Election Season in East Point

It's election season in East Point.

City voters will decide who will represent them in four at-large city council seats and as mayor.

Here's the names of the qualified candidates and contact information.

Demolition begins for the future Cleveland Avenue Walmart store

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LAdlalV1Ln8&feature=youtu.be

 

This graphic explains what's happening on Cleveland Avenue.

The 'next steps' bubble is out of date because the city board issued the permits.

To help you get your bearings, here's where the renovation is taking place:

View Proposed Cleveland Avenue Crossing in a larger map

Soccer in the TriCities.

REMINDER - IN PERSON REGISTRATION IS TOMORROW- Games start 9/14.

There will be an in person registration this Saturday 8/24 (tomorrow) from 1-3PM at 2806 N. Martin Street East Point, GA 30344 ( corner of Martin St and East Cleveland Ave (across from the Buggy and Wagon Works) ).

Or, register now at http://www.southmetrounited.com/



REMINDER - Free Skills Session Wednesday Nights
6:30 @ KIPP SFA (1286 E. Washington Ave, East Point)
Work with professional coaches to gain comfort with the ball and add to skills prior to the Fall Season. Ends with games to allow kids to use new skills in competitive environments. Please bring shin-guards, water, and a ball (if you have it).

Crime stats in East Point

Here's what reported crime looked like in East Point.

In July, authorities handled 507 major crimes. A year earlier, there were 488 during the same month.

Impact Church moves to East Point's Jefferson Park neighborhood.

Impact Church, a growing congregation that values spirituality along with community development, is moving from Atlanta's West End to the Jefferson Park neighborhood.

Representatives of the church told the Jefferson Park Neighbors Association its doors would open by the spring.

What is Impact Church?

Who We Are

Founded January 2007, Impact Church is a multicultural gathering of people who come together regularly with one common purpose--to share the love of Christ. Throughout our journey, we've impacted schools, community organizations, and the lives of countless individuals. We are committed to making a global impact by sticking to the basics and taking the "churchiness" out of church.

It's motto is "Doing church differently."

It attracts more than 1,100 people to its current worship space in the West End, according to the church.

The church is to renovate an existing property at the corner of Oakleigh Drive and Syvlan Road.  It was purchased in 2012 for $654,000, according to the Fulton County assessors.

There is a whole host of activities planned during the fall as the church gets to know the city. The church posted information about the new property online.

 

Learn about sustainability in East Point

Here's an upcoming event:

Sustainability & Emerging Market Summit

July 27 ~ 10AM-4PM

The City of East Point will hold it's first "Sustainability and Emerging Market Summit" on Saturday, July 27, 2013 from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at East Point Jefferson Park Recreation Center.

The summit will provide citizens the opportunity to learn about sustainability - discovering ways to use natural and more cost effective resources without destroying the ecological balance of an area. This summit will cover home energy, urban gardening, affordable healthcare and more! There will also be giveaways of energy efficient light bulbs, and citizens will have an opportunity to sign up for free home energy audits.

Location: East Point Jefferson Park Recreation Center (1431 Norman Berry Drive, East Point, GA 30344)

Fundraising for the slain East Point police officer

More than $500 1,230 has been pledged as part of a fundraising effort by Jefferson Park resident Nathan Strange to help the family of the slain East Point police officer.

You can learn more from this email sent out by the Jefferson Park Neighbors Association:

One of the things I love about living here is the incredible sense of community. I've lived all over this country, from coast to coast, and have never experienced anything like this before. If you get sick, there will be ten people on your doorstep with lasagnas (or whatever). If you need a ride to the airport, or if you need to borrow a tool, a saw, or just an extra pair of hands all you've got to do is jump on Facebook and ask.

We also have an incredible police department. These men and women are some of the most professional, kind, and hard working people I've ever met, and considering that I work in public safety myself I feel well qualified to say that.

A couple days ago, one of our best officers was found dead in her home, the victim of a crime. The department is suffering greatly for this loss, and we are grieving with them.

I've created a fundraiser in memory of Cpl. Parker, and am working to raise money to accomplish three things: a floral wreath at her funeral from the citizens of East Point, a donation to a charity of the family's choice in her name, and a catered meal for the men and women on duty on the day of her funeral. They are going to have a long, difficult day and I think that will be a way to show our support that will touch them individually.

The fundraiser is through Pitchinbox.com, a website I've used before for successful fundraising, and I trust them. Their interface is VERY basic, but they also don't charge any fees. If you have any desire to donate, I would appreciate it. I must make the disclaimer that I am not a non-profit or any type of business, and I will do my best to allocate the donated funds in a fair and appropriate manner. All funds raised will go toward this effort, minus the fee that Paypal charges me to use them.None of this money will be for my personal use.

Here is the widget. link. Remember, although the gateway page appears extremely basic, it *IS* trustworthy.

http://petuniasprojects.blogspot.com/2013/07/fundraiser-in-memory-of-cpl-parker-east.html

Fatal house fire investigated

“@ajc: Man dies in East Point house fire. http://bit.ly/16moAuW”

East Point police officer found dead in her home

EAST POINT - Authorities are waiting for further information about the death of a standout and decorated city police officer.

From the AJC

East Point officer found dead in home; police awaiting autopsy....

"Crystal A. Parker, a corporal and six-year East Point Police Department employee, ... was voted the city’s 2012 Officer of the Year, was found dead inside her south Fulton County home over the weekend. A close friend requested a welfare check after not seeing or hearing from Parker for a few days."

Channel 2 had a few more details about a recent burglary at her home in south Fulton County.

A neighbor told Channel 2's Darryn Moore that the officer's home was broken into a couple of weeks ago. The last conversation we had, she stated they had broken into her home," neighbor Destiny Jones said. Police confirmed later that someone stole hundreds of dollars' worth of electronics and jewelry during the break-in.

Police have not released Parker's cause of death or if foul play is involved.

 

East Point residents want to save historic buildings

CBS Atlanta reports on the latest efforts to build a government center downtown. Some residents are concerned the few historical buildings in the city center are to be knocked down.

Here's the news report:

CBS Atlanta 46

Children's lending library opens on Bayard Street

.Simeon Smith and her kids have opened a "Little Free Library."

We have a handfull of books in it already and are getting more. It is a place for kids and young people in the neighborhood to exchange books with one another.  We want people to use it! If kids have old books that they would like to share, they simply place them in the box and if they see something they would like to read, they may simply take it home with them.

It's got its own Facebook page and email address: bayardlibrary@gmail.com

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East Point Farmers Market opens on May 18.

Another summer season kicks off ...

And food trucks will be making an appearance too.

RESULTS 4th Annual TriCities 10K Run and 5K RunWalk in College Park

UPDATE:  Find race results here.

But the top finishers

Women:

• 5K: Elizabeth Callaway, 21:35


• 10K: Carolyn Poole, 53:49

Men

• 5K Sam Mugavero, 20:16


• 10K Dennison Strickland, 40:46

---

Lace up your shoes to hit the street for Saturday's fundraiser for the public charter school, The Main Street Academy, College Park. You can find all the details for Saturday's family-friendly event here.

If you've registered, you can pick up your numbers and swag bag Friday

Avoid the lines on Race Day and PICK UP your RACE NUMBER this FRIDAY from 6:30-8:00 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel, One Hartsfield Centre Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia 30354

Otherwise, on Saturday, it's $30 to walk up and register.  And here's what you can expect:

COURSE DESCRIPTION
1. The 10K USATF Certified Course loops through three Georgia cities College Park, East Point, and Hapeville
2. The 5K Course loops through Historic College Park
3. Both start and finish in Historic College Park with final lap on a fast surface track

The hub of activity is Badgett Stadium, at 3636 College Street, College Park, GA 30337

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Nicole Milliken turns to Kickstarter for her new children's book.

Some 69 people have already backed the Kickstart efforts of Jefferson Park resident Nicole Milliken - aka Birdy Jones - to produce her third children's picture book, Mr. Cool.

Mr. Cool teaches children to be self-confident and how to get the better of bullies in a surprising way.



You can learn more about Milliken and her goal on the Kickstarter website.

She appears to be on track to raise much more than her $3,000. Pledges of $10 or more starts to earn rewards, so check it out!

Hot Rods, South Metro Restaurants on the menu for the East Point Food Festival

EAST POINT - Downtown will hear the roar of classic muscle cars and a hot rods at the 2013 Taste of East Point and the South Metro Area.

• BBQ, Wings, & Wheels: The Taste of East Point and the South Metro Area


• Saturday, April 27th 2 PM – 9 PM


• West Cleveland Avenue, across from the MARTA station 2777 East Point Street, East Point, GA 30344.

Organizers teamed up with Grease Inc. Magazine/ Garage 71 Radio to put on this eye candy of cars, tricked out cars, hot rods, in addition to the food from area restaurants and eateries.  Oh. And there's music too. Check out Zydeco T.

The East Point Main Street Association is hosting the annual food festival scheduled for Saturday in downtown East Point (across from MARTA), along West Cleveland Avenue and East Point Street.

Another addition Food Truck Alley which will feature some of the vendors that will be participating in East Point’s new Food Truck Court.  It will be part of the East Point Farmer's Market, which starts in May.

In addition local brewery Strawn Brewing Company and Ace Beer Growlers offer local craft beer tastings.

Taste Tickets $1.00 each (initial minimum purchase of $5.00). Beer/Wine/Margaritas: $4.00.

March Crime in East Point

East Point - Authorities reported a total of 425 major crimes here in March.

That’s a 13 percent increase from March 2012.

Above is the March chart of the reported crimes.

And a comparison of 2012 monthly report to the current crime picture below.


 

Students at TriCities High School learn decision making for prom season

EAST POINT - From a car crash and court room to a funeral, authorities want to show students how one decision can cascade into a life-changing situation.

Police and emergency workers will be out in force Thursday, April 18, at TriCities High School to make a point as prom season gets underway.

Here's the news release

(East Point, GA) The City of East Point Police Department, in partnership with Tri-Cities High School, will be conducting the Annual Safe Prom Night Program on April 18, 2013 8:00am -12:00pm at Tri-Cities High School. The goal of the Safe Prom Night Program is to educate students on the dangers and potential consequences of driving a car after drinking or using illicit narcotics on prom night. This program will include students participating in a series of stations including:
- Mock Traffic Accident Scene
o Students will see a wrecked automobile and hear the story of a student who attended prom and consumed a controlled substance only to lose control of their vehicle on the way home.
- DUI vision goggles
o Students will be asked to take field sobriety tests while wearing goggles designed to emulate the altered physical responses typically experienced while under the influence of controlled substances.
- Simulated Court Session
o This section features Rashida Oliver, Chief Judge East Point Municipal Court and the Tri-Cities Drama Department explaining the legal ramifications that result from driving while under the influence. Students will observe a mock trial of a high school student who made the unfortunate decision to take a controlled substance on prom night and observe as the Judge delivers a verdict that will change their life forever.
- Mock Funeral
o The Tri-Cities Drama Club created a reenactment of a funeral intended to make students realize how making a poor decision can impact their lives and the lives of others.

This program will take place in front of Tri-Cities High School beginning at 8:00 AM ending promptly at noon.
###

Student at East Point's TriCities HS wins cooking award

Neighbor Newspapers has the story about a TriCities senior who is making a name for herself as chef.

Since she was 9 years old, Cynthia Bobadilla, a Tri-Cities High School senior, has been cooking up culinary creations.

“I was working with my parents in a restaurant,” she said. “I’m not sure why. I just saw them cooking, and as a child, you want to do what you see.”

Last month during a scholarship competition at the Art Institute of Atlanta, Bobadilla’s love for cooking was taken to another level, as she clinched the gold medal for the competition, rising to the top above 10 other participants.

What did she whip up?

Bobadilla, along with the other 10 finalists, prepared shrimp cocktail as the first course and a sautéed chicken breast with a garnish, rice pilaf and broccoli sauté.

Her special touch, which she thinks set her apart was the garnish for the chicken breast.

“Mine was like a cream of mushroom sauce,” she said. “The ingredients for the sauce were kinda limited.”

Read more about this up and coming chef at Neighbor Newspapers.

Photo: Neighbor Newspaper

Maps for Weekend Yard Sale in East Point

EAST POINT - Two maps to help people find the 50+ homes that are part of the East Point community yard sale on Saturday, April 13
Hours: 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
No early arrivals, please. Print the maps to help you find the sales.

Jefferson Park neighborhood, East Point


View Jefferson Park spring 2013 yard sale in a larger map

And all of East Point


View East Point Yard Sales April 13, 2013 in a larger map

60 homes, five neighborhoods. That's one big yard sale.

One city. Five neighborhoods. 60 homes.

On Saturday, April 13, scores of East Point homes will have clothes, home decor and lots of stuff spread out for buyers.

The neighborhoods participating in the city-wide sale are Jefferson Park, Colonial Hills, Conley Hills, Frog Hollow, Semmes Park.

The event begins at 8 a.m. on Saturday, April 13, and wraps up at 3 p.m.

No early birds.

Amnesty program begins this week for city court

EAST POINT - Nearly 70 people showed up last April to take advantage of the city's amensty program.

The city took in some $14,000 from people who wanted to clear up overdue fines, according to city officials.

East Point hopes people take advantage of this year's program again.

The six-day program starts today and wraps up on Monday, April 15, 2012. The municipal court will be open from 8 AM - 12  PM on Saturday, April 13, and 8 am - 6  pm Monday through Friday during the Amnesty period.

To avoid any additional collection charges or unwanted arrest, individuals should make use of the amnesty program, said city news release.

A person with  an outstanding ticket, the judge may waive additional “failure to appear” fines . Those who have had their licenses previously suspended may 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 to discuss your case during this amnesty period.

Following the program, the court will turn over responsibility for collection of all unpaid fines to a collection agency and warrants to the Police Department for service.

For more information call 404.559.6250 or check web site.

 

It isn't hard to get East Point community news.

You can get an email whenever there's a new post on The Jefferson Park Hub. Sign up for the free service email service with the box to the right.

We are on Twitter at @jphub.

And of course, Facebook.

However you want to keep up with local events, do it.

Business Focus: Mocha Delites

The April edition of the downtown East Point newsletter profiled a coffee shop as the business of the month.

The owner, Sun Kwon, opened the business in Downtown East Point in 2003 and she is now celebrating her 10th year there!

Known by many as a popular local daytime hangout for business professionals, families and friends, Mocha Delites’ relaxed café atmosphere, nice outdoor patio and free Wi-Fi also attracts a diverse mix

of people from neighboring areas — a real “melting pot”.

She also likes the sense of community and historic charm paired with the continual revitalization of East Point, which she feels is truly the best of both worlds.

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Downtown East Point plan awarded

From Twitter:

Breaking News! WE just received our Notice of Award for East Point Government Center Redevelopment! Congrats to... fb.me/2itFGH0xH

— Duckett Design Group (@DDesignGroup) March 26, 2013

which means this project go the go ahead with East Point City Council:

Developer: East Point City Center Partners LLC

• Knock down city hall to create a great lawn. This opens up the arched front of the city auditorium.


• Build a new government center.


• Relocate the closed city library by razing a city fire station. This creates another green space.


• Close Linwood Avenue, between Church and East Point streets to create a city center.


• Estimated price tag: $17.7 million to $18.1 million

East Point City Center Partners LLC Downtown East Point Redevelopment by Andrew

Got a traffic ticket? City offering amnesty program

From the city of East Point: 

East Point Municipal Court Offers Amnesty Program For Unpaid Traffic Tickets and Warrants

(East Point, GA) The City of East Point Municipal Court will offer an Amnesty Program to those with unpaid parking and traffic tickets. The six-day program will begin Monday, April 8, 2013 through Saturday, April 13, 2013 and Monday, April 15, 2012. The court will be open from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Saturday the 13st of April and 8:00 am through 6:00 pm Monday through Friday during the Amnesty period.

If you have an outstanding ticket, at the option of the judge, additional “failure to appear” fines may be waived. Those who have had their licenses previously suspended may 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 to discuss your case during this amnesty period.

Following the Amnesty Program, 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.

For more information call 404.559.6250 or check our website at www.eastpointcity.org

 

Creative Loafing Looks at East Point and College Park

Creative Loafing published its neighborhood guide where East Point and College Park are treated as one neighborhood.

 Along with a map of community businesses and services, several residents voiced what they'd like for the community.

Concerns about schools, desire for community development

Here's a taste:

East Point residents have some charming and historic neighborhoods of their own, as well as a new generation of single professionals, working couples, and young families committed to bonding together by preserving their tree-lined streets, embracing diversity ...

And one view:

"I grew up in East Point in the '70s and '80s and moved back last year to historic College Park. I'd like to see the realization of downtown College Park and East Point, both Main Streets, continue to grow into thriving business districts."

— Paul Chapman Sidener, 43, chef

Do you think the points of view accurately reflect the community?

Hollywood in Jefferson Park

I received this great account from Jeannine Henderson of how "Prisoners," which was filmed on nearby Cleveland Avenue, ended up being filmed in her Jefferson Park basement:

(Jeannine wanted to revise her comments. Below is an new version.)

Welcoming Hollywood into My Basement

I got a call from a neighbor who heard that a locations crew was searching for a basement with

an exterior entry to shoot a scene for the movie PRISONERS which was filming in East Point.

I gave the Locations Manager a call and they came over to my home to scout it out. “Can we

paint?” they asked. “Sure”, I said. They snapped some photos, drew out a sketch of the basement

area, and told me they would be in touch.

The next morning, we went over the details at breakfast and within minutes they arrived at my

home and swooped in to clear out my belongings. Three hours later, my basement was empty of

my belongings and they had painted my “Fire Roasted Pepper” walls a calmer, soothing gray.

The space looked completely different! By early evening, the set decorators had been busily

working their magic since the afternoon and were adding the final touches on the set.

The next day shooting would commence. I decided in the wee hours of the morning that I would

treat the crew to Coca – Cola cupcakes. There I was in my kitchen at 12:30 AM baking up a

storm for all of the strangers that would soon be in my home.

‘Like Worker Ants’

That afternoon, I was told they were ahead of schedule and shooting would start three hours

earlier than planned. Within twenty minutes, a crew of fifty spread about like worker ants across

my lawn to set up shop. I was introduced to a few key people as my mind struggled to take all of

the day’s events in. I stood on my front lawn surrounded by strangers moving about setting up

shop. I invited a few folks in for cupcakes and soon, monitors were set up in the living room and

the kitchen had folks filtering in and out for sweet treats.

Wooing stars with cupcakes

Unit publicist and new friend David Linck and I were chatting in my kitchen over cupcakes

when Hugh Jackman arrived on set. David whisked me onto the porch before I could even

realize what was going on. “There he is,” David said. “Who, where?” I asked. “Hugh, right

in front of you, with his back to you,” David said. David led me out onto the porch and

introduced me to Hugh. Mr. Jackman shook my hand, thanked me for letting them film at

my house, and asked how I was doing. I offered him a Coca-Cola cupcake, which he happily

accepted. Unbeknownst to me, he had been Jonesing for sweets the day before, but had been

abstaining because he was set to start shooting Wolverine soon. I later saw his cupcake sans a

large bite perched atop his chair as he filmed, waiting for his return.

 

“SHHHH! Quiet on set!” someone yelled, as everyone settled into place to start shooting. I

tiptoed into my living room to watch the monitors that had been setup to show the filming

downstairs as my basement became the home of Terrance Howard and Viola Davis’ characters,

the Birch family (long time friends of Hugh Jackman and Maria Bello’s characters). Saunders,

the Assistant Director radioed a request to someone and he was quickly handed a sound monitor

which he then handed off to me. “For me?” I asked, excited to be included. He nodded. I quickly

inserted the ear piece into my ear and clipped the pack onto my jeans and began to listen. Mr.

Jackman and Ms. Bello discussed the scene with the director for a minute and then did a few

practice runs. They shot the scene a few times. Then, as quickly as they came, they began to pack

up.

I came across Ms. Bello on my front lawn. I introduced myself and invited her in for a cupcake.

She came inside with me and we spoke for a moment. She graciously posed for a photo with

me and invited me to the benefit she was hosting Saturday evening for We Advance, her

organization that works to empower women and children throughout Haiti.

The crew packed up and headed back to their base at the hospital for dinner. I was invited to

tag along and eat with the gang. Afterwards, an invite was extended to watch more filming at

another neighbor’s home.

Movie magic: snow in Atlanta in mid March

The next day I was welcomed back to take in more of the action as they filmed outdoor

scenes. I arrived to witness movie magic; snow was being created for the shoot! Workers were

everywhere icing over this and that and pooling puddles of icy snow and slush all over the front

lawn of the hospital. I stayed well into the evening and into the early morning until shooting

wrapped at about 7:20 AM. I drug myself back home in the pouring rain home as daylight began

to break through the dark, cloudy sky.

 

What an experience, I thought to myself, sad that it was over. Folks have been asking me “Did

you meet Hugh Jackman?” Yes, I did. He was very down to earth and charming. “Who else

did you meet?” Ms. Bello was at my home as well. She is gorgeous and personable. Having

Mr. Jackman and Ms. Bello film at my house was fantastic! “Did you get an Autograph?” No, I

don’t ask for autographs. “Did you get a photo of Hugh or with Hugh?” Yes and yes, but out of

respect for the actors and the studio, I will not post the photos with actors on social media - doing

so is frowned upon. “Who else is in the movie?” In addition to Hugh Jackman, the all-star cast

boasts Terrance Howard, Viola Davis, Maria Bello, Melissa Leo, and Jake Gyllenhaal. “How did

they wind up filming at your house?” Timing and chance led to this amazing and unforgettable

experience, I didn’t do anything special or have any inside hookups, and it just worked itself out

to happen at my home.

 

To me, the highlight of it all was meeting the talented and interesting crew and learning about

what goes into making a movie. Hearing about how the various crew members got into the

business and what other projects they had worked on was fascinating. After filming wrapped

at my house, I was invited to watch more of the action. The next day, I sat in on filming at the

hospital (fun fact – I was born at South Fulton). Upon my arrival I was warmly greeted by name

by several crew members with smiles, handshakes, and even hugs. Receiving an invite to the set

after filming at my home had been completed, getting a great paint job, and getting to keep some

of the props used on set was the icing on the cake. It was an experience I will never forget in

which I also met some wonderful people.

Easter Weekend Events at Jefferson Ave Baptist Church

From the Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church:

Annual Easter Egg Hunt.

Saturday, March 30 beginning at 11 a.m. For children Elementary Grades and younger.
Bring your own basket and meet in the Fellowship Hall at the church at 10:45. Following the Easter Egg Hunt we offer all Easter Egg Hunters and parents a light lunch back in the Fellowship Hall.

Decorating the Community Cross

The Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church Flower Committee has set up a "greened" Cross on the front lawn and is asking anyone who would like to bring flowers, blooms, or other vegetation of color from your yard/garden/etc. to help us decorate the Community Cross. Members of the Flower Committee will be at the cross beginning at noon on Saturday, March 30.

Celebrating Easter at Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church. We invite you to worship with us this Easter weekend.
At 7 a.m., we will hold our annual Easter Sunrise Service on the front steps of the Sanctuary (facing Jefferson Avenue). Everyone is invited.
At 10:30 a.m., we will offer our Easter Sunday service, in the Sanctuary. All are welcome and a Nursery is provided.

Need more information, please call the church at 404.767.0582 or email us at jeffersonchurch@att.net.

East Point cars targeted by thieves

EAST POINT - Stolen cars are a problem in the city.

The February crime report from the East Point Police Department shows a spike in stolen cars, in addition to an increase in crimes involving guns.

Reports of serious crimes in the city in February totaled 402, that's is a 33 percent increase compared to February 2012.

Stolen Cars

Police handled 79 reports of stolen automobiles in February, with six trucks/buses reported being stolen.

That is a 58 percent increase from February 2012.

Robberies

More residents are being held up too, particularly by people with guns.

In February, police investigated 22 reports of robbery.  That is a increase of 36 percent from a year ago.

But people using guns while committing the crime jumped 61 percent, from 5 incidents to 13.

Here is the comparison:



 

Hollywood arrives on the doorstep of Jefferson Park

Jefferson Avenue home becomes a film set. Photo by Brian Frey

 

EAST POINT - Filming for the movie Prisoners closed a main roadway through the city, filmed in local homes and gave a resident the chance to say thanks to a leading man for taking on a controversial role.

Shutting Down Cleveland Avenue

Atlanta Medical Center, South Campus, was the backdrop to the filming of this ?. Police shut Cleveland Avenue for much of this past week. Cars and other traffic was diverted through the neighborhood, causing some walkers to be concerned about speeding cars.

There was even a Christmas/holiday scene, where a tall pine near the intersection with Jefferson Terrace was circled with white lights to make it look like the holidays.

Extra shooting In local homes

An 11th hour request to shoot in local homes had residents to open their houses to cast and crew. Shooting was done at homes on Jefferson Terrace and on Jefferson Avenue.

Said Jeannine Henderson, of Jefferson Terrace:

They filmed in my basement, I had no idea this was going to happen, total chance.

I made cupcakes for the crew and Hugh Jackman and Maria Bello. I made them Coca-Cola cupcakes one day and Red Velvet with Pecan Brittle the next day.

It was an unforgettable experience.

A pastor thanks Jake Gyllenhaal

Pastor Paul Graetz and spouse Robert Mixon opened their home to film crew, including Jake Gyllenhaal.

Pastor Graetz posted on Facebook about an encounter he had with the actor:

After the filming of the movie Prisoners wrapped up in our living room yesterday, the best moment for me was to personally thank actor Jake Gyllenhaal. I wanted to say thank you as a Pastor... on behalf of all the gay and lesbians of the world for being willing to make the film, "Brokeback Mountain." Many actors would have been hesitant to take on a role like that. I thanked him for telling a story of love that is everyone's story who have been oppressed by inequality thinking or struggled with self acceptance. I wanted him to how much I appreciated his stand and how much the kind of Christian Church I represent appreciated it as well. So again, Thank you, Jake for your role in creating greater awareness and contributing to the higher consciousness of equality for all. We all thank you.

He also said, that he took the role without hesitation knowing that it was ground breaking and would have an impact. He was delighted to hear that it was received so well by many.

 

Pastor Paul Graetz, left, and husband Robert Mixon. Photo by Brian Frey

'Hinokishin' in Jefferson Park on Saturday, March 16

Jefferson Park residents:

My friends the Fujimoto family, who live on Jefferson take periodic litter sweeps of our Jefferson Park streets and Bryan Park. The Fujimotos pick up litter in the spirit of HIROKISHIN, which translates to expressions of gratitude in the Japanese faith called Tenrikyo.

In the spirit of HINOKISHIN, please join us for a street litter sweep on Saturday March 16th.  We will meet at 10:00 AM at Harris and Jefferson and pick up street litter for an hour, then meet at the Fujimoto's house at noon for a refreshing glass of lemonade.

--Wil Miller

Learn more here.

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"Chicago" on stage at Tri-Cities High School

Students at the performing arts magnet school perform the fast-paced, entertaining story about gangsters in the Windy City.

Tickets can be purchased here.

Performance dates:

• Thursday, March 14, 7 p.m.


• Friday, March 15, 7 p.m.


• Saturday, March 16, 2 p.m.


• Saturday, March 16, 7 p.m.


• Sunday, March 17, 4 p.m.


• Thursday, March 20, 11 a.m.


• Friday, March 21, 7 p.m.


• Saturday, March 22, 7 p.m.


• Saturday, March 23, 2 p.m.


• Saturday, March 23, 7 p.m.


• Sunday, March 24, 4 p.m.

Visions of downtown East Point: Historic district vs Open lawns

East Point City Council recently reviewed proposals for redeveloping the city center.

The issue has been quiet for months. Before the process was slowed, residents formed a Facebook group called the East Point Preservation Alliance. Advocates were concerned with plans to raze some 1930s era buildings, including City Hall and a now-closed city library.

The council heard from the second of two developers last month about their visions for downtown. Ward B Council member Lance Rhodes said the council would vote to move forward on one of these proposals. It may take up to two years to finish the project after a vote, he said. No date has been set for the council vote, he said

Here are key points:

Developer: East Point City Planners LLC

• Knock down city hall to create a great lawn. This opens up the arched front of the city auditorium.


• Build a new government center.


• Relocate the closed city library by razing a city fire station. This creates another green space.


• Close Linwood Avenue, between Church and East Point streets to create a city center.


• Estimated price tag: $17.7 million to $18.1 million


• Presentation

Developer: Manhattan + Gateway + Benoit + CCNA

• Create a "district" concept with four dimensions: civic space, recreation, transportation oriented development, live & work space


• Erect monuments and arches to establish the border of the district: Main Street and Church Street; Thompson Avenue and Cleveland Avenue.


• Develop amphitheater and open space along Church Street


• Preserve city auditorium.


• Presentation

What do you like about the plans? Dislike?

Jefferson Park fundraiser at Oz

Oz Pizza: Tuesday night, once Oz gets 20 separate receipts, they will donate 20% of said receipts to the JPNA.

Date: March 5, Oz Pizza, Main Street, East Point

Eats: Maritza & Frank's, Hapeville.

I headed to Hapeville last week to check out a new coffee shop that is getting a lot of buzz on a local Facebook groups. The place - Drip - seemed closed after its soft opening, but the stretch of two-story buildings on North Central Street was anything but.  This stretch of town has a number of unique, local establishments, from salons and a Thai restaurant to a bakery and drug store. The store fronts have their charm as originals, with no chain stores in sight. Those are found on Virginia Avenue, not too far away.)

After buying dessert for later during the day at the Buttersweet bakery, I wandered to Maritza & Frank's, a meat-and-two-sides southern diner on N. Central Street.  I had no trouble finding a table in the large dining room, where the tables are covered in red and white checkerboard plastic. It has the charm of a slightly worn, comfortable diner. Several people waited to pay their bills.  I found myself a seat in the corner.

View Larger Map // Inside of the restaurant

I checked the day's specials before the waitress brought over the lunch menu.  Being Friday and being I don't eat meat on Friday during Lent, I selected the tilipia. Given the option for fried or grilled, I went with fried.  A Foursquare recommendation praised the green beans, so that was my first side, my second, mashed potatoes, gravy on the side.  And to wash it down, a cup of coffee.

All in all, a solid meal.  The fish was done right and I am someone who doesn't embrace seafood.  There were two pieces of the freshwater fish on the dish. The white meat was tender, nicely battered. I feared  a fried fish would be greasy, but this was not. It was tasty. I did pick bones out of my mouth.

The sides. Green beans were good. If you can describe beans as al dente, these would be them. These kept their bite, instead of mushy beans that had been kept in hot water to long. The mashed potatoes were better with the gravy than by themselves.

Also, the meal came with two warm corn muffins.  Baked to just right color of a muffin, they had the classic flavor that makes them a southern favorite.

Coffee. Good, standard java.

All in all, the meal came out to about $12, including tip.

On Urban Spoon, customers give it 85 percent approval rating. And Foursquare, 5.7 out of 10 recommended it, or "mixed feelings."

If you're in the mood for southern food before exploring this stretch of Hapeville, with its unique shops, Maritza & Frank's would be a place to start. It is closed Saturdays.

 

 

Donors wanted for blood drive.

From the Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church:

The LifeSouth Community Blood Center Bloodmobile will be at Jefferson Avenue Baptist Church this Saturday, March 9th at 10 AM.

The Blood Drive runs from 10 AM to 3 PM, and the Bloodmobile will be located in the Lower Church Parking Lot off the corner of Winburn Drive and Batavia St.

You must be 18 years old to donate blood (or 16 years old if you bring your parent/guardian) and weigh at least 115 pounds. We would encourage you to drink plenty of water before you donate (maybe beginning on Friday).

We invite the community to help "Save a life, give blood."

If you have any questions, please call the church at 404.767.0582 or the LifeSouth Community Blood Center at 678.432.0637.

#DoGoodATL : a call for photos of neighborhood goodness

Creative Loafing - Atlanta's other newspaper - is kicking off a new program for shutterbugs.

For CL's 2013 Neighborhood Guide, we're on a quest to find the good in Atlanta so we can spread the Karma throughout the city - and we need your help. This year we are launching our Do Good campaign, a series of grassroots partnerships with local neighborhoods to help them realize goals and projects they haven't been able to accomplish on their own, from beautifying a decaying neighborhood corner to starting a community garden to fencing in a new dog park. More about that soon.

As part of this project, we want our faithful CL readers to show us what good looks like in their neighborhoods. Think about it, and send us a photo of what you see. It could be anything from that piece of public art that brightens up your day to a neighbor picking up after their dog, and pretty much anything in-between. Maybe it's an annual neighborhood festival? An oft-overlooked park? Or a community organization that brings people together? Whatever the reasons, we want to see what makes your neighborhood great.

Send your snapshots to photos@cln.com or post them to Twitter or Instagram using the #DoGoodATL hashtag before March 8, 2013. Don't forget to include the location and a brief description.

Are any East Point neighborhood's showing off its best side?

Read more for details. Deadline is March 8.

 

 

Meetings on proposed "Cleveland Avenue Crossing" to replace abandoned apartments

UPDATE  - East Point planners and developers are to hold public meetings on a proposed WalMart on Cleveland Avenue

City council member Lance Rhodes sent out the notice:

Notice of Development Intent Sylvan Road/Springdale

Case Number:  2013P-006-03Duplantis Design GroupPreliminary Plat
CZIM Meeting :    03-12-13
P&Z Meeting:      04-18-13
Council Meeting:  05-20-13
Applicant Phone Number 404-567-5701

For the new readers of my emails, the CZIM is the public meeting where you can talk directly with the developer and P&Z staff. This meeting is held on the first floor of Jefferson Station in the P&Z Conference Room. The other meetings (P&Z and Council) are held on the fouth floor in the Council Chambers.

 

EAST POINT - One of the biggest redevelopment projects in the city in years is quietly moving forward.
City leaders expect the plans for the commercial/retail center, anchored by a WalMart store, to be submitted in November. Public meeting will be scheduled to review the plans for the site, at the corner for Cleveland Avenue and Sylvan Road.


easel.ly

"Chicago" coming to East Point's Tri-Cities High School stage

Lighting crew at Tri-Cities High School getting ready for "Chicago."/Photo by Brian Frey 

 

EAST POINT - The Tri-Cities High School award-winning performing arts program is getting ready to put on the crowd favorite, "Chicago."

The musical's opening night at the Viola Turner Theater, on Harris Street, is March 14. Tickets can be purchased online here.

Food cooperative to serve local families

South Fulton Newspaper had the story first about this new program that'll deliver 40 lbs. of food monthly to needy families.

Tri-Cities Church, based out of East Point, is doing their part to provide hope for families who have fallen into dire circumstances.

The church is in the process of executing a family food cooperative through local schools — Hapeville and Parklane elementary schools and Tri-Cities High — in the south Fulton area.

Jamie Vernon, one of the pastors at Tri-Cities, grew up in the community and has a passion for giving back in his community.

Here's what is especially troubling:

 “Tri-Cities High School has some of the highest numbers of homeless students in Fulton County,” said Vernon. “There are many different levels, but one of the main reasons for the instability and transient nature for these families is food insecurity.”

Read more: Food cooperative to provide families assistance

 

 

Missing Kitty

Chairman Meow has been missing 3 days and it is very unlike him to not come home when his Dads call him. He is wearing a dingy orange collar wtth no tags ( he pulls them off constantly). He is very friendly.

His Dads love him very much. He meows a lot.

IF ANYONE HAS SEEN HIM PLEASE CALL 404-831-7084 OR 404-281-3946.

Food trucks serving up hot food in East Point

UPDATE: According to the downtown development coordinator, food trucks are coming to Downtown East Point (in the Commons, once a month next to the East Point Farmer’s Market-more information will be in the Downtown Newsletter this Friday).

--

Food trucks in East Point?  Apparently efforts are underway to make East Point friendly to these restaurants-on-wheels.

Already, East Point has one food truck. The colorful Blaxican Food Truck - "Mexican soul food" - parks off of Washington Road, close to downtown.

Of course, Atlanta has its park.

I've emailed Erin Rodgers, the downtown development coordinator, to see what she can tell us about this project.

UPDATE: Food Trucks are Coming to Downtown East Point (in the Commons, once a month next to the East Point Farmer’s Market-more information will be in the Downtown Newsletter this Friday).

Free training program for the TriCities 10K and 5K run/walk

The fourth annual TriCities 10K Run and 5K RunWalk takes off on May 4 at 8 a.m.

The race raises money for www.themainstreetacademy.com

Organizers want to help people to cross the finish line:

FREE TRAINING FOR REGISTERED PARTICIPANTS

Starting today train with Orlando Daniels, 20 years experienced distance runner and trainer; Every WED, 7PM, Badgett Stadium (last session May 1). First timers and veterans learn basic running skills, techniques to improve your speed, strengthen your stamina and tone your muscles.

Badgett Stadium: 3636 College Street, College Park GA, 30337

SIGN UP NOW for just 20 BUCKS

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Local school fundraiser

Chick-fil-A Spirit Night

Please join The Main Street Academy tomorrow night, Tuesday - 2/26/13, from 4:30pm-6:30pm at Chick-fil-A on Cleveland Avenue for our monthly fundraiser.

As always, there will be activities for the children and they have a great playground.  Tell the cashier you are with TMSA and a portion of your total bill will be donated to the school.  Drive-thru is included.

TMSA is built on the foundation of our 8 Core Values.  It's important for both students and parents/guardians to keep these in mind as we gather in the community for school-related events.  We need to be "the proud face of TMSA" and have fun, but still mind our manners.  There should be no running or screaming at any of our partner establishments.  Please display the TMSA core value of Respect at our community events as if you were visiting a friend's home for dinner.

Thank you for your continued support of TMSA!

 

Social media now a police tool

EAST POINT - To track down the suspect of an armed robbery, city police used the newest tool in their arsenal: social media.

The gunman was caught on security tape, but there was no luck  in identifying the man, wearing a dark hooded sweatshirt.  So, police posted the video on Facebook and the East Point Police Department's Youtube channell. A tip came with a name and the suspect was later identified in a line up.

That's the success Sgt. Allyn Glover, a veteran police officer, sees as the department embraces Facebook and other social media.

"To date the page has been nothing less than a success. I feel that keeping everyone informed on the goings on in our city can only result in better communication and more success stories," said Sgt. Glover, the social media guy at the department.  A 16-year veteran on the force,  he is currently assigned as to the Major Crimes Unit in the Criminal Investigations Division.

Law enforcement have embraced social media. Nearly nine out of 10 law enforcement agencies now use social media, a part of the arsenal as walking the beat. The International Association of Police Chiefs surveyed 600 agencies and more than half said social media had helped solve crime.

The city police joined joined Facebook in early 2012.  While others may share vacation pictures or funny videos, the police are using the social media to share news about crime and develop better community relations. The police department uses the page to issue news releases, along with photos and videos of suspects and remarks from the community.

Facebook is the most popular outreach with social media, according to the police association survey. As of February, some 283 follow the department's page. In the future, the department may weigh whether to join Twitter.  Already, an account has been reserved by the department, but it hasn't been activated, Glover said.

Other parts of city government are turning to social media to get the word out. The city of East Point has been on the site since 2010 used Facebook to share community information. It has 435 fans.

Sgt. Glover responded via email to questions about Facebook.

When did the department first start using Facebook and what prompted using it?

We have been using social media since early 2012. We wanted to find better ways of using today's technology and felt that social media was a great way to accomplish that. We brought the idea before the Interim Chief Chase and he embraced the idea of using social media to better communicate with other agencies and citizens.

What has been one of the surprises for the East Point Police Department about using Facebook?

We were already very familiar with social media. We are happy to say that so far there have been no real surprises.

What has been a success of using Facebook?

As recently as last week we were able to identify an armed robbery suspect after posting a video on our Facebook and Youtube pages. Cobb County Detectives contacted us with a tip on who they believed the suspect was and he was subsequently identified with the use of lineups.

Any hiccups that the department wasn't expecting and it'd caution other police departments to avoid?

To date the page has been nothing less than a success. I feel that keeping everyone informed on the goings on in our City can only result in better communication and more success stories.

Does the department use other social media?

We use Youtube as well to post our videos. The channel is EastPointPolice. We have reserved a Twitter account but it's not active yet.

How many people at the department are responsible for the site? And how often is it updated?

I am the sole administrator for the social media sites. I review all correspondence that comes to me and post as needed. Chief Chase also monitors and posts on occasion. I have a Smartphone that allows me to keep the page updated at all times.

Can people submit tips via Facebook or should that be done over the phone?

Yes. We recommend that the submissions be done through our Facebook email as opposed to an open post. But yes.

 

Second Annual 'Love Feast' Saturday

Jeannine Henderson organized the community potluck she dubbed a "Love Feast." It is coming up on Saturday. She talked about how it got started and how others can get involved.  Check out the photo gallery below.

What was the inspiration and motivation behind this event?

That is an interesting story. I am the creator and administrator for the East Point Neighbors Give-Sell-Swap page on Facebook (think Freecycle meets Craigslist, but specifically for our area). Once the group reached 500 members, I felt a celebration was in order. We decided to do a potluck gathering. After some suggestions from residents, the potluck quickly evolved into an Appreciation for East Point's Police and Fire/EMT departments. Valentine's Day was coming up in about two weeks from the inception of the idea and I thought this would be a nice tie-in to include the holiday in a way. Since it was to happen around Valentine's Day I dubbed the event "Love Feast" because the event is all about showing our love and appreciation for our first responders who work hard to keep us safe and sometimes put their lives in the line. Last year we had around 125 people in attendance including our guests of honor. We felt that it was a great success and we received a lot of positive feedback from our first responders and citizens.

-Is this your own initiative or part of an organization?

The Love Feast is a labor of love that is organized and hosted by citizens independent of any organization. Citizens donate their time and resources to coordinate and execute the event. We also rely on donations and participation from Local Businesses. Last year's planning committee consisted of Matt and Ali Jewell, Isabel and Craig Jeffares, Kerry Kirwin-Milwood, Tim Baxley, Dennis Morgan, and myself. Turning Point Wellness Center was the first business to jump on board last year. They donated all of the paper goods used at the event along with a gift certificate for the raffle. Taco Pete, The Flower Cottage, and Oz Pizza also contributed by donating food or gift cards for the raffle. Some citizens also pitched in and offered prizes for the raffle. This year, TurningPoint Wellness has graciously offered to have their therapist on hand to pamper our hardworking first responders. Matt and Ali Jewell have again played an instrumental role in helping me spearhead our 2nd Annual Love Feast.

 

-What do you hope it brings to the community?

My hope with any local endeavor is to bring people together and foster a greater sense of community. Since last year's Love Feast I have become a member of the East Point Main Street Association and also the Jefferson Park Neighbors Association. Both of these organizations focus on community. However, Love Feast is extra special to me because it evolved from something so simple and has so much heart behind it. With the Love Feast, my main objective was to give back to those who give so much of themselves and their time to keep us safe. They work while we are sleeping, they work on weekends, they work on holidays, and they are often away from their loved ones. Public safety jobs are not glamorous and they are not lucrative, these jobs are labors of love. You have to love what you do in these fields. I don't know of another community where the chief of police, additional police units, firefighters, and a public service worker with a backhoe would come out on the weekend in the pouring rain at night to rescue a drowing cat from a storm drain! Our first responders truly care about the citizens, even the furry ones!

-What is required of the participants?

We just ask that our neighbors bring a covered dish to share at the event and extend their appreciation to the first responders. We had some delicious food last year.Two residents even baked treats featuring the different public safety departments. There were cupcakes with the police, fire, and EMT insignias piped onto each cupcake with icing and another resident made heart cookies that said "Thank You." It is the little things such as this that show our first repsonders how much we appreciate them.

-How can someone get involved with this event?

The easiest way to get involved is to just come out (with a covered dish to share) for some great fellowship and to extend your appreciation to our first responders. In addition to having top notch first responders who genuinely care about their community, one of the things that makes East Point such a wonderful place to live is the amazing sense of community that our neighbors share for each other and our city. If someone wanted to donate their time or goods to the cause, they may contact me to coordinate.

-How has the response been from the public safety agencies in East Point?

They were thrilled! Nothing like this had been done before last year. Having members from all over the community come out just to shake their hand, give them a hug, and offer up a home baked dish made their day. The smiles on their faces made my week.

-What are the future plans for the event?

This is the second year for the event. We plan to make this an annual event. We may add another gathering in the Fall, most likely around Thanksgiving. Showing our appreciation around Valentine's Day and Thanksgiving seems like a great time to give back to our Police, Fire/EMT departments.

Gallery of the 2012 celebration

A new name for East Point's hospital following consolidation

EAST POINT - The Cleveland Avenue medical facility has a new name.

[gview file="http://jeffersonparkhub.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/AMC_South_Post-Consolidation_Flyer-FINAL.pdf"]

New release:

Atlanta Medical Center Consolidates with
South Fulton Medical Center
and Becomes Second Largest Hospital in Georgia

Atlanta Medical Center (AMC) and South Fulton Medical Center have consolidated into one hospital with two campuses, effective Jan. 1, 2013. South Fulton Medical Center has been renamed Atlanta Medical Center – South Campus.

Now licensed as a 762-bed acute care hospital, Atlanta Medical Center is the second largest licensed-bed hospital in Georgia. With its main campus located in downtown Atlanta, the hospital’s South Campus in East Point, GA provides care to the surrounding communities of East Point, College Park, Hapeville and Camp Creek.

“Both of these hospitals have a long history of serving our communities,” said William T. Moore, president and CEO of Atlanta Medical Center. “We are pleased to provide even greater service to our patients by combining our strengths, providing quality health care to a larger region and offering a choice of location.”

The consolidation has been in the works since last spring, as the two hospitals explored ways to ensure long-term stability. On Dec. 31, 2012, the Georgia Department of Community Health issued a licensing permit recognizing Atlanta Medical Center as a 762-bed acute care hospital.

An academic medical center, AMC has been serving the community since 1901. With the consolidation, the hospital now has almost 3,000 employees and contractors; 580 physicians on its medical staff; and handles more than 21,000 inpatient admissions and 162,000 outpatient visits each year. Atlanta Medical Center offers comprehensive health care, including 24-hour emergency services, Level 1 trauma care, stroke treatment, women’s services, medical imaging, orthopedics, sleep center, pulmonary, cardiac care and bariatric surgery for weight loss.

Atlanta Medical Center is owned by Tenet Healthcare Corporation.

Tips about East Point crime could be valuable as police partner with Crime Stoppers Atlanta

EAST POINT - Law enforcement leaders here hope a new program with Crime Stoppers Atlanta leads to more tips to solve East Point crimes.

With this new initiative, people who offer tips about crime in East Point that ends with the arrest and indictment of alleged criminals can receive up to $2,000.

The information can be left anonymously by phone to the East Point police, a special tip line with Crime Stoppers Atlanta, online or by texting.

Crime Stoppers Atlanta received in 2012 more than 2,770 tips, leading ot the 171 arrests and 249 cases cleared. Some $102,000 was paid out, according to a news release.

How to leave an anonymous tip:

• Phone the East Point Police: 404.761.2177


• Crime Stopper Atlanta Tip line: 404.577.TIPS (8477)


• Online: crimestoppersatlanta.org


• Text: CRIMES (x274637)

 

Here's the news release:

East Point, January 22, 2013- Chief Woodrow Blue and the East Point Police Department has partnered with Crime Stoppers Greater Atlanta in an effort to receive anonymous tips on crimes which have occurred in the City of East Point. A reward of up to $2,000 is offered for information leading to the arrest and indictment of the person or persons responsible for crimes occurring in the City of East Point.Any information on a case can be submitted anonymously to the East Point Police Department at 404-761-2177, Crime Stoppers Atlanta tip line at 404-577-TIPS(8477), onlinewww.crimestoppersatlanta.org or by texting CSA and the tip to CRIMES(274637). Persons do not have to give their name or any identifying information to be eligible for the reward of up to $2,000.

About Crime Stoppers Atlanta:
Launched in January 2007, Crime Stoppers Atlanta rallies and empowers citizens to take a stand against crime in their communities by providing an avenue for citizens to anonymously report information about criminal activity, or criminals’ whereabouts, and incentivizes them with monetary rewards if the information leads to an arrest and indictment. The information provided through Crime Stoppers Atlanta helps law enforcement officials in their investigations and can play a major role in the apprehension of criminals and in securing convictions.

Crime Stoppers is a non-profit organization and does not receive any local, state, or federal funding. Donations are necessary for the continued success of the program. For more information or to donate to the Crime Stoppers Atlanta reward fund visitwww.crimestoppersatlanta.org.

According to Crime Stoppers, over 2,772 tips were received in 2012. One-Hundred and Seventy-One arrests were made and 249 cases were cleared due to the tips. The organization paid out over $102,000 dollars to tipsters in 2012.

Hollyhood adds its vintage clothing to downtown East Point

EAST POINT - You want unique shoes? Pschyo Sister’s Hollyhood store has them. Or a classic faux fur mutton to throw around your shoulders before the night on the town, the West Cleveland Avenue store has that too.

Psycho Sister’s Hollyhood store on Cleveland Avenue stocks hard to find clothes from past decades with racks full of vintage fashions from  ‘60s, ‘70s, ‘80s, says Day Ramphal.

“It is a fun 5 and dime,” says Ramphal, who opened the story in 2012.

The store prides itself as the place where people can leave with a unique outfit for a party or to add to their fashions. It is one of the Pschyo Sisters stores.  You can find other stores in Little Five Points, Cartersville, Sandy Springs.

Living up to its name, the dressing rooms with oversized  stars replicate a walk of fame.  The doors  screams the “almost famous” walk through them, Ramphal jokes.  “When you put on the outfit, you’ll be the star that you want to be,” he says. People are invited to autograph the dressing room walls with their name, a design, a touch of fun.

Ramphal says he wanted to open in East Point not only because he lives in the Frog Hollow neighborhood, where he served as neighborhood president, but in addition he was drawn by plans to help revitalize downtown.

Another reason Ramphal says he opened its doors in East Point is to serve the creative people who live on the south side of Atlanta here, in addition to actors, actresses and “wannabe rock stars.”

Walk in traffic has been steady, he said.  To reach new customers,  the store stays open during downtown events so people can explore

 The store, at has caught the eye of TV shows, from AMC’s “The Walking Dead” to BET’s “Let’s Stay Together,” he said.  One of its fashions earned the top prize for best dressed at the 2012 East Point Possums Show and the award-winning dress hangs in a place of honor.

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Petition urges Fulton County to hire a new animal control services organization

More than 900 people have signed a petition to Fulton County commissioners calling for the nonprofit Lifeline Animal Project to run the county's animal control services.

From the Change.com petition,

Tired of tax dollars in Fulton County going to the killing of our lost, healthy and adoptable pets? Paying for failure to reunite pets with owners? Mismanagement of funds?

Right now the fate and well being of shelter pets hangs in the balance in Fulton County, GA.

You can learn more about the effort here.

New business profiled in downtown East Point newsletter

Downtown East Point Newsletter

How a cat was rescued

[caption id="attachment_6029" align="aligncenter" width="430"] Not the actual cat that was rescued, but a cute wet cat.[/caption]

A story

Updated 20 minutes ago

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   Neighbors, I just got a call from Kevin Goodman on Bryan. His next door neighbor's cat is stuck in a drain in the street and cannot get out and is crying. She has called the Fire Department and they do not respond to animal calls and Fulton County Animal Services has not returned her call. Is there anyone who could offer some assistance? Thank you.

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   

   
   
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   And then there was this from Lori Kirby:
   

   "I live in the most amazing neighborhood/city. An elderly neighbor's cat was trapped in a storm drain tonight. Neighbors put the word out on our neighborhood fb page, after she got no response from Fulton County. My husband and I went to help. Only to find East Point fire dept, 2 police cruisers, several other neighbors, water dept and get this...the East Point Police Chief there to help. It's pouring rain and everyone is standing in the street, taking turns petting the cat through the top of a storm grate that is paved into the street. Water dept employee went down the street to a work site, drove a backhoe back to us, lifted the grate and rescued the cat. Puddin is now safe and dry. I have never seen a police chief stand in the pouring rain to help a neighbor. I have now. We moved to the right place! I love Jefferson Park in East Point!"

   
   

   
   

Trees Atlanta Returns to East Point's Jefferson Park neighborhood

EAST POINT - Trees Atlanta is returning to the Jefferson Park neighborhood to repair some damaged trees.

East Point Replacement Tree Planting

January 5th, 2013 from 9 am to 12 pm

Last Spring we had a little bug infestation on some trees in East Point and now we need to replace the poor little redbuds we lost.

Join Susan in planting 8 trees in the Jefferson Park neighborhood.

Sign up to volunteer here.

Promotion of East Point Hits the Airwaves

EAST POINT -  Two new videos promoting the community aim to capture the attention of families planning reunions and travelers visiting the Atlanta Metro area.

Here's the reunion advertisment:



 

The effort for his niche area makes sense:

The Grio.com website reported in 2010:

Some 82 million Americanswill participate in family reunions this year, according to Budget Travel Magazine, which notes that 44 percent of leisure trips taken by African-Americans include family visits.

And then there's East Point's location between the airport and downtown Atlanta that may be a good  combination for this niche travel industry.

The promotions are on the Visit Atlanta Youtube page, which is marketing by the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau.

You can see both ads here.

 

 

Visitors turn to The JP Hub for East Point news

Happy new year. Thank you to readers who visit this local news website. Expect more news about East Point and its people.

From 2012: