutions that both protect homeowners and encourage efficient and responsive local government. The chance for passage of a cap on reassessments is excellent this year. Speaker Pro Tem Mark Burkhalters proposal to eliminate the ad valorem tax on personal autos is also gaining steam. Simply put, there ought to be a limit to how many times you tax something. In the case of your car, you are taxed when you purchase it through sales taxes and every time you use it through gas taxes. Twice should be enough. This proposal also has an excellent chance to pass this year. Stay tuned. Education We have made improvements in education in recent years. Graduation rates have risen ten percentage points (72% of ninth grade students now graduate from High School) and we have moved up 5 places among states in average SAT scores (up to

46th). However that simply moves us from abysmal to poor. We owe it to Georgias youth to do better. After 4 years on the House Education Committee, Ive come to understand that there are 4 Ns in quality education and any reform must advance at least one of them. They are: 1. An iNvesting community; 2. An iNspired teacher; 3. An iNvolved parent(s); and 4. An eNgaged child. There are three key developments to keep an eye on as follows: 1. HB 881: I was privileged to Chair the Education Subcommittee that studied reform of Georgias Charter school law last Fall. The result is HB 881 sponsored by Representative Jan Jones (which I am also pleased to co sponsor). The bill has wide bipartisan support and will open up greater use of charter schools statewide by creating a state charter commission to create charter schools in addition to local school systems. 2. HB 905: This bill sponsored by Representative Fran Millar is once again the result of a study committee on the need to upgrade the states technical course work program. The fact of the matter is that not all of our high school students are aiming for college and many of them drop out because they do not see high school as relevant to their needs in finding a job. Several states have adopted more aggressive technical programs to keep these students in school and provide them with the skills to compete in the marketplace after high school. The results have been higher graduation rates and a stronger work force. I served on Representative Millars study committee and am pleased to also be one of the co-sponsors of his bill. 3. Funding QBE: QBEor Quality Basic Education provides the formula for setting the level of state funding for each school district in the state. Beginning in 2003 when the state faced the worst revenue short fall since the Great Depression, this funding has faced austerity cuts each year. These cuts have been reduced over the past several years. At their height, they affected approximately 3% of the Atlanta Public School budget. They now impact a little under 1%. While this percentage is relatively small and shrinking, QBE funding represents the states obligation toward education and a continuation of such cuts in light of the fact that we have over $1.6 billion in state reserves is difficult to justify. The House Appropriations chairman has indicated his objection to further austerity cuts and I support this position. Transportation The noted baseball player and philosopher Casey Stengal was reported to have once said about a restaurant, Its so crowded, no one goes there anymore. Well, that is the concern many of us have about Atlanta traffic. We are literally drowning in our own success and it could get worse unless we act swiftly. According to the Georgia Department of Transportation, we face a shortfall of over $7 billion dollars over the next 7 years in funding of transportation projects. A joint House-Senate study released last week recommends allowing voters to approve a regional sales tax to raise funds for transportation projects in their counties. This kind of regional focus is long overdue. Water The rub on water issues for years has been that it is the number
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Neighborhood Briefs
Georgian Chamber Players Move Home to Galloway
The Georgian Chamber Players has moved their home from Spivey Hall to The Galloway School's Chaddick Center for the Arts. Their debut performance at Galloway was Sunday afternoon, February 3, at 3:00 pm. Robert Spano, Music Director of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, was the guest artist for this performance of Mozart's G Minor Piano Quartet, Brahms' B Major Trio and Britten's Lachrymae for Viola and Piano. The next performance is scheduled for Sunday, May 11. For information, please call Alice Hudson at 404-252-8389, ext. 111. Nancie Smith

Park Pride Wants to Invest in Your Park

Park Pride, the only organization that works with communities all over Atlanta to improve their parks, is offering Community Micro Grants of up to $1,000 to improve public parks and greenspace. Throughout Atlanta, people are working with their neighbors to build a flower bed, plant some trees, install benches or paint dilapidated buildings in their community park, said George Dusenbury, executive director of Park Pride. This is our way of saying thank you and encouraging others to get involved. Applications must be endorsed by the appropriate Neighborhood Planning Unit (NPU) and submitted by April 15. Awards will be announced November. Groups that have been funded in the past are eligible to reapply. For information about the program, and to download an application, visit www.parkpride.org/micro.html Park Pride is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit promoting more and better parks, with the vision of creating a world-class park system in Atlanta. In 2006, Park Pride coordinated more than 20,000 hours of volunteer work in Atlanta parks, developed new conceptual master plans for five parks, helped start more than a dozen friends of the park groups. Park Pride continues to work with community organizations and grassroots advocates to support the creation of the Atlanta BeltLine, which will create more than 1,000 acres of new parks and 33 miles of trails. George Dusenbury

Chastain Horse Park Calendar of Events

MIRACLES HAPPEN VII April 19, 2008 - 6:30 p m An Elegant Black Tie and Blue Jeans Affair for 400 Guests Featuring a Seated Dinner, Equestrian Performances, and Live/Silent Auctions Sponsorships are available, for more information please call 404.252.4244 x32 THERAPEUTIC SPRING HORSE SHOW May 17, 2008 9 a.m. 4 p m. Spectators Welcome, Free Entry Banner sponsorships are available, for information please call 404.252.4244 x27 G-CAPP: Exclusive Red Carpet Star-studded Benefit FALL HORSE SHOW Horse Show Featuring Chastain Horse A first for Hollywood, a first for the Fonda family and cerPark Lesson Program Students tainly a first for Atlanta, The Georgia Campaign for Adolescent October 4, 2008 9 a.m. 4 p.m. Banner sponsorships are available, for more information please Pregnancy Prevention (G-CAPP), is proud to announce its 13th call 404.252.4244 x27 Lauren Ligon Annual fundraising event, Three Generations of Fonda Filmmaking. On May 12, 2008, for one night only, one stage will hold Jane Fonda, Peter Fonda, Bridget Fonda and Troy Garity, interviewed by Turner Classic Movies (TCM) host Robert Osborne, as the Fonda Family candidly discuss their film careers, Stations of the Cross at St. Dunstans Episcopal their favorite scenes and the Fonda who started it all. St. Dunstons Episcopal Invites all of our Destined to delight Southern star gazers, celebrities from Atneighbors to come enjoy the meditative Stations lanta to Hollywood will grace the red carpet at the Woodruff of the Cross on the grounds of the church during Arts Center to raise funds and bring even greater notoriety to one the season of Lent. of the states most important initiativesadolescent pregnancy preThe stations of the cross follow the path Jesus vention. Celebrating 13 years of successful early pregnancy pretook from the time he was condemned to die vention programs, G-CAPP remains steadfast in a long-term until his body was placed in the tomb. There are effort to support healthy children and families across the 14 stations along the way. state. Proceeds from the Annual Premiere benefit Georgias Creative members of St. Dunstans have made most marginalized youth directly through G-CAPPs services representations depicting each of the stations. A and programs. brochure of prayers and meditations is included. Three Generations of Fonda Filmmaking includes a sponThe stations will be place along the 5-acre grounds of the sors-only VIP pre-party with celebrity guests, a live and silent church at 4393 Garmon Road, including on the nature trail that auction with once-in-a-lifetime experiences and a tribute to goes through the woods behind the church building. They will Henry Fonda with a screening of one of his unforgettable films. remain through Easter on March 23. The opportunity to have all the Fondas together on behalf of Our neighbors are invited to come and walk the stations at any G-CAPP is such an amazing gift to our organization and the comtime. To find out more information check our website at munity we serve, says Michele Ozumba, G-CAPP President. www.stdunstan.net Partnering with TCM and Robert Osborne adds a new dimenVacation Bible School sion to our annual fundraiser. This event will showcase Atlantas Neighborhood children are invited to attend St. Dunstans creativity in corporate philanthropy at its best. Vacation Bible School the week of June 9-13. For more information check our website at www.stdunstan.net. Kim Branch
More Neighborhood Briefs page 12

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Neighborhood Briefs
Be a Star. Auditions Soon. Multiple Plays. All Ages. Little Things Always Make the Difference
Styrofoam peanutsthey arrive inside boxes of all sizesthey come in shades of white and pastels. You open the box and they seem to float through the air, to the floor, to you, to the dog as a great new toy. But where you don't want them, is going into a landfill. When you get a package that is filled with those things, take them to the UPS Store at Powers Ferry Landing, , West Paces Ferry...or the store of your choice. They are excited to get them as it reduces their overhead and increases their profits. And you are being GREEN! Angi Evert

Fabrefaction* Theatre Company is holding auditions in May for all ages (rising first graders to adult) for it's upcoming summer season: "Sleeping Beauty" (1st through 6th grade), "Thoroughly Modern Millie" (7th to graduated 12th grade students), "Bat Boy The Musical" (for rising 9-12th grade students and professionals 18+), "Machinal" (9th grade +), and "Assassins" (age 18+ and one boy age 7-14). The theatre is located off Howell Mill Road on Bowen Street. Please visit our website: www.fabrefaction.org for more information on workshops, summer camps and show times. Evelyn Hoff * (noun, 1652-1658: The act of fashioning or making a work of art.)

For Residents With Locked Front Gates

Important safety reminder from Fire Station #27: remember to call the neighborhood fire station whenever you change the code or the lock to your entry gate, or sell your house to someone who plans to make changes. Use this reminder to call if you havent already given the firemen your gate code or lock key. Sharing this information is critical in the event of an emergency. City residents, call Station #27 at 404-848-1769.

Cole Porter Rogers & Hammerstein at the Lyric

The Atlanta Lyric theatre will be doing Cole Porter's Anything Goes at the Ferst Center on May 2, 3 & 4. Some Enchanted Evening with the songs of Rodgers and Hammerstein will be performed at the Byers Studio off Northside Drive on June 5-22. For tickets and info, 404-894 9600 or www.atlantalyrictheatre.com Brenda Smith

Mayor Continues Outdoor Watering Ban

Mayor Shirley Franklin announced that Atlanta would continue its ban on outdoor watering. We are still in a Level 4 drought, Mayor Franklin said, and still are under an obligation to cut our use 10 percent. We cant allow outdoor watering and meet that goal. Although the governor approved loosening restrictions including one 25 minute hand watering per day, the state maintained the requirement for local utilities to reduce usage by 10 percent and gave local utilities the responsibility of deciding how best to meet that goal. The Mayor pointed out that Atlanta had gone to Drought Level 3 last May, four months before the State moved from a Level 2 to a Level 4 drought, banning most outdoor watering. That means that Atlantas usage was already significantly reduced last summer. A 10 percent reduction on top of that already reduced usage would be unlikely if not impossible, according to Commissioner Hunter. The 30-day exemption for new landscaping is still in place but that the City would no longer exempt watering for lawn overseeding and aeration. Pools will be exempted from the restrictions, effective immediately. It makes sense from a public health and safety standpoint. Atlanta gets very, very hot during the summer, and we want children and families to have access to pools, Franklin said. Conservation tips are available at www.atlantawatershed.org Editors note: special thanks to all the contributors in this issue. Email your articles, ideas, events, tips and photographs for the next issue of The Citizens Review. And your opinions will always be considered for reprint in In My Opinion our new neighbor op-ed columns featured in future issues.

Neighborhood Spring Luncheon

The next Ladies Luncheon will be hosted by Sally Hanna in her beautiful Whitewater Creek Road home in late April. We are still working on the exact date, which will be announced by email. We will also let you know the amount for your reservation checks. If you havent received your email invitation by early April, go online to look for the details at www.mpnca.org Luncheon planners: Brenda Smith ( and Judi Schindler (

Mt. Paran-Northside Assoc. BABYSITTING NETWORK

Neighborhood teens interested in babysitting, and Moms looking for babysitters, should contact Michelle Ventulett email:

Names will only be given to neighbors upon request. If you have questions, call Michelle at

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TORNADO, THUNDER STORM, AND LIGHTENING EVENTS

Pay Attention to Weather NewsStart Tonight

The American Red Cross, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, and the National Weather Service strongly encourage you to purchase a NOAA weather radio for your home, organization, business, school or day care center, and place of work. These are inexpensive devices that can literally save your life and the lives of your family members, friends, neighbors, students, clients, and co-workers. Radios can be purchased in a variety of stores range in price from about $9.99 up to $69.00. Some have replaceable batteries, rechargeable batteries, wind-up selfchargers, lights, sirens, and features that allow you to charge your cell phone. The radio will alert you when a weather condition is approaching. Some of them allow you to program them to alert you specifically about your area; others cover the wide metropolitan area and let you know the status of bad weather within the entire region. Imagine being at work when your children get on the bus to leave school and fifteen minutes later, a huge lightening storm or tornado is headed to your neighborhood. What happens with the kids? Don't guess or a s s u m e Be PREPARED! A weather radio tells you what steps you need to take over the next several hours (tornadoes, heavy rains, thunder and lightening, flooding, wild fires), or days (hurricanes, tornadoes heavy rains, flooding, wild fires). With a tornado watch, you have very little time to prepare and go to shelter; with a tornado warning, you have only seconds. So be prepared now! In addition to the weather radio: Have an Emergency Plan Let everyone in your household and work place know what the plan is. Practice your plan, at least quarterly, so everyone knows what to do and where to go. For situations requiring you to have immediate or indoor shelter (heavy rains, tornadoes, some hurricanes, heavy winds, severe lightening), identify a safe room in your home - one that is built well, is the most interior, away from the border walls of your home, with fewest windows, and few objects that can be blown around in the wind. Keep everyone inside. Have battery or friction operated flashlights and lanterns readily available. Build an Emergency Supplies Kit Have Emergency Contact Number Include one person everyone will call so that there is one central place that tracks everyone's whereabouts and condition. Post the emergency contact numbers in a highly visible place. While your cell phone may be useful in storing numbers, if the battery goes out or the cell phone towers fail, the numbers will not be available. Check your fire, smoke, and carbon monoxide detectors Make certain they are in working order, with active batteries. Turn off and unplug all electrical devices you can; disconnect the phone and cable television cords from the wall. If you will be away from home all day or longer, unplug your devices. You don't want to lose them to a lightening strike or power surge. Avoid using candles. Stay away from water sources, including the sink, shower, and bathtub. Monitor the weather at night before you go to bed and first thing in the morning. That way you will know what to expect. You can then implement your emergency plans and everyone in your home will know what they will need to do. For more information, visit www.redcrossatlanta.org

Protect Yourself Against Shingles...

By ESTHER MARGOL Mount Paran Parkway

that the shingles vaccine, Zostavax, isn't perfect, but it cuts in half the risk of shinglesand those who get it have a much milder case. You can read the entire article from Jan. 23, 2008 on www.ajc.com For more information, be sure to check with a medical professional.

ICE In Case of Emergency

A campaign encouraging people to enter an emergency contact number in their mobile phone's memory under the h e a d in g of "ICE" (In Case of Emergency), was launched in 2005 by Ambulance Service paramedic, Bob Brotchie. The idea is that you store the word "ICE" in your mobile phone address book, and enter the number of the person you want to be contacted "In Case of Emergency." Then ambulance, police, fire department, and hospital staff will be able to find out who to contact immediately in an emergency situation. For more than one contact name: ICE1, ICE2, ICE3, etc.

I would like to tell everyone that at the age of 80, it is not fun having Shingles. As soon as Howard saw how I was suffering, he ran to get a Shingles shot. I would suggest that you go, not go, run to your doctor and ask him to give you a shot. If you have had chickenpox you are subject to get Shingles from the virus that stays in your body. A recent report states that people have not gone to take the necessary shots because they think they are still immune. This is not true.
Editor's note: According to the Centers for Disease Control, too few adults get their vaccines. The CDC recommends that all Americans over 60 get vaccinated against Shingles. However, they found that only about 2 percent of Americans over 60 received a vaccine against shingles in its first year of sales. The article goes on to say

Georgia Navigator 511

is a free traffic information service provided by the Georgia Department of Transportation. You can receive real-time information on traffic and travel conditions, lane closures, airport, report an incident or accident, request help from a HERO unit, get information on surrounding states, or speak with a live traffic operator. Just dial 511, 24 hours a day, seven days a week!

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Cumberland Academy Opens Doors to Special Needs Children

New Atlanta School to Provide Tailored Learning Experiences
Cumberland Academy, (www.cumberlandacademy.org), a new, private, non-profit independent school dedicated to students with special needssuch as high functioning Aspergers Syndrome and ADD/ADHD, opened its inaugural class this past September. The inaugural year has kicked off in many exciting ways. From rope courses, CPR/First Aid certification, social skills classes, hot healthy catered lunches to best practices teaching methods; Cumberland Academy is serving the needs of the special learner. Future events include a trip to Space Camp in Huntsville, AL, cooking classes with local chefs, and camping trips. Cumberland Academy has a philosophy of providing each child the instruction and opportunity to reach their full potential. The schoolss pledge is to help each student discover their talents and discipline themselves to maximize their potential. The goal of Cumberland is to take the stress out of academic learning. So the classes are taught with each individual student in mind. They strive to teach each student Georgia Academic Standards, utilizing their preferred learning

style. The ultimate goal is for students to become independent, successful young adults. To reach this goal, students are taught to demonstrate appropriate interpersonal skills while working collaboratively in groups. Cumberland Academy provides a tailored learning experience for students with high functioning Aspergers Syndrome, Learning Disabilities, NVLD and ADD/ADHD. With a low student-to-teacher ratio of 8 to 1, Cumberland Academy is designed for the needs of many students who do not learn well in traditional settings. The Academy is fully accredited and addresses the students academic, emotional and social concerns through nurturing, innovative and challenging programs. Cumberland Academy is currently taking applications from grades 4 through 12. The school is located in the former Sophia Academy location at 650 Mt. Vernon Hwy NE, Atlanta, GA 30328. For more information please contact Floyd Bushey, Director of Operations, at 404.835.9000 or email floyd.bushey@www.cumberlandacademy.org

This and past editions of The Citizens Review are available on our website at mpnca.org Click on MPNCA Newsletters under the Main Menu on the left. Dont have a password? Sign up now. Go to mpnca.org

Chastain Park Conservancy News

By MARY DODSON Membership Chair

parking solutions, more public restrooms, more passive green space and widening of the path on Powers Ferry Road. In the fall, As 2008 gets underway, Chastain Park the Conservancy took an overview of the Conservancy starts its fifth year in operation. preferred concepts to each NPU in the city, While much has been accomplished, much as required by the city. In February, the surremains to be done. Membership remains rounding civic associations as well as NPUthe same at 1100 members, but we can alA and NPU-B gave their approval of the ways use more. Membership flyers are in plan. The final steps for approval are the park and also available on our website, through the Urban Design Commission, the www.chastainparkconservancy.org We Department of Parks and Recreation, the hope our neighbors who use the park and Mayor and City Council. Councilperson have seen the improvements and will support Clair Muller has been supportive and helpful the Conservancy with their money and time. throughout this journey. Hopefully, the Master Most of 2007 was consumed with the Mary Dodson, left, making a presentation Plan will be finalized in the first quarter. Master Plan process. The Conservancy at the MPNCA annual meeting as Then it is on to raising the capital for these hired EDAW as lead consultant to guide us Yolanda Adrean holds the plans. future projects. The Master Plan itself can be seen through this process. The Master Plan will at www.chastainparkconservancy.org be the twenty year vision for the park and a living, breathing This process has been lengthy and arduous. However, document for all the partners within the park. Input was the Conservancy has learned so much about what our citiobtained though person to person and web based surveys. zens need and want in their park. Hopefully, park users Over 1000 people responded. From this input, preliminary and patrons will continue to let the Conservancy and all concepts were vetted during six open houses within the the venues know their thoughts. This is how a park bepark over the summer. Some of these were traffic and comes and stays world class.
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Caring For Trees During Drought

Trees Atlanta has been planting and conserving trees in Atlanta since 1985.This is great news for metro-Atlanta since we lose 55-acres of trees per day. In 23 years, the non-profit citizens group has planted and distributed more than 71.000 trees. Trees that are well-established are often able to endure dry years in Hotlanta. Trees young and old require regular watering for optimum year-round health. Each newly planted tree requires 10-15 gallons of water upon installation and one gallon of water per caliper inch/per week throughout its life. When drought continues, some of the largest and oldest trees are sure to perish. As we lose mature trees city-wide, it is more important than ever to plant new trees to replenish our tree canopy. Trees Atlanta volunteers and contractors typically plant up to 4,000 trees each fall and winter. In times of drought, trees are planted where they are needed most and recycled water is used to establish new plantings. Trees Atlanta water comes from 3 sources. First, the organization collects water from the rooftop of their new headquarters and stores it in large cisterns. Second, the organization asks its NeighborWoods volunteers to consider installing rain barrels at their homes and using the collected water to help care for community trees. Finally, Trees Atlanta has formed a unique partnership with the City of Atlanta. Each week, City employees must test specific fire hydrants for water quality and public safety. In the process, thousands of gallons of water wash away into nearby storm water drains. By coordinating with the Citys test schedule, the Trees Atlanta maintenance crew regularly captures the hydrant test water and stores it in its watering trucks. Trees Atlanta continues looking for new ways to keep its trees watered and healthy in dry times. They welcome suggestions and input from the community. If you would like to contact Trees Atlanta or would like more information, please visit www.treesatlanta.org or call 404-522-4097.
Trees Atlanta is a non-profit citizens' group, dedicated to protecting and improving our urban environment by planting and conserving trees and educating the public about the importance of trees

2008 ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP:

NEVER TOO LATE TO JOIN

And Receive a Neighborhood Directory
Although some people pay membership and security dues before the annual statements are mailed in early January, statements are mailed to everyone. Oftentimes phone numbers, email addresses and even names change. Although we never print or share email addresses, other changes are needed so that the most current information can be printed in the directory. All paid members receive a directory but only those that pay prior to the directory going to the printer can have their names starred. Now you can pay membership and security dues with one check and mail in the self addressed envelope enclosed with your statement. Be sure to include the forms and take the time to print your information legibly, especially phone numbers and email addresses. For more information or to obtain a form, contact Membership Vice Chair, Debbie Goot: You can mail your check for $175 for membership and security, $25 for membership, or $150 for security to MPNCA, P.O. Box 724153, Atlanta, GA 31139.

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT:

YOUR NEW NEIGHBORS

We need your help to keep up with new neighbors so tell us whenever you sell your house or see new neighbors moving in. Our hospitality committee has developed a welcome package for new residents that includes helpful information and some surprises. Please contact Anne Kala with the information and she will personally deliver a welcome bag:

Rep. Lindsey: An Update on the Issues

Continued from Page 10

issue that no one talks about. Well, we are talking about it now. The fact of the matter is that no other city in the country our size relies on as small a watershed for its drinking water as metro Atlanta. Therefore, there is no choosing between improving conservation and increasing capacity we must do both. On January 18, the House and Senate approved a State Water Plan that provides us with a starting point for addressing the needs in our state. Over the course of the next few weeks we expect additional bills to increase the number of resevoirs in our area and improve conservation. Stay tuned. The Future of Fulton County Last Fall I co-chaired the House-Senate Study Committee on the Future of Fulton County. We held over 36 hours of hearings and studied everything from the workings of the County

Commission to the Sheriffs office and the Courthouse. Our recommendations included the following: Increase the powers of the County Chairman (at present, he is little more than a figurehead) Reduce the size of the County Commission from 7 to 5 members Allow the County to hire a professional jailer to run the County Jail Streamline the operation of the Courthouse Let me know what you think! I cant do that unless you tell me what you think. So get in touch and let me know what you think you are concerned about. Edward.lindsey@house.ga.gov

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Return Service Requested

MT. PARAN-NORTHSIDE CITIZENS ASSOCIATION, INC. P.O. BOX 724153 ATLANTA, GEORGIA 31139 OFFICERS President/Yolanda Adrean Vice President/Communications/Jo Ann Rau Vice President/Membership/Debbie Goot Secretary/Marilyn Midyette Treasurer/Cameron Adair BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sandra Adair, London Andes, Pat Daly, John Feeley, Al Goodgame, Anne Kala, Howard Margol, Randy Merrill, Jackie Nunneley, Ann OConnell, Jean Smith, Pamela Tremayne, Marci Vincent, Richard Wilson EX-OFFICIO (PAST PRESIDENTS) Brenda Smith, Lynne Moscow, Sheldon Schlegman, Robert Hurst (d), Edward Floyd, John R. Martin (d), Robert Miller, H. Clay Moore, Jr., J. Martin Turbidy Editors: Lynne Moscow and Jo Ann Rau Design & Typeset: Jo Ann Rau WEBSITE

First Class Mail U.S. Postage PAID Marietta, GA Permit No. 7

www.mpnca.org

Association Newsletter and Crime Report Inside

2008 ELECTION EVENTS
JUNE 16 JULY 15 OCTOBER 6 REGISTRATION DEADLINE GENERAL PRIMARY GENERAL PRIMARY/SPECIAL ELECTION REGISTRATIONGENERAL ELECTION Are you new to the neighborhood? Did you forget to renew? Participation in your neighborhood association costs pennies a day. Cost of membership: 7 cents a day Cost of security patrol: 41 cents a day

NOVEMBER 4 GENERAL ELECTION DECEMBER 2 GENERAL ELECTION RUNOFF (IF NECESSARY)

REGISTRATION AND ABSTENTEE BALLOT INFORMATION

Fulton County Department of Registration & Elections: 404-730-7020 Request Absentee Ballot Application: 404-730-7072 Download Absentee Ballot Application: myfultoncountyga.us Fax Absentee Ballot Application: 404-730-7024 Mail Absentee Ballot: Absentee Ballot Unit, 141 Pryor St. #4064, Atlanta, GA 30303 Advance Voting: week prior to the election. Call 404-730-7020 for locations.

FULTON COUNTY POLL WORKERS NEEDED

Are you interested in serving your community, making new friends, and earning extra money? Apply to become one of the many civic-minded citizens who work the polls on Election Day in Fulton County. Each poll worker hired will be required to attend a four hour training session prior to working the polls. Participants will be paid for attending training and must be a resident of Fulton County. For details, call Bobbye Woodruff at 404-612-7031 or Dahlia Davila at 404-612-7026.
Editors note: see Karen Handels related article on page 4. Being a poll worker is the way to reduce long lines at polling places.

Just another neighborhood Birthday Party! Were looking for digital moments. Send yours to