(The meeting was held on the 2nd Monday of the month due to New Year’s Eve falling on Sunday and thus many having Monday, January 2nd as a day-off.)

Russell welcomed everyone to the meeting, introduced the SACL officers who were present at the meeting, and invited everyone to join him in a moment of silence.

Community Pride

Russell kicked off the community pride moment by remembering the Christmas party – 1st state of South Atlanta address, 1st Christmas tree lighting, great food, and a lot of neighbors. He opened the floor to others to share.

Community Reports

No police offers were present at the meeting.

Community Prosecutor Claire Fairley reported that her department has been tasked with coming up with goals for 2012, and she has created a community survey, so that her goals will come from the community itself. Surveys were passed to those present at the meeting. Anyone not in attendance can email her claire.farley@fultoncountyga.gov for a copy. It was noted that her contact information is not on the SACL Agenda’s Important Contacts Side Bar. Katie Delp said she would make sure it was added by February’s meeting.

Community Business

• Beautification Committee: Chris McCord is away on a family matter. Russell reported that starting in April the committee would be doing community clean-up projects every other month.

• Public Safety Committee: Still looking for someone to head up this committee.  Russell reported that he was wanting to work with Drew, the SACL intern, to work towards bringing more streets together as a Neighborhood Watch and getting the official signs posted in an effort. A new neighbor present at the meeting said that when looking to buy in South Atlanta he had in fact looked for those signs. Thought they served as a good tool for encouraging others to move into the community. Claire Farley reported that our new contact could be reached at cwalker@atlantaga.gov.

• Youth Empowerment Committee: absent from meeting.

• Community Development Committee: Russell suspended this report to move onto pressing 2012 items and to help us dismiss in time for National Championship Game.

Community Business

• By-Laws Committee: Russell announced that the new year seemed like an appropriate time to take a look back at our By-Laws. A committee is being formed that will meet in the next couple of weeks to update the by-laws and bring a draft for vote at the February meeting. Russell announced that anyone was welcome to serve on the committee, but needed to let him know ASAP. Current volunteers are Leroy, Fran and Katie.

• Russell asked permission to deviate slightly from the meeting agenda. He announced to SACL policy changes. The first being that in the future we will have 2 sign-in sheets – for visitors and members. The member sheet will list all members and ask for a check mark to be made by those in attendance. The second policy change will be a by-law change and thus need to be voted at the next meeting. Russell is proposing a flat membership: $35/year – though seniors will get the discounted price of $25/year. He announced that the officers would be pushing membership in 2012, as in 2011 we only had 15 official members. He reminded the body that dues help fund our events and activities.

• 2012 Budget: Russell presented the 2012 budget and announced that treasury reports would re-continue in 2012. He announced that if someone wanted to do something outside of the budget that it would need to be emailed to Russell and brought to vote at the next SACL meeting. A motion was made and seconded to accept the budget. The budget was approved for 2012. A copy can be requested from Russell or Katie.

• 2012 Calendar: The 2012 Calendar was not unveiled, as a request was made for all dates and events of local churches, organizations, etc. to be turned into Russell or Katie, so that they could be incorporated on the 2012 Calendar. The 2012 Calendar would be presented at the February meeting.

Community Forum

Tony Hardin, a new neighbor at 121 Thayer Avenue, was welcomed to the meeting. Tony is retired military and also has community organizing experience. Please stop by and welcome Tony to South Atlanta.

Dates to Remember

A correction was made to the NPU-Y meeting date. Due to MLK Day on January 16, the meeting will be held the following Monday, January 23, at 7 PM.

Russell announced that February’s meeting will be held at the Ron Clark Academy. The RCA students have a special presentation planed. Russell promised refreshments will be served at RCA. The Ron Clark Academy is located at 228 Margaret Street between Jonesboro Road and Lakewood Avenue.

The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 PM.

Russell Hopson opened the meeting at 6:54 PM and called for a moment of reflection.

The schedule was modified in an attempt to get us out in time to pass festival postcards around the neighborhood before it got dark.

Community Reports

Lt. Reginald Moorman, the investigations commander of zone 3, reported that the biggest issue lately for our beat has been with burglaries and particularly copper relate burglaries. He strongly encouraged residents to put alarm sensors on their HVAC units. He also reported that Moury Avenue has been the cause of problems. He requested that residents report squatters, as police believe that they are the ones largely responsible for the copper burglaries.

A request was made for the new zone head to come and introduce herself to the South Atlanta Civic.

No other public nor elected officials were present to speak.

Committee Reports

• Public Safety: While not the head of public safety (still looking for someone to replace Jason Timbert), Josh got up to speak. He explained that he had just completed the Atlanta Police Citizens Academy. He explained how while we have in the past been told that we need to report suspected drug houses to 911, as they document the reports and keep stats. He was able to tour 911, as a part of the class time and got a chance to directly ask a 911 operator if this was true. Found out it definitely is NOT and was told suspected drug houses need to be reported to narcotics at 404.546.2650. Narcotics fills out lead sheets and tracks the reports and investigate.

Community Business

The August minutes were emailed out the week after the meeting. Russell asked if there were any discrepancies. The minutes were approved as written.

Russell announced that this month’s community pride was that one of Carver High School’s bands, as well as their art students would come out in support of the festival. We also have the Ron Clark Step group signed up to perform.

Fran got up and reported on the upcoming social/festival. She announced that this week only we would be offering 50% off anyone interested in signing up for the BBQ sauce taste off. She also announced that we still volunteers. You can sign up in 2-hour blocks. There is a full range of opportunities to volunteer – everything from cooking to kid area supervision to stage coordinating. You also will be able to donate candy Treat Street and get a free plate of food.

Chris McCord announced that he had two trash grabbers as a thank you to the two boys who Valerie Sellers said cleaned up her street last month during the community pride moment. He hoped to encourage them with their street cleaning efforts and make it easier.

Katie Delp announced that the 2^nd Treat Street will be held October 30^th from 5-7 PM in the Marketplace parking lot.  It still needs candy donations. You can bring donations to the Marketplace or to the social on October 22^nd. The Treat Street also needs volunteers to serve at the booths. Josh and Kara will be bringing back the Haunted Woods.

Christy Norwood reported for Charis Community Housing on a variance request to attach the two porches on 1307 Marcy. The motion was made and seconded and passed to approve the variance request.

Tina Arnold from Lakewood Heights reported on a towing company that is attempting to set up shop in their neighborhood. The neighborhood has found several discrepancies on the towing companies claims and wanted the surrounding neighborhoods to come to the NPU-Y vote informed.

Community Forum

Donna Barber reported that Community Fellowship is offering an after school program. It is for K-8^th grade from M-Thurs. It is $25/month though no more than $50/month for a family. If that is too high for a person, they will work with you. It is located at 1297 Jonesboro.

Two new residents were welcomed.

• Cory Bridges on Park Avenue.
• Harold Haney on Hardwick Street.

Russell opened the meeting at 6:42 PM with a quiet moment of reflection. He reported that the August minutes had been read and approved at the SACL executive board meeting.

Community Reports:

There were no police officers present at the start of the meeting, so Community Prosecutor Claire Farley spoke first. She gave her contact information – clair.farley@fultoncountyga.gov. She passed around a sheet for those who were interested in being a part of court watch. She also shared that we need to update the police on our agenda. She will get us the contact information for the new police officers.

Councilwoman Carla Smith and Sheryl Bennett were at the meeting. (1) They shared that the Mayor’s office has a ‘love your block’ grant. The next round of applications are due October 15^th and February 12^th. She gave Russell an application. (2) They encouraged us to send someone to the Neighborhood Summit. Cost is only $25/person. (3) They announced the Boulevard Park opening on September 25^th. (4) They asked us to get out the Jonesboro Redevelopment Plan for Ms. Lily, so that she can find a suitable building for her proposed afterschool program.

Committee Reports:

• Socials: Russell announced that this was saved for Community Business.
• Beautification: Chris McCord announced that the next community clean-up project would be September 24^th and hosted by Wesley Center at 17 Turman. Candy Taylor presented more information on this project and passed out fliers.
• Public Safety: Russell announced that we still need a chair for this committee.
• Youth Empowerment: Carrie announced that they were continuing to meet and that work is being done behind the scenes. They hope to have something to present in the near future.
• Community Development: Russell announced that he is working with a contact to start a South Atlanta Boot Camp on Saturdays at 9 AM. It will be open to all at $5 (or less) per person. Need to 10 people to sign up before it can get started to make it worth the instructor’s time.

Community Business:

Ida Williams informed the body again about the South Bend Center for Arts and Culture. It is available for youth ages 6-13 for $35 or less dollars a week (sliding scale). There also is a teen program available.

Courtney Alston of the Ron Clark Academy stood up and introduced herself.

South Atlanta Social Update: Fran, Kristi and Tanisha updated the body on the work being done on the first annual hog roast. They informed the body that is being used as a community building and fundraising opportunity. They are now at the point where they need community support.

Russell announced that our Community Pride moment is that our hog roast’s first star support is A-Tow, who donated $1,000. We are now 2/3rds of the way to our financial goal for the festival.

Kristi announced that the festival’s permit had just been approved. Ron Clark and Wonder Root are potential partners. We revealed 3 banners, as well as postcards and small cards to pass out in the neighborhood and surrounding communities. She encouraged the body to go to the festival’s Facebook page and invite their friends. She asked for financial sponsor and donor ideas, and she announced that they have packets available for applications, sponsors and donors. They presented the sauce-off, vender and volunteer opportunities.

Christy Norwood with Charis Community Housing informed the body that Charis would like to take their vacant land to the Land Bank Authority for banking and tax abatement.

The new police officers showed up to meeting. They reported that our beat had 48 crimes – the majority in the Villages of Carver. AC-Units are the biggest problem; however, cages and sensors are big deterrents.

Community Open Forum:

Courtney Alston informed the body that the Ron Clark Academy was proud to be a permanent fixture in the South Atlanta Neighborhood. She invited us to join them at: (1) Admissions Open House on September 22 and 27. Register Online. (2) Community Open House – date in October is to be determined. (3) Education Training Day – October 7, 13, 14. Fee. Register online.

 The meeting was adjourned at 7:56 PM.

 Minutes taken by Christy Norwood

Russell welcomed everyone to the meeting at 6:40 PM and called for a moment of silence.

Community Pride

Russell asked Fran to speak on the recent 1^st annual Southern Fried Kickin’ Kickball Tournament. Fran reported that we had 80 adults participate on a total of 7 teams with an estimated 30-50 onlookers/cheer leaders throughout the day. Everyone ended the day looking forward to the next tournament – which will be held either in the Fall or Spring. The tournament raised $600 – and are looking to use the funds for other social events. Photos of the event are on the South Atlanta Civic League Facebook page.

The minutes from the August SACL meeting were read. Rakestraw moved to accept the minutes as written. The motion was seconded and passed.

Community Reports

Police Representatives – Officer Browning reported that Lt. Sheffield has been moved to properties. Lt. Mormon will attend future meetings. The stats were not available due to the meeting falling on the 1^st of the month. Officer Browning will see that the crime stats get emailed to Russell.  She reported to have good leads on both the Lakewood shooting, as well as 187 Moury homicide. She also reported that the main problem crime wise seems to be with property and copper thieves. Someone on Brown Avenue saw a suspect loading his vehicle with copper. The Brown resident called 911 and followed the suspect to Green Recycling. The suspect had left by the time the police arrived, though thanks to the detailed description by the Brown Avenue resident he was caught. Unfortunately the police were not able to ascertain where the copper came from and due to strict property owner laws were therefore not able to press charges off copper theft.

Hints from Officer Browning:

• If you have an a/c unit spray paint the coils. Mark your copper, so that the police can trace it back to your property.
• Dodge vehicles need to especially be secured – suggested a bar for the steering wheel or a cap for the battery that can turn the battery on or off.
• The State has to come up with a law to help the police hold recycling centers accountable for taking stolen copper.
• “Clean Car Campaign” – take EVERYTHING out of your car.
• Banishment – has to be included in sentencing of criminals. Talk to the prosecutor about including this.

A comment was raised on the floor about how many cars had been broken into on Bisbee, but calls were not made to 911 as residents didn’t think the police would respond.

Local Elected Officials –  Sheryl Bennett with Carla Smith’s office got up to speak. She praised the recent kickball tournament and our efforts to spread the word out to our community and surrounding communities. She promised to have Carla Smith’s office help spread the word about the upcoming festival. She also wanted to make sure that everyone knew that August 2^nd (Tuesday) was the going to be sanitation day.

As a neighbor, Sheryl Bennett wanted to let the SACL know that there is a lot working against the police.  Due to the strict law, the police have to have the property owner information to file a report. We need to make sure we give the police all the information we can get. Also need to consider lobbying the state government to change laws. She recommended researching the laws that were set in place to hold pawnshops accountable.  She said that the neighborhood lobbying – everyone getting mad – would definitely help the efforts.

Community Reports

• Beautification – Jeff reported that he would be having an informational meeting on Friends of the Park for the South Atlanta Park at Community Grounds August 13^th at 10 am. Chris reported that there will be at least one more August clean up with a dumpster. Chris also encouraged gardeners to check out the Kimpson Community Garden on Thirkield Avenue.
• Public Safety – Jason reported that due to personal reasons he needed to step down as the head of the committee. Russell thanked him and said he knew the community could still count on Jason for help; he then asked the body if anyone desired to lead the committee.
• Youth Empowerment – Mandi was not at the meeing.
• Socials – Kristi reported on the upcoming South Atlanta Social to be held on October 22^nd at the South Atlanta Park. She distributed fliers with information, as well as with t-shirt designs. Fran also reported that other social ideas were in the works – including a progressive dinner party, South Atlanta at the drive-in, and a holiday dinner party. Katie reported on the 2^nd annual street treat. She asked for volunteers.
• Community Development – Russell reported on an opportunity for South Atlanta to have a boot camp in the park on Saturday mornings at 10 am starting in September.

Community Business

Jeremy Crute presented his South Atlanta GIS project.

Community Forum

Ina Williams made an announcement about an after-school Art & Cultural Program at Southbend Park. Contact iwilliams@atlantaga.gov for more information.

Cathy Taylor reported on an upcoming crime prevention workshop. She also reported that keep our post office from closing that we will need to a community wide petition and turn it into Post Office in DC.

Ms. Mary Porter reported on the South Atlanta Study Hall which starts back September 6^th. It is held every Tuesday and Thursday from 4-5:30 PM.

Russell introduced Katherine Hankins and Andy Walter as the professors who partnered with Charis Community Housing to oversee Jeremy Crute’s project. He opened up the floor to questions and comments on the GIS Map of South Atlanta.

Russell asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting. A motion was made, seconded and passed. The meeting ended at 8:06 PM.

Due to the 4th of July following on the 1st Monday of the month, per the by-laws the July meeting was held on the following Monday.

Russell Hopson was absent, so Chris McCord called the meeting to order n his behalf with a moment of reflection. Chris McCord had everyone turn to their neighbors and say ‘you live in South Atlanta – the best neighborhood where you are safe and loved.’

Community Pride

Sam Delp has a new bike.

Community Reports

Lt. Sheffield gave a report.

 • 1397 Blashfield was served a warrant on a suspected chop shop. John Lattimore was charged. Stolen cars were found there. However, the other owner – Keith Hayes at the site appears to be running a legitimate business.

• 3 arrests were made at 46 Bowen. Metal thieves were spotted by a passing patrol.

• 1364 Lakewood had a shooting robbery. A warrant has been issued.

• There was a homicide at Lakewood and Jonesboro.

Committee Reports

• Beautification: Jeff is starting a Park Pride to adopt South Atlanta Park. It needs resources and ideas. Kristie said if money comes from the social we want to put it into the park.

• Socials: was pushed to the community business.

• The leaders for the public safety, youth empowerment, and community development were absent.

Community Business

The South Atlanta Southern Fried Kickball Tournament is THIS Saturday. Chosewood, Pittsburg, Lakewood Heights, A-Tow, and Community Grounds are all participating. It will be held on the baseball fields at Carver High School. Concessions will be sold.

Chris McCord reviewed the new sanitation schedule. As of August 1st sanitation will be picked up on Tuesday. Community Forum Chris reminded the body of the upcoming NPU-Y meeting and encouraged everyone to attend the kickball tournament.

Click here for registration forms and more information about the tournament: Southern Fried Kickin’

June 6, 2011

Russell called the meeting to order at 6:40 PM and welcomed everyone in attendance. Russell started the meeting with a moment of reflection and then introduced the executive committee: Russell Hopson (President), Josh Noblitt (Vice President), Chris McCord ( Treasurer), Katie Delp (Secretary), Christy Norwood (Assistant Secretary), and Fran Carroll (Parliamentarian).

Community Pride

Russell Hopson opened the floor to residents sharing moments of community pride. Be ready to share next month too… (1.) Russell shared about the mural project. He was encouraged to see neighbors rising to meet the challenges that keep coming up against the mural project. We are close to reaching our goal of having the largest individual piece of artwork in the city of Atlanta. (2.) Josh shared that his excitement about the drug house on his street FINALLY being closed down after months of complaints to the police.

Community Reports

Lt. Sheffield reported that Cowboy will be banished form South Atlanta when he is released from jail. He also reported that a nearby city pool had been hit by copper thieves. The park department is at working trying to fix it. Good news – a big arrest of a copper thieve on Milton Avenue. He also reported on a car jacking of an employee at the Arthur Langford Center; the car jacker was arrested in the victim’s car. The police are looking into his connection with other crimes.

Lt. Browning reported on the Moury drug investigation and arrest at 8 Moury. The house was fortified with a surveillance system. A 2 year old girl was there; she is now with her grandmother. Lt. Browning also reported that vice has been in zone 3. Vice made 45 arrests this past month – most on Lakewood and Jonesboro.

Leroy asked the police if the word had gotten out to the police about the mural project. Lt. Browning said that she has sent out 2 emails and put out a radio announcement. Lt. Sheffield handed Leroy a business card to give to the muralist that they can show any police officer who does bother them.

Jackie Walker reported that suspicious activity has started back up at the Marcy Street apartments. In particular. There is a big guy on a 4 wheeler who drives up and down Jonesboro from the apartment to fancy cars.

Russell thanked Sheffield and Browning for their time and efforts.

No elected officials were present to give a report.

Committee Reports

1. Beautification: Chris McCord reported that Thayer Avenue hosted their own street clean up. He encouraged others to do the same and to see him if they wanted to use the SACL equipment. He announced that a dumpster will be located at the back of the Marketplace at 1297 Jonesboro Road on June 10-11 and residents can use it to dump their junk. He also announced that residents can take from the mulch pile that sits at the corner of the Jonesboro parking lot.

2. Public Safety: Jason Timbert was absent. Geri reported that a tree blocking Bisbee was going to be removed.

3. Youth Empowerment: Mandi Giles announced they committee didn’t have anything to report, but would be meeting next week.

4. Socials: Fran reported that she would be sharing on the kickball tournament later in the meeting. Kristi Wood reported on the SA Social tentatively planned for October 8th. The kickball tournament will be used to raised funds for the social. The committee put in a grant request Friday with Community Foundation. The grant could get at up to $10,000. The planning committee is being split into different committees and requested people sign up on sheets.  Committees with leaders: (1) 3-on-3 bball tournament – Rebecca Dehart. (2) Fundraising & Sponsorship – ?. (3) Vending & Artists – Katie Delp. (4) Music – Carrie Amestoy – looking for local artists. (5) Kids Area – Tanisha Corporal. (6) Clean Up – Chris McCord. (7) Beer Sales – ?. (8) Volunteers – ?. (9) Marketing – Kristi Wood.

5. Community Development: Russell is working on getting a report done.

Community Business

Ms. Walker with the APD gave a ‘Neighborhood Safety Reminder’ as we head into summer months which often come with an increase in crime.

She reported that the #1 crime in the world is larceny – of that auto larceny. She said one should NEVER leave anything in one’s car. It takes less than 30 seconds for an amateur to break into a car.

The BEST thing to do when confronted is to throw your items down and run the opposite way. NEVER get into the car. Do whatever you have to do to not get into the car – including throwing yourself down and become dead weight.

Home Invasions are ARMED robbery. This is a high felony. This is given immediate attention by 911 dispatchers. Ways to avoid home invasions: key pinning windows; wooden screws in doors; barking dogs; noisy neighbors; alarm system. Do NOT leave items on the porch. Look for landscaping trucks – these are often stolen and used to rob houses.

Drew Swope gave an update on the progress of establishing neighborhood watches in South Atlanta and invited other streets to start watches. Currently we have NW’s on Gammon, Martin, Thirkield and Brown. Neighbors have each other’s contact information. Captains check the neighborhood crime report each month and reach out to those who have been victimized. It’s simple to start a NW – it just requires going up and down the street a couple of times gathering information, as well as a couple of meetings.

Fran reported on the South Atlanta Kickball Tournament = the South Atlanta Southern Fried Kickball Tournament. She passed around 2 sign up sheets – one for being captain and one just for playing. She reported that we need at least 4 teams. The cost to sign up is $10, but that includes the tournament tshirt. The teams must be co-ed. Tentatively looking at June 16^th to play. Going to the NPU-Y meeting to extend the challenge to other neighborhoods. Socials and Youth Empowerment Committees will be working together to set this up. Fran concluded by saying that the socials committee hopes to make this an annual event and that Ms. Jackie Walker will be selling concessions to raise money for the South Atlanta Social.

Katie Delp reported on the new SACL meeting reminder signs. 20 signs will be placed around the neighborhood the Friday before the meeting and picked up the following Tuesday. She asked for volunteers and said she would send out an email reminder.

Community Forum

Kerry and Mike reported on an upcoming FCS volunteer project in the neighborhood on June 10-11 and asked if there were any specific sites people would like to get picked up.

Fran reported on the neighborhood directory.

Russell closed the meeting. Leroy motioned to adjourn. Josh seconded the motion.

May 2, 2011

 Russell Hopson called the meeting to order and asked those present to join him in a moment of reflection.

Community Pride

Russell read a letter from a friend. Her car broke down near his house and she drove it over to Community Grounds. She wrote a letter praising the neighborhood for its overwhelming and generous response in helping her in her time of need.

Chris McCord thanked everyone who showed up on Earth Day to pick up and haul dumped tires to Turner Field. He especially wanted to acknowledge A-1 Tires on Blashfield, as its owner stopped by and offered his large trailer to take a load to Turner Field. We don’t know how we would have taken the truck tires to Turner Field without him.

Community Reports

(a)     Police Representatives. Lt. Browning reported on miscommunication about drug houses in the neighborhood. We are still to call 911 about drug houses, but we ALSO need to call narcotics.

• Narcotics: 404.546.2650
• Lt. Browning 404.617.7950 and lbrowning@atlantaga.gov

Officer Paden reported on the crime in South Atlanta for the past month. It was a relatively ‘good’ crime month. We had 4 burglaries WITH arrests. The guy who robbed Carrie Amestoy was found and arrested. He is Steve Butler – aka ‘little Stevie.’

A question was raised about why 911 did not recognize the intersection of Crogman and Thayer when several residents called to report a teenage fight this weekend. The person was concerned as this has happened several times. Ms. Mary Porter responded and said this was due to the neighborhood having abandoned Crogman in 1996, so that Providence Church could expand. The church later decided it was too expensive to build and relocated.

(b)     No elected officials were present.

(c)      Committees. Russell announced the committees and their current leads – Beautification (Chris McCord). Public Safety (Jason Timbert). Youth Empowerment (Amanda Giles). Socials and Fundraising (Fran Carroll). Community Development (Russell Hopson). He encouraged those who aren’t yet a part of a committee to please join one. He thanked the committees for their hard work and invited them up to give their monthly update.

• Beautification. Chris McCord reported on past work. He then did a random drawing. Geri picked #3 – Andra Burns, who won a gift card to Community Grounds Café. He then announced new dates – May 7^th a dumpster will be at the corner of Moury and Murray for a volunteer group who will work on the property there. Residents are invited on using May 8^th. He also informed the body that A-Tow has a tire shredding machine and has offered us their assistance. We want to be respectful of their time, but will do two more tire round ups this summer. He also reported that we recently received a Home Depot grant. The money was used to purchase equipment for our use during clean up projects.
• Public Safety. Jason Timbert was working an unable to make the SACL meeting, so Josh Noblitt gave a brief report in his place. They met. Good ideas are brewing and will report back with more concrete ideas next month. Geri spoke up and said that they wanted to know about areas in the community where street lights were missing or being hidden by overgrowth. One idea that is formulating addresses areas in the neighborhood that needs more lighting.

A concern was raised about the area around Park and Hardwick. Brush overgrowth at the sidewalk was creating a dangerous intersection. Multiple near accidents already have occurred. Accident waiting to happen.

Josh reported that neighbors can contact him with areas in the neighbor that need lighting. His contact information is on the agenda (Joshua.noblitt@gmail.com).

Another concern was raised about the number of vacant houses in 17 Turman Avenue. A resident at house #8 wanted to know what we could do about nailing up the properties. Josh told her that he would gladly speak to her at the end of the meeting.

• Youth Empowerment. Mandie reported the members of this committee are so excited about empowering the youth to be active members of the community by: (1) Creating a youth SACL committee. They are working with the board and by-laws to see what this could look like. They are in the process of selecting youth to serve on a the committee. (2.) Planning a unifying event to bring together youth and adults. (3.) coming up with effective ways to reach older youth who are lost/untouched currently by neighborhood resources, etc.
• Socials and Fundraising. Fran reported on the work of this committee. (1.) They currently are planning a kick ball tournament for June. Hope to make it a street against street competition, but if more teams are needed are thinking about expanding the challenge to surrounding neighborhoods in NPU-Y. Talk to Fran if you are interested in heading up a team. After listening to Mandie present earlier, Fran thinks that this might be a good event to get the youth to help with. (2.) They also are working on the South Atlanta Social. More information to come on this one. (3.) They also are working on creating a community pride fundraiser – talking with venders about porch decals and car magnets, etc. They’d like to be able to roll this out at the kick ball tournament.

A visitor raised her hand to complain about how word was no longer getting out everyone about the SACL meetings. Fran said she’d love to get her information and get her help in spreading the news about the SACL meeting times and helping us to connect with more people.

• Community Development. Russell Hopson reported that they committee currently had committed itself to helping with senior appreciation day at the Bethlehem Senior Center. He then excused himself and transitioned to Community Business giving the floor to Ms. Candie Taylor.

Community Business

Candie Taylor reported on (1) the Wesley Center’s Project Extend which was taking applications for small repairs to senior’s houses and (2.) the Bethlehem Senior Center’s open house being held on May 5 from 10 am to 4 pm open to all seniors in the neighborhood and surrounding neighborhoods. She also said they’d love to make the center open to more community events. Margaret reported that the only requirement for the senior program was being 60 years or older.

Leroy Barber reported for Green My Hood’s latest project – the mural along Jonesboro Road. It has been a long process, but they hope to be done in 2 weeks.  May 15^th at 5 pm in the Marketplace parking lot is the planned mural celebration.  BBQ and fun for the kids will be provided. Press releases will be given to local press. Using this as opportunity help put South Atlanta on the map in a good way. Kristi reported that a section for the kids will be done on the mural, but plans were still being formulated for that portion of the mural. Leroy reported that he had receipts for those who had given to the mural. Wasn’t too late to make a donation. Donations of $25 or more would get your name placed on the wall. Make out checks to FCS Urban Ministries: Green My Hood.

A concern was raised by a visitor about the lack of crosswalks on Jonesboro. Russell said he’d be pleased to talk with them after the meeting was adjourned and would stay with them as long as he needed them.

Community Forum

Janice White got up to present on the demolition of 218 McDonough Blvd. Leroy moved to approve of the demolition, but only the demolition. Lucious seconded. 15 voted in favor. 1 voted in opposition. Russell promised to email Paul McMurray with the results and to prepare a letter from the SACL.

Katie reported that the coffee and snacks were provided by Community Grounds Café and informed the body that Sweet Potato sandwiches were now available at Community Grounds. She also reported on the annual Community Fellowship Camp. It is 7 weeks long for ages 5-14 for a registration fee of $25. 10 local teens are hired to run the camp. Talk to Andra or Donna for more information. If you would like to sponsor a child, let Katie know. There are different sponsorship opportunities. Russell promised to sponsor one child.

Leroy recommended adding a committee to deal with business and help create a standards. Russell suggested that this could be done in the community development committee. He encouraged anyone who shares this passion to join the committee. Andrej got up and spoke on his efforts to reach out to the local businesses. He said many have expressed interest in helping South Atlanta, but lack direction. Many want to come together and learn from one another. He is former a group. Andrej will make sure they are here next month. Rev. Harleman reported that he believed the #1 standard for businesses to be safety and quality. He reported on how his church has helped maintain the beautification of the area around their church and helped to fix the water issue on Turman Avenue.

Kristi recommended a communications and marketing committee. Russell said he’d love to see Socials try and tackle that. He said he’d put out a feeler to the community asking if others want to be a part of that committee. Josh said that he wanted to make sure that such a committee wouldn’t step on the toes of the secretary and assistant secretary, as that does touch on their responsibilities.

Mazie Lynn made a motion to adjourn the meeting. Reverend Rice seconded the motion. It was accepted by all present. The meeting was adjourned.

April 4, 2011  Minutes

 Russell welcomed everyone to the meeting. He introduced the members of the SACL executive committee and then held a moment of silence.

 Community Pride

1. Green My Hood event on March 12^th was successful with much accomplished thanks to neighbors and Bridge Church. Accomplished: painted J store, primed mural portion of A-Tow wall, picked up tires, and cleared brush on Park Avenue, prepared community garden for start of 2011, and put in new benches around the community. Russell explained that he will send the Bridge Church a thank you letter and will email out a draft to neighbors for feedback.

 2. Andrej shared that the Bike Shop appeared on the 5 o’clock news on Channel 2 WSB. The police are continuing to volunteer. The police are bringing over 40 bikes. He is seeing trust being built between the youth and police.

 Community Reports

Police Report.

Encouraged to see increased unity. All crime bad, but we did relatively well this past month. A question was asked about why we were told to report drug activity to 911, but 911 was saying we shouldn’t be calling the information into them. Should we keep calling 911? Lt. Browning introduced herself at this point as our new Zone 3 Suppression Commander. She said that we should call in drug activity to 911 to get it documented, but then to also call it into her. The police under her do not answer to 911 calls, but rather go to where there is an issue with crime. Her cell phone number is 404.617.7950, and her email address is browning@atlantaga.gov.  Another resident explained that Carver students have moved from park to Gammon and Marcy. Lt. Browning said she is the one who needs to know that. Another resident reported that the youth have been hanging out around the Bethlehem Center between 3-7 PM and causing problems. Russell thanked the police and requested for the sake of time for the police to take any other concerns privately at the back of the room.

 Local Elected Officials Report.

Sheryl Bennett reminded everyone to grab and pass out flyers for Carla Smith’s Earth Day activities. She also said she was encouraged by the packed room and excited about the increased show of unity.

 Committee Reports.

COMING SOON… next month after the committees hold their first meetings. J

Community Business

Leah Van Tassel stood up to announce that the community garden on Thirkield would kick off this coming Saturday at 10 AM. Lots were available for individuals, groups, or co-ops. The lots were available free of charge, but for a commitment that includes weeding once a month.

Community Forum

The owner of 1518 Jonesboro stood up to encourage residents to shop at the super market and lingerie store. He also said he soon will be opening a beauty shop. A resident addressed concern over the ‘rough signage’ saying that if he improved his signage and changed his wording he would increase his customers.

Katie Delp stood up to introduce the new code enforcement campaign being headed up by the executive committee. Four houses properties in despicable conditions were chosen to be highlighted this month. Code worksheets were created for each property and copies were made for everyone to sign.  These worksheets will be faxed into code enforcement every day this month by different individuals. One packet was passed around to be signed by everyone and will be mailed to elected officials. Two residents requested two other houses be added to the list next month – the cement block house on Marcy as well as the one at 1587 Jonesboro.

Cathy Taylor is the new NPU-Y public safety officer.

Kristi Wood and Carrie Amestoy stood up to announce the return of the South Atlanta Festival. Hope to use it as a fundraiser for the park, as well as an opportunity to get our name out to the rest of the city. They will need planning it, as well as with raising funds to host the festival. Russell Hopson said that this fit great with the Socials and Fundraising Committee.

Valerie Sellers expressed her concerns with the  neighborhood not having anything for our high school youth. Russell encouraged those with that passions and work with others in the Youth Empowerment Committee.

Russell reviewed the dates to be remembered.

1. Saturday, April 23^rd

8:45 AM – District 1 Tire Clean Up – meet at Community Grounds.

1 PM – South Atlanta Easter Egg Hunt – meet at the South Atlanta Marketplace.

3 PM – 3-on-3 Basketball Tournament – meet at the South Atlanta Park.

2. Monday, April 18^th

7 PM – NPU-Y meeting at the John Birdine Neighborhood Center.

3. May 7^th

Senior Appreciation Day at the Bethlehem Center

4. COMING SOON

Street vs. Street Kick Ball Competition

Jeff Delp announced that the South Atlanta T-Ball team also would be playing April 23^rd at the YMCA on Pryor. The time had yet to be announced.

Kristi Wood announced that the Weiner Fest on Gammon Avenue would be May 28^th. All are welcome.

Russell encouraged neighbors to sign up on the South Atlanta i-neighbor page.

Russell closed the meeting and announced that it was time to break into committees. Josh explained that the committees were to pick a date for a future meeting (before the 4^th Monday of the month, so they could report back to the executive committee) and to discuss the issues to be addressed by future meetings.

Russell quickly introduced Teri – the owner of Sweet Potato in Lakewood. Teri had brought snacks for the meeting. She introduced herself and her restaurant to the members; she also welcomed residents to post community services and welcome packets at the store.