Jefferson Park Hub

New Blog--UPDATE

2010-04-25T16:40:00.002-04:00

UPDATE: The new address is www.jeffersonparkhub.com.
Come see the new blog as features get added to it.

--
Sorry for the short notice. The blog will reappear, hopefully, by Wednesday.
Technical upgrade.
See you on the other side.

-Andrew

The Taste of East Point brings out all the foodies.

2010-04-25T15:25:00.001-04:00

If you are in town, come downtown Saturday. Bring your wallet and an empty belly for the Taste of East Point. Part food fest and art show, it'll be an opportunity for foodies to try out new places.

Taste of East Point... and the Tri-Cities Area East Point ~ Hapeville ~ College Park

MUSIC --- FOOD --- ART
"Ticket a Taste"
$1 Tickets ($5 minimum)

Tickets are available for purchase at the event. Beer and wine sales benefit East Point Main Street Association.

Saturday, May 1.
Time: 4-9 PM – Block of West Cleveland Ave. (Across from City Hall)

EPMSA is bringing back and adding a twist to an East Point favorite, the "Taste of East Point". The "Taste of East Point" is an event that will give attendees a taste of the food, art and music of East Point.

Local East Point restaurants will be giving out samples of their cuisine, local artists will be displaying and selling their work and local musicians will be performing during the event.

The event will be held downtown, on West Cleveland Ave from 4-9pm.

Wrist bands will be sold to sample the various types of food all day long (Wrist bands are $10 for adults and $5 for children(12 and under). Beverages, including wine and beer, will be sold to attendees by EPMSA as a fundraiser.

For more information: The East Point Main Street Association.

New Feature

2010-04-24T22:12:00.001-04:00

A new community forum is available at The Jefferson Park Hub.

Across the new top of the blog is a link to this new feature, called "What's on your mind." Using the sign in from either Facebook or other social media sites, a community of people can chat, post questions, offer helpful answers.

I've started one question about the upcoming Taste of the Tri-Cities. Add your two cents.

High school happenings

2010-04-22T16:39:00.000-04:00

Looking for something new, different tonight, wander to the Tri-Cities High School on Harris Street.

Tonight is the International Taste Festival: A TCHS Extravaganza.

It runs from 6 to 8 p.m.

Happy Earth Day

2010-04-22T06:51:00.007-04:00

The first Earth Day celebration in 1970 started the modern environmental movement, according to Wikipedia.

It's been said that spring is when the South shows off. True. Here are a few nature photos taken around the Jefferson Park neighborhood. If you have any favorites of your own, please email them here so they can be added.

Hug a tree today. Or pick up litter.

Created with Admarket's flickrSLiDR.

Fort McPherson's time is winding down

2010-04-21T23:47:00.000-04:00

The East Point Examined blog has the latest information about what is happening down the street at the to-be-closed historic Army base. Check it out here.

EAST POINT, GA - With the closing of Ft. McPherson just around the corner (2011!), Jack Sprott of the McPherson Local Redevelopment Authority gave a presentation of what's planned for the 488-acre base. There have been a round of public meetings with input from those residents in attendance. These meetings resulted in a few beneficial changes for East Point residences. Fifty feet were added to the setback along the northern Colonial Hills (Ward B) border. The proposed residential zoning near the Villages of East Point was scrapped and replaced with green space. Check out their website for more information

The blog has video of a presentation also.

EATS: Bolo

2010-04-20T07:02:00.000-04:00

Friends call eating on Buford Highway "adventure dining" with the variety of unusual ethnic eateries. There's a little adventure dining in a worn shopping center on College Park's Virginia Avenue.

Bole restaurant serves Ethiopian fare at modest prices in a well kept dining room. Yellow walls brighten the eating area with tables covered in red-white checkered table clothes. Pictures depicting Ethiopian scenes hang on the walls. Here's one.

We ordered two dishes: the vegetable combination at the suggestion of the friendly host and chicken and rice.

Veggie combo ($7.99) comes with misir (lentils), gomen (collard green) and two other types of vegetarian dishes. It came arranged on a platter lined with injera, a spongy flat bread. A side dish included more injera used to scoop up the food. Not only was it tasty, but fun to eat with your fingers.

The rice dish ($6.99) was well received. The rice had a slight curry flavor mixed with onions and garlic.

Overall, Bole it's a place you'd return to if you like adventure dining off the beaten path.

Neighborhood April meeting

2010-04-19T12:41:00.005-04:00

This month's neighborhood meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, April 20th at 7 p.m. at the Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church's fellowship hall.

JPNA president Dustin Miles said the special speaker will be Steve Rothman. He will talk about Spring Metal that has an zoning application filed with the city for its property at 2323 Sylvan Rd.

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PS: Looking for a willing citizen journalists who can report on the meeting. Be in touch if you'd like to tell the community about what happened. A how-to guide can be provided.

Creative Loafing looks at East Point

2010-04-19T00:00:00.000-04:00

For those who yearn for a slower pace and a small-town vibe — while staying ITP and a stone’s throw from Concourse E — this trio of southside cities is your best bet.

That's how Creative Loafing, the alternative weekly looked at the Tri-Cities in the late March edition.

Check it out here.

At City Hall: Zoning & Planning Division

2010-04-18T06:55:00.000-04:00

How neighborhoods should develop, where businesses can locate, what the community looks like are all tasks of the Zoning and Planning Division.

The division is one that impacts people's quality of life.

Here's what the website says:

The Planning & Zoning Division reviews plans for new development for compliance with the zoning ordinance, provides applications for variances, rezoning and special use permits, provides information on the current zoning of property and reviews completed applications submitted through the Plan Review Process for consideration by the Planning and Zoning Commission and the City Council.

This division also conducts land use studies, develops future land use plans, prepares demographic information, utilizes Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to prepare thematic maps, creates open space plans, drafts development ordinances and performs other planning duties as needed.

Goals for Planning & Zoning’s FY10 budget... • Provides for business licensing, permit, inspection, and planning and zoning services
• Provides funding for a land use development/redevelopment plan
• Develops a Green Permit Program
• Provides funding to research/implement more efficient document and plan storage methods
• Provides funding for staff Arborist certification and other training needs
• Funds Mural Arts Program for the City

The division is located at 1526 East Forrest Avenue, Suite 100. It's phone number is (404) 270.7030. And the office is open from 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Friday.

EP Corner Tav asks about more restrictive smoking

2010-04-17T23:45:00.000-04:00

The crew at the East Point Corner Tavern is asking its friends on Facebook about its smoking policy.

The question is whether the local fav should be smoke free until 9 p.m. (I believe its smoke-free until 6 now.) Go vote. Here.

Add your two cents to the issue. For more info about smoking bans, check out Wikipedia.

Be counted

2010-04-15T23:57:00.000-04:00

From the US Census:

The U.S. Census Bureau is emphasizing the Friday, April 16, mail deadline because forms put in the mail by tomorrow will likely be received and processed in time to delete those households from the list of addresses it will visit starting May 1. Households that normally pick up their mail from a post office box are already slated for follow-up in May from census workers.

Upcoming road race

2010-04-15T19:54:00.003-04:00

Be a part of history. Support the new The Main Street Academy, the local charter school opening in the fall, and make it a success.

The flyer for the TMSA's May 1 fun run was spotted on the racks at Phidippides Atlanta Running Shoe Store in Atlanta. (That's it with the red Run/Walk.)

To register, check out the web site here.

Health Fair

2010-04-15T07:04:00.000-04:00

East Point firefighters are hosting a health fair Saturday, April 17

It'll be the fifth annual event that brings together the community and the emergency workers. It takes places at Fire Station No. 1, at 2757 East Point St.

This year’s health fair will focus on childhood obesity, which is a health problem that can cause a lifetime of poor health. The health fair will have information about prevention, early detection and educational information for children.

The fair opens at 11 and wraps up at 3.

The firefighters have a strong advocate on this issue. First Lady Michelle Obama has embraced lowering obesity. She started the Let's Move program. Go here to see resources to fight this problem.

Friendly cat, whose is it?

2010-04-14T23:15:00.000-04:00

This email was circulated Wednesday night:

It's David and Adam over on Jefferson Terrace. Feral cats are nothing new to the neighborhood but in the last week, a very sweet female cat has been hanging around our yard. She is extremely friendly and has obviously been with people as she will come right up to us and even allow herself to be picked up and held. She's sweet and "talkative" , another indication of her being socialized...I can barely imaging anyone wanting to get rid of a sweet animal like this but cats rarely if ever get lost...Stranger things have happened though, so I wanted to ask if you would post her picture on an e-blast...She isn't at our place 24/7 but usually makes an appearance at least once a day in the late afternoon. We can't take on another cat because our female is *extremely* jealous of other cats and is having fits over this one from inside the screened porch. It's too bad because this girl would make a cat person a wonderful pet. Oh yes, she is a little thin but not starving...I would day that she is no older than 2 years old maximum.
Thank You!
David Hicks

Eats: La Fiesta

2010-04-14T06:22:00.004-04:00

I was in a TGIF mood with margarita’s on the brain last week.

With a foursome in tow, we headed to La Fiesta restaurant at 1419 Virginia Ave., College Park. It has comfort-food Mexican. It serves nothing fancy but reasonably priced and decent food.

The restaurant’s interior is filled with tables and booths. The restaurant’s patio was buzzing with diners on this warm night. There isn’t a view to recommend it, unless you like watching the traffic on nearby Virginia. Colorful walls of red and blue enliven the interior, as did the karaoke entertainment that started around 9.

Warm chips and salsa appeared on the table soon after we filled a booth. The salsa had a nice spicy zing to it, not just flavorless tomato salsa. A large order of queso, the flavored melted cheese, soon appeared.

Soon after came the margaritas in big beer steins. No complaints. As I said, this isn’t the place that experiments with food and drink. It delivers the standard-issue tequila-based cocktail. Others had a Diet Coke and a beer.

The wait staff didn’t keep us waiting to take our dinner requests.

Entrees orders were soon made and delivered. The chicken fajitas ($10.99) made about three servings of chicken and grilled onions wrapped in soft tortillas. The side of black beans was sparse, not much to them.

Another order included a mix of classic Mexican food, and included a chile relleno - stuffed pepper – was met with approval. Others ordered the fajita quesadilla and beef enchiladas, above.

The total for the meal for the four of us, including a couple rounds of drinks, came to about $100.

If you like your Mexican food unspoiled by originality or a creative cook, stop by here. La Fiesta's web site is here.

Real Estate Report

2010-04-13T07:00:00.002-04:00

2454 East Woodland Circle

$170,000

Dec. 30, 2009

Information from the Fulton County Board of Assessors web site.

The Main Street Academy - Event

2010-04-12T12:33:00.007-04:00

Email from the organizers of The Main Street Academy

Oz Pizza Fundraiser Night

Join The Main Street Academy tonight, 4/12/10, from 5-9pm at Oz Pizza. Tell the cashier you are with TMSA and a portion of your total bill will be donated back to the school. Dine-in and take-out apply.

Come out and meet your friends and neighbors who also support TMSA. Several Founding Committee and School Board members will be on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Thank you for your continued support of TMSA!

Oz Pizza
2805 Main Street
East Point, GA 30344
404.761.7006

East Point's Spring Fling 2010

2010-04-11T22:39:00.000-04:00

In downtown East Point on Saturday, April 10, scores of people came out to enjoy a beautiful day and take advantage of the first Spring Fling, a community party to promote creative ways to reduce the amount of garbage thrown in the trash.

Repaired Marker

2010-04-11T13:55:00.003-04:00

The marker is now upright at the intersection Oakleigh and Randall streets.
A tractor-trailer was suspected of knocking it down a few months ago.

2010-04-09T06:34:00.001-04:00

Spring Fling

Saturday, at 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.
It takes place at the East Point Common

Downtown East Point will be buzzing with activity Saturday with the first "Spring Clean Fling."

Part "green" festival and part "swap meet," the day's activities are sure to attract a lot of people.

It can also be a fundraiser for neighborhood groups selling brownie's, cake, muffins, cookies.

Here are some of the activities:

Councilman Lance Rhodes and Republic Services are inviting the community to bring any unwanted paper documents they want destroyed out to the event. There will be a mobile shredding truck ready to collect, shred and recycle the documents on site from 9am-2pm.
Displays/Booths about what can be recycled at the collection center on Norman Berry
Displays/Booths about where larger items can be recycled in East Point
Booths with information about various “green” ideas and programs or informaion about how to donate items all year long.
Representatives from groups like the Salvation Army, Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, Kamileon’s Kloset and more will be invited to come out and accept donations on the day of the event.
Representatives from American Kidney Services will be there to accept donations and issue tax receipts!
Hand out "blue recycle bins" to EP residents
Have a truck for electronics recycling on site
Fun "green" activities for kids that do not require electricity/other resources like: face painting, ball toss games, etc.

For more information, go to the East Point Main Street Association web site.

Small fire Wednesday causes ammonia leak at Oakley Drive industrial plant

2010-04-08T15:09:00.001-04:00

Workers at an industrial plant near the Jefferson Park neighborhood capped an ammonia leak after a small fire.

There were no reported injuries at the Wednesday incident after firefighters decontaminated two workers.

Details from City Council member Lance Rhodes:

Ammonia Leak

On 4 /07/10 at 6:06 PM, East Point Fire Department responded to 1239 Oakley Drive (known as Kroger storage facility). The call was dispatched as a fire alarm. The initial fire engine arrived on the scene at 6:11 PM. There were no signs of a fire. The Fire Department was advised of about forty employees who had evacuated the facility. The facility supervisor stated the water sprinkle system had been set off by a small fire.

The fire was extinguished by the water sprinkle system in the room of origin. The fire damage was minor in nature. An ammonia leak developed as a result of the fire. The leak was immediately contained by "capping" off the mechanism that was damaged. Facility employees trained in hazardous material response were responsible for controlling the leak prior to the arrival of emergency response units.

The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department Hazardous Material Team was called to assist with the mitigation of the ammonia leak and to decontaminate as necessary. The Atlanta Fire Rescue Department performed decontamination on the two facility employees.

There were no injuries sustained to employees of the facility, The City of Atlanta Fire Rescue nor the East Point Fire Department.
The cause of the incident is under investigation

East Point hopes for 50K people with census

2010-04-08T10:19:00.001-04:00

That census form still sitting around? Here's why it's important to important to mail it back according to the AJC:

At last count in 2008, the city fell just 6,582 people short of becoming what’s known as an entitlement city.

To reach that 50,000 population threshold, it will have to count traditionally missed folks like Porter and Robinson, as well as those still on the streets, immigrants and the working poor without stable addresses.

It’s a multimillion-dollar proposition. If East Point succeeds, a chunk of the $14 billion that Georgia receives from federal agencies each year will go directly to the cash-strapped city, to help pay for crumbling streets and buildings.

How high can the pollen count go?

2010-04-07T14:13:00.001-04:00

Neighborhood blogger David Baugher takes a look at the soaring pollen count.

The pollen count this morning in Atlanta was 5,733!!! The extremely high category starts at 120. We are 47 times above extremely high.

Read more about pollen and allergies at his blog, David's World.

(If anyone has a picture of a pollen-covered car, cat, dog, whatever, please forward to The JP Hub.)

Advertisments on the driveway, litter on the streets?

2010-04-07T10:23:00.000-04:00

Plastic bags full of advertisements have been spotted on driveways here. Some may see it as a way to get shopping deals while others view it as litter.

An organization called Stop AJC Reach is protesting the advertising circulars.

"StopAJCReach.org is a community organization website with the goal of stopping driveway, yard and street delivery of AJC Reach advertising circulars that are littering our neighborhoods. "

If you are interested in this issue, you can go to its Web site and let your voice be here.

City council wrestles with how to handle overdue water bills.

2010-04-05T21:17:00.000-04:00

From the ACJ:

East Point leaders are working to get a handle on a billing practice that, at last count, showed residents owed more than $400,000 for electric service.

That tally has likely gone down since it was revealed late last year, largely because electric use dips in the colder months.

But because the city is still using the budget billing system that created the problem, the money owed could start adding up again if officials don’t get a handle on the issue – and soon.

For more, go here.

To summarize the problem, the issue for the city is how to collect past due water bills or whether to forgive all or a portion of the money owed. The average overdue bill is $250.

Counting heads in East Point

2010-04-05T07:25:00.001-04:00

April 1 was the day when everyone in the country was to be counted as part of the constitutionally mandated census.

Jefferson Park neighborhood lagged behind both the state and national participation rate.
Some 49 percent of residents here returned the 10-question form. That is less than the state and national participation, 52 and 56 percent, respectively. The city of East Point has a return rate of 42 percent.

No doubt expect to see census counters walking the neighborhood from April to July when works knock on doors of homes that didn't return the questionnaire.

Easter Message 2010

2010-04-03T18:00:00.001-04:00

The Jefferson Park Hub invited pastors from two neighborhood churches to offer a reflection on Easter 2010. Their thoughts are below.

First is pastor LK Pendleton of the Redemption Community Church, A United Methodist Congregation. The church is located at the intersection of Winburn Drive and Jefferson Avenue.

The second meditation is from pastor Darwin A. Caldwell of Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church

"He Will Come Through”
John 2:19-22

Have you ever been discouraged, disillusioned or disappointed by hopes dashed and dreams deferred?

We fall into the misconceptions that we must always strive to reach that elusive “next level” in life. What we long for in our circumstances, our relationships or even spiritually always seems just beyond our reach.

After Jesus was crucified it was beyond the disciple’s reach that He would be raised from the dead on the third day just like He said that he would. (John 2:19) After Jesus died on the cross, the possibility of deliverance for a people experiencing oppression died too. Discouragement overwhelmed them because the hope of Israel as they viewed him through a human lens was gone. All of the people who supported Jesus ran away after he succumbed to death on the cross except for Joseph and Nicodemus, whose names mean Honorable Counselor and Victorious among his People. At night, they went to claim the body of Jesus from Pilate.

When they went to claim the body of Jesus, the Bible says they bought a mixture of myrrh and aloes. They used about 70 pounds; 50 pounds over the recommended daily dressing to embalm the body so when people walked by the tomb they would only notice the beautiful smell of the myrrh and not the rotting flesh of a dead God.

It was humanly inconceivable for them to believe that the one who interrupted a funeral procession and raised a dead girl to life and the one who called a dead man (Lazarus) out of his tomb was dead! And, they were unaware that in a few days, God would defy human logic and the laws of nature by breathing life into the impervious, lifeless body of Jesus Christ and resurrect Him from the dead.

Like many of us, we prematurely abandon our hopes and dreams when we don’t see the results of our hard work or things just didn’t materialize the way we desired. Easter reminds us that no matter how lugubrious things might seem, that we are Easter people living in a Good Friday World. Stuff happens! because life is lived on levels and experienced in stages and established on dimensions and everything will not proceed as planned. Yet, we have a God who specializes in breathing new life into dead things.

As we prepare to celebrate Easter 2010, let the lyrics of this old gospel song inspire you to keep striving for purpose in your life knowing Jesus will sustain you in your journey!

Time is filled with swift transition, Naught of earth unmoved can stand. Build your hopes on things eternal, Hold to God's unchanging hand.

LK Pendleton is the Senior Pastor of the Redemption Community Church, A United Methodist Congregation, East Point, Georgia and an ordained elder in the North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church.

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Have you lost hope? Easter 2010 finds many changes in our world especially in the United States of America. Our congress has just passed a Health Reform Bill and President Obama has signed it into law. It seems that none of us know what the bill will really accomplish and the unknown opens the door for fear to overcome us.

Unemployment is still over 9 per cent with rumors that it may still go higher. Those without jobs live anxious and frustrating moments as they look for work that will support their families.

And there are many other issues facing us that when we try to work through them in our own strength and fail causes us to lose hope and become depressed.

The whole message of Easter is that God has a plan for each of our lives and He wants to work that plan for our good. He gave His only Son to live a rejected, persecuted, but sinless life here on this earth and die the most excruciatingly painful death to pay for all our sins so that we could keep hope in all circumstances.

Since we have read the last chapter (of the Bible) and know that God always overcomes evil and wins the battle it helps to remember that He is still in control today. Nothing slips up on God and He is capable and willing to work through anything that comes upon us and give us a victorious end. He not only gives us hope He brings that hope to completion.

Our prayer for you to know God’s very best blessings!

Darwin A. Caldwell, pastor, Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church

Downtown Newsletter

2010-04-01T17:11:00.001-04:00

Get the latest and the greatest about happenings downtown here.

Downtown East Point Newsletter April 2010

Brookdale Park construction

2010-04-01T13:54:00.005-04:00

Brookdale Park construction
Originally uploaded by Jefferson Park Hub

Work continues at the renovation of Brookdale Park, on Sylvan Road. Workers are installing tennis courts and a basketball court.

Easter Worship Services

2010-04-01T10:02:00.000-04:00

Members of the Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church and the Redemption Community Church will celebrate Easter with special services. The community is invited to attend.

Here are schedules provided by the churches:

Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church,

Thursday, April 1, we offer a Maundy Thursday service entitled, "Tenebrae, a Service of Shadows," at 7 p.m.
Saturday, April 3 - 12-2 p.m., we invite everyone to bring blooms from their yard to decorate the Community Cross.
Sunday, April 4 - 7:00 a.m. Sunrise Service on front steps.
Sunday, April 4 - 10:30 a.m. - Easter Celebration Service

Redemption Community Church

Good Friday Service, Friday, April 2nd @ 7 p.m
Sunday Morning Worship, April 4th @ 10 a.m.
Easter Program - Immediately Following Worship Service

Map:

View Churches in a larger map

Eggs invade Brookdale Park

2010-03-30T10:05:00.000-04:00

An Easter egg hunt will be held at East Point's Brookdale Park on Saturday, April 2.

The annual spring event is hosted by Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church.

The “hunts” begins at 11 a.m. at the neighborhood park, on Sylvan Road between Glendale and Pegg Roads for all elementary school children and younger.

There will be a hunt for Babies and Toddlers, one for Pre-K to 2nd grade and one for 3rd to 5th graders. You will need to bring your own basket. A picnic-style lunch will be provided after the eggs have been uncovered.

Also supporting the activities are the Cleveland Avenue Chick-Fil-A, the Jefferson Park Neighbors Association and the City of East Point.

Photo credit:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/eraphernalia_vintage/ / CC BY-SA 2.0

College Park bakery reopens

2010-03-29T09:35:00.003-04:00

The store closed down late last week to deal with vandalism. Stop by and spend some money to show your support.

Our Place Bakery Cafe

3387 Main Street 404-767-3181

www.ourplacecollegepark.com

The Grapevine hits the streets

2010-03-28T12:28:00.000-04:00

The latest Grapevine appeared at our mailboxes over the weekend.

The newsletter had stories about keeping your home safe, an fun project to get people together to play games and news about city council.

If you haven't read it, take some time to see what your neighbors are up to.

(The JP Hub couldn't find an online version of the newsletter. If someone has a PDF version, or knows where it can be found, please pass it in this direction.)

Show some love to MARTA

2010-03-25T21:00:00.000-04:00

It's not too late to take public transit.

Transit advocates and pols on Friday, March 26th, want people to show how vital the system is to the community.

A funding crunch has much of the system on the chopping block, including bus route 193 that runs up Jefferson Avenue.

Learn more at
http://www.ridemartaday.com/

From Harvard Yard to East Point's urban farm

2010-03-25T20:31:00.001-04:00

Creative Loafing profiled the man behind the urban farm on Washington Road.

That'd be K. Rashid Nuri.

Here's what was said:

Boston-born and Harvard-educated K. Rashid Nuri’s love of agriculture has taken him around the world. The 62-year-old urban farmer — and former Clinton appointee to the U.S. Agriculture Department — operates Truly Living Well Natural Urban Farms, a network of organic metro Atlanta farms that offers fresh food and teaches how crops can enrich lives and build communities.
What made you dedicate your life to farming?
I’m a child of the 1960s. Back then, we were talking about nation building. In order to build a nation, you’ve got to be able to feed, clothe, and shelter your people. So I decided that I wanted to learn everything about food, from the seed to the table.
What caused people to lose their connection with the land and food?
We are an urban society. That’s taking us away from our soil. Atlanta’s a cleaner city by virtue of open space and trees, but it’s also one of the most toxic. The best way to mitigate this toxicity and reduce our carbon footprint is to grow our own food. This is because the food isn’t traveling. It cuts out that energy expense by more than half.

http://tinyurl.com/ycoz95m

Truly Living Well Urban Farm's Website: http://trulylivingwell.com/index.html

Classes at the farm start April 3. If interested, call 404.520.8331

Census 2010

2010-03-25T16:28:00.002-04:00

From Jefferson Park Neighbors Association:

Village Keepers, a local community organization, and they are offering assistance to anyone in filling out their 2010 Census form.

Village Keepers address is 3020 Bayard St, East Point (this is in the East Washington neighborhood) and the assistance is available on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10:00 a.m. to 3 p.m., and will be there through April 19. As far as I know, no appointment is necessary.

They will have some Bilingual staff (primarily Spanish) but can also help with a variety of other languages.

Please pass this information along. All information gathered will be confidential, they are simply trying to help everyone in our neighborhoods to fill out the Census forms.

If you have questions, please feel free to call Village Keepers at 404.761.1500

Real Estate Report

2010-03-22T10:15:00.000-04:00

Dogs visit the vet in College Park

2010-03-21T15:50:00.001-04:00

Every third Saturday, College Park's Urban Pet Supply hosts a low-cost animal vaccination clinic.

Here's what it looked like on Saturday, March 20th.

Spring has sprung

2010-03-20T10:38:00.000-04:00

Shooting at East Point MARTA stop--UPDATE

2010-03-18T20:07:00.000-04:00

UPDATE:

MARTA police say they are certain that 20-year-old Broderick Smith, of Atlanta, was the trigger man in a fatal Wednesday night shooting at the East Point train station.

Smith was arrested at about 5 p.m. Thursday at his mother's apartment in the Westlake area of Fulton County. Anthony Beavers, 19, was killed following what has been reported as a robbery attempt.

For more, go here.
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Teacher recalls MARTA shooting victim as ‘brilliant'

By Marcus K. Garner and Mike Morris

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

A Jonesboro High School graduate who one teacher described as "brilliant" was shot and killed at the East Point MARTA station late Wednesday night, officials said.

Train service was interrupted and a "bus bridge" was used to transport passengers between rail stations, MARTA spokesman Lyle Harris said.

Train service resumed early Thursday morning, WSB Radio's Richard Sangster, who was at the scene, told the AJC.

The Fulton County Medical Examiner's office identified the victim as Anthony Beavers, 19.
Beavers was a 2008 graduate of Jonesboro High School, where he was on the school's chess team.

...
The shooting occurred at about 10:40 p.m. near an elevator at the south end of the station.
Early Thursday morning, MARTA police investigators were still trying to find the shooter and determine a possible motive, Assistant Police Chief Joseph Dorsey said.

Beavers was on the southbound side of the center train platform when two shots were fired, said a witness who called the AJC. That side of the platform was cordoned off with crime scene tape when an AJC reporter arrived.

Riders hit the ground to avoid gunfire, witnesses said.

Immediately after the shooting, police prevented riders from entering or leaving the station and questioned a man believed to be a witness. Riders were allowed to leave the station at about 11:30 p.m.

Around 1 a.m., four MARTA police patrol cars sped away from the station going south on Main Street, before stopping roughly a mile away and returning minutes later.

Poll: Have a NCAA bracket done yet?

2010-03-18T18:24:00.004-04:00

Low cost animal shots

2010-03-18T16:02:00.000-04:00

A note from Urban Pet Supply store in College Park:

Low Cost Pet Vaccine Clinic is Saturday, the 20th from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. Dr. Edwards administers pet vaccines from $45-$60.
It's a great cost savings and great way to get folks who normally couldn't vaccinate their pets. Please tell your neighbors. Call with questions. 404-766-1138

View Larger Map

2010-03-17T06:30:00.002-04:00

Many people will have gotten a letter in the mailbox with this logo:

It is important. If you think throwing it away will save you time now, you won't once the census workers come knocking on your door. Fill out the streamlined 10-question survey and mail it back.

In 2010, the Jefferson Park neighborhood had a 68 percent participation rate in the Census, below the national and state average of 72 and 69 percent, respectively. (Look for yourself here.) It appears all of the city was below the national average.

The once-a-decade head count of residents determines how much money a community like East Point gets from Uncle Sam. What's that mean? The improved Brookdale Park, on Sylvan Road, was paid for in part by federal money. That's important stuff to improve our community and the census is a factor in much money the community gets for its needs.

A feature on the map to be unveiled soon will show how well the community is participating in real time and to compare it with others.

Eats: Thai Heaven

2010-03-16T19:30:00.000-04:00

Thai Heaven is a new restaurant just across the city line on nearby Virginia Avenue.

Open for two months, Thai Heaven was more like Thai hell, cracked one of my friends. That kind of tells you where this review is going.

Located above the Landmark Diner, at 1155 Virginia Ave., Atlanta, the parking lot is large and easy to find a parking spot. The restaurant had comfortable seating to watch the planes take off from Hartsfield Jackson International Airport. The large patio would be a nice place to sit during the warmer months. Large bamboo sticks held up by sand is the most obvious decorative touch. The restaurant includes a sushi bar.

The waitress took our drinks quickly, along with our appetizer orders. She wrote them down, but then she started to ask questions and we repeated ourselves to make sure everyone got what they wanted: curry rolls; chicken satay, on left, with peanut sauce; and a Delta sushi roll, named for the nearby airline HQ.

And that's when the visit took a turn. We waited a long time for the drinks and the food. That's when the crack about Thai Hell was uttered. Eventually, the Thai iced tea was refreshing, the sweet coconut milk and tea combo. Beer drinkers with us were pleased to see Blue Moon, but they had to ask for the pint glass with the slice of orange.

The menu had a variety of Thai food. The foursome ordered yellow curry ($10.95); pad thai ($10.95)i; basil stir fry ($10.95) and the most original dish, pineapple fried rice ($13.95).

The pineapple fried rice, photo on the left, was a mixture of shrimp, cashews, chicken, rice, bits of pineapple. And it was served in a pineapple shell. It was well liked and not overly sweet.

Like the pineapple fried rice, all the other dishes were tasty, with a nice aroma. The curry started sweet with the first bite and ended with a slight spicy flavor. The basil dish was rated with three spicy peppers and it delivered. The pad thai didn't have the peanut flavor that makes Thai food special.

Basil fried rice

The price matched the amount of food served. In fact, the pad thai and the yellow curry was enough to save half and take home for a later meal.

Overall, the consensus was that the meal was good and priced right. The service would be the only hurdle that would deter a return trip.

'Share the stories of communities in Atlanta' (And East Point.)

2010-03-16T15:13:00.000-04:00

A popular public radio program is opening up the recording studio for people to tell their stories.

On Thursday, March 18, people in the Big Peach can make their way to Public Broadcasting Atlanta - WABE 90.1 on your FM radio dial - to talk and be recorded.

Here's StoryCorps mission statement:

StoryCorps’ mission is to provide Americans of all backgrounds and beliefs with the opportunity to record, share and preserve their stories. Listen to stories at www.storycorps.org.

The effort is to "record, preserve, and share the stories of communities in Atlanta," said a press release. A suggested donation of $25.

For more information, go here. Call to reserve a slot: 1-800-850-4406

Here's what you can expect:

Step 1: Make a reservation
It’s easy to record an interview with someone important in your life. First, think of a person whose stories you would like to hear, or someone who might like to ask about yours, like a grandparent, sibling, or friend.

Step 2: Prepare for your session
Read what to expect and visit our great questions page.

Step 3: Tell your story, pass it on
Bring your friend or loved one to the StoryCorps recording facility. Our trained staff will explain the process, make you feel comfortable, and sit with you during your 40-minute session. At the end of your session, you’ll receive a free broadcast-quality CD to share with to family and friends, and a second copy will be archived at the Library of Congress.

Fun on Two Wheels in East Point

2010-03-16T06:24:00.007-04:00

At East Point's velodrome, the tires are pumped.

The annual Bicycle Little League program is starts its season this week. Two expert coaches will be on hand to to teach the novices to ride on the banked bike track. The real reason is to encourage the kids to have fun.

Young rider can use the facility every Monday and Thursday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., from now until the end of October. The activity is open to all youngsters, aged 8-16.

The program is free. Bicycles and helmets are provided, if needed. The only requirement for each child is a parent-signed waiver.

View Larger Map

Jefferson Park Neighbors Assocation March meeting

2010-03-15T21:32:00.004-04:00

Come to listen and contribute to what is happening in and around the neighborhood at the monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 16.

Special information this meeting will come from East Point firefighters on the issue of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Meeting Agenda:
Open Meeting
New / Old Business
Crime Update (EPPD)
Grapevine update
Special Speaker: East Point Fire Department: Presentation on Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Open Floor Speakers
Close

The meeting is held at the Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church. The entry door is in the rear next to the Winburn Drive parking lot.

In other JPNA news, the first "Grapevine" of 2010 is hot off the presses.

The newsletter put out by volunteer writers and contributors is ready to be delivered. And that's where you come in. Email JPNA president Dustin Miles to let him know you are willing to help and where you prefer to deliver.

PS: The JP Hub is looking for citizen journalists to attend Tuesday's meeting and report on it. Be in touch if you are interested.

Opportunities at the city of Atlanta job fair

2010-03-15T18:10:00.001-04:00

The region's unemployment level has hit double digit numbers. So, a job fair is welcome news for people looking for work.

Atlanta Workforce Development Agency, which is a branch of the city of Atlanta, is hosting a job fair tomorrow, starting at 8 a.m. until 11 a.m.

There are a variety of positions available, from landscaping to security guards and program managers to retail sales.

For more information:

Atlanta Workforce Development Agency 818 Pollard Blvd, SW Atlanta, GA 30315 404-658-9675

To be eligible, a high school diploma or GED is required. Applicants will have to pass background and drug test. And additional qualifications will discussed at site. Bring resume for employers and dress in interview appropriate clothing.

Weekend doings around East Point

2010-03-12T16:34:00.002-05:00

Don't let the weather get you down.

Put in some elbow grease at the city's hidden treasure and shop for treasure:

Dick Lane Velodrome

The forecast says rain, but we are going to brave the weather and give it a whirl for the last workday before the season will begin. So if you aren't afraid of a little water, we'd love you assistance in getting a few final jobs finished up before the season gets going. Be sure to bring rain coats etc. so you'll be protected if it does happen to rain a little.
Oh, and one particular job that may require some special tools is scraping some old sponsors logo's off the boards, so if you have a scraper that might be suitable for that, please bring it with you. We do have a few scrapers, but maybe not as many as we could have people!

Work starts around 9 a.m.

The Main Street Academy charter school:

Saturday, from 9 am-2 pm
Where: East Point Presbyterian Church
2810 Church Street (corner of Thompson)
East Point, GA 30344

Please join TMSA for our 1st Children's Consignment Sale!
30% of all proceeds will benefit TMSA.

Gently used items we will be selling include:
Boys & Girls "all season" clothing items from Infant to size 12, Shoes, Maternity clothing, Toys, Books, DVD's, Video games, Baby equipment, Indoor/Outdoor play equipment, Furniture and anything else kid related!

The Main Street Academy gets state OK, opens in the fall

2010-03-11T16:12:00.001-05:00

There will be a new education option for Tri-City parents with school age youngsters

The state Board of Education Thursday, March 11, gave its approval to the charter school that will serve the East Point, Hapeville and College Park.

Organizers announced:

State Approval
We are now official...today, The Main Street Academy charter petition has been approved by the State Department of Education!
With approximately 4 years in the making, countless hours of hard work and several obstacles along the way, The Main Street Academy will finally open its doors this Fall. This is only the beginning of our journey together. We need all of you (parents, community leaders and concerned citizens) to join in and help our school succeed.
Thanks to all of you who have participated in our events and fundraisers, volunteered your time and shared your ideas. All of these things have helped to get us where we are and are critical elements to ensuring a bright future for TMSA.
Pre-Enrolled families will be contacted soon with enrollment information and timing, and we will post the enrollment period on our website. Please stay tuned.
Thank you for your continued support of TMSA!

See the Web site for more information: http://www.tricitiescharter.com

New gardeners in the Jefferson Park neighborhood makes plans for spring

2010-03-11T08:34:00.001-05:00

Spring officially begins March 20 so it is timely that a new gardening club is getting ready for new plantings.

Holly Roseberry, of East Woodland Circle, is organizing the effort. She said several people have contacted her about getting it off the ground, while some 20 people have joined the group's Facebook page: Jefferson Park, GA Gardening Club. Find it at http://bit.ly/92nJrU

The group's members range from novices to a horticulturist. Roseberry said she has little experience herself. "Last year we had a couple of tomato plants in pots and also flowers lining the walkway. That inspired us to finally get serious this year and make some vegetable beds in the yard," she said in an email.

It's Facebook description shows a variety of activities for the group, from growing vegetables and using raised vegetable garden beds to organic methods.

And many hands make light work, so the group has a goal to converge on each other's gardens and get some serious work done.

To get involved, contact Holly at hollyroseberry(at)gmail.com.

And this article from the Wall Street Journal may be of interest to folks with a green thumb: Attack of the Rotten Tomatoes.

Main Street has 'endless future possibilities'

2010-03-10T20:31:00.000-05:00

The city's Main Street Association just issued its first newsletter publicizing some of the people and events happening in the city center. Now, its director Erin Rodgers talks about the nonprofit:

What is the purpose of the East Point Main Street organization?

Erin Rodgers: The East Point Main Street Association (EPMSA) is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization made up of nine board members who are residents or business owners. The board’s mission is to “To preserve and enhance the downtown area as the heart of East Point, communicating a sense of place, community pride and heritage, while providing for a successful business and residential environment.”

What are the strengths of the city's downtown and how is the organization building on them? What does the organization envisions as success for downtown?

ER: One of the strengths of the city’s downtown are the historic buildings we have and the amount of available land that allows for future expansion. Many city’s downtowns have a limited number of buildings or available space, however, our downtown boasts a large footprint and therefore, endless future possibilities. The ultimate success for downtown will be when it “fills out” to its full potential and becomes a thriving downtown district full of businesses, residents and visitors alike.

What challenges do you face in promoting the downtown area? How can residents help overcome those challenges?

ER: Currently, one of the biggest challenges for downtown East Point, like many cities, is the current economy. As I mentioned above, we have a tremendous supply of available buildings and land for new businesses/developments, we are located just 5 minutes from I-75/85, I-285 and the busiest international airport in the nation and we are only 9 miles from downtown Atlanta – we have so much going for us! However, new businesses and developers are being very cautious these days and they want to see figures/numbers that support bringing their business to East Point (density figures, income levels in the area neighborhoods, etc.- so be sure to fill out your 2010 census!!) and they want to see incentives to take that risk in this volatile market. As residents, you can encourage others to be patrons of our downtown area businesses, show a potential home buyer the area, show your support by attending events downtown. . .basically just get involved! The better our current businesses do, the more attractive downtown becomes to potential new businesses.

What type of establishment does downtown East Point need at this point?

ER: Well that is the purpose of the new neighborhood survey on the www.downtowneastpoint.com website- if you haven’t already, send one in today! A few of the most requested establishments are as follows: Grocery Store, Theatre/Performance Hall, Indoor Farmer’s Market and Coffee House.

Can you tell us a little about the survey? What will it be used for?

ER: The survey will be used to prioritize what residents feel are the most important downtown issues that need to be addressed. Your opinion matters! Send one in today.

If you haven't already, take a few moments and fill out this four page survey to help guide the development of Main Street. Email your responses or mail the completed survey to:

East Point Main Street Association
Attn: Main Street/Downtown Development Manager
1526 East Forrest Ave., Suite 400
East Point, Georgia 30344

East Point Main Street Assocation Neighborhood Survey

Proposed blueprint for the future of Fort McPherson

2010-03-08T05:30:00.010-05:00

The clock is ticking on Fort McPherson and what the future holds for the 488-acre military facility.

A series of meetings start this week to work on a blueprint for its re-use once it closes in September 2011. The meetings are hosted by The City of Atlanta's Bureau of Planning.

There is little doubt the impending closure of the base, which opened in 1889, will have a ripple effect in East Point, especially restaurants and service industries.

An economic impact report published annually by the Fort McPherson Public Affairs Office in 2004 lists 1,329 active duty, 878 Army Reserve, and 2,064 civilians that work at Fort McPherson. Including Army Retirees, family members, and retirees from other services – Fort McPherson and Fort Gillem affect over 136,000 people. The total active duty payroll for Fort McPherson as of 2004 was $106.8 million.

To prepare for the future, the planning bureau wants to hear from people about the proposed blueprint, which calls for residential housing, an R&D center, a historic district and other features. (Read the 2007 final reuse report here.)

The meetings will be held from 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. at Atlanta Technical College, 1560 Metropolitan Parkway, Atlanta, on:

March 10: Academic Complex (Auditorium)
March 17: Academic Complex (Auditorium)
March 31: Academic Complex (Auditorium)
March 24: Cleveland L. Dennard Center Main Ballroom

Parking: On the side in front of the Cleveland L. Dennard Conference Center. The Auditorium is in the Academic Complex Building, next to the Cleveland L. Dennard Conference Center.

The parking in front of the Academic Complex Building is reserved for student and
faculty parking- Please do not park in this area.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Jewelle Kennedy
Bureau of Planning
Dpcd-jkennedy@atlantaga.gov(404)330-6145

The East Point Main Street Assocation brings new life to downtown

2010-03-06T08:30:00.000-05:00

Supporters of downtown East Point are promoting the new businesses and community activities around the city center.

The East Point Main Street Association, a nonprofit focused on revitalizing the business district, issued its first newsletter this week. It features an event calendar, spotlights a business of the month and other information.

The business month is Angel's Catering, at 2865 Main St., to provide food for events and business meetings. For more information: www.angelscatering.com. And by phone, 678-905-3122.

And for upcoming activities, check out the fundraiser for the Main Street Academy ‘s Children’s Consignment Sale. It happens at the East Point Presbyterian Church, 2810 Church St., on March 12 , 6 - 9 pm & March 13, 9 - 2 pm. For info call Mikey at 404-429-7951.

Newsletter_03_01_2010

East Point urban farm offers how-to class--UPDATE

2010-03-05T07:15:00.005-05:00

UPDATE:
If buying fresh food is at the top of your to-do list, here are other places to consider:

Morningside Farmers Market
1393 North Highland Ave.
Atlanta, GA 30306
County: Dekalb

Contact: Howison Hollenberg
Phone / Fax: (404) 444-9902
E-Mail: morningsidemarket@mindspring.com
Website: http://www.morningsidemarket.com
Covered: No
WIC: Yes; WIC Cash Vouchers: No; SFMNP: No; SNAP: No
Open Year-Round: No

April-December Saturday, 8:00 a.m.-11:30 a.m.

Atlanta State Farmers Market
16 Forest Parkway
Forest Park, GA 30927
County: Clayton

Contact: Mike Harris
Phone / Fax: (404) 675-1782
E-Mail: mharris@agr.state.ga.us
Website:
Covered: No
WIC: No; WIC Cash Vouchers: No; SFMNP: No; SNAP: No
Open Year-Round: Yes

--
As winter turns into spring, minds of garden enthusiasts turn to planting flowers and vegetables.

What you may not know is that beside the busy Washington Road on the way to Camp Creek Marketplace is Truly Living Well Urban Farm. On this small plot is a whole variety of fresh farm produce as a community supported agriculture project.

This season leader Rashid Nuri is willing to share his secrets on what makes a good farm in the middle of a city. At the beginning of April, a six week class gets underway. The schedule is:

Urban Farming Training Class

I. Introduction and Overview of Urban Farming 3 April 2010
II. Garden Design 10 April 2010
III. Soil Preparation and Management 17 April 2010
IV. Reproducing Plants 24 April 2010
V. Crop Management I 1 May 2010
VI. Crop Management II 8 May 2010

The cost of the classes is $250 for the entire series. Individual classes may be attended at a cost of $50 each. You can pay for the classes by check or through PayPal. Send check to:

Truly Living Well
P.O.Box 90841
East Point GA 30364

Or by PayPal:
admin@trulylivingwell.com

Get in touch with the farm at 3353 Washington Rd. if you have questions.
K. Rashid Nuri
phone: 404.520.8331
admin@trulylivingwell.com

New medical office being built in East Point

2010-03-04T05:29:00.001-05:00

Medical facilities are a regular part of the neighborhood and the city, with South Fulton Medical Center just on the other side of Cleveland Avenue from the Jefferson Park neighborhood.

At the corner of Humphries Street and Norman Berry Drive, a new building is being erected. A few weeks ago, it looked like this.

Construction equipment tore up the black top last week. And an new medical office will go up in its place.

Sketches from the developers show what the site is to look like once the building is completed:

It is to be the new home of Southwest Atlanta Nephrology medical offices.

East Point's Municipal Court offers an Amnesty Program

2010-03-03T13:22:00.000-05:00

If you have been lax on paying your parking and traffic tickets, this is for you:

East Point's Municipal Court will offer an Amnesty Program to those with unpaid parking and traffic tickets and Failure to Appear Warrants.

The five-day program will begin Monday, March 22, 2010 and end March 26, 2010. The court will be open from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Thursday and from 8:00 am to 4:45 pm on Friday during the amnesty period.

If you have an outstanding ticket, at the option of the judge, additional “failure to appear” fees MAY be waived upon FULL PAYMENTS of original fines. Those who have had their licenses previously suspended will get a release from the Court Department upon payment of fines.

If you have an active probation with the City of East Point and a warrant has been issued for your arrest you are encouraged to contact the Probation Department at 404-209-0682 or 404-559-6250 Extension 2 to discuss your case during this amnesty period.

Following the amnesty period, the court will turn over responsibility for collection of all unpaid fines to a collection agency and warrants to the Police Department for service. To avoid any additional collection charges or unwanted arrest, individuals should make use of the amnesty program. The Court staff encourages those interested to come early and avoid possible long lines.

Real Estate Report

2010-03-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

1359 Winburn Dr.

$158,000

October 2009

Information from Fulton County Board of Assessors

Shameless Self Promotion at The JP Hub

2010-03-01T18:38:00.001-05:00

Welcome all.

The graph is the number of visits to The Jefferson Park Hub in February.Overall, 148 people learned about the Jefferson Park neighborhood and East Point by reading this blog.

There were 373 visit and 800 page views. Nearly 40 percent were first time visitors and close to 30 percent had visited nine times or more in the month. The JP Hub gets about a dozen visits a day.

The top reads for the site in February were:

About-me
In person Ezra Thompson-painter
Endangered Species Billboard On Sylvan

As always, The JP Hub welcomes story ideas and photos about events and people in the neighborhood and East Point.

Thanks for reading.

February morning in Jefferson Park

2010-02-28T10:05:00.005-05:00

Despite the recent cold mornings, signs of spring are all around. New shoots are poking out of the ground, waiting to bloom.

The Great Backyard Bird Count recently took place. Eighteen species of birds were identified in East Point. Go here to see the types of birds. Blogger David Baugher, of E. Woodland Circle captured some resident birds with his camera and posted them.

Here are birds greeting the morning on Feb. 27th. If you can identify the calls, please let other readers know what birds they are by commenting below.

Bird calls in February by JeffersonParkHub

Rockdale County Firefighters wins 23rd Annual Biscuit Bake Off

2010-02-27T22:37:00.001-05:00

Biscuit Bake-off in Jefferson Park raise $1,000 for Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation--UPDATE

2010-02-27T14:32:00.012-05:00

Some 50 people crowded the basement of Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church for the annual Biscuit Bake-Off competition for the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation. It was hosted by the East Point Woman's Club Saturday, Feb. 27.

Donations at the door, along with a contribution from the East Point Women's Club, raised $1,000 for the nonprofit. Much of the money goes to the foundation's burn camp, that helps 100 young survivors of burns.

Nine firefighters from East Point, Rockdale County, Walton County, Fairburn, DeKalb and Roswell did their best to whisk up tasty biscuits.

Taking home the top prize, which was an apron, was Keith White, a lieutenant at the Rockdale County Fire Department. His secret? Lard.

Animal Fundraiser at The Tavern

2010-02-25T22:32:00.000-05:00

The always-popular East Point Corner Tavern and the equally popular Atlanta Animal Rescue Friends are teaming up.

On Friday, Feb. 26th, is a benefit for the nonprofit that strives to save adoptable pets from being euthanized.

To help the cause, beer and sharp, pointy things that will be thrown are part of the mix.

The first ever dart tourney will be held at the Main Street mainstay, starting at 8 p.m. Beers from Yuengling and Fat Tire for $3 and $4, respectively, are on tap. Portion of the beer sales go to the rescue league.

Here's more information about the event. Some things mean nothing to me, but if you know what end of the dart to throw, you'll have a clue:

CHARITY BLIND DRAW
East Point Corner Tavern......
Friday Night Feb 26 at 8pm
$7 buy-in, $1 bull shoot, and $1 Mystery Out.
All proceeds will be split 50/50
between the winners and the charity.
Come On ADDA .... Come Out and Support This Great Cause!

The Corner Tavern is located at 2783 Main Street (2nd Floor), East Point.

Real Estate Report

2010-02-23T21:50:00.005-05:00

View Larger Map

1331 Bryan Avenue

$128,000

Sold in October 2009

Information from the Fulton County Board of Assessors Web site

Mental health break: jigsaw puzzle

2010-02-22T10:02:00.000-05:00

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At City Hall: Water Resources Department

2010-02-21T07:46:00.005-05:00

At City Hall is an occasional series that looks at East Point's city departments and services.

The Water Resources Department has a lot to to watch and maintain with 153 miles of sewer lines and 164 miles of water lines . From its Web site and budget:

MISSION STATEMENT: "The Water Resources Department's mission is to provide progressive, administrative oversight and management of resources, external funding, procurement and budget matters necessary to insure goals, objectives and operation strategies for the city of East Point's Water Resources are successfully implemented and on target to meet the needs of those we serve"

The Water Resources Department is responsible for providing oversight and management of the following organizations:
• Water Filter Plant
• Sewerline Maintenance
• Waterline Maintenance
• Meter Services Division (Meter Repair)
• Stormwater

Water and Sewer:

Ensures that the City will have enough water to meet its demand through water conservation efforts
Provides the resources for water line maintenance to improve service delivery
Provides the resources to treat water for residents and customers
Provides for the comprehensive maintenance and emergency response tasks on the wastewater collection system in the City of East Point. The wastewater collection system consists of an estimated 153 miles of wastewater collection pipes and 3400 manholes within the city limits.
Provides for the comprehensive maintenance and emergency response tasks on the water distribution system in the City of East Point. There are estimated164 miles of distribution pipelines and four (4) above-ground storage tanks in the water distribution system: Commerce Drive, Battery Way, Sykes Park and Pearl Street. The total amount of storage available is 3.5 M.G. •

The city expects to spend $16,939,023 on this department this fiscal year.

Get rid of old paint as you spring clean this weekend

2010-02-20T19:39:00.000-05:00

This weekend Home Depot is accepting unwanted and left over house paint. That gives you all day Sunday, Feb. 21, to poke around in closets and garages to find those paint cans.

The free recycling is only taking place at select locations and the store on Ponce de Leon, Atlanta, is the nearest store participating.

It is easy, no questions asked. Roll in with your paint - up to 20 cans accepted at a time - and walk way. No fuss.

The accepted items:

latex paint
oil paint
deck stain
porch/floor paint
interior stain
all water- and oil-based paint

Biscuits, need you know more? 23rd Annual Firefighter's Biscuit Bake-Off

2010-02-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

The East Point Woman's Club will hold the 23rd Annual Firefighter's Biscuit Bake-Off on Saturday morning, February 27 in the Fellowship Hall at Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church.

The festivities begin at 8:30 A.M. and are open to the public. Breakfast will be available for a donation and all proceeds go to the Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation.

Parking for the event is available (and easiest access to the church Fellowship Hall) in the church parking lot located at the corner of Winburn Drive and Batavia Avenue in East Point. (Just a block north of Cleveland Avenue near South Fulton Medical Center)
The church address is 1150 Jefferson Avenue, East Point, GA 30344 and the phone number is (404) 767-0582. Please feel free to call or email the church (jeffersonchurch@att.net) for more information or additional directions.

The Main Street Academy on March agenda --- UPDATE

2010-02-18T15:18:00.035-05:00

Clarification: After this story was posted, Andrew Broy, of the Ga. Department of Education, sent an email apologizing for incorrect information. He wrote that he got confused when responding to The JP Hub question.

My apologies, I misspoke and was thinking of another school. Main street was not applying to the commission -- the SBOE will vote on the school at the March meeting. The charter will only be granted if the SBOE approves it in March.

The charter school planned for East Point, College Park and Hapeville ~~gained the approval of a state education panel to open its doors to students in the fall~~ is on the agenda for the state Board of Education March meeting.

~~A state education official emailed The Jefferson Park Hub Tuesday, Feb. 16, about the status of~~ The Main Street Academy. ~~Here's what he wrote:~~

~~The Main Street Academy approval by the Commission was not overturned by the (State Board of Education) last week, so the charter is proper and the school can open this fall.~~

~~_____________________________~~
~~Andrew W. Broy~~
~~Associate Superintendent, Policy, External Affairs, and Charter Schools~~
~~Office of Policy and External Affairs~~
~~Georgia Department of Education~~

There has been great interest in the charter school proposal. Several hundred people attended a community meeting in January about the charter school and requests for seats in the school are nearly at capacity.

TMSA leaders attended the state meetings last week, to speak to members of the state education board about its efforts.
"TMSA has received a recommendation for approval by the charter division, but we will not have official state approval until the State BOE votes on 3/11/10," said Stacy Kerber, a founding committee member of TMSA, in an email.

For more information about charter schools, the state Education Department has a FAQ section.

Calling for volunteers for the neighborhood tour of homes

2010-02-17T23:25:00.000-05:00

Folks are needed for the neighborhood's annual party as the 2010 Tour of Homes organizing committee gets underway.

Shelly Davis, the co-chairperson, Jefferson Park Tour of Homes, sent out this notice of help:

The 2010 Tour of Homes Committee is seeking committee members! If you've been looking for an opportunity to give back to your neighborhood, please contact jeffersonparktourofhomes@gmail.com

The committee is currently seeking the following talents:
Accounting/Bookkeeping, Sponsorship, Event Planning/Coordinating, Eagerness, Fresh Ideas, Desire to "Give Back".

Also, WE ARE IN NEED OF HOMES! If you are generous enough to share your beautiful abode, please contact the committee at jeffersonparktourofhomes@gmail.com.

Thanks so much and we look forward to hearing from YOU!

Below are some photos from last fall's event.

Neighborhood association meeting Tuesday

2010-02-15T10:45:00.002-05:00

Learn what is happening around the Jefferson Park at the monthly association meeting.
It starts at 7 p.m. at the Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church.

At City Hall: Department of Parks and Recreation

2010-02-14T10:27:00.004-05:00

At City Hall is an occasional series that looks at East Point's city departments and services.

If you have a boy with a mean curve ball or you just want junior to have fun outdoors, East Point's Park and Recreation Department is getting ready for baseball season. (There are coed leagues from ages 5 to 8.)
The fee is $90 for residents. Registration is open. First practice starts Feb 22, 2010.

And here's a little more about East Point's Park and Recreation Department from its website:

Mission
The City of East Point Department of Parks and Recreation is committed to enhancing the quality of life of its residents through broad based recreational and cultural opportunities which include providing well-maintained facilities, park land acquisition and preservation of resources while working in concert with the City’s leadership.
Vision
To promote a healthy community where all residents participate in a broad range of parks, recreation and cultural enrichment activities offered at various well-maintained public facilities. Thereby, residents will be physically and mentally healthy and better connected to their neighbors and the community.
Facilities & Activities
The City offers a wide range of amenities and recreational activities for its citizens including:
·         1 recreation center.
·         An 18 acre sports facility that can be used for baseball, soccer and football.
·         A Velodrome – a professionally designed bicycle race track.

Parks & Recreation FY10 Budget...
Replaces the roof and gymnasium flooring at the Jefferson Recreation Center
Establishes additional crew to maintain acquired park and green space
Acquires more aerobics equipment and provides for game room upgrades
Provides funding for comprehensive parks and recreation master plan
Installation\restoration of playground, basketball and tennis courts and restroom facilities
at Brookdale Park
Renovates restrooms, locker rooms and kitchenette at the Jefferson Recreation Center     Initiates fitness classes/programs
Initiates Instructor Service Contracts for sports and general recreation programs

Fat Tuesday in College Park

2010-02-13T17:03:00.003-05:00

Just down the street in College Park, three mainstay businesses are joining force to throw a party. Join the fun, support local businesses. Get your tickets ahead of time.

Laissez les bons temps rouler.

Valentine's Day poll

2010-02-13T08:10:00.001-05:00

Photo Friday

2010-02-12T20:30:00.001-05:00

Have a good weekend.

Friday's snow

2010-02-12T19:45:00.001-05:00

Here are some snapshots taken with an iPhone of the neighborhood. Please share pictures you have of the snow. Email them so they can be added to the slideshow.

'Destination' programs may be boosted by new tax--UPDATE

2010-02-12T08:21:00.004-05:00

UPDATE:

This new tax could help develop a stronger Main Street program to promote and develop the city center.

Councilman Rhodes answered a few questions about this tax proposal:

1. How much money was raised in the most recent budget year from this tax?

I can get the numbers for you, but it will have no bearing on the proposed increase. Any additional hotel motel tax (1% to 5%) will be used as defined by state law. At this point, we are not sure how much it may be due to not knowing what will be proposed by the state legislature. They may only approve 1% or they could approve the entire 5%. The total could be from a hotel motel tax for 4% to 8%. The surrounding area is 6% and 8%.

2. Has the council formed around a consensus about what the new tax rate would be and how much additional income it would bring in?

We have a list of about 20 items we believe would fall within the guidelines set up by the state. However, we are reviewing the list now to be sure we are providing the correct information. I will get it out as soon as we get it. Council will then vote around those things we believe will be proper per state law.

3. What organizations may benefit from this? It would appear the Downtown East Point group could benefit? Any other group?

The tax is designed for promotion and tourism. I am not sure any specific group would benefit but I am hoping that we will be able to use some of it for the Main Street Board to fund their activities. Most successful cities have a strong Main Street Board but East Point has not been able to fund them to the extent that they could be of the greatest use. When we get the list reviewed of possible uses, I will have a better idea on how to answer this question.

The East Point City Council wants to increase the city's revenue by raising taxes on hotel guests.

Ward B Council Lance Rhodes said the council took the first step to increase the existing 3 percent hotel/motel tax when it recently voted to notify the city's state representative of the council's intent.

"It is well past time for East Point to move in this direction," said Rhodes in an email.

The tax is paid by patrons of East Point hotels. According to the city's Economic Development Department, hotels are big employers here. They include:

Crowne Plaza Atlanta-Airport Hotel
Doubletree Hotel
Holiday Inn Airport Hotel

City coffers received $1,186,897 in the 2008 fiscal year and $800,000 the next year from the hotel/motel tax, according to the city's budget.

A state law restricts uses for the hotel tax to promoting tourism, conventions and trade shows.

"Endangered Species" Billboard on Sylvan Road---UPDATE

2010-02-11T20:56:00.002-05:00

UPDATE: National Public radio also did a story on this. Listen to it here.

Photo: Kendrick Brinson for The New York Times

A billboard on Sylvan Road, on the edge of the Jefferson Park neighborhood, is one in a controversial series. The sign can be seen on the right side heading north from East Point toward Atlanta.

The New York Times took a look at this campaign.

ATLANTA — Anti-abortion groups have erected scores of billboards here with an alarming message: “Black children are an endangered species.”
Kendrick Brinson for The New York Times
Anti-abortion groups have erected scores of billboards.
The groups responsible insist that they are not exaggerating, despite contrary federal data. The billboards, which show a close-up of a worried-looking African-American boy, are an effort to highlight data showing that black women get a disproportionate number of abortions, especially in Georgia, and that the number in Georgia is increasing.
“The impact of abortion has become so great that it has begun to impact our fertility rate,” said Catherine Davis, the minority outreach coordinator for Georgia Right to Life, the state’s main anti-abortion group, which has sponsored the billboards in partnership with the Radiance Foundation, a group based in Atlanta that encourages adoption.

To read more of the story, go here.
For information about the Radiance Foundation, here.

Free spay/neuter program for cats

2010-02-11T08:30:00.003-05:00

If the neighborhood is anything, it is a pet friendly kind of place.

So, this event put on by PAWS Atlanta will be embraced:

PREVENT-A-LITTER CAMPAIGN

PAWS Atlanta has just announced that on March 3rd, we will spay or neuter your cat for FREE (with purchase of a $15 rabies shot or proof of rabies vaccination).

Spring is around the corner and the shelter sees an increase of unwanted litters during this season.

Please call 770-593-1155 to schedule your appointment as space is limited.

Stay tuned for our upcoming free FERAL CAT spay and neuter clinic to be scheduled soon.

Our Low-Cost Spay and Neuter Clinic will continue to operate on Wednesdays for both cats ($60) and dogs ($75 under 50 pounds and $100 over 50 pounds).

Please call 770-593-1155 to schedule your appointment or for more information

Pizza Night for The Main Street Academy Charter

2010-02-08T16:30:00.004-05:00

Coming on the heels of its successful community meeting that drew hundreds of people, supporters of The Main Street Academy are tucking into pizza tonight.

Join them to learn more about this charter school slated to open in the fall.

MARTA: Remove bus through the neighborhood

2010-02-08T15:19:00.000-05:00

MARTA, facing a sea of red ink in budget shortfall, is proposing to slash scores of its bus routes.

The lumbering bus that cuts through the neighborhood on the Sylvan Hills/ Route 193, is to be discontinued.

A list of changes was unveiled at a public meeting on Saturday, Feb. 6

"According to a list of Proposal includes modification of Route 78 will provide service on Cleveland Ave. segment and modification of Route 172 will provide
service on Sylvan Rd segment. Service will no longer operate on Jefferson Ave., Jefferson Terrace, and Springdale Rd. Additionally, service will no longer be provided on Sylvan Rd between Dill Ave. and Lee St. (Bold added.)"

The MARTA station is a mile away from Jefferson Park, but not a very easy walk. Riding the bus is a way for commuters to save gas and be environmentally sensitive.

If transit is important to you, join others with Area Coalition for Transit Now for Transit Day at the statehouse.

Help ACT Now ensure short and long term funding for transit in Georgia. Join us at the state capitol February 18th to speak to your legislators.
Meet at the Freight Depot (65 Martin Luther King Jr Dr SE, Atlanta, GA) near Five Points Station at 9am and take the caravan of buses over to the capitol. Meet with legislators from 10am-12. Email us at info@actnowga.org for more information.

For more information from MARTA, here.

Photo:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/leeco/ / CC BY 2.0

At City Hall: Economic Development

2010-02-07T05:14:00.000-05:00

At City Hall is an occasional series that looks at local government .

Economic Development Department:

The Economic Development Department is located at 1526 East Forrest Ave., 4th floor and can be contacted at 404.270-7214. It is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

It's goal is to assist local businesses, either by attracting them to East Point or helping local businesses thrive here.

Economic Development’s FY10 Budget goals...

Encourage continued balanced growth and development in East Point’s commercial districts
Enhance the economic vitality of the City of East Point while protecting its unique character
Facilitate the construction of signature mixed-use projects in identified revitalization areas that will invigorate the community and expand the tax base
Market the City of East Point effectively to attract quality commercial tenants, a broader mix of retailers and to improve the City's image throughout the region
Strengthen the community character and positive image of East Point
Improve communication and connection within the City and between the City and its citizens
Work with BIDA to develop a work program and be more proactive in shaping development city-wide
Obtain Fulton County School Board approval for Corridors TAD
Increase attendance and regional awareness of the East Point festivals coordinated by EPMSA

Budget for 2010: $419, 473
Budget for 2009: $385, 277

Downtown East Point Super Bowl specials

2010-02-06T14:19:00.000-05:00

Looking to get in on the action for the gridiron classic? Downtown joints have the TVs and the food to watch the Colts take on the Saints.

Oz Pizza has a special for $24.99: two large pizzas, one topping; bread sticks and a 5 liter bottle of Coke.
It is at 2805 Main St.

The Corner Tavern has more than a dozen TVs so you won't have to look far to see the action.
Check out the menu and bring an appetite.

It is the first Super Bowl party, so be a part of the celebration. It is located at 2783 Main St.

The Uptown Sports Bar has more than 18 TVs. It is a place John Madden would enjoy.

There are food and drink specials. Wear your team colors and get a special drink, food for every touchdown.

The bar and grill opens at 2 p.m. It is located at 2787 Main St.

Police message system and how it could work

2010-02-05T16:56:00.003-05:00

Imagine getting an alert on your phone or email that police are getting a lot of reports about smashed car windows and stolen valuables. The crime seems to be centered around just a few blocks.

The notice spurs people that night to remove valuables. And folks pay more attention to people who look unfamiliar, acting suspiciously.

With the one notice, people protect themselves and could help officers crack a case.

Batavia Street resident Cynthia Roseberry is hoping a police messaging system can be brought here.

She said a similar program has been successful in Cobb County, where she used to live. Residents can learn about crime trends and crime alerts, she said.

She has spoken to police officers here and they seem interested in the idea, Roseberry said.

The alerts aren't only crime focused. They can be used to tell about good deeds in the department, advisories about weather and road problems. And the messages can be customized so users can choose only to get messages about downtown East Point or Jefferson Park or any other neighborhood.

Nearby communities using a message system include the Marietta police and Cobb county law enforcement.

Smyrna, along with the Marietta police, use a free program from the Nixle company that enables users to receive up-to-date public safety alerts and advisories. If adopted here, information would be sent from the East Point Police Department or City Hall to a user's phone, e-mail or Web browser.

In the past week, Smyrna has issued alerts about road closures because of accidents, an advisory about testing the weather sirens, an arrest made in an armed robbery. (To see it in action in Smyrna, go here.

More than 3,800 public safety and community agencies throughout the country have begun using Nixle since its launch in March. It is a free service for government agencies.
--
For information about Nixle.

Recycle your electronics

2010-02-05T12:53:00.000-05:00

Keep East Point Beautiful wants to help you take out the trash. And do it in a green way.

The organization is hosting electronics recycling at the Norman Berry Recycling Site on Saturday, from noon to 5 p.m.

View Recycling in a larger map

Be counted for the Censu 2010

2010-02-05T10:07:00.000-05:00

The once a decade head count of every American is approaching.

Starting in mid-March, forms from the U.S. Census Bureau will arrive in mailboxes. There are 10 question on this survey, making it the shortest one ever. It is expected to only take 10 minutes to fill out, according to the census website.

As you remember from your high school civics class, the Constitution requires the head count every 10 years to draw congressional districts. Congress also uses the count to dish out more than $400 billion each year in federal aid.

But if toss it in your recycling bin, a census taker may be knocking on your door.

And if a census taker visits you, here's what you should do: First ask to see their ID. All census workers carry official government badges marked with just their name; they may also have a "U.S. Census Bureau" bag. Note that the census taker will never ask to enter your home. Call the Regional Census Center at (404)-335-1555 to confirm the person is Census Bureau employee.

There is also a chance to land a job. The Census Bureau could bring 10,000 new temporary jobs to metro Atlanta. One of the greatest needs will be for workers with different language backgrounds, including Spanish, Mandarin, French, Vietnamese, Swahili and Japanese.

Census jobs: For information: 866-861-2010 or online

Downtown East Point video

2010-02-02T20:19:00.000-05:00

A slice of life of downtown East Point:

Main Street Academy community meeting follow up.

2010-02-02T09:54:00.000-05:00

By most accounts, the community meeting for the planned Main Street Academy was a great success. Some 600 people attended Saturday's gathering. Organizers say they are swamped with requests from parents and other stakeholders.

Did you go? What was your impression of the event? What did you tell your friends who didn't go? Did it leave you with any unanswered questions? Please write The Jefferson Park Hub with your point of view.

From David Shaginaw, petitioner and founding member:

On behalf of The Main Street Academy’s Founding Committee & Governing Board I would like to thank all of you that took the time to attend our meeting at the GICC. The results are in and the event was an incredible success. TMSA hosted over 600 people, not including kids, and student registration stands at 423 and rising. In addition, continuing coverage in the South Fulton Neighbor and AJC print & online editions has TMSA on the front page of the entire Tri-Cities region of Atlanta. What began in 2005 and grew through 2008, erupted this past Saturday of 2010. TMSA is coming to town, are you ready? We have received inquiries from many of you who did not attend and complete pre-enrollment. Accordingly, we encourage those of you who have not pre-enrolled to do so by calling EdisonLearning’s TMSA hotline @ 404.377.5093. This gives you the opportunity to complete the pre-enrollment process before the window is open to new supporters. On Friday 2/5 the hotline will be re-posted publicly and given to new families. Seats are limited. If you want to attend TMSA this Fall, sign up now. On Saturday I spoke to you about money and how critical community and parental involvement is to the success of any school, especially our start-up charter. I also answered multiple questions regarding offerings such as band, beta, sports and pre & after care. Everything costs money, and as a start-up charter TMSA is on its own. TMSA’s founders want our school to be exceptional, and we want to be exceptional from the start. On Saturday TMSA received $1300 in donations and sales. That’s about $2 for every attending adult. Thank you to those who have contributed to our mission. To those who have yet to contribute, you should. If you want more from a school, you have to give more. How much money does a high quality public school save your family over the course of a child’s education? The figure is substantial. Don’t stand back, do nothing and expect everything to happen on its own. That’s not how TMSA was built and it’s not how TMSA works. Help us launch our new school with everything you, as dedicated parents, want. Help us help you. Stay tuned for more news about TMSA. Visit our website for current updates. Thank you for your time and support, I appreciate it.

JP 2.0: give your ideas

2010-01-31T21:23:00.000-05:00

A new Web design is underway for the Jefferson Park Hub.

The goal is to add some new features that will keep Park-ers informed about the neighborhood and things happening in nearby East Point.

If you have ideas about features you'd like to see on the news blog, please let me know. I have a few ideas, including an events calendar, a photo gallery, links to social media, ability for neighbors to post photos, news items, etc.

If you have something else in mind, please comment.

Community meeting about the Main Street Academy Charter School

2010-01-29T12:26:00.000-05:00

More than 300 people are expected at a community meeting focused on opening a charter school here. Folks will be talking at the Saturday meeting about everything from uniforms and curriculum to parental involvement. The 'principal designate' will also be there.

The meeting is from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Georgia International Convention Center. See map below.

From David Shaginaw, a leader in the effort:

Please join us tomorrow from 10-2 at the GICC in College Park for TMSA’s 1^st 2010 open community meeting. To date over 340 supporters have RSVP’d for our event. Tomorrow will offer you the chance to pre-enroll and learn about our location, curriculum & school structure, uniforms and required parental involvement. EdisonLearning, along with county BOE and state DOE representatives will be there with TMSA’s founders and governing board. You will also have the opportunity to meet TMSA’s Principal designate, who will help lead our school this fall. Take the time to learn about our 2010 plans and how you can get involved and contribute to TMSA’s successful launch this fall. This is your chance to stake your claim at The Main Street Academy. I look forward to seeing you there. Thanks for your time.

To learn more, go to The Main Street Academy website.

View Georgia International Convention Center in a larger map

Lost dog - UPDATE No. 2

2010-01-27T23:03:00.000-05:00

From Jennifer:

Hey Andrew, just wanted to let you know that the little dog was reunited with her owners yesterday.

Jennifer suggested I post this link to the Southern Hope Humane Society and it's 'Don't Get a Dog if' campaign. It gives the unvarnished truth about who should and should not get a dog and caring for the pet. Take a look at its message.

Same meeting, two reports

2010-01-27T17:20:00.006-05:00

The same city council meeting with two different point's of view.

The AJC's April Hunt wrote:

East Point started out the current fiscal year in yet another deficit, though one smaller than in years past.

The $2.2 million hole in the city’s general fund was among several findings an outside auditor presented during a 90-minute City Council meeting Monday night. That counters months of claims that the city ended the year with a surplus.
Details, though, are unclear. City attorney Nina Hickson refused to make the draft audit public.

Add your voice to city boards

2010-01-26T20:05:00.000-05:00

There are many opportunities to serve on city boards, helping to set priorities for parks, guide ethics issues and other important functions.

Ward Councilman Lance Rhodes posted this email:

Council Person Hubbard is seeking appointments for the following listed Boards/Commissions. You can learn more about these on the city web site. I can also give you my appointee's contact information (email) if you would like to talk to someone about the Board/Commission.

If you are selected, I am sure you will enjoy having Council Person Hubbard's support.

I recommend that you reply to "all" on this email with your contact information and any additional information that you would like to be considered (such as resume, experience in the area covered by the Board/Commission, and ect). I would also recommend you list all of the Boards/Commissions you may have an interest.

Thanks

Ethics - They meet as needed

East Point Building Authority- They meet quarterly

Civil Service Board of Appeals- They meet as needed

Cultural Enrichment - They meet on the 1st Tuesday of each month.

Municipal Utility Advisory Commission - They meet as needed

And another opportunity:

Council Person Bennett has an appointment he needs to make to the Parks and Recreation Commission. If you have an interest in serving, please send me your contact information. Thanks

Meets every 2nd Thursday at 7 pm Parks and Recreation Administrative Office, Jefferson Station, 1526 East Forrest Avenue, Suite 400

Councilman Rhodes can be contacted by email.

Found dog, recognize it?--UPDATE

2010-01-25T09:46:00.001-05:00

Here's an update from Jennifer:

I brought her to the vet’s to have her scanned for a microchip and while she was chipped, her owners never enrolled and provided their contact information. Come to find out she’s been reported found a couple of times, and the last time was by PAWS Atlanta, the shelter. So seeing as how she may be spending the night with my family, I gave her a bath and trimmed off the matted fur. Here is an updated picture of her. The microchip company is trying to find out from the shelter where I should bring her, but in the meantime, if anyone knows her family, please call me: 678.360.6084.

And a new photo of the dog:

After:

Before:

From a reader:

This little dog followed us home during our morning walk, and I thought maybe you could put her on your blog? She clearly belongs to one of our neighbors, and I feel like I’ve seen her before but I can’t place who her owner is. She knows basic commands, is very playful, etc. so I’m 100% certain she isn’t a stray.

My own dogs are going nuts with her in the backyard, so I have to locate her owners soon – I hate to take her to Fulton Cty Animal Services, but that’s what I’ll have to do if I don’t find her humans.

Contact Jennifer Cobb if you recognize the pooch.

404.965.7530 (w) / 678.360.6084 (c)

Week in Review

2010-01-23T17:51:00.000-05:00

The Jefferson Park Hub spotlighted these different stories this week:

Police told the neighbors association to be on the look out for two men. Read it here.
A new online tool that allows residents to report non-emergency issues. Read it here.
If you want a new exercise routine, a walking group has started. The group meets at the Tri-Cities High School before heading out on its routes. Read it here.

The Jefferson Park Hub is always looking neighborhood news. Please e-mail story ideas.

Crime report from January neighborhood meeting

2010-01-21T21:44:00.000-05:00

From Dustin Miles, the JPNA president:

From Tuesday's meeting:

We have not had any house burglaries in the past 45 days BUT we have had several car break ins. The police know the 2 people who are committing the break ins and ask us to be on the look out.

Black male, approximately 6 feet, 180 pounds, in his 40's. Wears a black jacket, blue jeans and a skull cap. Can be seen riding a bicycle around the neighborhood.
Black male, approximately 5 feet 8 inches tall, wears a dark jacket, blue jeans and a hat, probably in his 50' or 60's. He walks door to door asking residents to give him money for his sick sister.
The police have asked us to call them if we see either of these individuals. The police also suggest that we leave nothing in our cars that can be visible....not even gloves on a seat.

Walking group steps off

2010-01-20T22:48:00.001-05:00

A walking group started recently, just one of many opportunities around the neighborhood to get in better shape.

Organized by Bryan Avenue resident Stacy Fizell, the group sets off Monday to Thursday at 7 p.m. with folks walking between one and three miles. It meets at the entrance of Tri-Cities High School at Harris & Jefferson.

Here's what Stacy wrote to The Jefferson Park Hub:

Why did you start this? What was your goal?

I started the group in order get some exercise and get in shape. Several of us had been talking about doing something for awhile and I figured starting out at the beginning of the year we be a good way to start the New Year.

How far do you walk and how much time does it take?

We have one group that walks approximately 3 miles at a pretty good clip around the perimeter of the neighborhood and another group that is starting out with a mile that is a route down Winburn Dr. from the High School and back up Jefferson to the starting point.

If a person cannot make all the walks, is that alright?

The group is open to all whenever they can make it. I set up a page on Facebook and post each walk as an Event so people can accept or decline the walks. This makes it easy to keep up with who and how many we should expect. No one wants to walk alone after dark so we want to make sure there will always be someone there to walk with. If anyone has any questions they can e-mail me at: stacyfizell@comcast.net or call me at (404)408-8535

If a person isn't in the best shape, is that OK?

Yes! We have actually had several different paced groups that do the full 3 miles: one group that walks pretty fast, and another that follows closely behind.
We also have one group that is starting out with a mile for now and working themselves up to the 3 miles.

How many people have been showing up?

We have had anywhere from 3 to 8 people. It's a good group that talks and cuts up most of the walk which makes it go by really fast.

How long have you lived in the neighborhood? What street do you live on?

I have lived in the neighborhood 7.5 years and live on Bryan Ave. People that don't know me personally may know us as the Halloween House on Bryan......we have gone all out decorating and dressing up for Halloween for the past 5 or 6 years. This year several other neighbors joined in....we got 300 kids!

PS: we have had several ask if dogs are welcome and the answer is yes! But remember this is a fitness group so if your dog is slow and meandering like my Beagle you may want to leave him or her at home.

An East Point Fitness Initiative is being kickstarted by the city's Park and Rec Department. You can try out a class of Cardio Blast, karate and F.I.T.T free. Also, see all the other recreation programs here.

The department is hosting an open house:

Wed., Jan. 27, from noon to 2 p.m.
Sat., Jan. 30, from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Call 404.270.7054 for information.

The renovation of Brookdale Park here in the neighborhood continues. Work on replacing the tennis and basketball courts could begin in a month's time. Ward B City Councilman Lance Rhodes said the council awarded the contract at this week's meeting. And swings should be installed by the weekend.

Be the journalist at tonight's neighborhood meeting

2010-01-19T16:50:00.000-05:00

Jefferson Park Neighbor Association holds its January meeting at the Jefferson Ave. Baptist Church at 7 p.m.

Here's the agenda from Dustin, the new president:

Meeting Agenda:

- New Officer Introductions
- Treasurer's Report and other business
- Other Officer Reports (current projects)
- Captain Pritchard (East Point Police Department)
- Cheryl Naja from Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission
- Open Floor Speakers
- Close

Work prevents The JP Hub from attending. So if any faithful readers are attending, lets talk. Email me.