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The

CITIZENS REVIEWVol. 21 Newsletter of the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association, Inc. August 2005

Continued on Page 9

The recent U.S. Supreme Courtruling broadening governments

power to take private property hascaused much conversation nation-wide from citizens of all political per-suasions.

The Supreme Court case pitted citi-zens of New London, Connecticutwho wanted to remain in their housesagainst the city and the developerswho had plans to redevelop their land.

Condemnation of property for pub-lic use such as roads and sewers iscommon throughout all states but thisexpanded use of condemnation for

economic development and higherrevenues to the city or other localgovernment has raised fears.

Georgia is one of a handful ofstates where it is believed no condem-nation for private business useasopposed to city redevelopmenthasever happened. Georgias state consti-tution has held that condemnation forprivate purposes is not acceptable un-der state law and Georgias positionwill not be changed by the SupremeCourt ruling.

However, despite Georgias record,

the Supreme Court ruling has a fright-ening potential for abuse and manyfeel that Georgia should clarify itsposition.

Several local jurisdictions have al-ready stepped forward to bring resolu-tions to clarify. I recently introducedsuch legislation at the City of Atlantadeclaring the intent of our city to ex-ercise restraint and prudence in itsexercise of eminent domain. The reso-

Providence Canyon, GeorgiaA magnificent day trip from Atlanta. Page 10

Janice Bates

Eminent Domain:

What It Means

In Atlanta NowBy CLAIR MULLER

Atlanta City Council Member, District 8

The news has been filled with thiscountrys apparent inability to keeptrack of sexual predators. Sev-

eral residents have expressed interestin knowing how to access the sex of-fender list easily, and listed below isthe GBI website and instructions onhow to obtain the information. Typein this address: www.ganet.org/gbiClick on Sex Offenders (top right),scroll down to the bottom and click onProceed to Sex Offender Search Page.Type in only one of the following:City, County or Zip Code. Then clickon Search.

Access GBI Listof Sex Offenders

INSIDE

The Georgia Homeowners TaxCoalition is a non-profit organiza-tion created by a group of concernedcitizens who support the rights ofproperty owners and advocate strongcommunities through responsible taxa-tion. They are working to lower prop-

erty taxes through statewide legisla-tion. In this effort, the Georgia Gen-eral Assembly will be asked in the

Georgia Homeowners

Tax Coalition (GHTC)

An insiders view: by Karen HandelFulton County Commission Chairman

Page 3

Whats Next For The

County and Sandy Springs?

Continued on Page 11

A Tale of Two CitiesBy MARTY GILLIN

Harris Trail

The residents of Sandy Springsnow have another Independence Dayto celebrate, June 21. After manyyears of attempts to become a city inorder to control our own zoning anddevelopment, an overwhelming ma-jority, 93.6% of a high voter turnout

for a special election, voted an enthu-siastic YES for incorporation.Our family moved to Atlanta in

1977 and chose unincorporated FultonCounty so our children could attendRiverwood High School. We built ourhouse on a densely wooded 2-acre lotand loved the forested beauty of ourarea.

The first major challenge to ourneighborhood was in 1983 when abuilder proposed a zoning downgradefrom R-1 (2 acres) to CUP (less than1 acre per house or even townhouses)for a 19-acre parcel on Davis Drive.Neighbors effectively fought backwith petitions, phone calls to commis-sioners and a huge foam core boardwith all the plats of the homeownersin the 400-home area who opposedthe change colored in red. It was animpressive visual for the planningboard and the full commission. Wewon and drew a sigh of relief. Withintwo months, the same builder re-applied for R-2 (1 acre lots) and wehad to go to battle once again. Several

neighbors didnt think our chances of

Continued on Page 9

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Sharing Our Backyards with Copperheads

IN AND AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

or under ground litter, where they seekmice and other animals for food. Itbasks in the sun during the day in

spring and fall, becoming nocturnal asthe days turn warmer. In late springand early fall, most often after a warmrain, one may be encountered crossingroads at night in search for food. Inthe fall, Copperheads often share liv-ing space with other species ofsnakes. The home range for a fe-male Copperhead is eight acres and 24

acres for a male.They feed on small rodents, birds, frogs, lizards, snakes and

insects. Copperheads are most active April through late October,and are diurnal in the spring and the fall, nocturnal in the sum-mer. The Copperhead is a live-bearing snake that mates springto fall, with the peak being April to May. Anywhere from one to

14 young are born, 7 to 10 inches in length. The snakes are bornfrom August to October and become mature adults in two tothree years. Only 5% of Copperheads live more than eight years.

Even though the Copperhead does have the potential to inflictharm, it is like most other snakesnon-aggressive. The Copper-head will take a defensive posture only when directly threat-ened. Interestingly, when it is aroused, it may vibrate its tail likea rattlesnake, although it has no rattles. Copperheads prefer toavoid all contact with human beings, and will often "play dead"when encountered, leading children to sometimes mistake themas "toy snakes".

Undoubtedly, one of the most appeal-ing aspects of living in the Mt. Paran-Northside area is the beautiful wooded

habitat. As noted in many reported sight-ings of coyote, fox, deer, and other ani-mals, we indeed share our surroundingswith a variety of native creatures. I wantto quickly share one such close encoun-ter with my neighbors, to ensure that oth-ers remain aware and alert.

One evening around 6PM, my husbandwas gathering various toys that our sonhad left in the yard. He walked to the far side of our garage, agrass path bordered by ivy and low ground cover on one side;shrubs along the garage wall on the other; and saw a snake mov-ing from the ivy, across the grassy path, toward the shrubs. Thesnake had likely been sunning itself, but was moving towardscover as this area is cast in shadows in the early evening.

While we have great respect for our environment,would otherwise never harm any creature, and know that snakesare an important part of our eco-system, my husband elected tokill the snake, as it was in an area where our son and small dogplay quite often. Afterwards, we were able to determine that thesnake was an adult Copperhead, approximately 33" in length.

This was our first direct encounter with a poisonous snake inthe area, although we have seen dead ones along the roads in thepast. In researching the subject, I thought I would share some in-formation that I have compiled from various web sites: Copper-heads, quite common in our area, are members of the pit viperfamily, are indeed poisonous. Whereas their bite is rarely fatal toadult humans, it can be much more dangerous to small childrenand pets. There are more Copperhead bites reported statewidethan any other venomous snake. However, it is generally inoffen-sive. Some believe that its bite is unlikely to result in death, andothers say that a well-placed bite could easily cause death, but thevenom of a Copperhead has a low toxicity and no recent fatalitieshave occurred. The venom is made up of a complex mixture ofproteins, which acts primarily on a bite victim's blood tissue. Thereaction to a bite of a Copperhead is generally minimalwith themain effects being swelling, discoloration, and nausea. Pain at thesite of the bite can cause discomfort for several days and cancause serious tissue deterioration.

The Copperhead is aptly named, gaining its title from the red-dish or copper coloration of its head, but the rest of its body isshaded differently. Their heads are distinctly wider than the neckand patterned with blotches or cross-bands. The body is pinkishto gray-brown with a dark chestnut colored hourglass shaped pat-

tern on the body. This pattern is narrow on top of the back andwider on portions of the side of the body. Like other poisonoussnakes, the Copperhead has facial pits between its nostrils andeyes, and elliptical pupils. The Copperhead is not, a rattlesnake.

The Copperhead averages 30" in length, but can range from 22"to 53" long, and varies in coloration. One may find a copper or-ange or even a pink-colored Copperhead. It may have bold chest-nut or reddish-brown cross-bands over the body. The top of thehead is unmarked, and the Copperhead sheds its skin two to fourtimes each year. When coiled in a pile of leaves, it is well camou-flaged and almost impossible to see.

Because of how adaptable the Copperhead is, one may find itliving in dry or wet areas, around or under rotting logs, near largeflat stones by streams, wood piles, in backyards, about habitations

Janet Fryburger

My wife, Mary, and I also live in the Mt. Paran-NorthsideAssociation neighborhood. I was walking through our garageThursday, May 12 and was bit on my foot by a copperhead(juvenile). After 4 days at Piedmont and good care, I made it outin time to make Lovett's graduation on Sunday, May 15.

I consider myself very familiar with the outdoors, enjoy hunt-ing and fishing immensely. I often see snakes in the wild andsimply avoid them. This one had been bothered apparently byour big black lab. We never thought that our dog was pestering

a snake when we heard his barking.Best snake avoidance technique: make lots of noise, stomparound (not directly towards or at the snake) and move away. Itdoesnt like the vibration and thinks there are many more crea-tures about that could harm it, so it will usually move away.

If you are bitten, DO NOT ICE the area. Keep the bite arealower than your heart and chest. DO NOT ELEVATE IT. Gostraight to the hospital. You don't need to capture the snake. Iwill guarantee you that in our area...it's a cryolidae (pit vi-per). After you enjoy your fill of hospital food, icing the areahelps immensely. Use a lotion on your foot after icing it. Avoidwearing socks for as long as you can if you're bitten in the ankleor foot. (And I hope you never need to resort to these suggestedtreatments).

Best Snake Avoidance Technique

And What to Do if BittenBy RICHARD GERAKITIS

Conway Valley Road

By JANET LEIGH FRYBURGERNorthside Drive

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Whats Next for the County and Sandy SpringsBy KAREN C. HANDEL

Chairman of the Fulton County Commission

will last for their life. The microchip is an effectiveform of permanent identification. It is slightly larger

than a grain of rice and is placed just under the skin bya veterinarian. It is unique because it has an anti-migration cap that helps prevent movement within thepets body. Each chip is encoded with a unique andunalterable identification code that can only be acti-vated when read by a scanner. For these reasons, theAKC recommends the HomeAgain microchip,which is marketed by the Schering-Plough AnimalHealth Corporation.

CAR was founded in June 1995 by the AKC to help reunitelost pets with their owners. As a not-for-profit organizationalaffiliate to the American Kennel Club, CAR is dedicated to pro-viding lifetime recovery services for microchipped and tattooed

pets. After a pet has been microchipped or tattooed, the ID num-ber is enrolled with CAR who maintains a worldwide enrollmentdatabase and a recovery service that works 24-hours-a-day, 365-days-a-year. Shelters and veterinarians throughout the UnitedStates use scanners when a lost pet is found. A call to the 800number of CAR is simple and efficient. AKC/CAR has as itsgoal to eliminate those "LOST PET" signs from our neighbor-hoods by encouraging owners to ID their pet(s) with a micro-chip.

We know from experience that microchipped pets have thebest chance of recovery because the microchip is a permanent

Be Prepared:

Microchip Your Pets

and 911 servicesat least for some transitional period. Thiswill ensure continuity in public safety services for the people ofSandy Springs and, at the same time, allow for a smooth transi-tion of the countys public safety personnel many of whomwill likely be hired by the new city.

As for the county, we are beginning the necessary prepara-tions to provide services in the remaining unincorporated areaswithout the property tax revenue generated by Sandy Springs.This may be done through three separate tax districts or onesingle tax district, depending on the courts decision. Eitherway, we will have to analyze and prioritize services and alignspending accordingly.

For the General Fund which provides countywide services(such as criminal justice, arts, human services, senior services,etc.), the impact is not significant this year or next. However, ifthe incorporation movement is successful in NE and NW Ful-tonand I believe that these areas will incorporatewe willface a new reality in which 94% of our citizens will live withinone city or another. This will trigger another wave of change in

which the county will move to a secondary service provider rolewhile the cities become the primary service providers. Ill pro-vide more on this in my next update.

My thanks to everyone for your continued support. Enjoy therest of your summer!

September 20 22, 2005Candidate Qualifying

November 8, 2005Election Day

December 1, 2005Sandy Springs Becomes a City

The citizens of Sandy Springs over-whelmingly voted to form their own cityon June 21. Voter turnout was a stunning

33% with nearly 95% of those voting say-ing YES to incorporation. Now the realwork begins.

Governor Perdue appointed a 5-memberCommission for Sandy Springs, and whilethis Commission is not empowered tomake binding agreements, it will gatherfacts and make formal recommendations

on what it believes are the best governance options for the newcity. The Commission also named a formal negotiating team torepresent the citys interests in discussions with the county.

The Board of Commissioners (in a typical 4-3 vote) also estab-lished a special negotiating team consisting of CommissionersNancy Boxill and Tom Lowe and County Manager Tom An-drews, with Commissioner Boxill apparently selected by this teamto lead the negotiations.

The most critical issues that need to be addressed by both par-ties is the transfer of assets, whether or not to contract for anyservices; what those services may be; and the immediate transferof zoning responsibilities. While there has been much said aboutthe contracting for services, I believe it is in very much in the bestinterests of both the city and the county to contract for police, fire,

Karen Handel

Continued on Page 10

Some have said that never before in history has human-ity been so unprepared for so many of our new tech-nologies. In little more than a generation what wethought were the limits of our world have been transformed intonew ways of doing things. Some have been unique opportunitiesto directly apply new technologies to many of our most practicalproblems.

Most of us never expect to lose our pet or to be directly af-fected by a natural disaster. When the unexpected happens thefacts show that most owners were caught by surprise and unpre-pared. Statistics for America show that thousands of pets are losteach year and the problem may be getting worse only becauseowners have not taken a simple preventative action. This articlefocuses on a new era of technology for our pets and a new way toensure their future. It explains how a tiny microchip has revolu-tionized the way owners protect their pets.

The microchip has many uses but when the American KennelClub adopted it for the Companion Animal Recovery (CAR) pro-gram pet owners were given a new way to protect their pets. Thistechnology can be used in any kind of animal at any age and it

3

By DR. CARMEN L. BATTAGLIA

President and CEO AKC/CAR

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One of the best things aboutbeing an educator is that everyyear is a brand new beginning.This year, Jackson is beginningwith a new, eight classroom

addition, which will house our4th and 5th graders. Thanks to

the generosity of our PTA, we will have a beautiful amphithea-ter, teacher workroom, high quality sound and lighting in ourmultipurpose room, a new parent/teacher kitchen, and extrasthroughout the building. These amenities add to the uniquenessand quality of the Jackson experience. If you havent visitedJackson recently, come take a look. It really is a special placefor children and adults alike.

We can no longer accept transfer students from around thecity to attend Jackson. Our student population has grown to al-most 700, all from the zoned Jackson district. We are very proudof our accomplishments in meeting and exceeding expectations

for Georgia students across all subject areas and at every grade.It is because of that high achievement level that we enjoy thepositive reputation that draws families to our school. We willcontinue to work hard to be the neighborhood school of whichyou can be proud. Lorraine B. Reich

Neighborhood Briefs

The 2005 March of Dimes Gala,anEvening of Culinary Ex-cellence will be held at the fabulous Four Seasons Hotel on Fri-day, October 14, 2005. Serving as Chair of the event, RandallCourt neighbor Dina Giesler with neighbors Merry Carlos,Trisha Bell and Bill Voyles as just some of the committee mem-bers. There are also several of our neighbors serving on theMarch of Dimes Board of Directors. Steve and Rosalinda Ray-man will be hosting the Patron Party at their beautiful home onWest Conway on Thursday, September 8, 2005.

The October Gala will feature four American based MasterChefs. All courses will be professionally paired with award-winning Canandaigua wine. Evening highlights include the Culi-nary Salute to Horst Schulze. Wes Sarginson will be back asemcee for the live and silent auction; and outstanding live enter-tainment which will encourage us to dance the night away.

The Evening of Culinary Excellence is a premiere specialevent for the March of Dimes Georgia Chapter. Since it beganin 2001, the event has raised more than half a million dollars forthe March of Dimes mission to improve the health of babies bypreventing birth defects, premature births and infant mortality.

Patron tickets are $1,500 per couple which include tickets tothe Patron Party, as well as VIP access to the pre and post partyon the night of the Gala. Please join us for this incredible eventwhich promises to be a very special and unique evening, full ofsurprises and most importantly, one that will benefit the babies

of Georgia. Call Tracy Wilbanks at (404)350-9800 to reserveyour seats and for any additional information about the March ofDimes or the event.

March of Dimes Culinary Gala Save Babies Lives

4

Enjoy the Atlanta Lyric Theatre Gala October 8

No longer must you go to New York City to enjoy great musi-cal theatre! Please join the fun for Some Enchanted Eve-ning at the Atlanta Lyric Theatre Gala on Saturday, October 8at the Colony Square Sheraton Hotel on 14 th Street. The eveningbegins at 7:00PM with cocktails and dinner. Then, Lyric artistsentertain with an exciting program of musical theatre accompa-nied by a 20 piece orchestra. The show is always fabulous.

Tickets are reasonably priced at $175 per person for the gala,$225 per person for the Patron party and gala, and $1,500 for atable of 10. Send check to Atlanta Lyric Theatre, 2221 Peach-tree Rd, Suite D, No.655, Atlanta, GA 30309. Proceeds fromthe gala support the theatre throughout the year.

This year Beechwood Drive neighbor Jim McCaffrey is Hon-orary Chair, and Gala chair is Garmon Road neighbor BrendaSmith. Neighbors on the committee are Ruth Dobbs Anthony,Tricia Bell, Merry Carlos, Pat Daly, Paula Hill, SusanMcCaffrey, Juli Owens, Karen Sturm, Ida Wooldridge. Contact:Brenda Smith (

Warren T. Jackson Elementarys New Beginning

Galloway Signs Contract for Home Fields

Stay up-to-date on neighborhood activities andlocate links to other information of interest on

the Mt. Paran-Northside website:www.mtparannorthsidecitizensassociation.org

In the past, we have had to go all over to practice and com-pete, said Daniel Searl, Galloway's Athletic Director. Havinghome fields will make it much easier on the parents to comewatch their kids play sports." Maxine Watkins & Nancie Smith

The Galloway School signed a contract this spring to purchaseproperty at 2400 DeFoors Ferry Road. Located only 6 milesfrom the Galloway campus, this property will allow Gallowayto develop a true athletic homesomething that is missing fromthe current campus. The wide-open areas on the banks of his-

toric Woodall Creek will someday hold a new track and twoathletic fields.

You have to make an appointment to have tree trimmings andbranches picked up, the City only picks up bagged leaves etc. onregular garbage pick up days. BULK RUBBISH COLLECTIONAPPOINTMENTS (404-330-6333)

Dead Trees and Branches Lying by Your Streets?

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Hopefully this information on the upcoming election is useful andyou will educate yourself about the candidates, the issues andVOTE. Candidate forums and events provide an opportunity tolearn about the candidates and talk to them about the issues im-portant to you. Be sure to watch for our annual meeting notice inOctober when we will hold a candidate forum for the benefit ofthe neighborhood. Clip and save this page as a reminder aboutthis important election!

City of Atlanta (4-year term)

Democracy is Not a Spectator

Sport! NOW More than Ever!

November 8, 2005: General ElectionNovember 29, 2005: General Election Runoff

Polls will be open from 7 AM to 7 PM

OFFICES TO BE ELECTED

City of Atlanta MayorCity Council President

Members of City Council: We vote for District 8, At Large Posts 1, 2, 3

Atlanta Board of Education: We vote for District 4, At Large Seats 7, 8, 9

REGISTRATION & ABSENTEE BALLOT INFORMATION

Fulton County Department of Registration & Elections 404-730-7020

Voter Registration Deadline: October 11, 2005Registration Information: 404-730-7072

Register online: sos.state.ga.us

Request Absentee Ballot Application: 404-730-7072Download Absentee Ballot Application: myfultoncountyga.us

Fax Absentee Ballot Application: 404-730-7024Mail Absentee Ballot Application:

Absentee Ballot Unit. 141 Pryor Street, #4064, Atlanta, GA 30303-3461Pick up an Absentee Ballot Application in the neighborhood:

The Country Store, Mt. Paran Road & Northside DriveFire Station, Northside Drive & W. Conway Drive

Advance Voting will be held Monday, October 31 through Friday, November 4from 8:30 AM to 5 PM at the following locations:

Fulton County Government Center, 141 Pryor Street (404-730-7020)North Service Center, 7741 Roswell Road, Room 209 (770-551-7675 )

2005 CITYWIDE ELECTION

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Winter Wine Tasting PartyThe rain stopped just long enough for us to have agreat party at Robin and Beau Hudsons ConwayValley Court house. The wine was set up outside,and many animals watched (from the walls) thefun inside. The bear in the living room did notdance, but, by the end of the party, Dan Britt ofthe Lyric Theatre and Robin were entertaining uswith song, and Bill Hewett catered the Horsdoeuvres. Each couple brought a bottle of wine($10-15 bottle) and old neighbors, and new, got tomeet, greet, and have a great time! Many thanks

to Brenda Smith and the Hudsons, for all theirgreat planning!

Photos by Shel Schlegman

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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 reportthe details for this newsletter to our Security Patrol (404)310-7361 or Jo Ann Rau

August 2005

Security Patrol ActivityDuring the months of January through July,Officers Doug Cole, Jim Hendrix and Sergeant Ellis (J.R.)

Security Patrol Information

The Mt. Paran Security Patrol is neighborhood funded patrol staffeby two retired Atlanta police officers and a part-time sergeant currently assigned to the motorcyclsquad. Officer Doug Cole and Offi

cer Jim Hendrix work full time anSgt. Ellis (J.R.) works part-timeTo date there are 443 patrol members of which 34 live in the Randall Mill Civic Association area.

The patrol monitors the Atlantpolice radio and responds to alarmin the area. The patrol checks doorand windows daily while you arout of town and picks up newspapers. The fee to join the patrol i$150 a year and covers the tim

period from January 1 to Decembe31. The fee for new residents wilbe pro-rated. Subscribers receive mailbox decal, telephone stickerand access to the security hotline awell as daily surveillance of youhouse and property.

For information on joining, or t

meet the patrol officers, cal

(404)310-7361. Be sure to leave

message during off-duty hour

and one of the patrol officers wilcall you back.

January: Door-to-door sales people reported throughout theneighborhood on several days. Dogs woke homeowner whochased a prowler off on W. Conway. Suspect followed a W.Garmon neighbor home, entered the unlocked house and ve-hicle and took cash. Homeowners purse was recovered inthe woods behind Swims Valley. Items were taken from anunlocked car on N. Harris Ridge. A second attempt wasmade at the same address when someone tried to break thecar window with a rock.

February: Suspicious persons asking for money on RandallMill Rd. Suspicious person called homeowner on ConwayValley Ct. to ask for his security code. Vehicle stolen fromWickersham Dr. and recovered at corner of Mt. Paran andRandall Ct. the same day. Front door kicked in on Beech-wood Dr. and burglarized. Alarm not activated. Front doorkicked in on Harris Trail while homeowners were out oftown. No alarm. Open door found on Garmon Ferry. Itemstaken from unlocked vehicle on Whitewater Creek Rd. Dam-age to mailbox on Garmon Rd. Planters were taken fromfront porch in the middle of the night on Regency Ct. Eightsuspicious people and vehicles reported throughout theneighborhood.

The Crime Report

Continued on Page C2

Logged 13,186 miles patrolling our neighborhood Made 3,537 house checks for traveling subscribers Responded to 56 alarm calls

Investigated 68 suspicious persons or autos

Investigated 11 incidents of vandalism Investigated 22 incident of larceny Investigated 2 auto thefts Investigated 14 incidents of vehicles entered Investigated 11 break-ins Apprehended 2 burglary suspects Reported 2 abandoned vehicles to impound Found 4 open doors

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More Crime News: Security Patrol Activity

March: Burglary suspects apprehended on CaveRoad by Mt. Paran Security Officer Jim Hendrix andPaces Civic Security Officer G. D. Robertson. Thesewere the same two suspects reported in the silverLexus kicking in front doors on Beechwood Driveand Harris Trail last month. Several suspicious peo-ple reported in the neighborhood. Door-to-door sales-man were stopped by Sgt. Ellis (J.R.) and removedfrom the neighborhood. Suspects were driving awhite van. Yard rolled on Garmon Drive. Woodenplanks taken from a fence on Beechwood Drive.

April: Several suspicious people and autos reportedthroughout the neighborhood. Several cars were en-tered on Northside Dr. and Garmon Ferry Rd. Items

taken included computers, ladies pocketbooks, cellphones and iPods. Rear window broken and briefcase taken from house on Glen Devon. House en-tered and burglarized through unlocked door on Fair-field Rd. House entered and burglarized through rearwindow on Mt. Paran Rd. Vacant house on MusketRidge entered and burglarized.

May: Several suspicious people and autos reported inthe neighborhood. Burglary on Stonegate Way (alarmwas not activated). Glen Devon homeowner called onMay 10 to report a burglary on April 17 (no alarm).Nothing taken from vehicle entered on N. Harris

Ridge. Sgt. Ellis (J.R.) shot by a paint ball gun whileon his motorcycle on W. Conway Drive.

June: Several suspicious people and autos reportedin the neighborhood. Mail missing from mailbox inThe Highlands. A GPS (Global Positioning System)was taken from an unlocked vehicle on Sentinel PostRoad. Car window broken on Whitewater CreekRoad but nothing was taken. Identity theft on Harro-gate Drive. Homeowner discovered a stack of checksmissing after receiving a phone call from a depart-ment store clerk that a suspicious person claiming tobe her husband was trying to cash a check. Suspect

had identification with the husbands name and otherinformation. Homeowner claims the box of checkswas sealed when she retrieved them from the mail-box. Yard trenched on Northside Drive by a vehicle.

July: Several suspicious autos and people were re-ported in the neighborhood. Cell phone and otheritems were taken from a vehicle on Swathmore Driveduring the night. Cement dog taken from porch onGarmon Ferry Drive. Two frogs taken from side en-trance gates on Garmon Road. Lawn service truck

C2

Continued from Page C1

was stolen from front yard on East Chambord. Yardstrenched on Randall Mill Road and Randall RidgeDoor-to-door sales people reported on several streetsSome were very aggressive and became angrywhen homeowners wouldn't let them inside thehouse. Some homeowners called security but not 911

Mt. Paran Security Patrol Reminders:Who is your pool Company? What is the name andphone number of your pool company? Swimmingpools require year round maintenance. Our securitypatrol officers spent two days adding water to a leaking pool for an out of town subscriber in JanuaryPool owners should leave the name of their pool ser-vice on the premises in plain view in case there is anemergency while you are away.

Use mailbox flags at your own peril! Once againsecurity reminds homeowners who continue to place

outgoing mail in the mailbox with the red flag up toalert the thievesthat identity theft is the fastesgrowing crime in the United States.

Security and the police want to know when strangers are going door-to-door soliciting your moneyRemember that most soliciting in Atlanta is illegawithout a permit and that sometimes solicitors juswant to case your house prior to breaking in. At thefirst sign of suspicious people, call Security at 404310-7361 and/or 911 so that authorities can determine whether these strangers are legitimate or not.

Be aware of ongoing phone scams. One scam an-nounces a very special message for (your name). Tohear the message dial 9 and then 866-???-???? Theneighbor reporting this call did not listen to the en-tire phone number as they were aware of the scam.When you call the long distance number you arecharged an outrageous amount of money for makingthe call.

Another neighbor reported receiving a computer gen-erated phone call from the Fulton County jail sayingto press a number to have a three way conferencecall. The neighbor was aware that huge fees are be-ing charged through a foreign carrier and hung up.The neighbor called the number back and received aresponse on caller ID that it was not a working num-ber. (Officer Hendrix reports that his mother gets re-peated calls in the middle of the night supposedlyfrom the Fulton County jail and hangs fast.)

According to Zone 2 Major Joe Spillane, an inmatecalls your house and once on the phone gets you to

Continued on Page C3

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More Crime News: Guard Against Crime & Being A Victim

REPORT CRIME TO 911 THEN

CALL MT. PARAN SECURITY

(404) 310-7361

Continued from Page C2

authorize a conference call by pressing a number.

The inmate can then call whoever they want on yourdime. You then hang up thinking you have ended theconference call that you unwittingly authorized butthe inmate and whoever they called (likely long dis-tance or 1-900) is still connected.

All calls from the Fulton County Jail will have a peri-odic recording indicating that the call is from a cor-rectional facility, or from the Fulton County Jail. In-mates sometimes try to get people to accept a collectcall from the jail. It is automated and requires thehouse being called to press a number to accept thecharges.

Major Spillane advises that its best not to accept

calls from inmates unless you know and love them.

Log onto the Georgia Stop Identity Theft Networkwww.stopidentitytheft.org to learn about identitytheft prevention, find help for victims, help for lawenforcement and more.

Since February Major Spillaneand our Zone Two police offi-cers have taken a new measureto deter and reduce crime in ourneighborhood. They are remov-ing illegally displayed commer-cial signs from utility poles andthe public right-of-way. Theyare warning these illegally ad-

vertising businesses (if you cancall them that) of the consequences: $100 fine persign and jail time. Thank you, Major Spillane and ourwonderful Zone two officers! You are averting moreserious crime in our neighborhood.

What, you ask, does illegal signage have to do withburglaries and crimes of violence? A lot. Its a theorythats been verified in neighborhoods that toleratelitter, graffiti, unkempt front yards, and illegal adver-tising plastering utility poles and impaled in the right-of-way. Its called the Broken Window theory.Neighborhoods that reflect apathy about visible pol-lution send a message of vulnerability to would-beexploiters, criminals looking for a low-risk site fortheir crime.

Last summer Councilmember Anne Fauver put teethin City Ordinance 138-13 which prohibits illegalsignage in the city. Her augmented legislation saysthe name on the sign is the responsible party, and thisparty is subject to a fine of $100 per sign. Our Zone 2officers and the midtown Atlanta police zone havestepped up to the plate to enforce this law. Maybethats why we enjoy a lower crime rate than other

parts of the city. It certainly is a contributing factor.Thank you, Major Spillane and Zone Two officers.

Thank you Major Spillane

and Zone Two Police!

By MARY LOU FLOYDBoard of Directors, Keep Atlanta Beautiful

Mary Louise Floyd

Add the Highway Emergency Response Unit(HERO) Number to your cell phones.

The HERO unit travels theinterstates to assist withchanging a flat tire, charging a

battery, bringing gas, etc. Addthis important number to your

cell phone for assistance in highway emergencies:404-624-2660.

New Service for Security Patrol MembersWe now offer security patrol members the opportu-nity to go onlineto fill out an electronic informationform (itinerary) when you go out of town. You canobtain the form directly from our Association Web-site:mtparannorthsidecitizensassociation.org Sim-ply fill out the form and click on Submit. This is a

secure site that can only beaccessed by our securitypersonnel.

The site has been set up for efficiency and will en-able the security patrol officers to safely obtain thenecessary information instead of writing it downwhile driving. However, security members still havethe option to call the security number with the infor-mation. If you have any questions, please call theSecurity Patrol at 404-310-7361. Be sure to leave amessage and someone will call you back.

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Childrens Social Security Numbers:

Latest Trend in Identity Theft

While many adults have become more vigilant in protect-ing their own credit, few pay attention to the credit infor-

mation of their children. Because few children have estab-lished credit history, they are especially vulnerable to at-tack. The only information required to obtain and takeover a child's credit is their social security number, date ofbirth and address. Thieves take the information and obtaina credit report via the online websites of major credit re-porting bureaus, usually with a stolen credit card. They arethen free to take over the child's identity. This can go onfor years and is commonly discovered upon application fora drivers license or application to college.

Identity theft is commonly associated with theft from achecking account or application for credit cards. This isnot the full extent of the problem. Thieves commonly ac-

quire an individual's credit history to obtain loans and pur-chase large ticket items. You do not need "good" credit toget these loans. Many financial institutions target "at risk"credit groups by allowing the loan to go through butcharge high interest rates. Thieves are not concerned withthe rates because they have no intention of paying theloan. They obtain a check for the loan and take it to acheck cashing location, taking home thousands in cash.

Cases in Fulton County and surrounding areas have un-

covered instances where thieves have used the social secu-rity numbers of children for years. Theyve purchasedcars, houses, and been convicted of felonies. In cases ofcriminal convictions, the social security number of thechild become related to the perpetrator in the same mannerthat an alias can be used, causing the child to show up oncriminal histories as convicted felons. This can be re-moved using an expungement process through the prose-cuting agency where the conviction was obtained. Realestate transactions are detrimental not just to the home-owners. Thieves purchase homes that have been appraisedbelow their true value. They then get a true appraisal andtake out a second mortgage for the difference. They walkaway with the second check and the banks are forced toforeclose. The home may then be sold at auction.

Parents should closely guard the identifying informationof their children in the same manner they would guardtheir own. Be extremely cautious whenever a social secu-rity number is required. If you are prompted to give theinformation leave it blank and see if they ask you for itlater. Be sure to question why this information is re-quired. Credit reports should be checked regularly alongwith brokerage and banking accounts.

If you are a victim of identity theft it is extremely impor-tant that you report the problem to authorities yourself.Banks commonly do not report the crime and many finan-cial institutions have policies restricting employees' abilityto call the police. Georgia's identity theft statute allows ajudge to order the credit history cleared of a victim afterthe conviction of a defendant. This can go a long way toclearing a victim's name without the expense and head-ache of doing it yourself.

BY JILL HOLLANDER

Assistant Fulton County District Attorney

There are dishonest people pretending to be Social Work-ers, agency or church volunteers so that they can get insideyour home and steal your personal information, creditcards, money and other valuables. Please follow these tips:

1. Do not let strangers in your home!

2. Don't judge a book by its cover - well dressed peoplecommit crimes and so do women!

3. If you have not called or signed up for social services,free groceries or medical attention, do not let a strangerconvince you that you need their services.

4. If you have called for services, check the person's identi-fication before they enter your home. Ask them to pressthe ID card against the window or slide it under the door.Do not trust a chain lock, it can easily be broken withenough force!

5. Never let anyone know that you live alone or are athome alone.

6. As soon as a stranger appears, call a trusted neighborand ask them to watch your home. Remain on the phonewith them, until the stranger leaves.

7. When in doubt, call 911.

These are some of the latest scams:

1. A woman states that she is a Social Worker and needsto give you a hearing test. When you turn away from her,she grabs your valuables or you discover itemsmissing after she has left.

2. A woman pretending to be a church or charity workerbrings you a box of free groceries and steals your valu-ables. When you open your purse to show her identifica-tion, she grabs your purse and runs out of the door.

3. Remember, these scams can involve criminals from dif-ferent races and they can be a male or female workingalone or as a team.

Call the Atlanta Police Larceny Unit for more informa-tion about these incidents at 404-853-4240

City of Atlanta Police Online:

www.atlantapd.org

Beware SeniorsBy RICHARD J. PENNINGTON

Chief of Police, City of Atlanta

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More Neighborhood Briefs

Crime of Opportunity

Several neighbors have notified security that strangers haveshown up at their front door saying they heard the house was forsale and asked to take a tour. This is a ruse to gain access for the

sole purpose of committing a crime against you or your prop-erty. In one instance the strangers saw the homeowner throughthe window and left. In another instance the housekeeper re-fused to allow the man and woman to enter the house. Do notallow yourself to become a victim. Do not allow people youdon't know to enter your house and be sure to inform your em-ployees similarily. Call 911 and security immediately whenevera stranger appears. Officers Cole and Hendrix & Sgt. Ellis

7

Home Safety: Poison Help

Until recently, each of the 65 poison-controlcenters in the country had a different phonenumber. Now, a single toll-free number willget you the help you need no matter whereyou are: 1-800-222-1222.

Dialing the national hotline will connectyou with the poison-control center nearest you. And the numberis not just for emergencies. You can call for information andprofessional advice on poison prevention, pesticide use, druginteractions, and related topics.

Call 911 if an emergency involves someone who has col-lapsed or is not breathing. When making a call about a poisonemergency try to have the following information ready: Condition, age and weight of the victim Name of the product; its ingredients; the amount ingested Time of ingestion

City Begins Online Water/Sewer Bill Payments

Over the last year, the Department of Water-shed Management (DWM) has undertakenseveral initiatives designed to make its cus-tomer service system more efficient andfriendly. It has switched from a bi-monthly

payment system to a monthly system to allow customers tobudget for their water/sewer service and has extended its cus-tomer service hours and added telephone payment capability.

Now, DWM is offering online payment capability, which willallow customers to access their accounts via their computers.By visiting www.atlantaga.gov and clicking on Online Ser-vices a secure and easy to use system allows a customer toview their online payment history, as well as pay their bills.There is no service charge for online payment.

Celebration for Preservation

Chastain Park Conservancy will hold its firstfundraiser November 5, 2005. Join yourfriends for an elegant evening in the ChastainAmphitheater to benefit the park. Enjoycocktails, sumptuous southern cuisine and a

silent auction set on the stage of the amphi-theater. Sponsorship levels of $5000, $3500,

$1500 are available; individual tickets for $200. Call the Con-servancy at 404-237-2177 for more information.

The funds from the gala will be used to continue the improve-ments and additions to the park. Some of the projects accom-plished during the past 18 months include the tree restoration inconjunction with Cousins Properties and the Department ofParks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs and the facelift of thehillside on W. Wieuca in cooperation with MALTA(Metropolitan Atlanta Lawn and Turf Association). Volunteershave given 4800 hours, worth $75,000, maintaining areas of thepark that have been reclaimed. Eagle Scout David Shermanraised $12,000 to restore a grill pavilion on Park Drive. Contri-

butions from individuals have provided five new swings posi-tioned around the park. Ongoing stakeholder meetings focus onsecurity issues and disaster planning for all the park venues.

Thanks to all the people who joined the Conservancy in 2004.We hope you will renew your membership for 2005. There ismuch to be done for the park and everyone benefits from theimprovements for this jewel in our neighborhood.

Mary Dodson

Has your group, ever wanted to take a handson role in making your community better? Ifso, Hands On Atlantas TeamWorks programis perfect for you.

TeamWorks, a group volunteer program,allows groups to work on a variety of serviceprojects over an 8-week period.

TeamWorks is a great way to meet newpeople and sample service projects through-out metro Atlanta. TeamWorks also enablesneighborhoods to build stronger communities

by strengthening relationships between neighbors.The TeamWorks experience begins with a kickoff where par-

ticipants meet fellow teams and make project selections. Teamsthen participate in 3-4 volunteer projects over 2 months. At theend of the program, all teams gather at a closing project wherevolunteers get a chance to share service experiences and brain-storm additional steps toward building a better community

through service.The next kickoff for TeamWorks takes place Saturday, August27, at the Hands On Atlanta Midtown offices. For information,contact Monique Shields, Associate Director of CommunityPartnerships, 404-979-2851 or mshieldshandsonatlanta.org

Volunteering Opportunities For Groups

E-Mail is Your Window to The Neighborhood

Over the years your Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Associationhas discovered the value of getting important information to theneighborhood in the quickest most efficient manner. Email istimely, cost effective, and enables our members to efficientlyaffect outcomes on issues which impact our community. Youremail address is never broadcast to others on our list and willremain confidential. If you did not include your email address inthe annual membership dues statementor your email addresshas changedplease email it toAnd, be sure to include this address in your on-line address bookso that youll be certain to receive these important emails whentheyre sent.

YOUR GROUPS VOLUNTEER EVENT CANBE LISTED IN

THE NEXT EDITIONOF NEIGHBERHOOD BRIEFSIF YOU

EMAILALLTHE INFOTO:

THIS NEIGHBORHOOD SUPPORTS WHAT YOU DO!

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I am honored once again to have the privilege of writing forthe Citizens Review. While I am no longer assigned to Company#27, I recognize the Mt. Paran-Northside neighborhood as one ofthe cornerstones that Atlanta is built upon. I remain in contact

with Captains Pruett, Miller and Coleman as well as members ofthe Mt. Paran-Northside Association Board.

I am happy to report to you that Station #27 (corner of North-side Drive and W. Conway) is undergoing a face lift. After yearsof requesting repairs and upgrades to the station from the city,Captain Don Pruett decided to take matters into his own hands literally. He requested and received permission for the crew ofStation #27 to do the work. The city provided the materials andthe crew of Station #27 has remodeled the kitchen, dining roomand captains office. This included removing a wall between thekitchen and dining room, replacing the ceiling and floor tiles,and replacing the kitchen cabinets and countertops. CaptainsPruett and Miller, FAO Dorsey and Firefighters Doss and Sim-mons were the primary workers in this project, but of course

everyone pitched in. Please stop by and check it out.Fire Chief Dennis Rubin has recognized Firefighter Glenn Barryfor his community service initiative. FF Barry came to #27 lastNovember from Company #19 in Virginia Highlands. For sev-eral years, Glenn has been going to the local public library andchecking out childrens books. He then places a small sign out infront of the station advertising story time. Parents from theneighborhood bring their children in to the firehouse to listen toGlenn reading childrens stories. He quickly developed quite afan club. Glenn continues his evening literary adventures at Sta-tion #27. Keep an eye out for the sign and bring the kids in for atrip to the firehouse and an evening of adventure. The GlennBarry Reading Program is now being promoted to all AtlantaFire-Rescue stations.

During the month of June, Atlanta Fire-Rescue implementedthe Paramedic Engine program. Six engine companies were up-graded from intermediate medical care capabilities to advancedlife support capabilities. Engine #21 on Roswell Road is now aparamedic engine. Engine #39 on Wieuca Road has been a para-medic engine for several years because they are actually a FultonCounty unit. These units are capable of Cardiac monitoring, de-fibrillation, external pacemaking and cardioversion. They canperform an advanced airway procedure known as endotrachealintubation which places a rigid tube in the windpipe for artifi-cial ventilation. They can administer several life saving medica-tions and procedures at the scene of an emergency. AtlantasParamedic Engines has some of the most advanced equipmentavailable. This program is a tremendous leap in our ability toprovide service to the Citizens of Atlanta. Grady EMS will con-tinue to be the transport service for Atlanta.

I am currently assigned to Company #23 near the WaterWorks. My company was the first to respond to the recent Atlan-tic Station fire with only three members. They were able to seethe blaze in the sky as they left the station. Fortunately, addi-tional help was able to respond quickly and the massive fire wasknocked down in just over an hour. This was certainly no smalltask. I arrived at shift change around 7:00AM. Our crew oper-ated on that scene until about 5:30PM when we were relieved bycrews from other companies and mutual aid departments.

What is interesting to me is the fact that the media alwaysreports that there were no injuries. Perhaps a more accurate

Fire Side ChatBy CAPTAIN KEITH SCHUMACHER

FIRE STATION #23 B-SHIFT

8

report would be no critical injuries. I know for a fact that therewere several firefighters injured and overcome on that fire. Isustained some minor injuries myself. Unfortunately the machoimage of the firefighter gets in the way of accurate injury report-ing. Fire-Rescue already has the highest injury rate of any citydepartment with only a fraction of the injuries reported. We areaggressively implementing safety programs within Fire-Rescueto reduce the number of injuries to our members. We have alwaysaccepted injuries as just part of the job. This is not acceptable, but itis very difficult to avoid injuries in a very dangerous job. So

when you hear in the news there were no injuries at a fire, takethat with a grain of salt.In other matters, the Finance Committee of Atlanta City

Council has deferred discussion on the possibility of improvingpension benefits of city employees until August. Since 2001, thepension disparity with police has been one of the largest moralebusters in the history of our department. City Council now hasthe ability to correct this unfair disparity within a reasonablecost. Please encourage your elected officials to support pensionbenefits for firefighters equal to that of police. It is the only fairthing to do. Our senior members have dedicated many years ofloyal service to the City of Atlanta. They should not be treated assecond class recruits.

As candidates for election and re-election for city council aremaking the rounds in the next few months, please dont forgetabout your firefighters. We still desperately need your help andsupport. Ask the candidates what they plan to do about the grossunderstaffing of many of our fire stations including Station #26on Howell Mill Road. All current Council members were pro-vided information about NFPA 1710 which is a national standardfor fire service staffing and deployment. Ask them if they arefamiliar with that standard. Ask them what they plan to do aboutthe fact that Atlantas firefighters are the lowest paid in themetro area and dont even make as much as Atlantas underpaidpolice.

If the candidate does not indicate that they support minimumsafe staffing under NFPA #1710, and equal pay and pensionbenefits with Atlantas police, I ask you to tell them that you willvote for their opponent.

As we found in the last election, the candidate can still changetheir tune after they are elected, but at least we can let themknow that these issues are on the voters minds.To date, Atlantas firefighters have answered your calls for helpover 32,000 times in 2005. Each call is an opportunity to strivefor the best and highest quality emergency services available.We are proud to do it. Once again, we thank you for the opportu-nity to serve you and hope that you have a great summer.

Mt. Paran-Northside Assoc.

BABYSITTING NETWORKNeighborhood teens interesting in babysitting,

and Moms looking for babysitters, shouldcontact Michelle Ventulett email:

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

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More Neighborhood Briefs

Editors note: special thanks to all the contributors in this issue. Email articles

ideas, events, tips and photos for the next issue of The Citizens Review. All suggestions welcome.

defeating this new application were goodbut we went through the same process andwon again. For the next several years, wefought back many down-zoning attemptsincluding a large nine-acre tract on North-side Drive. Ultimately it was developed as abeautiful home and gardens within existing

zoning regulations.In June 1989, the Northside Woods Neighborhood Associa-

tion was formed to protect and preserve the two-acre zoning in a

defined area of approximately 400 homes. The Sandy SpringsCouncil of Neighborhoods was another way for neighborhoodassociations to band together and have a larger voice as theyfought detrimental changes in zoning in their areas. We haveworked effectively with the Riverview Homeowners Associa-tion as well as the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Associationwhen we needed each others support and strength of numbers.We hope that the 13% of members of the Mt. Paran-NorthsideCitizens Association who now live in the City of Sandy Springswill be a bridge between both areas. Commissioner Bob Fultonsaid it best when he talked about how he enjoyed driving homethrough this area and thought it was truly the jewel in thecrown of the City of Atlanta.

As the vote showed on June 21, the people of Sandy Springsare tired of appealing to a commission, only one of whose membersdirectly represents our area, to do what is best for the area and itsresidents. The Sandy Springs commissioners, who will beelected in November, will have a much smaller constituent base.The Governors Commission on Sandy Springs is discussing aform of government which would contract out all services, thuseliminating the inevitable government bureaucracy over time.

The task before the new city will be challenging but oneeveryone has been waiting a long time to meet. We look forwardto controlling our own destiny and beautifying the city of SandySprings which has been squandered by erratic and unplanneddevelopment.

Sandy Springs Independence Day

Second Annual Annie Oakley Tournament

For any ladies who like to shoot sporting clays/skeet, (or would like to learn), the SecondAnnual Annie Oakley Tournament at BurgePlantation is being held on Friday, November4th. The First Annie Oakley Tournament, heldat Burge Plantation last November 12th, was ahuge success with over 60 women shootingand over $26,000 raised to benefit The Trustfor Public Land. The proceeds will again bene-fit the Trust for Public Land.

The Trust for Public Land conserves land for people to enjoyas parks, gardens, and other natural places, ensuring livablecommunities for the future. Your participation will help protectour natural spaces for generations to come.

The concept of the Tournament is to replicate the flight ofdifferent game birds, such as ducks, pheasants, and quail usingclay targets in a series of stations. Skillful shooting is not a pre-requisite! Participants have the option of choosing the 75-clay

Shooting Tournament or an Instructional Clinic with highlyqualified instructors. What is most important is that we enjoyour friends and experience a safe, relaxing day in the countrywhile contributing to The Trust for Public Land. Gentlemanshooters also welcome.

To participate, contact Robin Howell-Hudson ator email

Support the Marcus Institute at The Big Splash

The Big Splash, a black-tie (and tennis shoegala benefiting The Marcus Institute, was re-cently unveiled as the first fundraising event totake place at the Aquarium on November20th. Attendees will have the opportunity to

have a full-access, sneak peak at the new Geor-gia Aquarium with dining and live entertain-ment days before the facility opens to the pub-lic. There will be a live auction featuring in-credible items, such as a five-night Moroccangetaway for two; a four-person Andretti NASCAR Racing Packagewith accommodations and time with the racing star; a cocktailparty for 30 at 103 West; and Italian Jewelry from KenGoldwasser.

The event, co-chaired by Northside neighbor London Andes,is the brainchild of FunDraisers, a group of Atlanta women whoselect a different charitable organization to benefit eachyear. FunDraisers chose The Marcus Institute this year because

the group feels strongly that it is time for the local community tolearn more about and support The Marcus Institute, which is oneof only two facilities of its kind in the United States that offerscomprehensive evaluation and treatment for children with severedevelopmental disabilities like autism. For ticket and sponsor-ship information, email: bigsplash2005@aol.com

London Andes

Continued from Page 1

Marty Gillin

Council Clarifies Eminent DomainContinued from Page 1

9

lution states that the City Council does not intend toemploy the power of eminent domain solely for thepurpose of improving tax revenueby transferringor allowing the use of such property to a private de-velopersolely to expand tax revenue.

I am pleased that the Atlanta City Councilapproved such measure on July 18, 2005 and look

forward to further clarification of Georgias law when theGeneral Assembly convenes in January 2006.

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The Mt. Paran Woods Garden Club is thriving as it begins its51st year. Established in 1955, the group has always partici-pated in the maintenance, design and well being of ourneighborhood pocket parks (owned by the city of Atlanta),which now number three. Under the leadership of Judy Jones,we have completed the ambitious plan for the restoration of theWest Conway pocket park. Pocket-park co-chairmen AngiEvert and Ann Woodruff did an outstanding and inspired jobintroducing new plant materials, giving each park a certainwhimsy and character of its own, working tirelessly for severaldays. Be sure to drive or walk by and take a look!

Our incoming President, Olivia Evans will take over Septem-ber 1. Other officers serving in 2005-06 are: Merry Carlos -

Vice President, Susan McCaffrey - Treasurer, Judy Jones - Cor-responding Secretary and Marcia Cohn - Recording Secretary.Through the efforts of our group, significant additions havebeen made over the years to the pocket parks. Some examplesare: installing the giant Redwood log cross-section/sign,imported from California in 1969, and adding granite curbing(replacing deteriorating railroad ties) to the Country Storepocket-park in 1986, with Jean Birds guidance. Anotherachievement was the acquisition and development of the CaveRoad pocket park during Janie Merrills 1996-97 tenure aspresident. Certainly, the largest project with the most impactwas the restoration of the West Conway pocket park, initiatedunder Mary Lou Floyds presidency, with tremendous supportfrom triangle co-chairmen Louise McDermott and Roberta

Foley. Our scrapbooks detailing the clubs many contributionswere donated to the Atlanta History Center in 2002.

In addition to our annual support of two charitable efforts:the Atlanta Botanical Garden and the Alliance Childrens Thea-tre, this year the club elected to make a donation to the ChastainPark Conservancy. We are extremely appreciative of theneighborhoods financial support, especially the very generousresponse from several individuals for the West Conway pocketpark revival. With a full membership, we look forward to an-other productive year in 2005-2006 maintaining the pocketparks in our neighborhood and supporting community projects.For further information about the club, please contact OliviaEvans at

Garden Club Turns 50!

A Treasure at the End of a2-1/2 Hour Car Ride

PHOTO FEATURE BY JANICE BATES

Beechwood Hills Court

Plants installed at the West Conway pocket park April, 2005: DwarfMondo, Spreading Yew, Fatsia, Autumn Fern, Davidii Viburnum,Liriope Spicata, Pee Gee Hydrangea, Nearly Wild Rose, MoonbayNandina, Fosters No. 2(NS), Blue Nikko Hydrangea, Schillings Holly,Steed Holly.

form of identification, which is easily scanned. While tattoos area good form of identification lost pets are usually frightened andreluctant to let strangers search their bodies for their identifica-tion. Not only are tattoos difficult to find but many fade or blurover time. Collar tags also work but many come loose and arelost. Tags and tattoos should be considered the second form ofprotection and identification.

The problem for most owners is that they do not expect to losetheir pet, and when they do, it becomes their worst nightmare.Think back to the number of signs that we have all seen in our

own neighborhoods. That "LOST PET" sign is a reminder thatsomething went wrong. The unfortunate part of this is that thou-sands of unidentified pets are lost and may never be recovered.Some fall victim to theft, others are displaced during natural dis-asters. Those LOST PET signs serve as a constant reminderthat someone is missing a beloved pet. Our pets deserve better.

Animal shelters, rescue agencies, animal control officers, andveterinarians are increasingly and routinely scanning found petsfor a microchip. Those interested in more information can writeto the AKC Companion Animal Recovery, at 5580 CenterviewDrive, Suite 250, Raleigh, NC 27606-3389 or call them at (800)252-7894. CAR's email address is found@akc.org and their web-site is: www.akc.org/love/car

By PAT DALY

President Mt. Paran Woods Garden Club

10

Continued from Page 3Microchips Help Recover Lost Pets

These photos were taken in June at Providence Canyon StatePark, Georgias Little Grand Canyon in Southern Georgia. Iwonder how many Georgians know that there is a jewel right atour doorsteps to be explored? Youll be amazed at the colors.

Its great for a day's outing with family and friends, only 2-1/2hour's drive from Atlanta. Take the highway to Columbus andthen 27 all the way to Providence Canyon. There is a nice picnicspot right in front of the canyon. What more could one ask for?How about a trail at the bottom of the canyon thats great too!

Riverbed Trail

Rim of Providence Canyon, Lumpkin, Georgia

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August Gardening Tips

By PIKE FAMILY NURSERIES

2006 session to consider tworesolutions: a) "Shall the Consti-

tution of Georgia be amended so asto provide for limitations upon the rate of increase in thevalue of homestead property for ad valorem taxation forcounty, municipal, or educational purposes or any combi-nation thereof?" and b) "Shall the Constitution of Georgiabe amended so as to provide a $25,000 maximum, subjectto periodic inflationary increases, on the amount of advalorem taxation that may be levied on any single-familyresidential homestead property that is actually occupiedand used as the primary residence by the owner?"

You are encouraged to seek further information on theGHTC and learn how you can lend support to this effort. Itis also important to understand any impacts these resolu-tions may have. For example, when property taxes godown, where will the money come from to pay for localgovernment services? Is an increase in sales tax a viablealternative?Editors note: To read a full explanation of the proposed legisla-

tion and learn more about this effort, we hope you take the time

to navigate and study the website www.LowerHomeTaxes.com

or email cwingate @millermartin.com to communicate with

GHTC Executive Director Chad Wingate.

Welcome to the "dog days" of summer, so called because theDog Star (Sirius) rises and sets with the sun at this time of year.In the Southeast, "dog days" are the hottest, muggiest days of thesummer season. Because of the intense heat and humidity, mostmajor landscaping projects are usually postponed until the fallseason when the temperature is milder. The fall season is thebest time of the year for planting. Why? From mid-Septemberuntil mid-December, air temperatures cool down, daylight hoursshorten, causing plant growth above ground to slow down or stopaltogether. The air is cooler, but soil temperatures remain warmfor a time allowing plants to transfer their energies from topgrowth to root development. By the next spring, plants shouldhave a healthy, vigorous root system that is able to support theplant with the water and nutrients it requires.

Off with their (seed) heads! Weeds are notorious for produc-ing massive amounts of seeds. Mowing your lawn on a regularbasis prevents weeds from developing seed heads. As a result,

less seeds mean less weeds.Don't let your annuals "go to seed". Dead head or removefaded flowers on most annuals to prevent seed formation. Seedformation is often the last phase of an annuals life cycle Inter-rupting seed production prolongs the life of the annual and en-courages more blooms.

Water lawns and plants as early as possible to discouragethe development of fungi and mildews. In planting areas, waterthe soil, not the plants. Avoid getting water on the leaves.

Moisten and stir compost piles regularly to speed the de-composition process and prevent flies from breeding in the com-posting matter.

Check annuals daily to make sure they are getting enoughwater. Plants in containers and hanging baskets tend to dry outmore quickly than those planted in the ground.

Cut down the mosquito population by removing water fromsaucers; under pots outdoors. Even birdbaths can breed mosqui-toes, so discard the old and add fresh water at least once a week.

Remove spent vegetable plants and weeds in your summergarden. They can harbor insects and disease organisms. Cleanup the planting area to prepare for your fall garden. Leafy vegeta-ble plants such as broccoli, cabbage, collards and kale will soonbe available for fall planting.

Revitalize your rose bushes. Black Spot and summers heatcan take a toll on roses. Remove any dead or diseased leaves andstems, then lightly fertilize with a plant food formulated forroses. At this time of year, apply the fertilizer at half the recom-mended rate. You want to fortify the bush but you do not want toencourage a lot of new growth. When temperatures cool, rosesbloom again for their "last hurrah" of the growing season.

Wilting plants? Wilting and cur1ing leaves don't look prettybut they are not necessarily bad things. During the hottest part ofthe day, wilting or curling leaves can occur as a protectivemechanism. For example, certain Japanese maple leaves curl upto avoid the harsh rays of the afternoon sun. Wilting leaves occurbecause the roots cannot keep up with the water demands of theleaves. Usually this means that the roots don't have enough wa-ter, but that is not always the case. Prolonged intense heat andsunlight can cause some plants to wilt. This is especially notice-able on impatiens. However, if the planting area is consistentlywatered, the plants will usually perk up when the sun sets.

Working to LowerHomeowners Taxes

2005 Membership UpdateBefore the ink was dry on the 2005

membership directory, houses were soldand new residents moved into theneighborhood. The membership commit-tee works all year to update our databaseof some 946 houses, but its difficult tokeep up with every sale in the neighbor-hood. You can help by telling us whobought your house, or when you see amoving truck on your street, find outwho is moving in. Please email Member-ship Vice Chair Debbie Goot with this helpful informa-tion:

Debbie will inform our Hospitality Committee who willpersonally welcome new residents to the neighborhood.The committee is developing a welcome package that willinclude helpful information about our neighborhood, theAssociation, and some surprises for new neighbors.

All 529 current members should have received the 2005membership directory. If you did not receive your copy,

please call or email Debbie (see above). If you would liketo join the association and receive a directory, please mailyour check for $25 to Debbie Goot,Atlanta, GA 30327.

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MT. PARAN-NORTHSIDE CITIZENS ASSOCIATION, INC.P.O. BOX 724153 ATLANTA, GEORGIA 31139

OFFICERSPresident/Yolanda AdreanVice President/Communications/Jo Ann RauVice President/Membership/Debbie GootSecretary/Jean SmithTreasurer/Jim Carter

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Sandra Adair, Pat Daly, John Feeley, Sharon Giles, Al Goodgame,Alan Leet, Dana Scavo, Karen Swim, Pamela Tremayne, MarciVincent, Richard Wilson, Alan Yates

EX-OFFICIO (PAST PRESIDENTS)

Brenda Smith, Lynne Moscow, Sheldon Schlegman, RobertHurst (d), Edward Floyd, John R. Martin (d), Robert Miller, H. ClayMoore, Jr., J. Martin Turbidy

Editors: Lynne Moscow and Jo Ann RauDesign & Typeset: Jo Ann Rau

WEB SITE

www.mtparannorthsidecitizensassociation.org

Pre-SortedFirst Class Mail

U.S. PostagePAID

Atlanta, GAPermit No. 3207

Return Service Requested

Association Newsletter and Crime Report Inside

At the Davis Drive Home of

Courtney and Charlie Loudermilk

Watch for your invitation to arrive in early September to the

Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association Sixth Annual Neighborhood Social

SAVE THE DATESunday, September 25th, 5:307:30 PM

Thats when...