The

CITIZENS REVIEWNewsletter of the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association, Inc. March 2006

Vol. 22

Fulton County Budget

No Millage Rate Increase in 2006By KAREN C. HANDEL Chairman of the Fulton County Commission

A CITY RISESBy PAT DALY, JOHN FEELEY, and MARTY GILLIN

As most of you are aware, this Phil Mozier recent budget cycle was difficult. There was little consensus, clearly Atlanta Firefighters host weekly Story Time for Page 10 illustrating the ideological differences neighborhood children. on the board of commissioners. The Mt. Paran area is directly impacted by the General Fund, which Fighting a Cell Tower in funds county-wide services paid for by all citizens in the county. This year, Chattahoochee National I simply could not support the County Recreation Area Park Managers proposal which recommended the use of $23 million in cash reserves to balance the budget. I offered By JERRY W. BELL Harris Trail the Commissioners an alternative budget that would have allowed the county to I am writing about what I consider to be a serious threat to the quality of Continued on Page 11 life in our beautiful neighborhood. As written in an AJC article on Dec. 16, 2005, per federal law, the National Neighbors Beware Park Service must give due consideration to a proposal it has received for the construction of a Cingular cell phone tower within the Chattahoochee National Recreation Area Park. It By LYNNE MOSCOW, OFFICER DOUG COLE, would be located on the highest point and OFFICER JIM HENDRIX of the ridge just inside the East PaliA very pleasant mannerly, well sades Park area at the end of Indian dressed young man comes to your Trail. The ridge parallels the eastern door asking for money for a trip to end of Harris Trail and the tower Japan. He says hes a neighbor on a would most likely be viewed above nearby street and gives you his name the treeline by residents and travelers and phone number. You write a check along Harris Trail and Northside because he is so believable. But, when Continued on Page 5 you call the phone number the next day, youre surprised to find the phone has been disconnected. Thats what happened to some neighbors in the Conway Valley area in early February when they gave this pleasant young man their checks. However, they were tricked by some-

Its a Scam, Trick, Rip-off, Swindle, Con

The City of Sandy Springs began operating as an incorporated municipality on December 1, 2005. The City is governed by an elected Mayor, Eva Galambos, and City Council representing six Council Districts. Members of the City Council are: Dave Greenspan (District 1), Dianne Fries (District 2), Rusty Paul (District 3), Ashley Jenkins (District 4), Tiberio Tibby DeJulio (District 5), Karen Meinzen McEnerny (District 6). All of the members of our neighborhood association formerly in unincorporated Fulton County are in District 6, which represents the southwestern portion of the new City. Contact Karen McEnemy our district council representative Karen Meinzen McEnerny at: www.karen.mcenerny@sandysprings ga.org or by phone: 404-851-1944 or 404-358-0068 (cell). Since incorporation on December 1, substantial progress has been made. The Mayor and City Council have passed ordinances affecting speeding, building permits, overcrowding, noise, animal control, and the legal structure of City government. Providing improved services to the citizens is a high priority and includes more police protection, apartment inspections, environmental code inspections and improving traffic congestion along the Roswell Road corridor. The Mayor and City Council have declared an open-door approach to government. Visit the City website for information on city departments and contact names, telephone numbers or e-mail addresses.Continued on Page 5

Continued on Page C4

Rare nature oasis within the city limits of Atlanta

OD

IN AND AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

The Presidents CornerBy YOLANDA ADREAN Conway Glen Drive

Firemen Enjoy Annual Appreciation Christmas LunchEvery year since December 1999, the Mt. ParanNorthside Citizens Association provides Christmas lunch to the dedicated firemen at Station 27 at the corner of Northside Drive and West Conway. In keeping with that tradition, on Dec. 16 MP-NCA board member Lynne Moscow dished up some lunch and holiday cheer to the BShift firemen and Mt. Paran Security Patrol Officer, Jim Hendrix. The fireman also appreciated Robin Hudson's delicious venison stew as part of the menu!

Your volunteer board of the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association has been hard at work keeping you up to date on neighborhood happenings including political and tax matters affecting us, crime reports, neighborhood socials, volunteer opportunities, lost pets and other concerns. Through this newsletter, emails and our website we hope to keep you in the know. I cant thank Lynne Moscow and Jo Ann Rau enough for creating this most impressive newsletter! For each of you who have contributed to this edition of the newsletter, thank you for making this a newsletter that represents our diverse views and interests. Our Board has three new members and each have already jumped in, ready to work. They are London Andes, Jane Merrill and Howard Margol. It is time to renew your membership and security patrol dues! Please invite new neighbors to do the same and share their name with our Welcome Chair, Karen Swim krkswim@bellsouth.net The local headlines include a multitude of stories about corruption, incompetence and malfeasance. The one that has been on my mind the most is that of the Fulton Tax Assessors! Each of us has experienced extraordinary increases in taxes (without any improvement in services) and the fact that one of our largest financial burdens was assessed by a Board that was out of control is of grave concern. I applaud the Fulton County Taxpayers Association for their successful lawsuit seeking to remove the last two holdouts. Even with a clean slate of new Board members, it is my belief that taxpayers will not be well served until systemic changes are made to ensure accountability of both the Board of Assessors and the employees in the Assessors office. I encourage each of you to look for opportunities to be heard through letters to the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. You can find direct links to the Commisioners on our website www.mtparannorthsidecitizensassociation.org Our silence is their license to continue business as usual. 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 day2

From left: Captain Coleman, J.R. Reid, Willie Blankenship, Lynne Moscow, Officer Hendrix, Jeff Burton

21st Annual MeetingOn October 26, 2005, more than 50 neighbors attended the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association annual meeting and candidate forum. The candidates were impressed with the turnout, which shows our communitys determination and interest.

President Yolanda Adrean welcomed everyone and summarized our accomplishments throughout the year. After the election of officers and directors, the forum began with two races for Atlanta City Council. Clair Muller (I) and Justin Weideman for Council District 8 and Ceasar Mitchell (I) and Dwanda Farmer for Post 1 AtLarge were each asked three questions from our political committee. The floor was then opened to the audience for questions. The forum ended with a two-minute summary from each candidate. Thanks to Yolanda Adrean and Brenda Smith for conducting the forum. The questions were well thought out. One of the candidates representatives said that it was the best forum they had been to. Thats a compliment to our turnout and our Association!

Shel Schlegman

Whats Next for Atlanta and the City CouncilBy CLAIR MULLER Atlanta City Council Member, District 8

Photo by Shel Schlegman

Clair Muller, left, participating in the Associations Annual Meeting candidate forum moderated by Brenda Smith, right.

Were already in the third month of 2006 but I want to start by wishing you all a healthy and prosperous New Year! This is also the beginning of a new four year term and I am happy to once again serve as your representative on the Atlanta City Council. This year will be an interesting one as we begin to mold the plans for the next four years of this administration and the city council. During 2005, we were able to accomplish several important items. Some of the major projects I have been involved in are: Changed the fiscal year to June/July to enable more sensible budgeting based upon actual prior year revenues and expenses. I been trying to accomplish this for about six years and am very pleased that our new CFO helped to make this sensible change. Completed the Nancy Creek Tunnel Project, a relief

sewer for the Nancy Creek basin and should have been constructed many years ago. This basin has a sad history of sewer spillsmany times into homes. Now the spills will cease. The tunnel technology is a technology that I have supported for over a decade. The Utoy Tunnel was derailed by the Campbell Administration which delayed cleaning up our streams and rivers and probably caused the City of Atlanta to be sued for violation of the Clean Water Act. Under the Franklin Administration, the City has finally begun the Clean Water Atlanta Program and this major project is a great step forward. Passage of the TAD (Tax Allocation District) to enable the construction of the Beltline. The Beltline Project has the potential to transform the City ofAtlanta, making room for revitalization, adding greenspace and trails and providing more transit in our City During 2006, I will chair the Transportation Committee again and have also been reappointed to serve on the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) where my main focus is on transportation. I continue to serve on City Utilities Committee and Executive/Finance Committee. Among the major issues the Transportation Committee will be dealing with will probably be: Beltline development Peachtree Streetcar proposal Multimodal Passenger Facility MARTA funding Transit Planning Board, enacted by ARC to plan regionally Congestion Mitigation through the ARC planning process Airport Construction ProjectsFifth Runway, CONRAC (Consolidated Car Rental Facility) I also work with all the neighborhoods of the 8th District on their specific issues and concerns and opportunities. I always appreciate the input from the civic associations and wish for a continuation of our partnership. staffing levels on the fire companies. New firefighters are being hired to fill positions that have been vacant. Two new recruits have been assigned to Company #27. Omari Crawford has been assigned to the A-Shift and Rick Benitez Seta Mahone will be working with the B-Shift. We have had some other staffing changes at The 27s as well. Captain Donald Pruett, who has served Company #27 well for many years, has moved into the Lead Captain position at Station #21 on Roswell Road. He will be the Acting Battalion Chief when Chief Webb is off. Don has been acting in this position on many occasions for years. He will just be closer to that office when he needs to be there. He spent several years

Fire Side ChatBy CAPTAIN KEITH SCHUMACHER FIRE STATION #23 B-SHIFT

Old man winter has not been too rough on us this year. He may have another blast or two in store for us, but I think that everyone is suffering from Spring fever and most people are looking forward to warmer days. The year-end numbers are available for Atlanta FireRescue. Atlanta firefighters responded to 58,456 calls for help from Atlanta citizens. This is up 8870 from the 2004 total of 49,586. Engine #27 (corner of West Conway and Northside Drive) responded to 411 alarms, as compared to 470 in 2004. In 2006, Engine #27s numbers will be somewhat higher due to some upcoming upgrades in our as a driver at Station #21, so basically he is just going home. dispatch system. We are striving to be able to maintain minimum safe Continued on Page 10 3

Neighborhood BriefsThe Amazing Jackson Elementary SchoolI hope many of you have had a chance to see the new addition at Jackson. We added 8 new classrooms, plus offices and a teacher work room in our new building that opened this school year. The amazing thing about all of this is that we have already filled that building and continue to be stretched for room. Rather than expand any more at this location, Atlanta Public Schools is looking toward building a new elementary school somewhere on the north side. While no decisions have been made, Im sure you will begin to hear discussions about the possibility of a new elementary school soon. In the meantime, if you havent visited Jackson recently, please try to. We do tours for prospective parents, and others, every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. The tours, conducted by our wonderful PTA parents, usually last about an hour. Keep abreast of what is happening in your neighborhood school. Itll make you proud! Lorraine B. Reich

Reaching Families Through ChildrenThe Sandy Springs Mission, at 4577 Roswell Road, is a nonprofit organization serving the low income families living along Roswell Road in the Sandy Springs Area. We have an After School Program on Tuesday and Thursday from 3:00 to 6:00 P.M. This program serves mainly children whose fathers and mothers cannot speak English. Right now, we are looking for volunteers to be able to help these children get their homework done! Would you consider helping the children of our community? For more information, please give us a call at 404-943-1540 or send us an email at Janet McCleskey ssmission@integrity.com

Huge Flea Market BenefitA Win Win for All!The North Metro Program is holding its 8th annual Flea Market Benefit March 24th and 25th at its present location, 2845 Margaret Mitchell Drive. The Flea Market is the only significant fund raiser for this Program which serves students in Atlanta with autism and other emotional and behavioral issues. As with many public educational programs, art, music and sports are not funded by Atlanta Public Schools and the State. The money raised is very critical to the Program and the special children it serves. What can you do to help make this a success for the students? Its easy! Come to the event and shop! We have incredible finds at bargain prices that may be just the right thing for your home, apartment or vacation home. Grandparents can pick up games, videos and extra baby stuff for unbelievable prices.We have furniture, bedding, rugs, art, house wares, small appliances, seasonal items, books, clothes and more. Spread the word! Tell your friends and family about the event! With two shopping days, Friday, March 24th from 4:00 to 8:00 PM and Saturday, March 25th from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM., the Flea Market is convenient for everyone. Of course the early shoppers find the best merchandise. It may not be too late to donate and with free pickups for larger items, donating is easy. Email Yolanda Adrean at yadrean@ear thlink.net Thank you for your continued support! For the many of you who have already generously contributed furnishings, clothing and other personal items from your home, I cannot thank you enough. It is a labor of love for a dedicated group of volunteers, teachers and staff. The payoff is huge for the students and makes the Program one of the best in the State! I look forward to seeing you there! Yolanda Adrean

Curbside Recycling RemindersThe City offers curb-side recycling of old phone books, old magazines and waste paper along with newspapers, cans and bottles. The city does not offer curb-side recycling of corrugated cardboard but will accept thin cardboard used in cereal boxes and 12-pack containers so long as it is clean and not contaminated by food. Corrugated cardboard can be dropped off at the citys solid waste facility at 1540 Northside Drive. If your recycling bin is full, place the waste paper or magazines in a bag or box so it doesnt get blown around. Be sure to place the bag(s) on top of the bin.

Free Cans of Paint for Nonprofit OrganizationsEach year, millions of gallons of paint remain unused or unsold by retailers. The National Council on Paint Disposition, Inc. a nonprofit environmental organization, is compiling a list of nonprofits interested in receiving free paint that might otherwise end up in a landfill. There is no charge and your organization can have as little or as much paint as it needs. Visit http://www.paintrecycling.org/register.htm for more information. Wendy Scruggs

Calling All Bridge Players!

We enjoy playing bridge and would like to find out who among you also might be interested in participating in bridge games in the neighborhood. We are willing to organize whatever interest we find, whether it is for occasional contract bridge evenings or a regular duplicate game. We are open to both pairs or singles. If you would like to play bridge with some of your neighbors, please contact Beth at YOUR GROUPS VOLUNTEER EVENT CAN BE LISTED IN and let us know your preferences: THE NEXT EDITION OF NEIGHBERHOOD BRIEFS IF YOU Contract or Duplicate? EMAIL ALL THE INFO TO: Occasional or Regularly scheduled? THIS NEIGHBORHOOD SUPPORTS WHAT YOU DO! Day of week and Time of day? We will gather the information and organize whatever type of game most people seem to prefer. 4

THE CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS Sandy Springs Holds Information Gathering SessionContinued from Page 1 By PAT DALY Davis Drive

Mayor Galambos

On February 11, 2006, a cold, gray, rainy Saturday, the City of Sandy Springs hosted its first community involvement session for the purpose of developing a new Unified Development Plan. Approximately 200 enthusiastic people were greeted by Mayor Galambos at the start of the daylong program at the new City Hall on Roswell Road. Sessions on six topics

were held: Quality growth standards, Development guidelines and best practices in commercial corridors Tree ordinance issues Land disturbance, erosion control, and stream buffers Residential redevelopment, infill and structure conversions Nuisance issues (noise and lighting, property maintenance code) Storm water management, watershed management, and storm water utility The sessions were facilitated by members of the Carl Vinson Institute of Government and featured speakers such as the Community Development Director, Nancy Leathers, City Engineer, Ray Wilke and the City Arborist, Michael Barnett, among others. The majority of attendees were residents of the new city, along with City Council Members and others from special interest groups like environmentalists, small business owners, builders, developers, and real estate brokers. After only two months of existence, the City of Sandy Springs appears to be alive, well and responsive to its citizens with a bright future ahead. Reports of the hearings will be available in the future on the city website: www.sandyspringsga.org

The City is envisioned to have only a few salaried employees under a City Manager and a largely privatized workforce operated under contract by CH2M HILL-OMI, a private corporation with extensive experience in municipal management. Clearly, this is a groundbreaking experiment in the provision of essential municipal services to a city with approximately 87,000 residents. KEY INFORMATION FOR OUR RESIDENTS: The City website is www.sandyspringsga.org. At this writing, important basic information and announcements are posted, but some details are under construction. Sandy Springs City Hall is located in the Morgan Falls Office Park at 7840 Roswell Road, Building 500 (approximately mile north of Fulton County Annex on opposite side of Roswell Road). The Central Customer Service telephone number is 770-7305600 (7:00AM-7:00PM, MondayFriday), for all inquiries and requests for municipal services. Fire and Police services will continue to be provided under contract with Fulton County for at least the next 6 months. (Call 911 in emergencies). Libraries and public schools will continue to be operated by Fulton County.

FIGHT THE CELL TOWERContinued from Page 1

STOP AND SEE THE BEAUTYPHOTO FEATURE BY DOT COHEN Somerset Drive

In what has become an annual New Years event, we and three other couples went to Graydon Beach on the Gulf. What better way to see the old year out and welcome the new one than to be with close friends. We relax and indulge in whateverreading, going to the gym, enjoying the local scenery and, of course, eating. But the highlight is being on the beach, whether walking, swimming (weather permitting) or enjoying the sunset. All sunsets are beautiful. I am entranced by the many colors; sometimes its soft with pink and mauve, sometimes, like in this photograph, the red, orange and yellow create a fireball reflected on the water. Each sunset is different. After I took the shot I realized I wasnt alone admiring the view.

Drive and virtually all visitors to the Palisades area of the park. The only way to fight this intrusion on the beauty of our park and our neighborhood is to convince the NPS that it is not in our best interests. It is important that you communicate in writing with the NPS. Your efforts will not be wasted as a similar proposal last year by Cingular in the Great Smoky Mt. National Park in North Carolina was dropped after vehement opposition. Address your opposition to: Mr. Kevin Cheri, Park Superintendent Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area 1978 Island Ford Parkway Atlanta, GA 30350 E-mail: Kevin_Cheri@nps.gov Phone: 678-538-1211; Fax: 770-399-8087 My key reasons for opposing this proposal are: Isn't the role of the NPS to protect natural landscapes for future generations? Once it's lost it cant be replaced. My family and neighbors enjoy the beauty of the East Palisades Park. This is one of the most remote wilderness areas in metro Atlanta. It is a unique gem with unimpeded views of ridgelines and expansive vistas. The tower would disrupt an undisturbed ridgeline which is viewed by Harris Trail residents/travelers and most East Palisades area visitors (whether by foot or raft/canoe). There will be substantial damage to the entrance of the park and the site itself to construct the tower. Cell phone disruptions are a very small price to pay for the preservation of this unmatched scenery. Certainly there must be other less intrusive alternatives. If you feel the same as I do, please let the Park Service know it. 5

A Perfect Night...A Movie Set Backdrop Neighbors Gather and Celebrate TogetherOn Sunday, Spetember 25th, over 300 neighbors attended the Sixth Annual Association Social at the fabulous Davis Drive home of Courtney and Charlie Loudermilk. The weather was a perfect summer/fall evening as we were inside and out on the beautiful lawn extending down to the pool house. The setting was picture perfect, as we socialized and enjoyed catching up with friends, and meeting new neighbors. Peach of a Party catered the Hors Doeuvres buffet. But the real people w h o m a d e the event happen are Harris Trail neighbors Marci and Jerry Vincent. Marci did all the pre-party organizing, and with Jerry, bought the drinks. On the night of the event, Marci and Garmon Road neighbor Dana Scavo greeted everyone at the door while Jerry and Dick Smith, also on Garmon Road, helped with bartending. Marci and Jerry have organized our annual social for several years. They are experienced pros, and we all appreciate their hard work. More photos page 7.

6

Photos by Yolanda Adrean, Carol Muldawer and Jo Ann Rau

March 2006

The Crime ReportThe 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 ActivityDuring the months of August through January 2006, Officers Doug Cole, Jim Hendrix and Sergeant Ellis (J.R.)

Security Patrol InformationThe Mt. Paran Security Patrol is a neighborhood funded patrol staffed by two retired Atlanta police officers and a part-time sergeant currently assigned to the motorcycle squad. Officer Doug Cole and Officer Jim Hendrix work full time and Sgt. Ellis (J.R.) works part-time. To date there are 386 patrol members of which 33 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 10,974 miles patrolling our neighborhood Made 2,452 house checks for traveling subscribers Responded to 65 alarm calls Investigated 68 suspicious persons or autos Investigated 11 incidents of vandalism Arrested 1 door to door salesman Investigated 6 incidents of larceny Investigated 3 auto thefts Investigated 8 incidents of vehicles entered Investigated 1 armed robbery

August: Several suspicious people and autos reported throughout the neighborhood. Door-to-door sales people on several streets reported as being very aggressive. Police were called to a teen party where teens were drinking alcohol on Conway Glen. Two cars were entered on Harrogate, one was stolen. September: Several suspicious people and autos were reported. One person was arrested by Officer Cole. Armed robbery at the Country Store and suspects were followed by clerk. Mt. Paran Security (Sgt. Ellis) gave chase and along with the Atlanta police, the suspects were apprehended after they crashed on Northside Parkway. Damage to property on E. Chambord and Woodvale on the same Friday night. A ball bat was used to damage a security light. Homeowner on Harris Glen contacted police to report credit cards missing after a party. According to a homeowner, someone followed his teen age daughter in a Black Acura while she was jogging on W. Conway and Glen Devon. Police were not called. October: Several suspicious people and autos reported throughout the neighborhood. Mailboxes damaged on Whitewater Creek and Conway Valley. Mailbox damaged with a ball bat and car egged on Garmon Drive. Suspicious persons on motorcycles were seen driving up a driveway on Fairfield Road. Identity theft on W. Garmon reported to Fulton County police. Several emails from residents on W. Garmon regarding mail theft but none called our security patrol.Continued on Page C2

More Crime News: Working to Make our Lives SaferNew Zone 2 Police Precinct Commander

Meet Major James C. SellersI would like to introduce myself as the new Buckhead commander of the Zone 2 precinct. I have been with the Atlanta Police Department for 20 years since 1986. During this time I have worked a myriad of different fields within the department. I started my career driving a paddy wagon and later patrolled a foot beat in downtown Atlanta. I have acted as a traffic enforcement officer, mobile patrol officer and a member of the Red Dog Unit. In 1992, I was appointed to Detective in the Narcotics section. In 1993, I was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and supervised field officers and later supervised the Field Investigations Team (F.I.T.). In 1999, I was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and commanded the Larceny/Major Fraud Unit and later was commander of the Robbery Unit, the Office of Professional Standards and the Homicide Unit. In 2003 under Chief Richard Pennington, I was appointed to the rank of Major and commanded the Special Enforcement Section which oversees the daily operations of Homeland Security, Narcotics, Project Safe Neighborhoods and several other units. I bring a broad background of experience to the Zone 2 precinct and expect to use my knowledge and diversity to impact the quality of life for its residents and visitors here.m

on the village and surrounding area. The precinct is also in the process of adding a separate C.S.I. unit that will operate from this location, solely dedicated to the processing of crime scenes from fingerprints to photographs. This should greatly assist the Criminal Investigations Unit with the investigation of crimes in the area. Lastly, the Lenox Mall area has installed numerous surveillance cameras in and around the parking lots and decks and allowed us to link into the system, greatly assisting the Lenox police substation precinct in its crime fighting abilities. My goals for the Zone 2 precinct are fairly simple. I expect at least a 5% reduction in crime for Zone 2 this year. The crime rate for Zone 2 was up 9% at the beginning of 2005. At the end of year it had declined to -4%. I have every confidence that we can keep this trend going and make this precinct the example to follow for the rest of the city in 2006.

Security Patrol ActivityContinued from Page C1

My vision for Zone 2 is that of a professional crime fighting team, dedicated to providing a safe environment for all residents and visitors to our community. My mission is to reduce crime and promote the quality of life, in partnership with the community. My values mirror that of the Atlanta Police Department of integrity, professionalism, and dedication. There are currently several initiatives that are ongoing for Zone 2 at the present time. I am in the process of creating a precinct wide Field Investigations Team which will be responsible for handling any quality of life issue that deems noteworthy from the citizens of this community. This team will work undercover in order to conduct surveillance of reoccurring crime spots and recent crime trends so that they can immediately impact and eliminate this type of crime. They also will be responsible for initial crime investigations so that we can quickly get a jump on a crime and identify a suspect. I believe that this initiative will better serve the communities within Zone 2 with a more responsive and more detailed investigation of crimes perpetrated upon it. We are also in the process of finalizing the construction of a police substation within the Buckhead Village entertainment district to increase police visibility and response time. This substation will be at the corner of East Paces Ferry and Peachtree Road and will also have a link to the Buckhead camera system that we currently operate to keep close tabs

November: Several suspicious people and autos reported in the neighborhood. Vandalism reported on Fairfield Road. Two lawn care trucks stolen from Stonegate Way and Garmon Ferry Road. Keys were left in both vehicles. While workman was in a house on Whitestone Place, tools taken from his truck. Window of car on Harris Glen broken out with a brick and brief case stolen. Truck broken into on Garmon Ferry and brief case taken. While on patrol, Officer Cole found the brief case at the corner of Harris Trail and Mt. Paran and returned it to the owner. December: Several suspicious people and autos reported in the neighborhood. One door-to-door sales person was arrested by Officer Cole. Vehicle broken into on Stonegate Way and cash taken. Damage to mailboxes on Wickersham, Davis Drive and Northside Drive. Identity theft on Harris Valley. Perpetrator(s) obtained a debit card in the victims name and used it in a Marietta post office to buy an $11,000 money order. January: Several suspicious autos and people reported in the neighborhood. Damage to mailbox on Harris Trail. W. Garmon Road trashed during a teen party.

REPORT CRIME TO 911 THEN CALL MT. PARAN SECURITY (404) 310-7361C2

More Crime News: We all Have a Part to Play

Keep Atlanta Beautiful Help Stop Street PollutionBy JANIE MERRILL Sentinel Post Road

STOP ILLEGAL SIGNS

the sign, then you may simply pick it up and throw it away. For residential use, one sign per lot shall be permitted (example: a Garage Sale sign), which shall not exceed two square feet in area. If its a real estate sign (example: an Open House sign), then one sign is permitted, which may not exceed 6 square feet in area. If you say yes, then you New Neighbor: Who is that man? share the responsibility for adhering to the sign ordinance. Old Neighbor: Oh, thats Mr. Keats - a very nice gentle- The 10 setback applies to all signs in our neighborhood, man. Hes something of a poet. no matter their origin. Also, remember that all real estate New Neighbor: I like his sentiment. And I like living in this signs must be removed from the sale property within 7 neighborhood. Its so beautiful. From the first time we days of it being sold. drove by our new house, we knew that we wanted to live New Neighbor: My old neighborhood needs to know here. People really take pride in their homes. Theres no about this. With whom should they speak, if they want to clutter. It feels safe and friendly. Whats the secret? clean up the sign clutter in their area? Old Neighbor: C.O. 138-13. Old Neighbor: Call the Public Works Department, 404523-0632. They take down signs that are in the public New Neighbor: Whats C.O.138-13? Old Neighbor: Its City Ordinance 138-13, and it prohibits right-of-way and on utility poles. Its a shame, though, that illegal signage in Atlanta. Illegal signage is any signage each illegal sign cost us city taxpayers $3 a sign for removal. that is within the public right-of-way. New Neighbor: Are public parks included in this ordinance? New Neighbor: What about signs on utility poles and street Old Neighbor: Yes, there are no signs allowed in the right-of-way on private property, street and highway green corners? space, and in the public parks. That includes pocket parks Old Neighbor: Theyre illegal. This ordinance includes, but is not limited to, real estate like the one at Cave Road, the one at the corner of Broadsigns, directional signs, and advertisements for firewood, land and Northside, and the one at Mt. Paran and West painting, gutter cleaning any sign that is impaled in the Conway. These are City-owned parks, which are supground or affixed to a utility pole. Any advertising sign in ported by our neighborhood Garden Club. There was a the right-of-way is illegal. Thats our neighborhoods time when the park at Cave Road and Mt. Paran was in beauty secret! We are not infested with litter on a stick. We such disarray that passersby thought it was a dumpsite and often used it as such. But now it is a thing of beauty that support the Keep Atlanta Beautiful Campaign. gives value to our homes. New Neighbor: How is C.O. 138-13 enforced? Old Neighbor: By citations, court appearances and mone- New Neighbor: It appears that Mr. Keatss search for the tary penalties, which begin at $100/per sign/per occurrence. ideal of beauty and happiness is within reach. Upon a third violation, fines begin at $150/per sign/per Old Neighbor: Yes. With help from friends and neighbors, our neighborhood has become a more beautiful occurrence. and a safer place in which to live. Welcome! Were glad New Neighbor: Who pays the penalty? youre here. Old Neighbor: The legislation regarding City Ordinance 138-13 says that the name on the sign is the responsible party, and that party is subject to the fine. Imagine: Its a lovely spring day, and two neighbors are taking a walk through our neighborhood. They notice a man coming from the other direction, his head bowed in concentration; and as they pass him, they hear him muttering to himself, A thing of beauty is a joy forever; its loveliness increases; it will never pass into nothingness. New Neighbor: Can I place a sign in my own yard? Old Neighbor: Yes. However, in doing so, you must respect the setback, so as not to violate the citys right-of-way. That is, you must place the sign 10 or more off the curb. New Neighbor: Can someone else place a sign in my yard? Old Neighbor: Yes and No. If they ask your permission, and you want the sign in your yard, then Yes. But if they dont ask, and you dont want C3

Neighbor to Neighbor Crime Prevention TipWe have always had a camera inside the house that shows who is standing at the front door. The only way we could see outside was to turn on TVs in rooms away from the front door. We now have a small TV in the closet adjacent to the front door which allows us to quickly see who is standing there. Esther Margol

STOP SCAMMERS DEAD IN THEIR TRACKSContinued from Page 1

GEORGIA'S MOVE-OVER LAW

SAVES LIVESGeorgias new Move-Over Law says drivers must moveover for emergency vehicles stopped on the side of the highway. The law is meant to keep officers AND traffic violators safe from crashes with passing cars. The Move-Over Law was passed in the aftermath of growing numbers of police, emergency technicians and DOT workers killed during routine traffic stops, crash responses and highway construction projects around the nation. Right now, more than thirty states have Move-Over Laws on the books, with fines that range as high as a thousand dollars or more in some jurisdictions. The Move-Over fine in Georgia is an attention-getting five-hundred-dollars. Failure to obey the Move-Over Law can lead to consequences far more serious than fines. According to FBI statistics, traffic crashes claim the lives of more police personnel than any other cause of death in the line of duty, including shootings. The FBI says last year, forty-nine officers died in crashes across the country. Thirteen law enforcement officers were struck and killed by passing vehicles while they worked outside their patrol cars. Georgias Move-Over Law was meant to reduce the number of injuries and fatalities to police officers, paramedics, firefighters, tow truck operators and highway maintenance workers, said Director Bob Dallas of the Governors Office of Highway Safety. Reports show emergency vehicles of all types have been struck while parked beside Georgia highways, even while their emergency lights were flashing.

However, they were tricked by someone with a scheme for making money by dishonest means. The fact that the young man does not live where he says he does is no surprise. Moreover, we are not aware of any neighbors who send their kids doorto-door to solicit money for a trip. We have been writing about these scammers for years, along with warnings to NEVER open your door to strangers and to NEVER give a check to someone you dont know. In the February 2005 crime report, we reported on some Harris Trail neighbors who wrote checks to a young female wearing a University of Georgia shirt. However, she was a scammer who claimed to be raising money for a trip to Europe. Unfortunately, no one involved in either of these incidents called our security patrol or 911. We remind you once again that identity theft is the fastest growing crime in this country. When you give a check to a stranger with a good story who doesnt have a legitimate permit to solicit, you take a big chance with your bank account number and signature. When you give a check to a scammer you only encourage this kind of activity to continue in our neighborhood. Most soliciting in Atlanta is illegal without a permit. The Mt. Paran Security Patrol wants to know when strangers are going door-to-door to solicit your money. Atlanta Police want to know whenever there is criminal activity or suspicious people in the area so they know where to concentrate resources. Lets all work together to rid our neighborhood of criminals. Once again, please call 911 and the Mt. Paran Security Patrol (404-310-7361) at the FIRST sign of suspicious activity.JAPAN

ICE - In Case of EmergencyA campaign encouraging people to enter an emergency contact number in their mobile phone's memory under the heading "ICE" (i.e. In Case of Emergency), has rapidly spread throughout the world as a particular consequence of the terrorist attacks in London. Originally established as a nationwide campaign in the UK, ICE allows paramedics or police to be able to contact a designated relative/next-of-kin in an emergency situation. The idea is the brainchild of Ambulance Service paramedic Bob Brotchie and was launched in May 2005. Bob, 41, a paramedic for 13 years, said: "I was reflecting on some of the calls I've attended at the roadside where I had to look through the mobile phone contacts struggling for information on a shocked or injured person. Almost everyone carries a mobile phone now, and with ICE we'd know immediately who to contact and what number to ring. The person may even know of their medical history."C4

The Latest Word on Identity TheftWe have tried to make everyone aware when there is new information related to identity theft. According to Mt. Paran Security Patrol Officer, Doug Cole, "First and foremost victims of identity theft must get a copy of the police report and both spouses should keep a copy with them at all times. There could be a warrant for the arrest of an identity theft victim and a police report could help to keep someone from being arrested." Check the Federal Trade Commission website for the latest information on identity theft and prevention: http:www.consumer.gov/ idtheft/

Use Mailbox Flags at Your Own PerilPlacing outgoing mail in the mailbox with the red flag up is an invitation to the thieves.

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Chastain Park Conservancy Meets Goals and Looks to the FutureBY MARY DODSON Chastain Park Conservancy, Membership and Fundraising Chair

Kirk Oppenlander

As we start the third official year for the Chastain Park Conservancy, it just gets better and better. Many of the original goals that were set in 2004 have been met or exceeded. Membership continues to grow as supporters see the improvements made in the park. Major projects completed in 2005 include: clean-up and landscaping of W. Wieuca frontage relocation of 67 holly trees along the PATH to form a green wall for safety installation of netting along the PATH to increase

pedestrian safety installation of lighting along the dark spots on the PATH restoration of picnic areas including construction of new picnic pavilions, installation of granite wall along Dudley first fundraiser, which was very successful. None of this could have been done without the support of our members, sponsors, stakeholders, volunteers and the City of Atlanta Department of Parks and Recreation. As the Conservancy grows, there is much more to be done. Monte Hewett of Monte Hewett Homes has taken the lead in our annual fund campaign with a pledge of $25,000. The goal is to raise $150,000 through major gifts to fund improvements in the park. A new master plan for the park is a goal for 2006. This will be accomplished through a lengthy process involving the city, NPUs and citizens. You will be hearing more about this in the future. We are on our way to making this a world class park for this community and city. Thanks to all the people and organizations that have helped us so far and all the ones that will be involved in the future. If you have comments, suggestions or questions, please do not hesitate to call the Chastain Park Conservancy at 404-237-2177.

Neighborhood Eyesore To be DemolishedSince 2002 the house at 4099 Randall Mill Road (near Mt. Paran) has been empty, and for nearly three years there has been a blue tarp covering the roof. For more than two years adjacent neighbor, Faryl Moss, watched the Photo by Faryl Moss house deteriorate only to become an eyesore for the neighborhood and a hazard to her property. She tried to get the attention of authorities but to no avail. But all that changed on February 23 when the City of Atlanta In Rem Review Board voted to demolish the house! Neighbor J.D. Humphries, an attorney who has graciously volunteered his time to assist with this problem, attended the hearing along with Faryl Moss to address the issues and present the board with some compelling pictures. Despite the fact that the mortgage company asked for more time, the Board agreed with the citys Code Enforcement officer and the neighbors and voted to demolish the house. The attorney for the lender was instructed to advise his client that they could tear the property down themselves within the next 60 days or begin building on the property within that same time period. The lender

would have to have plans approved, the building permit issued and substantially begin construction. According to Faryl Moss, The support and number of complaints from the neighbors has been a big help. I do think we need to continue to monitor the progress on this to make sure the mortgage company is not buying additional time at our expense. Thanks to all for your help and support. And a very special thanks to Councilwoman Clair Muller and J.D. Humphries for their efforts.Editors note: The In Rem Review Board conducts public hearings for owners of property determined by the Bureau of Buildings to be unfit for human habitation or use. The Board also determines and notifies owners of problems in addition to suggesting corrective action.

Neighbor to Neighbor Crime Prevention TipFor approximately $200.00/year, one can get a mail box at the UPS Store, either at the Publix on Powers Ferry or at the Publix at West Paces Ferry. Divert all of your mail to that address, they receive packages and Fed Ex envelopes. Have your check books sent there and all of your bills. The only thing that needs to come to your address is your return from the IRS, for capital gains tax reasons. What a small cost/ insurance policy to overt the high cost and time required to deal with identity theft. When you go on vacation, no problem, they hold your mail until you return. Your personal mail box is filled with blanket mailings and adds, let the thieves have it! Pick up your mail when you get your groceries and the anxiety disappears! Marci Vincent 8

More Neighborhood Briefs8th Annual Alzheimers Association GalaPledging proceeds to the Alzheimers Association, Georgia Chapter, The Alzheimers Society of Atlanta has announced plans for An Affair to Remember gala, an elaborate cocktail buffet scheduled for Friday, April 21. This years committee including, Fairfield Road neighbor Marilyn Midyette, has planned for the party to take place at the home of Elly and Ed Dobbs. This lovely home is situated on an old Civil War encampment site. Behind the home is a beautiful lake with a waterfall, where granite was mined, before, during and after the Civil War. The Patron Party will feature Affairs to Remember Executive Chef, Enes Zarifovic (Master European chef, former Executive Chef of the Four Seasons and star of his own European television program), giving a cooking demonstration of an hors doeuvre to be served with 2 wines that will be featured in the wine tasting presented by Trey Busch, celebrated winemaker for Basel Cellar (Washington State). The gala will include an incredible buffet by Affairs to Remember, owned by Scott Ardolino, this years honorary chair. The live jazz music by Blue Sky Atlanta, along with both live and silent auctions, promises to be outstanding. Art will be donated by Georgia Alzheimers patients and featured in the live and silent auctions. Over the past 7 years, An Affair to Remember Gala has collectively raised over $600,000 to benefit the Alzheimers Association, Georgia Chapter, which depends on special events to fund its many initiatives and to serve those afflicted or touched by the disease. Tickets are $150 per person. Patron tickets are $500 per couple. Sponsorship levels are from $1,000 to $10,000. Presenting sponsorships are available for $15,000. The proceeds from the Gala will go directly to local services and to research. Contact Linda Rossetti at 770-6312988 for more details.

Ninth Annual Tour of Kitchens!Discover 14 show-stopping kitchens created by Atlanta's most celebrated and award-winning kitchen designers at The Junior League of Atlanta, Inc.s 2006 Tour of Kitchens to be held on March 25-26. This unique, self-guided tour offers an upclose look at stunning kitchens in some of Atlanta's most prestigious neighborhoods including Buckhead, Dunwoody, Inman Park, Morningside and Vinings. Special Tour of Kitchens events include presentations by renowned Atlanta chefs Mark Alba of The Food Studio, Carvel Grant Gould of Canoe, Pano I. Karatassos of KYMA, Timothy McGee of South City Kitchen, Michael Touhy of Woodfire Grill, Guenter Seeger of Seegers, Scott Serpas of TWO. urban licks, Riccardo Ullio of Fritti/Sotto Sotto and many more. The Tour attracts more than 1200 attendees. All monies raised through the fundraising efforts of The Junior League of Atlanta, Inc. are used to train and educate its membership for effective community service as well as to financially aid projects and programs of its community partners and programs where League volunteers serve. Tickets, good for touring both days, are $25 per person with advance purchase. They can also be purchased for $35 per person on the tour and will be available only at The Junior League of Atlanta, Inc. headquarters or the individual kitchen locations. Group ticket packages are also available. Contact Lauren Gvillo at 678-417-0446 or LGvillo@brunschwig.com for more information. For tickets or additional information, visit www.jatlanta.org/tok or call 678-916-3100.

Chastain Horse ParkThe Therapeutic Riding Program at Chastain Horse Park continues to thrive, serving children and adults with physical or mental disabilities and childrenat-risk. Last year, over 4,000 lessons were provided to special needs students, which for many is often the highlight of their week. In 2006, a new goal includes participation by all equestrian Noel Ford enjoys a lesson instructors in a continuing education program, and we hope to generate new awareness for the therapeutic program. Private horse boarding as well as the general lesson program is at capacity. To learn more about what goes on behind the fence on Powers Ferry Road, please visit our website at www.chastainhorse_park.org Upcoming events: May 13, Cates Memorial Horse Show for therapeutic riding students; October 14, Horse Show for boarders and lesson program riders; October 19, 20 & 22, a 3-day event is being planned with two elegant dinner evenings, a Sunday brunch and other on-site activities.

First Neighborhood Playgroup Was MagicalThe first neighborhood playgroup was held on Friday, January 6th at the home of Chris and Crissy Klaus. Will (5 years) and C.J. (2 years) were wonderful hosts, and guests were treated to snacks, c r a f t s , g a m e s a n d even a magician! The turn out was excellent! A big thanks to ever yone who came. For everyone who wasn't able to make itwe missed you and hope you make it to the next playgroup. Do you have children? Are you on the Playgroup List? If not, t Crissy Klaus at or We want you to come play with us! P.S. All neighbors are welcomed to join in the funwith or withoutchildren!!!!! Editors note: special thanks to all the contributors in this issue. Email articles, ideas, events, tips and photographs for the next issue of The Citizens Review. All suggestions welcome.

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The Winter Neighborhood Ladies Luncheon will be on Thursday, March 30 from 12:00 to 1:30 at the beautiful home of Corky and Roger Gelder, 4735 Northside Drive (at the corner of Northtside and Garmon). We'll have fun viewing their interesting art collection, talking, and enjoying the wonderful luncheon prepared by Corky's favorite caterer. What a special treat! Please send your checks for $15 payable to Judi Schindler to Brenda Smith, 4271 Garmon Road, Atlanta, GA 30327. Your check is your reservation! Please respond as soon as you can. Brenda Smith

News from Station #27Continued from Page 3

the services that are available to you as a citizen of Atlanta. Thanks again for your support of Atlantas firefighters. Take care and STAY SAFE!

Story Hour at Station #27Please keep an eye out for the Story Hour sign in front of the fire station. Harris Trail neighbor Marty Gillin saw the sign reading Story Time, 5:00PM in the lawn one Friday afternoon, stopped her car, and went into the Fire Station to Phil Mozier ask about it. I met a fireman Friday Story Hour conducted by Capt. named Glenn Barry, Marty explains, who told me that Keith Schumacher at Fire Station #23 he does this usually every week for kids, sometimes on different days depending on his schedule. Parents and children gather around on the floor while he reads a book, then gives them a tour of the fire station. He told me that he had gone back to his former station (Virginia Highlands) for a story hour and 50 kids showed up! Firefighter Glen Barry continues to hold Story Hour for the children of the Mt. Paran-Northside neighborhood since he joined Station House #27. The Fire Chief has endorsed the Glen Barry Reading Program for use throughout the department. Other stations throughout the city are beginning to participate in the program. Please bring the kids by Station #27 for some fun and imagination time.

Photo by FAO Rick Benitez

From left: Firefighter/EMT Willie Blankenship, Firefighter Jeff Burton, Captain George Coleman

Company #27 recently said farewell to one of its most dedicated and hard working members. Firefighter James Doss hung up his helmet in December. The recent pension improvements enabled Jimmy to take his pension after 26 years of service to the Mt. Paran-Northside community. He served his entire career in this neighborhood. After many years at Station #39 on Wieuca Road, Jimmy came to #27 when #39 closed as an Atlanta company. Jimmy will be spending his time enjoying his grandchildren and riding his Harley Davidson Road King. We thank Jimmy for his hard work and dedication and wish him the best in his retirement. Fire Apparatus Operator driver (FAO) Kenny Scott has also taken his retirement. Kenny has left early to expand his real estate business. We also wish Kenny the best. On the opposite side of the coin, FAO Richard Benitez has come back from retirement and has been assigned to Company #27 on the C-Shift. Rick is a great photographer and intended to pursue photography full-time. He missed the fire service and the family nature of Atlanta Fire-Rescue that he chose to return. Rick is one of the best FAOs on the job and we are very happy to have him back. Things are slowly improving with the Big 3 issues that I have written about pay, pension and staffing. As I have discussed in previous editions, our pension is finally on-par with that of the police. We have to fight to keep it that way. We must be ever vigilant to protect our families just as we stay vigilant to protect yours. As I mentioned above, firefighters are being hired to get your fire companies up to the national minimum safe staffing standards. We have been promised a 3.75% pay increment in this budget. This is the same percentage as is being promised to the cops. We will still lag considerably behind the cops and other fire departments in the Metro Atlanta area as far as pay. We hope to see this 3.75% within the next few paychecks. We are hopeful that the 2005 Budget Surplus could finally produce enough revenue to bring about the fair compensation that we have been seeking since Bill Campbell stripped parity from us in 2001.Your continued support for parity is greatly appreciated. Please feel free to stop by to say hi to our new members. We are here to serve you and we will continue to work to improve 10

Volunteer On Earth Day and Help Keep Atlanta BeautifulBy MARY LOUISE FLOYD Board of Directors, Keep Atlanta Beautiful

Keep Atlanta Beautiful partners with city government, corporate sponsors and local community groups to achieve a greener and cleaner Atlanta. On Earth Day, April 22, Keep Atlanta Beautiful will participate in the Great American Clean-up by removing trash from Memorial Drive from Second Avenue to Moreland Avenue. On March 16 KAtlB, in partnership with the city and Troy-Bilt Landscapes America, created a Reading Garden at the Wren's Nest Historic Register Museum and Center for Storytelling of the South. On May 2 at Grady High School KAtlB will initiate a city-wide program that will educate Atlanta's school children about citizen responsibility to put waste in its proper place and recycle. At a dedication ceremony the Grady campus will receive nine trash receptacles (at a cost of more than $800 each) donated by Georgia Power. Councilwoman Mary Norwood is part of this program. If you are interested in volunteering on April 22, contact Mary Lou Floyd. KAtlB is seeking private sponsors to continue its education program. KAtlB is now 501 (c) 3, non-profit, so donations are tax-deductible. The City of Atlanta's Trash Troopers are an example of how KAtlB partners with city government on a daily basis. The Trash Troopers are a dedicated 15-member team that helps to keep Atlanta beautiful by cleaning vacant lots and illegal dump sites daily. Youll read more about the Trash Troopers in the next Citizens Review.

Gardening TipsBy PIKE FAMILY NURSERIES

2006 MEMBERSHIP: ITS NOT TOO LATE...

Join and Receive a DirectoryAlthough some people pay membership and security dues before the annual statements are mailed, everyone receives a statement in January. 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. Now you can mail your membership and security checks in the same self addressed envelope. Be sure to include the forms and print your information legibly, especially phone numbers and email addresses. For more information or to obtain a form, contact Membership Chair, Debbie Goot: or 2343. You can also mail your $25 check to Debbie Goot, Atlanta, GA 30327.

March is a transitional gardening month. It's not winter anymore, but it's not quite spring either. Temperatures and weather patterns often change with little or no warning. Although we can't control the whims of Mother Nature, there are a lot of gardening preparations to keep you busy during the month of March. In the event of an early spring cold snap, it is not unusual for spring blooming plants and trees to suffer minor cold damage. Although the blooms can't be salvaged, healthy plants will replace the injured leaves as the growing season progresses. Apply crabgrass preventer to your lawn before midMarch. Crabgrass preventers put a barrier on the soil that prevents crabgrass and certain other weed seed from germinating. Don't wait too long, this product will do little or no good once crabgrass has sprouted. Control weeds that have already sprouted, like Chickweed, Dandelions and Henbit, with a post-emergent weed killer. Check the label to make sure that the chemical used in the product is safe for your type of grass. Aerate your lawn and planting areas to increase water penetration and air circulation in the soil. The response will be improved plant growth. Test the pH of your soil. Our clay soil tends to have an acidic pH level. Lime is used to reduce the soil's acidity. Apply 40 pounds of lime per 1000 square feet to reduce the acidity by one-half point. Feed Fescue lawns with 31-3-10 fertilizer. Wait to fertilize dormant turf grasses, such as Bermuda or Zoysia until April when they are at least 50% green. Overseed Fescue lawns. 25 pounds of seed will cover 5000 square feet. Do not apply a crabgrass preventer if you sow grass seed in the spring. Not only does it prevent crabgrass seed from germinating, it can prevent your grass seed from germinating, too. Fertilize shrubs and trees with a 16-4-8 or 12-6-6 fertilizer, according to package directions. Do not fertilize spring flowering plants or trees, like azaleas, camellias and dogwoods, until they finish blooming. Plant trees, shrubs and perennials. Planting now will give the plants time to establish their root systems before summer's heat arrives. Freshen the mulch in your planting areas. Mulches, like pine straw or bark nuggets help to control weed growth by preventing the rays of the sun from reaching the weed seeds. They also help to reduce evaporation and conserve moisture in the soil.11

Commissioners Pass 2006 Fulton County BudgetContinued from Page 1

go into 2006 with a true balanced budget, with no millage rate increase, for the first time in the history of this county. Unfortunately, the Commissioners voted to proceed along the irresponsible path proposed by the County Manager. The good news is that the annual deficit was cut in half, and I was successful in holding the line on the millage rate. For the 3rd year in a row, property owners will see no increase in the General Fund tax rate. The most disturbing aspect of the budget passed by the Commissioners is the shockingly low General Fund reserve of $73 million. In my original proposal, I recommended a robust reserve of $111.3 million to account for ongoing loss of revenues$20 million in 2006 and an expected $30 million minimum in 2007 due to incorporations. Depleting the reserves is exacerbated by their decision to fully fund 342 job vacancies, spend $7.3 million on the expansion of the Southwest Fulton Arts Center and continue to fund the planned $2.4 million for Wolf Creek Amphitheater. Again, the good news for Mt. Paran property owners is that your millage rate wont go up. This year, youll also have the benefit of the property tax assessment cap on your Fulton taxes. This cap does not yet apply to your Atlanta taxes. However, State Representative Edward Lindsey has introduced legislation to provide this same tax relief to Atlanta, and I am hopeful this legislation will pass. Visit www.chairmanhandel.com to see the five-year forecasts for the county, the final budget numbers and the summary of motions with how commissioners voted.

Return Service RequestedMT. 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/Jean Smith Treasurer/Jim Carter BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sandra Adair, London Andes, Pat Daly, John Feeley, Al Goodgame, Alan Leet, Howard Margol, Jane Merrill, Dana Scavo, Karen Swim, Pamela Tremayne, Marci Vincent, Richard Wilson, Alan Yates 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 WEB SITE

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www.mtparannorthsidecitizensassociation.org

Association Newsletter and Crime Report Inside

E-Mail is Your Window To The NeighborhoodOver the years your Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association has discovered the value of getting important information to the neighborhood in the quickest most efficient manner. Email is timely, cost effective, and enables our members to efficiently affect outcomes on issues which impact our community. Your email address is never broadcast to others on our list and will remain confidential. If you did not include your email address in the annual membership dues statementor your email address has changedplease email it to And, be sure to include this address in your on-line address book so that youll be certain to receive these important emails when theyre sent.

Why Cant I Talk to a Human?With a database of some 398 companies, a consumer movement has been created to change the face of customer service. Gethuman.com is a free website run by volunteers who are tired of bad customer service. The website contains a lot of information but the most used section is the gethuman database of secret phone numbers and codes to get to a human when calling a company for customer service. Type in gethuman.com then click on database to access the list of companies.

Tell Us About Your New NeighborsWe 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 designed a welcome package for new residents that includes helpful information and some surprises. Contact Karen Swim with the information and she will personally deliver a welcome bag. Lost & Found Pet Tip: Pet owners often turn to veterinarians to find missing pets. When an animal is found, it may be helpful to call the vets in the area to see if anyone has reported a missing pet.

The Citizens Review OnlineThis edition (and others) of our neighborhood newsletter is available online. Tell your friends about our website: www.mtparannorthsidecitizensassociation.org Click on the MPNCA Community drop down box. Scroll down and click on Newsletters.