The

CITIZENS REVIEW
October 2009

Vol. 25

Newsletter of the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association, Inc.

What choices will you make Nov. 3?

Ten seats in the city and school are up for grabs in Atlanta!
Non-partisan City of Atlanta Municipal General Elections will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2009. Registered voters within the City of Atlanta will vote to fill the Offices of Mayor, City Council President and Council Members. Area residents vote for Council District 8 and At-Large Posts 1, 2 and 3. We also vote for Atlanta Board of Education District 4 and At-Large Seats 7, 8 and 9; and to retain Municipal Court Judges. Four-year terms begin in January 2010. Mt. Paran voters residing within the City of Sandy Springs will vote to fill the Offices of Mayor and City Council District 6. Four-year terms begin in January 2010. If no candidate receives at least 50% plus 1 vote, a Municipal General Runoff Election will be held on December 1, 2009 between the two candidates receiving the highest number of votes. The polls will be open from 7 AM to 8 PM on Election Day(s). Church, 4300 Northside Drive and Chastain Park Gym. Sandy Springs residents vote at the Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, 850 Mt. Vernon Highway. If you have questions, call the Fulton County Department of Registration and Elections at 404-730-7020. You can also vote in person prior to the election from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM at the following locations: Fulton County Government Center, 141 Pryor Street, #4064 (404-730-7072), North Service Center, 7741 Roswell Road, #209 (404-613-7675) on the following dates: Early Voting: October 13-23; Advance Voting: October 26-30. 75% of registered voters in the Mt. Paran neighborhood chose NOT to vote in the 2005 city elections! We cant just stop caring! With so much at stake, who will you choose to lead our cities and school? We are defined by the choices we make. Our future is defined by the choices we make.

No Excuse Voting
There are a number of opportunities to exercise your constitutional right to vote. If you wont be here on November 3 or cant get to the polls, absentee ballot applications are available online: www.myfultoncountyga.us/ county/elections or can be obtained at the Country Store on Mt. Paran Road at Northside Drive, and at Fire Station 27 on Northside Drive at West Conway. The deadline to register is October 5. Regardless of where you vote, remember, you must first be a registered voter. A form can be obtained at one of the above locations or online: www.sos.georgia.gov/ elections. If your teen will be 18 by the election, they can register now. Neighborhood residents in Atlanta vote at Jackson School, 1325 Mt. Paran Road, Northwest Presbyterian

See you at the polls!

Fire Station #27 Renovation Nears Completion

By MARCI VINCENT Task Force Chair

A new flag flew proudly over #27 this Fourth of July as if saluting the renovation of this City of Atlanta Fire Station, which was built in 1953. The exterior cream painted brick provides a soft background for the new roof, fire engine red garage bay doors and a black canopy over the front door. A custom designed sign by Paul Muldawer proudly proclaims: Our Fire Station #27. Flower filled pots donated by Susan Purdy, a new handicapped accessible sidewalk and fresh sod and mulch donated by Ed Castro Landscape complete the improved look of the exterior of the

building. A remarkable wooden ceiling was discovered by accident throughout the interior of the building. The ceiling was exposed, repaired and painted providing a unique architectural element to the rooms. The Community Room has a new bathroom, flooring, and a new HVAC system, which is far superior to the window unit it replaced. The Dormitory offers a sitting room, exercise room, four individual bedrooms with new desks, chairs, lamps and extra long
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From left: Paul Muldawer, Andrew Daly, Marci Vincent and Pat Daly

Photo By Carol Muldawer

IN AND AROUND THE NEIGHBORHOOD

The Presidents Corner

By YOLANDA ADREAN President MPNCA

Welcome Randall Mill and West Paces Park!

When our Association organized 25 years ago, it was in the spirit of uniting neighbors to develop strength and unity on issues including political issues, land use and other matters affecting the quality of our lives. Existing neighborhood associations including Whitewater Creek and Mount Paran Parkway joined under our umbrella. In that same spirit we welcome the Randall Mill Civic Association and neighbors in the West Paces Park Court community who have recently officially joined our association, We all share very common interests and are looking forward to working together on issues that matter the most to all of us!

I am bored. Those are the three words I uttered 6 years ago to a woman I just met at a Mt Paran Northside Citizens Association ladies luncheon. The woman? Lynne Moscow. As a relative newcomer to the Mt. Paran scene, I did not know she was one of the founders of our neighborhood association. For those who know Lynne, she was not going to let my comment drift into the enormous foyer of the luncheons host. She immediately ushered me to the other power house in our neighborhood: Brenda Smith. In a matter of days I was invited to one of their famous lunches and found myself invited to become part of the Board of Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association. The rest, as they say is history. It has been a pleasure and privilege to serve on the Board of Mt. Paran Northside Citizens Association as your President since 2005. I found the perfect place to become involved not only in our neighborhood but in issues that affect our City and its quality of life. According to the yellowing notes from 1984, our Association was organized to: Work to retain neighborhoods stability and residential character Be a positive force in the City by developing land use plans consistent with residential goals and maintenance of high standards for quality of life Integrate into a cohesive body with recognizable political strength Educate ourselves about the City, its needs and participate more meaningfully. We will celebrate our 25th Anniversary at our Annual Meeting on October 13th and we will celebrate with a purpose! We will do what we set out to do 25 years ago, and that is educate ourselves about the City. We are inviting you to meet several of the candidates for the three At-Large City Council seats and candidates for City Council President, District 8 and for the School Board. These candidates will share their views through a panel debate and there will be time for you to present your questions as well. I look forward to seeing all of you on Tuesday, October 13th at 7:00 PM at the Northwest Presbyterian Church. There are comfortable seats for 250 of us and lots of easy, free parking. And, of course we will have birthday cake too! PS If you would like to learn who all the candidates are for the city of Atlanta, you can go to www.atlantaga.gov and click the huge logo for Election Update Information. There you will find listings of candidates for each office and information regarding polling places, absentee ballots, early voting and so forth.

Save the Date SUNDAY, OCOBER 4

for the Tenth Annual Neighborhood Social of the Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association See back cover for all the details

Mayoral Forum Video Now Online

Campaign for Atlanta (CFA), an organization of long time residents and neighborhood leaders, and thirteen partnership Neighborhoods, announce the unedited video streaming of their July/August Forums. The Partnership Neighborhoods come from all parts of Atlanta. CFA and the partnering neighborhoods are pleased to provide Atlanta citizens with an easy way to view in-depth discussions with t h e f o u r leading Mayoral Candidates at www.campaignforatlanta.com The videos were taped at the CFA Mayoral Forum on July 18/19 at the Carter Center. Lynn Irvin, Regency Road neighbor and Chairman of CFA, in co-operation with Rick Lockridge, President Vee Media Farm, Atlanta, encourage Atlantans to watch the unedited videotaped discussions with the four leading candidates in the Atlanta Mayoral Race: City Council President Lisa Borders; City Councilwoman Mary Norwood; State Senator Kasim Reed; and well known Atlanta Attorney Jesse Spikes. One of CFAs goals is to raise the level of discussion in the Atlanta Mayoral race. We think our First Forum was a success in doing just that, said Lynn. The candidates were questioned by a panel of six experts
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The Power of Friendship:

Neighbors and Fire Station 27
By MARY LOUISE FLOYD

Mt. Paran Road

Fire Station 27 on Northside Drive could have no greater friends than the Task Force to renovate Fire Station 27. These friends include Marci Vincent, Task Force Chair, London Andes, Fundraising Chair, Paul Muldawer, Architect, Ann Warsham, Interior Designer, Al Goodgame, Landscaping Chair, Yolanda Adrean, Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association President, board member Lynne Moscow, and many others that helped along the way. The civic associations friendship with Fire Station 27 began over twenty years ago when they began taking Christmas lunch to the firefighters on duty. When a group of civic association board members arrived in December 2007 with Christmas lunch, Captain George Coleman insisted that they stay and eat with them. Thats when the group noticed the deplorable condition of the stations interior: peeling paint, rusting windows frames, rotting doors, and crumbling bathroom tiles. By May of 2008, Marci Vincent had rallied the support of our civic association to show the communitys support for the heroes who protect our lives and homes. They formed a task force to find means to renovate the 55-yearold building which receives a limited amount from the City of Atlanta for renovations and repair. The task force set a goal of raising $250,000 to accomplish the direly needed renovation. The task force hit the ground running to take on this massive project. In addition to badly needed brick-andmortar, the community is grateful to Lynne Moscow for assuring expedient response to 15% of its residents who reside in Sandy Springs. Lynne facilitated the Automatic Aid agreement between the Sandy Springs and City of Atlanta jurisdictions that allows for first response and automatic aid in the event of an emergency. Prior to Lynnes initiative, the Mount Paran-Northside communitys homes outside the Atlanta City limits could not be served by Fire Station 27. Two recent fires on Northside Drive were answered by Sandy Springs fire rescue distanced by several miles, despite the fact that Fire Station 27 was only blocks away. Besides responding to fires, we must remember that our fire fighters are also trained in emergency medical needs, which account for nearly ninety percent of their calls.

From left: Marci Vincent, Al Goodgame, Paul Muldawer, Lynne Moscow and the planting crew from Ed Castro Landscape

This task force established a non-profit for tax-deductible donations, the Atlanta Fire Foundation for Fire Station 27. Now that the renovations are completed, the task force is concentrating on furnishings and outdoor areas. Clich would have it that this inspiring endeavor is being accomplished by the Power of a small group, the Fire Station 27 Task Force. Those of us privileged to live in the Mt. Paran Northside Community prefer to think that this is the power of a long friendship between community leaders and Fire Station 27. As Aristotle said 3500 years ago, the highest form of friendship is one in which friends share a common altruistic goal. This ideal is what bonds the task force and Fire Station 27. If you have questions or would like a tour to see why this project is so important, please call Marci Vincent at

Notable Neighbors
Longtime Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association Board Member, Pamela Tremayne, has been named one of Georgia Trend's Legal Elite for 2008. The December issue of Georgia Trend magazine contains a roster of Georgia attorneys selected by their peers as the most effective in 10 different practice areas. Congratulations to Pam for being voted one of Georgia's Legal Elite! Dan Parmer, CEO of Jenny Pruitt & Associates presented Marci Vincent with the Company's Humanitarian Award, at the annual awards breakfast at the Ritz Carlton. The Humanitarian Award is extended to one agent in recognition of selfless and loving service to the community for her work in heading the Fire Station 27 Task Force.
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TRI-STATE WATER WARS

By CLAIR MULLER Atlanta City Council Member, District 8

For about twenty years the states of Georgia, Alabama and Florida have been in dispute about the operation of the federal reservoir known as Lake Lanier, and the Corps of Engineer operations of the reservoir. The state of Florida is concerned that the waters of the Chattahoochee which flow into the Apalachicola River be sufficient in flow to protect the several species of mussels and fish which are protected by the Endangered Species Act. Alabama is concerned that water from the Chattahoochee is needed for power plant operations. In the twenty years there have been several failed attempts to negotiate an agreement on water use. Last month a federal judge, Judge Magnuson of Minnesota, rendered a decision in this disagreement that focused on whether Congress had originally authorized Lake Lanier in 1946 for water supply when the reservoir was built. The authorized uses for the reservoir were navigation, hydropower and flood control. The judge ruled that the current use of water from Lake Lanier for water supply exceeds the Corps legal authority and requires congressional authorization. Under the judges order, the parties may continue to operate at current water withdrawals for a period of three years. If, within three years, Congress does not authorize water supply withdrawals and releases from Lake Lanier, OR if the three states do not reach an agreement, then the Corps is required to return immediately to its baseline operations, which means: Off-peak and weekend releases for water supply would be limited to 600 cfs (an amount less than needed to meet existing water quality requirements). The Corps would be prohibited from making releases over and above the 600cfs minimum flow to support downstream and water supply withdrawals. Only Gainesville and Buford would be permitted to withdraw water directly from Lake Lanier, and those withdrawals would be limited to their relocation contracts of 8mgd and 2mgd. Gwinnett County would not be permitted to withdraw any water from Lake Lanier since its 1956 authorization has expired. Governor Perdue has assembled a team to work through this process as the three states begin again to try to come to a negotiated agreement on the use of water from Lake Lanier. Appealing the ruling is another Georgia option. Working to get Congressional authorization for water supply is another option. This will be a major regional issue to watch and read about in the coming months. No one knows at this point how metro Atlanta, the state of Georgia, and indeed, the whole southeast region of the U.S. will fare in the coming years. Ive tried in this submission to write only factually about this very serious issue that has much disagreement on all sides. One opinion piece that I would offer in closing is that 4

water conservation is still VERY important. The drought of the past two years may have ended, but another will surely come in the future. Georgians learned a lot about water conservation in the past two years. I urge everyone to continue to conserve this precious resource. Remember afternoon outdoor watering is wasteful because much of it evaporates. Also, monitor your outdoor sprinkler system to NOT allow the automatic sprinkling to happen if it has rained frequently and certainly not during the rain. Also research just how much water your plants really need, and dont just set it and forget it. Looking for new sources of waterreservoirs, other river basinscould possibly take many years and will meet opposition. Water used for lawn watering, septic tanks, and crop irrigation is, in my opinion, consumed waterthat is water that is used, but not returned to the source. While the Metro Chamber of Commerce has talked a lot about the importance of sewering our communities instead of using septic system, some university experts argue that septic systems operating properly do return the ground water to its
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Fulton County 2009 Real Estate

Tax Billing Delays

By LYNNE RILEY Fulton County Commissioner - District 3

Your 2009 Fulton County real estate tax bills have not yet been mailed out by the Fulton County Tax Commissioner. Property tax bills are usually mailed around the beginning of August each year. Commercial property revaluation in 2008 and the down-turn in the real estate market led to an extremely high volume of property tax assessment appeals in 2008 and 2009. The time to work through the large number of appeals filed in 2008 took longer than expected. A threshold of settled appeals must be met to present the county tax digest to the State Commissioner of Revenue for certification. The tax digest must be certified by the state before property tax bills may be prepared and mailed to taxpayers. In the absence of a certified tax digest, Fulton County may seek a temporary collection order from Fulton County Superior Court. A temporary collection order was approved in 2008, pending final digest certification. This has not occurred, so a second temporary collection order was sought and approved for the 2009 tax year on August 24th. The Fulton County Tax Commissioner now has the authority to prepare and send out tax bills. The Tax Commissioners office is currently reviewing the tax digest information prepared by the Appraisal and Assessment Department, which is overseen by the Fulton County Board of Assessors. Errors and omissions identified are being addressed with the assistance of the County Managers Office and the Finance Department. It is expected that the 2009 property tax bills will be
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Fire Station #27 Renovation Nears Completion A Photo Gallery

Continued from Page 1

beds. In addition, the second renovated bathroom affords consideration for our female Fire Fighters, which was not the case when the building was originally designed. The furniture has arrived and the art work is up to complete the interior of #27. The Task Force is pleased that we met our goal of raising $250,000 for this project. The generosity of cash contributions from our Mt. Paran-Northside neighborhood, surrounding communities, including Sandy Springsall protected by #27has been overwhelming. In-Kind donations (tile, paint, plumbing fixtures, printing, mailbox, vacuum cleaner, interior design, photography, architectural drawings, contracting, dumpster and landscaping) warmed our hearts and allowed us to meet our objective. Over the past twenty months the Task Force, neighbors and friends have volunteered hundreds of hours and their talent to make this project happen. In spite of challenging economic times, citizens and community came together to solve a problem, right a wrong or fix something that is broken. That is the lesson of the project. The quality of life for our First Responders at #27 has improved immensely. They are so appreciative and grateful. The best way to say thank you is to stop by and see the progress or call me for a personal tour. We hope to have a grand opening/tour in the fall. Please watch the Mt. Paran website for a specific date and time. Al Goodgame, our Landscaping Chair, continues working with Ed Castro Landscape and the Eagle Scouts. Watch for ongoing improvements along the West Conway side of the building. Lastly, we look forward to acknowledging our generous donors and volunteers with plaques and pavers. These elements are currently in the design stage and will be placed inside and outside of Fire Station 27.

To here ...
The dormitory features four bedrooms opening from a hallway offering both privacy and quiet. There is a dorm sitting area with recliners, table, pool table, TV, exercise room and a bathroom and shower. The renovated community room, where the public comes to have blood pressure taken, and kids for story time, has a loveseat, chairs, tables, lamps, desk, communications equipment and a new public bathroom. The Captains office has a large surround desk and sleeping quarters. There is new flooring and art throughout the station.
Photos below by Al Goodgame

Dormitory Hall

Bedroom

Sitting Area

Dorm Area

From here ...

Dormitories defined by rows of lockers with beds in betweenno privacy, no sound proofing in a large open space; bathrooms with broken tiles and showers so depeplorable firemen wouldnt use them; rat infested walls, leaking roofs, and many other signs of neglect.
Dorm Exercise Room Shower Dorm Bathroom

Dining/Kitchen Area

Community Room

Photos by Paul Muldawer

Captains Office

In my Opinion
Cut Through Traffic Problems Grow
By TODD CURTIS FRYBURGER Northside Drive

SAVE THE DATE

Tuesday, October 13, 2009 at 7:00 PM

With the advent of the new school year, it appears to me that our growing problem with cut-through traffic, largely by Cobb County commuters headed to Buckhead, continues to get worse. I am curious in seeing if there is interest in supporting an initiative to place a leftturn arrow at the stop light at the intersection of Northside Drive and Blackland. I have noted that cars heading southbound at the intersection queue-up to take the left-hand turn from Northside onto Blackland, but northbound traffic typically precludes all but a few from being able to make the turn during a green light. Hence the queue now often grows all the way back to Broadland. As a result, many drivers attempt to escape the queue by turning left onto Broadland or left onto King Road, so they can cut through to Powers Ferry or circumvent the stoplight and get onto Blackland closer to Tuxedo. This pushes unwanted traffic onto the side streets, many of which have already been equipped with speed humps, but are no problem for SUVs. A left-turn arrow at Northside and Blackland would give relief to the queue, and therein, would ensure that drivers are not compelled to make shortcuts. It would also likely make sense to at least put a flashing light at Northside and Broadland. Drivers who use West Conway as a cut-through from Mt. Paran/Cobb Parkway emerge at Broadland, and seldom ever stop at the stop sign there when making a right turn onto Northside. Any thoughts as to how to generate interest/support?
Editors note: Please direct all ideas and responses on this subject, and any other, you feel strongly about to: for future publication.

Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association Twenty-Fifth Annual Meeting Election of Officers & Board

Program: Atlanta City Council Forum

Northwest Presbyterian Church 4300 Northside Drive (corner of West Conway) The Nov. 3 Ballot will be available Lets pick a new team for City Hall! Come meet the candidates for these Atlanta City Council offices: President District 8 Post 1 At-Large Post 2 At Large Post 3 At Large Candidates for Atlanta School Board District 4 have been invited Please join us on Oct. 13 to show that our Buckhead neighborhoods care about taxes, fiscal responsibility, public safety and getting the services we pay for.

Celebrating a Great Neighbor

Board Member Moves

Longtime Mt. Paran-Northside resident, Debbie Goot, has served as association Membership Vice President since 2002. She established a database to help keep track of current residents, new residents, residents who pay membership dues and residents who pay security patrol dues. Debbies up-to-date records are used for address labels for all association mailings. Debbie and her husband, Stephen, have also been gracious hosts. Over the years, they have opened their beautiful Harris Trail home to Mt. Paran neighbors when they hosted annual neighborhood social events, a ladies luncheon, and numerous board meetings. We thank Debbie for her commitment and many years of service to our association. Debbie and Stephen recently moved away from our neighborhood and we wish them much happiness and peace in their new home!
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Ask questions, seek solutions, and prepare to vote for the best team on Nov. 3. It will be a memorable and important evening! Sponsors: Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association Paces Civic Association Peachtree Battle Alliance South Tuxedo Park Tuxedo Park Civic Association

Wildwood Civic Association

Neighborhood Briefs
Concert to Help Fight Pediatric Brain Cancer
A must-see for kids of all ages! Bring your family to a Shannon Tanner concert to benefit Ians Friends Foundation for Pediatric Brain Tumor Research, October 11. Doors open at Noon for the 1:30PM concert at the Sandy Springs Heritage Center on Sandy Springs Circle. Tickets are $15 a person and $50 for VIP tickets (includes front row seating). For tickets, visit www.iansfriendsfoundation.com

Two Events to Benefits Marcus Autism Center

The first is "Big Splash V: The Masque," October 24th at the Georgia Aquarium. Honorary Chairs are Oz Nelson and Ann Starr, event chair is Nina Cheney. For ticket information visit www.marcus.org or call 404.785.9486. Black tie optional. The second event is the 4th annual Saks Fifth Avenue Fashion Show and Luncheon on Monday, November 2nd, at Saks. Designer Donna Karan will present her Resort and Spring lines. Champagne at 11:30am; luncheon at 12 Noon. Event chair is London Andes. Tickets are $125 each and can be purchased by calling 404.785.9486.

Good Neighbors Good Fun!

Northwest Presbyterian Church, just a smidge south of the Northside Drive/Mount Paran intersection, is hosting a neighborhood Fall Festival, Saturday, October 17, from 11AM to 3 PM. Bring the family and enjoy the pony rides, climbing wall, face paintingall good clean FUN for children AND adults. We'll throw hot dogs on the grill, for a wonderful Autumn day. Best of all, it's FREE for the community!

Chastain Park Fundraiser October 29th

The Chastain Park Conservancy will host the 2009 Fundraiser Party at the Chastain Park Amphitheater, the fifth annual fundraiser on Saturday, October 29, at the Chastain Park Amphitheatre. If you have attended the previous events, you know what an incredible experience it is to be on the same stage as your favorite performers during the back stage tour. Now see what goes on behind the scenes. The event will include live entertainment and feature tastings from some of your favorite restaurants plus, a silent and live auction. For more information, or to purchase tickets, call 404-237-2177. Support the Chastain Park Conservancy and help make your park cleaner, greener and safer by participating in this annual event.

St. Dunstans Invites Neighbors to Flying Pig Barbecue

St. Dunstan's Episcopal Church invites you to the Annual Flying Pig Bar-be-que. When: Sunday October 18. Where: in the beautiful Beech Grove, behind the Church at 4393 Garmon Road NW (rain or shine) Pit Roasted BBQ, Live Music, and fellowship. Tickets: Can be purchased at the door $12 for adults and $6 for children. Contact www.stdunstans.org/ for more information.

These Cavalier Spaniels are in the Pet Registry!

The family of Sundance and Cassidy, these Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, just joined the neighborhood association and immediately registered them in the Mt. ParanNorthside Pet Registry along with this photo and their cell phone number, just like over 700 other dogs, cats and birds that are part of our families and sh your pet(s) are not registered, please email and get them online and in the book! Its a big help if one day theyre lost. Microchips help too!

Walk to End Alzheimers October 17th

Memory Walk 2009 is the Alzheimers Associations signature annual event to raise money to support families dealing with this devastating disease. Last year you raised more than $1 million for Georgians touched by AD and this year plans to be even bigger! The money you raise will provide much-needed programs and services for people all over Georgiaservices like respite care for caregivers, support groups, educational classes and more! Someone is diagnosed with Alzheimers every 72 seconds and with the help of people like you, we can fight to lower that number. Go to www.alz.org/georgia if youd like to join the fun and form a team, or join a team.

Memorial to Dorothy (Dot) Cohen

The Citizen's Review and the Mt. ParanNorthside Citizens Association mourns the passing of Somerset Drive neighbor, Dot Cohen. Dot was a founding member of the civic association and a valued member of the first Board of Directors.

Chastain Park Annual Arts Festival: October 17-18

Atlanta is quickly becoming an artisans Mecca, thanks to visionary neighbors like Patrick Dennis and Randall Fox. Their creative energy and long hours of planning, have turned our own Chastain Park into the magnificent site of its first annual art festival! The Chastain Park Arts Festival will feature over 100 talented painters, photographers, sculptors, leather and metal crafters, glass artists, and jewelers. With free admission, beautiful works of art, lively entertainment and delicious culinary fare, this incredible event is fun for the whole family. For all the details go to www.chastainparkartsfestival.com

Editors note: special thanks to all the contributors in this issue. Email your articles, ideas, events, tips and photographs for the next issue of The Citizens Review. And your opinions will always be considered for reprint in In My Opinion our neighbor op-ed columns. 7

The Underwater World of Aaron Fink

At a young age, Aaron Fink, our Conway Valley Court neighbor, worked with his cousin Jerry Wachter, a famous sports photographer. In 1986 he purchased his first underwater camera and discovered a new photographic realm. He has worked with Ella Jean Morgan, Franklin Viola, and Donald Tipton and has been honored with numerous publications, several photographic awards, and multiple gallery appearances. Vicki, his wife, shares his passion for the beauty of our underwater world and concern for its future. When not behind the camera, Aaron is a Professor of Surgery at Emory University School of Medicine. Additional work can be seen on his website at: www.finksphotos.com

A Blue Spotted Pufferfish, Arothron caeruleopunctatus, is being cleaned by Bluestreak Cleaner Wrasse, Labroides dimidiatus. This image was taken in the Eastern Fields, about 75 miles south of Papua New Guinea and was published in Asian Diver Magazine.

Photographed in Palau, this is a Gray Reef Shark, Carcharhinus amblyrhynchos. This is a Green Sea Turtle, Chelonia mydas.

MT. PARAN-NORTHSIDE CITIZENS ASSOCIATION CELEBRATES 25 YEARS!

In October 1984, a small group of dedicated neighbors held the first annual meeting of the Mt. Paran Citizens Association at Jackson School on Mt. Paran Road. (Northside was added to the name in 1986 to recognize our eastern boundary.) Originally, there were 750 households within our boundaries and 267 neighbors paid dues to show their support for the formation of a duly incorporated civic association. Today, there are over 1000 households with some 540 dues-paying members. Although some are still in the neighborhood today, many of the original officers and board members have either moved away or passed away. History tells us that the original goals of those hard-working pioneers have been successful. However, there is still work to be done if we are to remain a strong, viable organization.
Remembering the1984 Pioneers Officers: Martin Turbidy, Clay Moore, Casey Jones, Brenda Daniels Board: Jerry Horowitz, Jack Martin, Bob Miller, Lynne Moscow, Sandy Turbidy Committee Chairs: Dot Cohen, Stanley Daniels, Lance Dobson, Marty Gillin, Liz Roberts The Citizens Review Lynne Moscow, Editor Sid Arnold, Bernadine Cantrell, Barbara Jackson, Letitia

Marvin Arrington, City Council President with MPNCA Pres. Martin Turbidy

Former Somerset Dr. resident, Clay Moore, MPNCA VP, M. Arrington, Tom Weyandt, Atlanta Planning Director and Lynne Moscow

Paul Bolster, State Representative, C. Moore, Hiram Undercrofler, former Chief Justice GA Supreme Court, M. Turbidy

Bob Miller., M. Turbidy, Robb Pitts, Brenda Smith, Paul Finkel

Beechwood Hills Court resident, Brenda Daniels, played a major role in helping to defeat the hotel and conference center proposed for Mt. Paran and Cave Road.

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IN AND AROUND THE CITY OF SANDY SPRINGS

Financial Condition of the City of Sandy Springs for Fiscal Year 2010
By KAREN McENERNY Sandy Springs City Council Member, District 6

The City of Sandy Springs ended its FY 2009 on June 30, 2009 with a modest $1 million surplus. That compares to FY 2008 at a surplus of $23.4 million. So in relationship to our countrys economic situation we are doing exceptionally well with the tax dollars entrusted to us. If compared to some of the municipalities to the south we are doing very well with our .004731 millage rate which is about 50% less than Atlantasas an example. Our general revenue projections for FY 2010 are up about $2 million from FY 2009 at $96.9 million which is remarkable when you consider our four major revenue sources of property taxes, sales taxes, business license taxes, and permitting fees are down by a combined 10%. The less we spend of the $96.9 million on service delivery, the more we have to spend on our capital programs such road re-surfacing; park improvements and other non-recurring capital needs. But there is an important balance to be struck to ensure we are delivering the services needed for the quality of life our citizens expect, such public safety, yet operate efficiently so that needed capital improvements can also be made. Despite the lower projections from our traditional sources of tax revenues described above, you may ask how the City of Sandy Springs has been able to maintain our general revenue projection which includes over 25% budgeted for non recurring capital. It is due to the surplus of $14.4 million being carried over from FY 2008 as described above. (The $9 million difference being spent on capital in FY 2009.) We are also a city that budgets conservatively and we have added $7.2 million of the $14.4 million into our rainy day reserve fund which represent 3 months of operations at approximately $23 million. That is outstanding when you consider we have saved these funds in less than 4 years of operations. Another $1.735 million was set aside as contingency funds in the event a more serious economic deterioration occurs in FY 2010 than anticipated. Finally, FY 2010 reflects a $23.7 million Capital Program including Roads which I will discuss in detail later in this article. This compares to $31 million allocated to capital in FY 2009. We budget for large expenditures over several years in advance and purchased the city hall site (old Target building on Johnson Ferry Road) for $8 million cash in December 2008. We can do this in these challenging times because of our business model of private public partnership with CH2MHill. That partnership allows for flexibility in staffing 9

and efficiency in the delivery of services to our citizens. If the cost of living index declines, our contract goes down. We can reallocate personnel if demand...say...in the permitting departmentdeclines without fear of violation of civil service or union policies. Our CH2MHill partnership allows us to be nimble and quick when trends are discerned. We operate with fewer employees and have no defined benefit pension obligations as all employees are in 401 ks. As I have mentioned before in this newsletter, the majority of cities in Georgia have between 3 and 7 employees per 1,000 residents, excluding public safety employees like police and fire personnel. Our ratio for FY 2010 is 1.4 employees per 1,000 residents; more than 50% less than typical cities in Georgia. Also we have top quality professional staff, and I cant give them enough credit for their commitment to exceed expectations and provide innovative ideasall of which benefit the bottom line for our tax paying citizens. Accomplishments since incorporation: we have tripled the number of police officers serving our community from 42 to 125; we have a new $5.6 million 911 Emergency Dispatch Center that opened Sept. 1 in partnership with Johns Creek...all funded with no increase in taxes to reduce enhance dispatch times for emergency calls in our two cities . We have connected all our traffic lights on Roswell Road to fiber optic; installed a $1.5 million Traffic Mgt computer operated Center which automatically adjusts the timing of traffic lights which improves movement on our Roswell Road Corridor while we await the GDOT design to relieve the congestion at the Roswell Road Bridge over I-285. Finally since city inception we have paved over 53 miles of arterial and collector streets at a cost of $24 million; excluding the 14.572 miles of neighborhood streets re-paved with GDOT LARP funding. $5.825 million has been added for FY 2010 and for the first time includes 2.81 miles of roads to be reconstructed due to their extreme deterioration which cost 3 times more than re-paving. FY 2010 includes 9.93 miles of repaving with a potential of an additional 1.25 miles if the contracts come in under budget.

Roads Planned for Resurfacing/Reconstruction

Of interest to our citizens in District 6; Lake Forrest and Long Island Drive will be repaved this year along with 4,641 feet of other streets, including Highcourt from Mt. Paran Road to Northside Drive, that will be repaved or reconstructed in 2010. That equates to 6.48 miles of repaving and 9/10 of a mile of road reconstruction.

www.mpnca your window to the neighborhood.

Tri-State Water Wars

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HOW TO SELL YOUR HOME IN THIS MARKET

By GREG LYLES

source. It just takes longer. The City of Atlanta has a very small percentage of septic systems (less than 2%) but the Atlanta Region as a whole has a much larger percentage. While metro Atlanta returns all but 1% of its used water to its source in normal times, during drought times, 3% is lost. Our conservation of water and the development patterns of our region should be uppermost in our minds as we work to find future water supply solutions.

Fulton County Tax Bill Delays

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mailed out in early October. Taxpayers will be allowed the normal 60 day period from the date printed on the bill to remit payment. Should billing be further delayed, taxpayers who wish to take an itemized deduction for property taxes paid in 2009 should take action to remit payment before December 31, 2009. Delay in billing has placed cash flow strains on county and city governments for 2009. My colleagues and I have directed the Fulton County Manager to make all efforts to assist the Tax Commissioners Office in the preparation and mailing of 2009 bills as quickly as possible. I will keep you informed further on this situation and what impacts this might mean in the upcoming months.

GARDEN CLUB UPDATE

By MARY LOUISE FLOYD

Public Relations Chair

Founded in 1955, Mount Paran Woods Garden Club, Inc. is a non-profit, community service organization dedicated to the landscaping and maintenance of our neighborhood's three pocket parks. These parks are located at Northside Drive and Mt. Paran Road, at West Conway Drive and Broadland Road, and at Cave Road and Mt. Paran Road. Every fall and spring, members plant colorful annuals or perennials, fertilize, mulch, and groom the parks. Through yearly membership dues and fundraising, the club employs a weekly service that cuts grass and maintains the parks. Members meet monthly from September through May to learn about gardening and sustaining greenspace. Governed by its 501(c) (3) by-laws, Mount Paran Woods Garden Club has 40 active members. Anyone who lives within the Mount Paran-Northside Community boundaries is eligible for membership. The Garden Clubs 2009-10 president is Elizabeth Morris. Beverly Selby is vice-president; Mary Dodson and Mary Jane Piazza are recording secretaries; Betsy Camp is treasurer; Joan Hoffman is corresponding secretary. Olivia Evans and Mary Stone co-chair the landscaping of our neighborhoods parks. Contact Carol Moore, membership chairman, to learn more about membership requirements, including meeting attendance, planting, financial obligations, and sponsorship. 10

Given the current market conditions, sellers would do well to be grounded in some sobering facts. Many sellers are still attempting to price homes at 2005 levels; trying to cash in on unrealistic expectations and profits. This speculative attitude has resulted in an oversupply of homes in the Buckhead and Sandy Springs markets. Fact: Currently these markets report an average of a 33 month supply of available homesfar above the norm of a 10 to 12 month supply. The excess inventory has led to a strong buyers market. What that means to sellers today is that effectively pricing against the competition is more important than ever. Problem: For the motivated seller in todays market, it is customary to price their home against recently sold comparable properties. This approach, however, may lead to later disappointment, as only the best one out of every thirty-three properties on the market will sell in any given month. If your property is not perceived as the best available (price vs. condition) relative to the competing properties at the time, it will be overlooked, thus accruing days on the market. I have always said there are only three reasons a house sells; marketing, condition and price. Marketing is designed to increase awareness among potential buyers and the realtor community. Once the buyer arrives at your door, it is the combination of price versus the condition of your home relative to the competing propertiesthat influence a buying decision. If buyers do not perceive your home to be a value for the condition, theyll buy elsewhere. In real estate, time is not your friend. Properties that arent selling are perceived as market-worn; begging for low offers. This explains why new listings receive the most attention by agents and buyers alike, and if the price-to-condition balance is in sync, will sell very quickly. Solution: Be honest and objective. How? Ask your realtor to physically show you the competition you are up against. Keep in mind, having the most amenities doesnt always translate into getting the highest price. Use those amenities to stand out from the competition rather than pricing yourself out of consideration. Remember, you must be perceived as exceptional to sell in todays market. Offer more for less. Be the exceptional property. This is not simply a function of price, but also condition. Prospective buyers will heavily discount homes for perceived needed upgrades or improvements. For example, if carpets are worn, sellers often offer a carpet allowance in lieu of replacing it themselves. While the seller may view this as a benefit, buyers may perceive the home as a fixer-upper and discount the price in excess of the cost of the carpet. By contrast, homes that are clean, clutter-free and well-maintained stand out from the crowd. A good realtor knows how to maximize your homes potential through proper home staging. Now more than ever, you dont get a second chance to make a winning first impression. Obviously, no seller wants to leave money on the table. The point here is that ironically, testing the market through overpricing can actually create a loss through increased time on the market and deeper price cuts to attract attention. Through very careful positioning, todays motivated seller can still achieve a timely sale with these strategic solutions in mind.

MPNCA Celebrates 25 Years!

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Mayoral Forum Video Now Online

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1984 Mt. Paran Association meeting at Jackson School

Cave Road resident, John Casey Jones (d), served as secretary from 1984 to 1999, our longest serving officer. Casey helped to incorporate the civic association to a nonprofit 501(c)(4) tax-exempt organization. He also helped writ e th e assoc ia tion s bylaws.

1984 meeting from another angle

and well informed citizens on five topics: Department of Watershed Management Issues; Creating and Maintaining a Competent City Bureaucracy; Police and Fire Issues. The questioners were Mr. Bob Bunker, Civil Engineer; Mr. Jim Martin, Ga.Tech Professor and Neighborhood leader; Mr. Sam Brownlee, Former Fulton County Manager for 20 years; Former Atlanta Deputy Police Chief Lou Arcangeli; and former Atlanta Fire Chief David Chamberlin. Kyle Keyser, Founder of the 12,000 member Atlantans Together Against Crime Organization, had this to say about the forums, I am pleased the four leading candidates sat down with us and discussed their ideas about how to provide our citizens with more security. This is the major issue in our city, and I hope groups sponsoring future forums will build on the dialogue we started in our forum. Campaign for Atlanta in cooperation with their 13 partnership forums and Vee Media Farm, Atlanta, Productions held their 2nd Forum at the Carter Center on the weekend of August 15/16. The Forum topic was City Finance and Code Enforcement Issues. There were 6 questioners asking the same 4 Mayoral Candidates about: Pensions; TADs and Tax Abatements; Millage Rates; City CFO and Creating a Competent Finance Department; Government Efficiency (Number of city employees and managing services) AND Code Enforcement. For more details, please go to the CFA website.

ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP:

ITS ALWAYS TIME TO JOIN!

Sandra Adair, Helen Miller, Sandy Turbidy, Robb Pitts, Brenda Smith, Lynne Moscow at a re-election campaign party for Robb at the Turbiby home

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT:

YOUR NEW NEIGHBORS

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

Although some neighbors pay membership and security dues before the annual statements are mailed, everyone receives an annual statement in January. To date, 540 neighbors have joined the association and received the 2009 Mt. Paran-Northside Membership Directory. We still have a few 2009 directories left so let us hear from you if you would like one. Please let us know when new neighbors move in so they can be welcomed and added to our database of over 1000 homes. To join or to share information, please contact Membership Vice Chair, Barbara White: To join, mail a membership check for $50 made out to MPNCA, or a check for $250 if joining both membership and our association security patrol, to MPNCA, PO Box 724153, Atlanta, GA 31139.
If you are not receiving crime alerts, lost pet, and other MPNCA email blasts, you are probably not on the email list Send your email today to: Add our address to your computers address book so our emails are not caught in your SPAM controls 11

Return Service Requested

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

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

www.mpnca.org

Association Newsletter and Crime Report Inside

Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association Neighborhood Celebration 25th Anniversary Sunday, October 4, 2009 - 5:30 to 7:30 PM at the home of Brenda and Dick Smith 4271 Garmon Road Buffet & Wine - Catered by Atlanta Ala Carte $25 Association Members - $30 non members To reserve your place, please send a check Payable to Mt. Paran-Northside Citizens Association mail to Marci Vincent 1266 W. Paces Ferry Road, Suite 552, Atlanta GA 30327 ITS NOT TOO LATE! ADULTS ONLY

OCTOBER 2009

The Crime Report

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

Security Patrol Activity

Logged 16,399 miles patrolling our neighborhood Made 2683 house checks for traveling subscribers Responded to 92 alarm calls Investigated 69 suspicious persons or autos Investigated 6 incidents of vandalism Investigated 3 break-ins Investigated 3 incidents of larceny

Security Patrol Information The Mt. Paran Security Patrol is a neighborhood funded patrol staffed by retired and active duty Atlanta police officers. Officer Doug Cole and Officer George Robertson work full time8 hours a day and Sgt. Ellis (J.R.) works parttime3 evenings a week and some weekends as necessary. To date there are 439 patrol members of which 44 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 $200 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.

January: Solicitors on Northside and Garmon Rd. Suspect caught in street and asked to leave. Tree fell across driveway and power lines at a home on Conway Valley. Security called Georgia Power. People reported at abandoned house on E. Beechwood. Broken irrigation pipe found in house check on Randall Ridge. Security turned off water and called homeowner who was out of town. Burglar in 4100 block of Conway Valley. Witness got tag number and called 911. An arrest was made 3 days later. Someone rang door bell on Buckingham Circle and homeowner found a bag with dog poop in it. February: Two pet dogs on Randall Mill and Wickersham killed by large animal believed to be a coyote. Mailbox damaged on Beechwood during night. Helicopter reported flying low around West Conway. Yard damage on Davis Dr. believed to be caused by black truck seen in Moores Mill area the same night. March: Solicitors on Garmon Drive. Green Honda Accord on North Harris Ridge with two males pulled in driveway, saw workers and drove away fast. Homeowner came home and found pry marks on rear door on Mt. Paran Pkwy. No entry made. The alarm was not on but homeowner believes barking dog scared suspect off. Chrysler with two black males following lawn trucks on Fairfield Road. Also seen on Paces Ridge. April: Security found a tree on a house in the 1400 block of Mt. Paran Rd. during storms and notified homeowner. Tools taken from workers truck in the 4400 block of Harris Trail. Witness saw a stocky, black male in a red vehicle leaving the area. Caller on Randall Mill reported a white male, bald, average build, walking around her pool at 9:15 AM. Burglary in the 4100 block of Whitewater Creek. Lady left for a short period of time and discovered entry to her house from unlocked patio door. Jewelry missing. Although the alarm was not on, the homeowner believes burglar heard her dogs and left when she came in. Homeowner in the 1000 block of West Conway woke up at 5:00 AM and saw two people in his house. Several large items missing along with money and other items. Later in morning homeowner discovered truck was taken.
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More Crime News: We Need to Work Together Security Patrol Activity

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May: Teenagers having party on Musket Ridge. 911 called and under age drinking reported. Homeowner in the 900 block Mt. Paran Rd. reported a large black male came in the drive and rang the doorbell. Housekeeper told suspect to leave and that she was calling the police. Subject drove off in a red vehicle. Several lookouts reported on different vehicles in the area. A white Ford Ranger truck, dirty in appearance. A white male driver has been breaking into homes south of West Paces. Truck reported stolen and perpetrator was arrested. June: Burst irrigation pipe found on Randall Ridge again. Security called repairman for the homeowner who was out of town. White male in truck following young female jogger on Harris Trail. Tried to lure her to vehicle by asking directions. Mailbox damaged on Davis Dr. Some mail found opened. Sandy Springs police report made. Dog got out of fence on Garmon Rd. and was barking at people on street. Owner was called and Security placed dog back in the fence. July: Solicitors reported on Harris Trail. Security Officer found gutter down spout damaged due to bad weather while homeowner was out of town. Vehicle impounded on Sentinel View. The driver was later reported as a prowler coming out of the woods on Mt. Paran Road wearing hospital scrubs. The prowlers father picked him up the next day in another vehicle. Officer Robertson received a call from the father about the impounded vehicle and revealed to the officer that his son was suffering from a mental condition. The son was taken back to Tennessee. Homeowner on Swims Valley reported that a prowler used a bolt cutter to take a lawn mower and ten speed bicycle. Homeowner on Sentinel Post reported a prowler used a bolt cutter to remove $2500 worth of lawn equipment from a lawn truck. Security Officer smelled smoke around Harris Trail and Whitewater Creek while on patrol. Fire Dept called. Limb had fallen on lines at Harris Trail and Harris Glen. Resident reported teenagers partying at house under construction on Whitewater Creek and Harris Trail. August: No incidents reported

HOMEOWNER ALERT ABOUT US CENSUS WORKERS Be Cooperative... But Cautious!

For years, Better Business Bureau (BBB) has educated consumers about not giving out personal information over the telephone or to anyone who shows up at their front door. With the U.S. Census process beginning, BBB advises people to be cooperative, but cautious, so as not to become a victim of fraud or identity theft. The first phase of the 2010 U.S. Census is under way as workers have begun verifying the addresses of households across the country. Eventually, more than 140,000 U.S. Census workers will count every person in the U.S. and will gather information about every person living at each address including name, age, gender, race and other relevant data. Most people are rightfully cautious and wont give out personal information to unsolicited phone callers or visitors, however the Census is an exception to the rule, said Fred T. Elsberry, Jr., President & CEO of the BBB Serving Metro Atlanta, Athens & Northeast Georgia. Unfortunately, scammers know that the public is more willing to share personal data when taking part in the Census and they have an opportunity to ply their trade by posing as a government employee and soliciting sensitive financial information. The Census data will be used to allocate more than $300 billion in federal funds every year, as well as determine a States number of Congressional representatives. Households are actually required by law to respond to the Census Bureaus request for information. During the U.S. Census, households will be contacted by mail, phone or visited by a U.S. Census worker who will ask about the number of people living in the house. Unfortunately, people may also be contacted by scammers who are impersonating Census workers in order to gain access to sensitive financial information such as Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers. Law enforcement in many states have issued warnings that scammers are already posing as Census Bureau staff and knocking on doors asking for donations and Social Security numbers. The big question is - how do you tell the difference between a U.S. Census worker and a con artist? BBB offers this advice: If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, theyll have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag, a confidentiality notice. Ask to see their identification and badge before answering their questions. However, you should never invite anyone you dont know into your home. Census workers are only knocking on doors now to verify address information. Do not give your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone, even if they claim they need it for the U.S. Census. While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as a salary range, it will not ask for Social Security, bank account or credit card numbers nor will census employees solicit donations. Eventually, Census workers may contact you by telephone, mail or in person at home. However, they will not contact you by email, so be on the look out for email scams impersonating the Census. Never click on a link or open any attachments in an email that are supposedly from the U.S. Census Bureau.

If Youre Mailing Checks. Take Them to the Post Office

Please alert all our neighbors so the same thing doesnt happen to them as happened to us at St. Dunstans. I made the mistake of mailing a check from our box at St. Dunstans on Garmon Road. Someone stole it and apparently used the transit and account numbers to print other checks, and has been cashing them. We found this out when the person to whom we were sending the check called to let us know it had not arrived after a week. If you are mailing checks, take the time to take them to the post office. The Reverand Tricia Templeton St. Dunstans Episcopal Church

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More Crime News: Stop Crimes of Opportunity

SANDY SPRINGS CRIME REPORT
By LARRY JACOBS Crime Prevention Officer Sandy Springs Police Department

A Personal Account of a Purse Snatching at Lenox Mall

I'm writing to tell you about what happened to me and make you aware about the lack of safety at Lenox Mall. At about 2:30 on a Saturday afternoon, I was walking to my car from the Mall, when someone came behind me, grabbed my purse and ran. My arm was hooked to the purse when he grabbed it, so I was dragged to the ground. At that moment I may have thought I could grab the purse back and fought to keep it. Ultimately I was dragged about two car lengths before I either was able to let go or consciously let go. The attacker ran around two more cars to the main driving aisle and jumped into a waiting car that sped away. I was parked in the Lenox Deck next to Macys, on the ground level, in the first bank of spots closest to the Mall entrance. It was well-lit, crowded with cars and people. I thought it was a safe area to park. In retrospect, being so near a parking deck exit (to Macy's) made it ideal for someone committing a crime and looking for a fast get-away. I was not loaded down with any shopping bags. I was not talking on a cell phone. I did not have my children with me (Thank G-d). I was alert, as I always am because I believe being aware is required to keep safe in today's world. I had reached my car and was about to click the key to open the door. I don't know what, if anything, I could have done to prevent this. This could happen to anyone and I think anyone of us going to the Mall needs to have a heightened sense of awareness and concern for our personal safety.
Editors note: This neighbors account circulated as an email during the summer. It has been verified as a true account and a police record of this incident has been made. We publish this account, not to scare you but to remind you to stay alert wherever you are, whatever you are doing.

Identity theft and breaking into cars are our major crimes in Sandy Springs. The good news is that both are very preventable, but we need the citizens help to prevent these crimes. Common sense and being aware of your surroundings are the best prevention. Phone fraud is a growing problem, but there are some measures you can take to protect yourself if you know what to look for. Telemarketers must tell you its a sales call, the name of the seller and what theyre selling before they make their pitch. Fast talkers who use high pressure tactics could be hiding something. Take your time. If its free, why they are asking me to pay? The law allows telemarketers to call only between 8 am and 9 pm. If you dont want a business to call you again, so say. You can limit the number of telemarketing calls you receive by placing your number on the National Do Not Call Registry; DoNotCall.gov or call 1-800-382-1222 from the number you want to register. You may still get calls from political organizations, charities, pollsters or companies with whom you do business with. Report phone fraud. Visit FTC.gov or call 1-800-FTC-HELP.

CALL 911 WHEN YOU SEE SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY THEN MT. PARAN SECURITY (404) 310-7361

Wallet Taken at Publix

On the morning of August 8th, a woman shopping at Publix had her wallet taken from her handbag. By the time she realized the wallet was missing, charges for $2000 at Home Depot had been made and another $1500 had been charged to purchase gift cards. Never let your handbag remain in a shopping cart unattended.. for even the briefest moment. In fact, dont place your handbag in your shopping cart ever...you are bound to turn your head at some point whether it is picking up an item, or placing an item in your car. You cant be looking in two places at once. The bums are counting on it!

Crime Right In Front of Us

I live on a great street, in a wonderful neighborhood with security and in Buckhead for goodness sake. I was stunned to hear from my landscaping company on the day of the crime, that they had all their lawn equipment (over $2,500 worth) stolen from the back of their trailer right in front of my home. In ten minutes flat, the thieves had cut through the trailers locks, unloaded the goods, loaded up the thieves vehicle in broad daylight, midafternoon and took off. What a bold move since I live on a cul de sac, on a very busy street, with a lot of activity. Who knows what these low-life criminals have in mind next? My family? My home? Let's be on our toes! Inform your family, friends and service personnel to be on theirs. Together we can snuff out crime to keep our families and neighborhoods safe. If you see anything suspicious, call 911, Mt. Paran security AND your neighbors. Spreading the word, Kim Chesney Tuxedo Place

EMAIL BLASTS If you are not receiving regular email crime alerts from the MPNCA ur email address. Send it to com And, add our address to your on-line address book so our emails wont be caught by your internet providers spam controls. We respect your privacy and never share email addresses.
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Personal Safety and You

A Common Sense Approach
Personal safety and the fear of crime influence the behavior and life patterns of every socioeconomic, ethnic and age group in America. Fear, whether perceived or real, controls the daily activity of people and is a major factor determining their input and contribution to society. Much of the responsibility for personal safety is with the individual. There is not a single idea, phrase, or device that can provide absolute safety; however, the following common sense personal safety rules will help individuals promote a crime-free environment, improve confidence, and allow active

Do not stop and engage in conversation. Avoid undesirable areas or short cuts. If you make a wrong turn, immediately go back. Do not take chances. If you sense you are being followed, change your direction or pace. If the person following you does likewise, seek a safe place where there are people and lights and bring attention to yourself. Try to remember an accurate description of the suspect. If you sense you are being followed by a vehicle, quickly change your direction and walk in the opposite direction. Keep more than an arm's distance from vehicles. If you become lost or are in danger, locate a pay telephone and dial 911. It is a free call and the location of the telephone is provided on the police operator's computer screen. Advise the operator of the assistance needed and follow their instructions. Never get into a vehicle even if forced at the point of a gun. Your chance for survival on the street is better than in the privacy of a vehicle or a remote location of the abductor's choice.

involvement in society.

PREVENTION IN THE CAR:

Always keep your doors locked. Keep your vehicle well serviced and fueled. Keep an emergency kit in the trunk (basic tools, flashlight, booster cables). Consider purchasing a mobile telephone or two-way radio. Park in well-lighted areas or parking lots with attendants. If you sense you are being followed, change directions, find a well-lighted, all-night location and dial 911. Attempt to obtain a tag number and description of vehicle and occupants. Under no circumstances should you go directly home. Never get into a stranger's vehicle, even if yours breaks down. Generally, remain locked in your vehicle and ask a good Samaritan to call someone for you. Carry an emergency windshield sign in your car. When approaching red lights, maintain adequate distance between vehicles to allow for maneuvering. If attacked or harassed, run through the light and honk the horn. While approaching your parked vehicle, be alert to suspicious strangers, have door keys ready, and check interior. Once inside immediately lock the doors and start the engine. Consider an automobile alarm or other security devices. Ignore and avoid obnoxious driversdo not engage in arguments or altercations with other drivers.

PREVENTION IN THE HOME:

Install quality locks or pins on all windows and sliding glass doors. Install peep holes or viewers through doors. Do not open the door to strangers. If they insist they are in trouble, offer to call 911 for them. Verify all service or utility personnel. Use adequate exterior lighting. Use only numbers and avoid placing names on mailboxes. If necessary, list initials and last name. Do not give out personal information (name, address, age, credit card or checking account numbers) to strangers, telephone solicitors, or ''wrong number" callers. If you hear prowlers outside the home, dial 911, give the police dispatcher all the requested information, and leave the telephone off the hook. If alone, call out as though someone is with you (i.e. "John, is that you?"). Turn on interior lights in several rooms to give the appearance that there is more than one person at home. If you hear someone breaking in while inside, dial 911, leave the telephone off the hook, and try to get out safely to call again from a neighbor's phone. If it is impossible to get out, dial 911, leave phone off the hook, and place barriers and locked doors between yourself and the intruder. Hide in other locations in the home if necessary. If you wake and a stranger is standing in the bedroom, avoid bringing attention to yourselfpretend to sleep. He may be a cat burglar and if confronted the situation could become a robbery or sexual attack. If possible obtain a description of the intruder. If you arrive home and find doors or windows forced or unsecured, go to a neighbor's and call 911. Do not enter the home until police arrive. Contact your local police department for a complete security analysis of your residence.

AUTOMATED TELLER MACHINE (ATM) SAFETY:

Use only ATM's in well-lighted areas and ATM's equipped with mirrors so that you can see if anyone approaches from the rear. Consider using ATM's located inside businesses. Keep PIN (Personal Identification Number) confidential. Do not mark them or other information on the card. Secure cash, card and receipt before walking away. If suspicious people are around the ATM, do not stop. Find another machine in a safer location. Trust your instincts. If it does not look or feel safe, use another ATM elsewhere.

PREVENTION ON THE STREET:

Walk with confidence, shoulders back and head up. Look around, be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts. If something does not look or feel right, stop to see what has triggered your fear. Do not ignore your instincts, they are your first line of defense. Walk in groupsthere is safety In numbers. If approached on the street, make brief, stern eye contact and continue walking. If someone insists on talking, acknowledge their presence with a nod or "no thank you" and continue walking. C4