12/20 NPU-S Christmas Party!


It's been a busy year and we're taking a little time to celebrate - come on out and join your neighbors and elected officials at our December meeting!

Yes, we're still holding the meeting, but it's scheduled to be super short, no more than a half hour. Then it's time to party!

Time: Thursday, December 20, 7pm
Place: VICARS, 838 Cascade Ave

For more information, call 404.890.0089 or email info@npu-s.org.

SEE YOU THERE!

Transform Finance Atlanta Institute for Social Justice Leaders

The Guild and Transformation Alliance are excited to host the Transform Finance Atlanta Institute for Social Justice Leaders! The Institute exists to empower participants to understand, engage, challenge, and ultimately reclaim finance as a tool for social justice. The Institute is not a "Finance 101" boot camp or a fundraising brainstorm; instead, it provides an introductory framework for the intersection of social justice and finance, where actionable, place-based financial concepts are learned within the practical context of social justice efforts. The Institute may benefit individual organizations (i.e., earned revenue strategies), but its objective is not solely to improve nonprofit financial sustainability; instead, the Institute exists to further movements, where people work in concert (e.g., push for more affordable housing → imagine developing a community land trust). It is an opportunity for social justice practitioners to explore the role of capital in their work in a way accessible for those not familiar with and/or historically excluded from finance. Participants leave the Institute with:

  • An understanding of how finance intersects with their work
  • A sense of the national and local financial ecosystems
  • Several strategies (for example, earned revenue strategies, impact investments, and investor engagement are some potential topics we may cover) to explore further and integrate into their work. To localize the Institute to Atlanta's context, The Guild and the TransFormation Alliance are working closely with Transform Finance to identify which strategies would be best to cover at the Institute. We are currently in the process of designing this part of the agenda

Spots in the institute are limited, so learn more and apply by 5:00 PM EST December 21, 2018.

Super Bowl LIII Traffic Plan Presentations

The Atlanta Police Department and the Atlanta Super Bowl Host Committee are hosting a series of townhall meetings this month to present traffic plans and local street and lane closures for Super Bowl LIII and related events beginning on Saturday, January 26 and ending Monday, February 4, 2019. The meetings will allow local residents and businesses to learn more about expectations for traffic flow management during the period leading up to the Super Bowl, and for gameday.

Representatives from the department and the committee will present detailed plans on traffic flow, as well as street and lane closures. Once the formal presentations are done, tables outside of the auditorium are set up for anyone interested in learning more about a specific area, such as Downtown, Westside, Midtown or Buckhead. We respectfully ask that any questions be directed to personnel at the tables after the formal presentations.

The meetings are scheduled to be held at the Georgia World Congress Center, 285 Andrew Young International Boulevard NW, in Room C101, Building C, on the following dates and times:
  • Monday, December 17 at 6 p.m. 
  • Tuesday, December 18 at 6 p.m.
  • Wednesday, December 19 at 10 a.m
  • Thursday, December 20 at 10 a.m.
Parking will be available in the Red Deck and Gold Deck for $15.00.  Attendees can also arrive via MARTA and exit at the CNN/GWCC or Vine City Stations.

Fiscal Year 2019 Budget Meetings

As the Fulton County Board of Commissioners considers the Fiscal Year 2019 Budget, the County is seeking public input on the funding package at a series of hearings throughout Fulton County. The meetings are scheduled to occur at several locations in the month of December. The series concludes with a legally required public hearing to be held at the final Board of Commissioners’ meeting of 2018 on December 19.

The hearings are scheduled for the following locations and dates:

  • Helene S. Mills Senior Multipurpose Facility
    515 John Wesley Dobbs Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30312
    Dec. 12, 2018, at 10:30 a.m. 
  • South Fulton Service Center
    5600 Stonewall Tell Rd., College Park, GA 30349
    Dec. 12, 2018, at 6 p.m.
  • Fulton County Government Center (Assembly Hall)
    141 Pryor St. SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
    Dec. 19, 2018, at 10 a.m.

The meetings will be live streamed at http://fultoncountyga.gov/pl-watch-fgtv or http://www.fultoncountyga.gov/rae-ondemand.

2018 Annual Dads, Daughters, Dolls, Plus Sons Toy Drive

From the office of Marvin Arrington:


My office in collaboration with Fulton County's Sheriff's Office and community partners are collecting new toys for children whose fathers are incarcerated during the holiday seasons! There are three drive locations where you may donate toys. These locations are open 9:00am to 4:00pm, Monday thru Friday. The last day to donate is tomorrow Friday, December 14, 2018.

On Monday, December 17th, 6:00pm-9:00pm, we will wrap gifts at the Suite Food Lounge, 375 Luckie St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30313.

To volunteer, RSVP: http://DDDS2018.eventbrite.com. We also need gift wrapping bags, paper, scissors, and tape.

For more information, contact Mitsah.Henry@FultonCountyGA.gov.

Urban Ecology Public Meetings - Wed., December 12

The Department of City Planning is undertaking a study to determine how Atlanta’s natural resources should be protected, restored, and enhanced. We need YOU to weigh in on the data findings and initial recommendations. The same information will be discussed at three different times, pick the one most convenient to you.

Learn more at http://atlantaga.gov/government/departments/city-planning

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 12TH

  • 8:30-10:00 AM
    Spaces Midtown East,
    715 Peachtree Street NE,
    Atlanta GA 30308
  • 2:00-3:30 PM
    C.A. Scott Recreation Center,
    1565 M.L.K. Jr Dr SW,
    Atlanta, GA 30314
  • 6:30-8:00 PM
    MLK Natatorium,
    110 Hilliard St SE,
    Atlanta, GA 30312


Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Program Information Sessions at Atlanta Technical College

Atlanta Technical College (ATC) is an eligible provider for the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program with the state of Georgia. The WIOA program at ATC provides additional funding to economically disadvantaged adults, at-risk youth, and dislocated workers seeking training to increase or enhance skill levels to gain employment. WIOA eligibility is based on income and each WIOA office will make that determination.

Please note that those seeking WIOA funding must also apply for admission to the college and are required to apply for Pell and HOPE.

The next session will be held:

  • Monday, December 17, 10:00AM-12PM
  • Atlanta Technical College - Library
    1560 Metropolitan Parkway, SW
    Atlanta, Georgia 30310


For additional information on WIOA contact Mattie Goss at mgoss@atlantatech.edu

Beltline 'U' - registration ends 12/15!

"The 4-month long civic university is a pilot program of Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. that will explore the history, vision, programmatic elements and implementation strategy of the BeltLine. BeltLine U consists of 8 sessions facilitated by staff of the Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. and its project partners. Graduates will have in-depth program knowledge that they can then share with others in the community."

For more information - and to register - go to https://beltline.org/progress/progress/community-engagement/atlanta-beltline-university/

No change to solid waste pickup for Thanksgiving

The Department of Public Works will be maintaining their regular pickup schedule throughout the Thanksgiving week. Don't forget to put out your trash!

NPU-S General Meeting *tomorrow*, Thursday November 15

This Thursday, the 15th, will be the NPU-S General Meeting for November 2018.  Yes, it's the third Thursday, as usual - the first Thursday of the month was the first.


This month has four voting items and one special voting item, namely the vote on NPU-S's bylaws.

Every NPU has its own set of bylaws, guiding how the NPU is organized, its voting requirements, etc. According to our bylaws, in order to vote on matters brought before NPU-S, a person has to have residency within the NPU and have attended three meetings within the last year. However, when voting on the bylaws, the only restriction is that the voter is a resident of the NPU - no attendance requirement.

Hope you can make it!



Free movie November 18: "Herskovits at the Heart of Blackness"

The Baton Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History, will host a film screening and facilitated discussion about Melville Herskovits and notions of Black culture and identity. This program is free and open to the public.

For more information, go to https://thebatonfoundation.org/events/herskovits-at-the-heart-of-blackness/

Sunday, November 18, 2018
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Auburn Avenue Research Library
101 Auburn Avenue NE
Atlanta, Georgia 30303
United States



2018 Voting Information

Image taken from http://ourweekly.com/news/2018/jul/23/importance-vote-2018-gop-congressman-says-black-fo
Elections matter, and state and local elections matter more than many people realize. We encourage all eligible voters to vote in the upcoming 2018 elections, and to help, we've assembled registration and voting information at http://www.npu-s.org/p/your-voting-information.html There, you'll find information about how to check your registration, how to vote via absentee ballot, information about the candidates, and analysis of the various statewide referenda.

This information has been curated from various sources and is by no means comprehensive - if you have additional information to add, please get in touch with us and we'll keep it updated!

Record Restriction Summit - Nov 12 - 12-4

Clear your arrest record!
Monday, November 12, 2018
12 p.m. - 4 p.m.
1589 Peachtree Street NW
Atlanta, GA 30309

If you have an arrest record, you may be eligible for record restriction.

The Record-Restriction Summit offers a free one-day process to help clear arrests in cases when:

  • You were not convicted or pled no contest
  • You were convicted of certain misdemeanors while under age 21
  • You completed a Pre-Trial Intervention or Diversion Program
  • You Completed a First Offender, Case Sealed Process


Pre-Registration is required by Monday, November 12, 2018. This event is limited to the first 300 registrants.

For more information and pre-registration go to: http://www.fultoncountyga.gov/recordrestriction

November 3 - Turn Up / Turn Out Voter Event

The Bakery Atlanta and Georgia Artists for Progress are teaming up to present “Turn Up / Turn Out” on Saturday, November 3, 2018 at The Bakery in Southwest Atlanta (). Featuring musical performances by Little Tybee, Linqua Franca, LONER, along with art and speaking engagements by local politicians, “Turn Up / Turn Out” celebrates civic engagement and encourages voter participation.

“Turn Up / Turn Out” also provides other opportunities to get civically engaged and make your voice heard. Liliana Bakhtiari’s “Georgia for all Georgians” school bus painted by the Living Melody Collective will be on site and will serve as a mobile advocacy project. C4 Atlanta will be there gathering voter stories with artists Floyd Hall and Meredith Kooi as part of its project “Vote with Your heART.” 

This event is free and open to the public. For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/events/1924597577604095/

Urban Forest Activities, courtesy of WAWA

EcoAddendum : Urban Forest Restoration Education/ Restoration Activities & Volunteer Days.

Projects are to educate, engage, and create opportunities of volunteering in learning techniques, and practices of Native and Invasive Species.

Projects/Trainings/Volunteering Opportunities like: How to Remove Kudzu and other Invasive Vines, Forrest Restoration/ Invasive Removal Stewardship Training, and Native Wildflower Replanting

For more information and to sign up, go to https://www.eventbrite.com/e/urban-forest-education-restoration-volunteer-days-ecoaddendum-wawa-tickets-51670836864

10th Annual Emergency Preparedness Institute - Nov 15


Regster at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/10th-annual-atlanta-emergency-preparedness-institute-registration-50539628389

Free movie Nov. 2: "Gurumbé: Afro-Andalusian Memories"

The Baton Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History and A TravĂ©s, will host a film screening and facilitated discussion about Africa’s influence on the Iberian Peninsula and the music of Andalusia (southern Spain) - flamenco. This program is free and open to the public.

For more information and to reserve seats, go to https://thebatonfoundation.org/events/gurumbe-afro-andalusian-memories/

Friday, November 2, 2018
7:00pm-9:00pm
Auburn Avenue Research Library
101 Auburn Avenue, NE
Atlanta, GA, 30303

Voter Concert/Block Party, November 4

There's a free concert for voters being held at the Murphy Park Fairgrounds.  Admission is free and open to the public with RSVP.

For more information, go to http://2018forthepeople.com.

Cascade Heights Parks Discussion - October 30

Did you know Cascade Heights is home to four major parks all within a mile radius of its' commercial district? These parks, along with tree canopy, are a key piece of our community’s character. As we prepare for new growth  of the commercial district, how do we preserve this identity and build on these assets?

Join the Friends of Cascade Heights Parks, the Cascade Heights Community Development Corporation, and the Atlanta City Studio for a workshop to discuss “the greens” of Cascade Heights.

6:30 pm, October 30, at Atlanta City Studio, 2311 Cascade Rd SW
For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/events/2214320602178008/

Fireside Chats with Statewide Candidates - Nov 3 @ Hammond House

The Atlanta Planning Advisory Board (APAB), along with Hammonds House and NPU-T, invites Atlanta metropolitan area citizens to a Meet & Greet and Fireside Chats with their statewide candidates in the November 6 General election. 

During the fireside chats, attendees will have an opportunity to have face to face conversations with candidates to hear their platforms and learn how they plan to enhance Georgia’s future.

This event can help you:

  • Decide who and what to vote for;
  • Gain more knowledge about issues in the state;
  • Find out how to get more involved in the governmental process: city, county, and state;
  • Understand and get involved with APAB by volunteering, board appointments, partnerships, and guest speaker opportunities.

The event is free and open to the public (although a $10 donation to the hosting nonprofit, Hammonds House, is suggested https://www.hammondshouse.org/). Open to the public. Complimentary refreshments provided.

Space is limited so RSVP today at http://evite.me/JMM2FW3BbM.

Mobile Fresh Market

The Fulton Fresh Mobile Market was created to educate residents living in communities designated as “food deserts” on the importance of fresh and in-season produce. Every week, attendees will participate in a 30 minute UGA Extension SNAP-Ed nutrition education food demonstration and then be provided with a free bag of in-season produce from our mobile market.

The mobile farmer's market will run for 5 weeks during the 2018 fall season: October 16 - November 15. Organizations will be on a weekly schedule:


*Huge* Oct. NPU-S Meeting on Thursday - with Hawks tickets!

Greetings, NPU-S residents!

Normally, the announcement for the NPU-S General Meeting is pretty short and to the point, and we'll lead with "just the facts", but you'll want to read to the end of this announcement!

NPU-S General Meeting:

Z-18-105
We have no fewer than seven voting items this month, four of them major - an the other three aren't exactly minor. In order of appearance, we have:
  • V-18-268 - a reduction of required parking spaces for 850 Cascade Ave (Community Church of God)
  • V-18-284 and V-18-285 - these two items are tied together, a reduction of required parking for adjacent lots at 1086 and 1100 Murphy.
  • Z-18-105 - this is the Tucker Ave. rezoning request by the Atlanta Land Trust, a proposal to turn an empty parcel of land into affordable housing in the Oakland City neighborhood.  This would normally be the biggest vote in the meeting, but then we have...
  • Z-18-52 and Z-18-53. The long, long awaited Fort McPherson rezoning. There have been many meetings, and many presentations, and now we've come to the vote. This splits the parts of Ft. Mac that was not purchased by Tyler Perry Studios into five zones, each with a different character, wrapping around Lee Street and Campbellton. Assuming all goes to plan, it's difficult to overstate the potential impact of this redevelopment on our NPU and the entire Southwest quadrant. Z-18-52 is the main course; Z-18-53 has to do with signage within the Ft. Mac area.
Z-18-52
Astute readers will notice that we've only mentioned six items. The seventh:
  • Z-18-100. Zoning Ordinance Update Part II. Part I, "Quick Fixes", was a 14-part omnibus update; presumably, part II are not-as-quick fixes, shrunk down to a mere dozen parts. It's a biggie, and the City has been going over it for months, holding numerous special sessions across Atlanta to explain it.  We'll just list the provisions as given in the description:
    • Accessory Dwellings (Section 1 below); 
    • Definitions (Section 2 below); 
    • Uses in Industrial Districts (Section 3 below); 
    • Loading Requirements (Section 4 below); 
    • MRC Residential Density (Section 5 below); 
    • New Multi-Unit Housing Zoning District and Regulations (Section 6 below); 
    • Parking (Section 7 below); 
    • Neighborhood Design Standards (Section 8 below); 
    • Telecommunications (Section 9 below); 
    • Transitional Height Planes (Section 10 below); 
    • and Quality of Life Districts (Section 11 below);
    • to amend multiple sections of the Zoning Ordinance related to bicycle parking requirements so as to coordinate with certain cross references in Ordinance number 18-O-1023 (Z-17-93) and correct certain scrivener’s errors therein (Section 12)
    Zooming out: these are mostly more assorted fixes to make Atlanta less suburban and more urban: adding provisions to shrink parking and loading requirements that eat up real estate for cars, allowing accessory units and multiplex housing, and creating more mixed-use areas. Much of the grand vision can be seen at http://atlcitydesign.com/.
This will all be capped off with a drawing for a pair of tickets to the October 27th Hawks/Bulls game at the newly refurbished State Farm (formerly Philips) Arena!

Now, this last part may not be very popular, so please bear with us:

This is a very ambitious agenda; any one of the last three voting items could, by itself, eat up hours of Q&A and debate. In the interest of time, debate on voting items will be limited. None of the Z-18 items are being sprung on the community; they have been presented multiple times at NPU meetings, neighborhood association meetings, and elsewhere. All of this documentation is being provided to help those who may have missed previous presentations, but we will not be using the NPU time to explore the issues in depth for those that have missed it so far.

If you have questions or comments about any of this, feel free to email the Chair, Nick Hess, at chair@npu-s.org, or call (404) 890-0089. Alternately, you can reach out to Jordan Dowdy, the Planner assigned to NPU-S, at jdowdy@AtlantaGa.Gov or call (404) 546-6333.  They'll be happy to go into detail about any of the items.

If you've made it all the way to the end of this message, thank you. We're hoping for a good turnout and smooth sailing - see you there!


Atlanta Police Online Crime Reporting

The Atlanta Police Department has launched an online system that allows the public to submit reports about a variety of crimes at its convenience, with a goal of helping to free up officer resources and increasing the accuracy of incidents reported to police. Please keep in mind, you can still call 9-1-1 and have an officer respond to your location or file a police report at your local police precinct based on your needs.

The following crimes can be reporting to the online system:

  • Harassing Phone Calls/Texts/Emails
  • Damage to Property (Vandalism)
  • Lost Property
  • Identity Theft 
  • Larceny from Vehicle (where there is no suspect) 
  • Theft (Less than $10,000) 
  • Burglary from a building or storage facility (no suspect) 
  • Damage to vehicles on private property (e.g. minor traffic accident in a shopping center parking lot)
  • Shoplifting (no suspect)
  • Custody Order Violation
  • Fraudulent Use of a Credit Card
  • Gas Station Drive-Off

To file an online police report for a crime in the City of Atlanta, go to http://www.atlantapd.org/services/online-reporting.

DHL Hiring - Union City - 1200 positions

DHL Supply Chain wants eCommerce Fulfillment Specialists to handle online customer orders from their Union City, GA location. Those hired for the 1,200 positions will serve in a cross-functional roles and trained in multiple areas of operation. Responsibilities will include inbound processing, order fulfillment, order packaging, and customer returns processing, among other responsibilities. Secondary activities and work assignments will include the following:

  • online order return inspection and credit
  • online order return salvage
  • inventory control
  • parcel order load and shipment

Experience is not required. All training will be provided, and DHL offers a flexible shift schedule. The facility provides a full-service cafeteria, full-size basketball courts, a fitness center, soccer field and private shower facilities with clean locker rooms.

Applications must be submitted on line by visiting https://www.dol.state.ga.us/public/es/employga/hotJobs/2613458518

For more information, contact the WorkSource Fulton Adamsville office at 404.613.6381. For those who may need computer access, WorkSource Fulton Adamsville is located within the Adamsville Regional Health Center at 3700 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Atlanta, GA.

Family Day of Fun & Celebration - October 6

On Saturday, October 6, 2018, Emmanuel Lutheran Church will host a “Family Day of Fun & Celebration” from 12 p.m. – 6 p.m  in collaboration with Fulton County Commissioner Hall. 

The free event at 3050 Cascade Road SW, Atlanta, GA 30311 will feature entertainment, information about Fulton County Services, a kids’ zone, physical/mental health information and much more.

The Library system staff will bring the STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) trunk, which includes a Button Maker, Snap Circuits, and 3D Pens for young people to enjoy. Family Day of Fun participants will also enjoy a visit from the Fulton Fresh Mobile Unit, which provides fresh produce to citizens living in areas designated as “food deserts” by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA).

Voter registration information and absentee ballot applications will be available along with a demonstration of how to use voting units to ensure that voters are able to cast their ballots correctly.

Census Jobs

The 2020 Census is less than two years away and the Census Bureau needs your help.  The Count has an impact on billions of dollars in federal funding for programs like Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Medicare Part B, Highway Planning and Construction, and State Children's Health Insurance. Many areas within the city of Atlanta and in the surrounding cities, are our hardest-to-count areas and had low response rates in 2010.  Therefore, we need to target our outreach in those areas and hire members of the communities in those areas.

Our new 2020 Census Hourly Jobs Website is Live and the Census Bureau is hiring across the country now! People can apply TODAY via their smartphone, tablet, laptop, or personal computer at  https://2020census.gov/jobs 

Please help spread the word!



2nd Annual Joan P. Garner Walk & Health Fair - Sat Oct 6, 9-noon


This is a free family event with health screenings, fitness and cooking demonstrations, activities for children, music, a community art project, prizes, and much more. The main event will include a 2-mile fitness walk on the Westside Beltline Trail in honor of the late District 4 Commissioner Joan P. Garner’s commitment to a vision that “All People are Healthy” in Fulton County.

Saturday, October 6, 2018

Washington Park & Atlanta Beltline Westside Trail
1125 Lena St N.W.
Atlanta, GA 30314

To register, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2nd-annual-joan-p-garner-walk-and-health-fair-tickets-49606247622

2018 APS State of the District - Oct 5, 11am-1pm

From the Atlanta Public Schools:


Join us for APS Superintendent Dr. Meria J. Carstarphen's public report on the "essentials playlist" of the district to achieve our mission to ensure all students graduate ready for college and career.
More information and registration at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2018-atlanta-public-schools-state-of-the-district-tickets-48735371809

Oakland City Neighborhood Yard Sale - Sep 29, 8am-noon

Oakland City residents are holding a neighborhood-wide yard sale!

Come on out and find your next treasure!

Free Notary Training, Sep 26

Cathelene "Tina" Robinson, the Fulton County Clerk of the Superior and Magistrate Courts, in partnership with the Georgia Superior Court Clerk's Cooperative Authority, presents a FREE training for current and future Fulton County notaries public.

Residents interested in more information about the training for current or future Fulton County Notary Publics can call 404-613-5314.

Oakland City Yard Sale! Sept 29, 8-12

From OCCO:

Hello neighbors!

We will be hosting a neighborhood yard sale Saturday, September 29 from 8-12pm.

There are 3 things you can do to help make this a success!

1. Host a yard sale at your home
2. Go to a neighbor's yard sale, possibly purchase an item, and make a friend!
3. Invite everyone you know! Make sure to spread the word to your neighbors who may not be on social media or email. We'll post the event on all the websites.

We will be creating a map that lists all homes hosting a yard sale. Email Catherine at catherine.slocum@gmail.com and you will be added to the list.

National Voter Registration Day "Pep Rally", Friday Sep. 21


All residents are invited to a pep rally in recognition of National Voter Registration Day 2018. The Fulton County Department of Registration and Elections is hosting the pep rally to promote voter registration and the importance of knowing the registration process.The Registration Team will also provide brief presentations covering topics such as the absentee ballot and voter registration process, felon resource information, and insight on the front counter experience. They will also have voter education materials available, voter registration forms and light refreshments.

Fulton County Government Center
Assembly Hall
141 Pryor St. SW
Atlanta, GA 30303
Friday, September 21, 2018
10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

BeltLine Meeting - Southside - September 24, 6-8pm


Join us and provide input for the Subarea 2 Master Plan update!
In this meeting we are seeking community input to update the Subarea 2 Master Plan, which was adopted in 2009. We will be evaluating the original plan recommendations, examining existing conditions with regards to land use, zoning, mobility, greenspaces, etc. and highlighting what has occurred in the community since the Master Plan was adopted.

Monday, September 24, 2018 from 6:30-8:00 pm
The Villages at Carver Family YMCA
1600 Pryor Road SE, Atlanta, GA 30315

Voter Registration Deadline is Tuesday, October 9, 2018 for November General Election

The deadline to register to vote in the November General Special Election is Tuesday, October 9, 2018. Online voter registration is available, which allows applicants with a valid Georgia Driver’s License or a Georgia Identification Card to complete the entire process online.

In Fulton County, residents can register to vote:

  • Online at mvp.sos.ga.gov 
  • at their city hall
  • at a Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) office
  • at any Atlanta Fulton County Library Branch
  • by mail
Residents can also obtain a voter registration form at one of the following offices:

1) Fulton County Government Center - 130 Peachtree Street, SW, Suite 2186 Atlanta, GA 30303
2) Fulton County North Service Center - 7741 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs, GA 30350
3) Fulton County South Service Center - 5600 Stonewall Tell Road, College Park, GA 30349

Registered voters are urged to verify that their address information on file with the department is up-to-date, especially if they have recently had an address or name change.

The Department of Registration and Elections regularly partners with groups and organizations to conduct voter registration drives. Groups interested in scheduling a drive can contact the Department of Registration and Elections by phone 404-612-3816, by fax 404-612-3697 or via email at Elections.VoterRegistration@fultoncountyga.gov

For more information on voter registration and the upcoming November General Election, log on to www.fultonelections.com or call 404-730-7072alt.

Two-Day Event: Unshackled Narratives: The Impact of Incarceration

The Baton Foundation, Inc., in partnership with Spelman College, Public Square, Mass Story Lab, Gideon's Promise, Common Good Atlanta, and Women on the Rise, will host will host a two-day event focused on the impact of incarceration in the Black community, the State of Georgia, and the United States. This program is free and open to the public.

Unshackled Narratives: The Impact of Incarceration will use the City of Atlanta and its communities as the lens through which we explore, discuss, and bring into focus issues related to incarceration in Atlanta and in the country.

Both parts will be held at
Spelman College
Camille Olivia Hanks Cosby Auditorium
350 Spelman Lane
Atlanta, GA, 30314

Part I
Wednesday, September 26, 2018
6:30pm-9:00pm

This two-part event kicks off with an evening screening of RIKERS: An American Jail and post-screening panel discussion with Cadeem Gibbs, who is featured in the RIKERS film, as well as Serena Nunn, former Atlanta Fulton County Public Defender Office and Tiffany Roberts, Staff Attorney, Southern Center for Human Rights. Ilham Askia, Executive Director, Gideon's Promise will moderate the panel. Learn more and reserve seats at https://thebatonfoundation.org/events/unshackled-narratives-the-impact-of-incarceration-part-i/.

Part II
Saturday, September 29, 2018
10:00am-1:00pm

Mass Story Lab will lead the second part of Unshackled Narratives, designed to bring community stakeholders together to develop strategies for criminal justice reform in Atlanta. This morning activity will feature personal stories presented by formerly incarcerated men and women who live in the Atlanta area. They will describe the direct impact mass incarceration has had on them, their families and their communities. This powerful testimony will lead into break-out sessions facilitated by Mass Story Lab, and a community dialogue focusing on the issues related to closing Atlanta Jail. Learn more and reserve seats at https://thebatonfoundation.org/events/unshackled-narratives-the-impact-of-incarceration-part-ii/.

NPU-S Meeting This Thursday, September 20

This Thursday, the 20th, will be the NPU-S General Meeting for September 2018.

We have five voting items on the agenda -

  • a request for a letter of support,
  • a special event application,
  • a zoning variance, 
  • and three pieces of legislation. 

Furthermore, we have three items for review and the Atlanta/Fulton Public Library as our Featured Department.  And, of course, reports from the police, code enforcement, public works, and many more!

It's a very full agenda so we're going to be firm on starting on time and enforcing to our time limits, to ensure that everyone gets heard.

Hope you can make it!

When: September 20, 7pm-9pm
Where: VICARS, 838 Cascade Ave SW
Agenda: http://bit.ly/NPUSAgendaSep2018

Film Standards Discussion - Tuesday Sep 18

This Tuesday, at 7pm, NPU-S will hold a working session addressing community standards for film crews operating within our community. We invite community members concerned about the impact of filming to join us in this conversation!

This will be held at NPU-S Chair Nick Hess' house. The address is:

1610 Avon Ave SW
Atlanta, GA, 30311


Fulton County Arts & Culture Announces 2019 Funding Deadline

From Fulton County:

Each year, Fulton County invests in non-profit organizations to ensure that County residents enjoy a wide array of rich arts experiences. The Fulton County Department of Arts & Culture (FCAC) announces funding ranging from $1,000 to $50,000 for Fulton County based arts, cultural and community based non-profit organizations and artist collectives for the 2019 funding cycle.

Eligible groups are encouraged to apply for these service contracts which are designed to support activities taking place between January 1 through December 31, 2019 that addresses the Fulton County Arts & Culture program mission to provide access, participation and appreciation of the arts for all Fulton County residents.

The 2019 applications close on October 29, 2018. The FCAC Contracts for Services (CFS) team will conduct application process workshops which are free and open to the public. Advanced registration is required. First time applicants are required to attend one workshop or consult with the FCAC staff prior to submitting an application.

Free Film Screening: "Lorraine Hansberry: Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart"

The Baton Foundation, Inc., in partnership with the Auburn Avenue Research Library on African American Culture and History, will host a film screening about the life and work of playwright Lorraine Hansberry. This program is free and open to the public.

When Lorraine Hansberry’s now classic A Raisin in the Sun premiered on Broadway in 1959 (the first play by a Black woman to do so), actress Ruby Dee recalls marveling how it “opened a new chapter in theater, that included Black people.” While most may know the widely studied and performed A Raisin in the Sun as their only reference point for Hansberry, the documentary Lorraine Hansberry: Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart makes abundantly clear that there is much more to know about her. The film draws attention to some of the most outstanding issues of the mid-Twentieth Century and beyond (racial injustice, colonialism, feminism, class divisions, sexuality) and addresses the role of artists and intellectuals in bringing them to center stage. Read more and reserve seats at https://thebatonfoundation.org/events/lorraine-hansberry-sighted-eyes-feeling-heart/.

Lorraine Hansberry: Sighted Eyes/Feeling Heart
Sunday, September 23, 2018
3:00pm-5:00pm
Auburn Avenue Research Library
101 Auburn Avenue, NE
Atlanta, GA, 30303

Public Art Call for Artists – Atlanta Central Library

Fulton County Arts & Culture (FCAC) Public Art Program invites experienced professional artists or artist teams to submit qualifications to create original and site-responsive public artwork artworks using the theme of ‘Light and Enlightenment’ for the Central Library. Artists and artist teams with at least 5 years professional public art experience and residing in the continental United States are eligible to apply. Students, Fulton County employees and FCAC contractors are ineligible to apply. With a total budget of $246,000, FCAC will commission two pieces valued between $100,000 and $150,000.

Deadline is 11:59pm, September 20. For more information, go to https://www.publicartist.org/call.cfm?id=1990 

MARTA Public Hearings - Sept 17, 18, 19

From Jeffrey A. Parker, General Manager/CEO, MARTA:

Notice is hereby given that the Board of Directors of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit
Authority will hold public hearings for the purpose of considering the
Proposed bus service modifications for December 8, 2018 for the following routes:

  • Route 79: Sylvan Hills;
  • Route 82: Camp Creek / South Fulton Parkway;
  • Route 89: Old National Highway / Union City;
  • Route 95: Metropolitan Parkway;
  • Route 143: Windward Park & Ride;
  • Route 172: [Replaced by Rt. 872] Sylvan Road / Virginia Avenue;
  • Route 178: Empire Boulevard / Southside Industrial Park;

All route information, a video with hearing information and
comment forms are available at www.itsmarta.com

Mon., Sept. 17 DeKalb

Maloof Auditorium
1300 Commerce Drive
Decatur, GA 30030
Community Exchange: 6-7 p.m.
HEARING: 7 p.m.
Riding MARTA: Blue Line to Decatur Station, walk one block west.

Tues., Sept. 18 Fulton County
Government Center
141 Pryor Street
Atlanta, GA 30303

Community Exchange: 6-7 p.m.
HEARING: 7 p.m.
Riding MARTA: Bus Rts. 21, 42, and 55.

Wed., Sept. 19 Clayton County
Water Authority
Community Room
1600 Battle Creek Road
Morrow, GA 30260

Community Exchange: 6-7 p.m.
HEARING: 7 p.m.
Riding MARTA: Bus Rt. 193.

Copies of the proposed bus service modifications will also be available for public viewing at
MARTA’s Headquarters Department of Planning, 2424 Piedmont Road, N.E. Atlanta, Georgia
30324 during regular business hours, Monday-Friday 8:30 am to 5 pm.

For formats (FREE of charge) in accordance with the ADA and Limited English Proficiency
regulations contact, (404) 848-4037.

For those patrons requiring further accommodations, information can be obtained by calling the Telephone Device for the Deaf (TDD) at (404) 848- 5665. In addition, a sign language interpreter will be available at all hearings.

IF YOU CANNOT ATTEND THE HEARINGS AND WANT TO PROVIDE COMMENTS YOU MAY:

(1) leave a message at (404) 848-5299; (2) write to MARTA’s Department of Planning, 2424 Piedmont Road, N.E. Atlanta, Georgia 30324-3330; (3) complete an online comment card at www.itsmarta.com; (4) or fax your comments no later than September 24, 2018 to (404) 848-4179.

All citizens of the City of Atlanta and the counties of Fulton, DeKalb, Clayton and Gwinnett whose
interests are affected by the subjects to be considered at these hearings are hereby notified and
invited to appear at said times and places and present such evidence, comment or objection as
their interests require.

Fulton Co. Animal Services - Free Adoptions for Hundreds of Selected Animals

Fulton County Animal Services will have free adoptions during September for hundreds of selected dogs and cats through Lifeline Animal Project's “Treat Yourself” adoption campaign. The pets are already spayed or neutered, vaccinated, micro-chipped and ready to leave the shelter which is located at 860 Marietta Boulevard in northwest Atlanta.

"Code + Pops" Coding Class - Learn or Teach!

FRIDAY, September 28th from 6:00pm - 8:00pm
+
SATURDAY, September 19th from 10:00am - 12:00pm

CODE & POPS is a series of free collaborative, education-based events between Mocha Pops and professional code developers/designers. Through this collaboration, we seek to create opportunities for individuals who desire to either LEARN or TEACH coding skills to interact.

Join us at the Atlanta City Studio on either FRIDAY, September 28th or SATURDAY, September 29th for a fun and interactive approach to learning how to code!

This is a family friendly event and ALL skill levels are welcome to participate.

For additional information, email contact@mochpops.com

Space is LIMITED, please RSVP at mochapops.com/code-pops

Useful tips from GA Power - emergency preparedness

As Florence batters our neighbors to the north, it seems like a good time to pass along this information sent to us from Georgia Power on making emergency kits and signing up for power outage alerts:

How to build an emergency kit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AP1VYSj58oM
Signing up for outage alerts: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O9EqI1yojog

Minority Business Showcase, Sept. 6, 7-9:30 PM

This event will showcase our rising class of minority business owners in the Atlanta area and give everyone an opporutunity to discover unknown products and services within the community while establishing business relationships with other entrepreneurs.

During this event, small business owners will have the opportunity to demo their products and services and pitch their business to the community. Vendor tables, table cloths, and a projector will be provided to the vendors wishing to register for the event.

For more information register at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-minority-business-showcase-tickets-42267027818 or contact Travis Reeves at (404) 414-2520 / travis@kidsnextcode.com.

Recycling Workshop 8/25


Emmanuel Lutheran Church will be hosting the Waste Wise Workshop along with GIPL (GA Interfaith Power and Light) and the City of Atlanta Office of Resilience.

This event is open to the public!

When: Saturday, August 25, 2018 10:00 am - 12:00 pm,
Where: 3050 Cascade Rd. SW,  Atlanta, GA 30311

Equitable Housing Open House Workshop

The Equitable Housing Needs Assessment aims to establish the City of Atlanta’s equitable housing goals, along with methods of measuring success as Atlanta’s population and housing needs grow and change across the City. The Open House Workshop is where you can give your feedback and input on how the City should achieve equitable housing goals. This feedback is critical in shaping the policies and decisions that City leaders make for Atlanta’s future.

NPU-S Meeting This Thursday, August 16, 7pm

Greetings, fellow NPU residents!

This Thursday, the 16th will be our NPU General Meeting for August 2018, held, as always, on the third Thursday of each month.

This month will have a special presentation from Atlanta 311, a vote on a local street festival, and several local presentations.

And, of course, reports from the police, code enforcement, public works, and many more!

See you there!

Share Your Input on the Greenbriar Town Center

From the office of Councilmember Overstreet:


The Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) is a program to transform communities into vibrant, walkable places by promoting transportation options, housing diversity, healthy lifestyles, and access to jobs and services. Join us for the kick-off meeting and share your vision and priorities for the Greenbriar Town Center. We need your voice and input! Share your vision and priorities for the Greenbriar Town Center. This feedback is critical in shaping the policies and decisions that City leaders make for Atlanta’s future.

UPS Hiring Event - September 20 - Package Handlers

Courtesy of Councilmember Winslow:



Care and Conserve Plumbing and Repair Program

The Care and Conserve Plumbing and Repair Program (CCPRP), available to residents in the City of Atlanta, is a program has been established to assist low to moderate income family homeowners with plumbing and sewer repairs. 

Priority will be given to seniors (55 or older) and disabled citizens of Atlanta. The goal of the program is to help citizens of Atlanta conserve water and reduce their water bills by providing household plumbing and sewer line repairs.

Southface will be administering the program for the City of Atlanta Council Districts 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 12. 

Persons may secure additional information by:
  • Downloading an application at www.southface.org/program/ccprp, or 
  • By calling the CCPRP hotline at 404 604 3614,  or 
  • By visiting Southface's office at 241 Pine Street NE, Atlanta, GA 30308.

Fish Fry / Line Dance Fundraiser - Seasoned Adults Living Together


Southwest Library to close for renovation August 8-Feb 2019

Design presentation at http://www.afpls.org/images/2018/AFCL_Community_Presentation_Southwest_Community_Presentaton_Template_vs2.pdf .

Nominations being accepted for Fulton County Citizens’ Commission on the Environment

The Fulton County Citizens’ Commission on the Environment (FCCCE) is seeking nominations of outstanding individuals, organizations and projects in Fulton County that exemplify or advocate for environmentally-sound practices. Nominations submitted by the August 31, 2018 deadline will be considered for the FCCCE’s 15th Annual Environmental Awards’ Program. Winners will be recognized at the October 17 meeting of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.

The FCCCE is a citizen environmental advisory group appointed by the Board of Commissioners to investigate environmental concerns, make recommendations on environmental policies, and increase public awareness, understanding and involvement concerning environmental issues. For more information, go to http://www.fultoncountyga.gov/fccce-about-citiz-commiss.

Interested organizations or persons can submit nominations online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FCCCEAward18.



Fulton County Reduces Millage Rate

The Fulton County Board of Commissioners has reduced its millage rate for the fourth consecutive year, adopting a 2018 General Fund millage rate of 10.20 mills, reflecting a reduction from the 2017 rate of 10.38 mills by 0.18 mills. The proposal endorsed by a majority of Commissioners also suggests the county pursue additional rollbacks in successive years through 2022.

“We heard a message from taxpayers all over the County that the tax bills they received included assessment increases that were just too much to bear,” says Fulton County Commission Chairman Robb Pitts. “We are responsible for heading off the steep increases those residents faced and ensuring no reduction in services to citizens. This decision ensures those citizens need not worry about the county demonstrating fiscal restraint and confronting the initial “sticker shock” in those notices.”

The Board also adopted a Bond Fund millage rate of 0.23 mills, a reduction of 0.02 mills. The Bond Fund provides continued support of the Library Referendum General Obligation Bonds’ annual debt service requirements, as approved by Fulton County voters in 2008.

“Another positive of what has been approved is that it provides guidelines for spending over the next several years,” added Chairman Pitts. “This should give us a roadmap going forward that seeks to keep controls on costs.”

Filming in Oakland City, Aug 6-9

Next week there will be film crews at the intersection of Oakland Drive and Avon Ave. Please adjust your commute accordingly.

Thursday, Aug 2 - More MARTA Community Forum at Ft. McPherson

More MARTA Atlanta is a partnership between MARTA and the City of Atlanta, developing a program of transit projects that will provide more service, accessibility, and reliability than ever before. Come meet with MARTA and City officials to learn more about how MARTA expansion will improve your community — plus, ask questions and give your input on the proposed project list.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 2
6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Fort McPherson
1788 Hardee Ave. SW, Atlanta, GA 30310

Hosted By: Atlanta City Councilmembers Joyce Sheperd (District 12), Marcia Collier Overstreet (District 11), and Cleta Winslow (District 4)

For more information, please contact 404-848-4135 or MoreMARTA_Atlanta@itsmarta.com

MLK Street Closure - August through December

Please be advised of the temporary closure of Martin Luther King, Jr., Drive, SW between Forsyth Street, SW and Ted Turner Drive, SW (Formerly Spring Street) effective Wednesday, August 1, 2018 through early December 2018. This closure is due to the removal of the west ramp on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and the widening of the east ramp on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive from Forsyth Street to Ted Turner Drive. The sidewalk on the eastside of MLK Jr., Drive between Forsyth Street, SW and Ted Turner Drive, SW will remain open for pedestrian and cyclist use.

The detour route for the temporary closure of Martin Luther King, Jr. Drive, SW is as follows:

Northbound MLK, Jr. Dr., SW Traffic
·       Left onto Forsyth Street, SW
·       Right on Trinity Avenue, SW
·       Right on Ted Turner Drive, SW 

Restorative Justice - Record Expungement - August 11. Registration extended!


Georgia Power stresses safety during storm season

Company offers outage resources and safety tips to prepare for a storm

Georgia Power is encouraging customers to be prepared when severe weather strikes. According to the National Weather Service, an average of 30 tornadoes occur in Georgia every year, however in 2017, more than 100 tornadoes were confirmed across the state. While March, April and May are typically the most active months for severe thunderstorms and tornadic activity, they can strike at any time.

Georgia Power reminds customers to keep safety first during severe weather and offers the following storm tips: 

  • Before a Storm:  Stay aware and check the weather forecast before heading outdoors. Check your emergency kit, unplug major appliances and charge cell phones in case you lose power.
  • During a Storm: Take safe shelter inside a sturdy building away from windows and doors. Avoid contact with conductors of electricity - appliances, metal objects and water.
  • After a Storm: Never touch any downed or low-hanging wire, including telephone or TV wires that touch a power line. Never pull tree limbs off of power lines yourself or enter areas with debris or downed trees as downed power lines may be buried in wreckage. 

Georgia Power Tools You Can Use


  • Outage Alerts: Subscribe to the free Georgia Power Outage Alert service to receive personalized notifications and updates via text message.
  • Outage & Storm Center: Available at www.georgiapower.com/storm, customers can visit this site to sign up for Outage Alerts, report and check the status of outages, and access useful safety tips and information. Customers can report and check the status of an outage 24 hours a day by contacting Georgia Power at 888-891-0938.
  • Outage Map: Housed within the Outage & Storm Center, Georgia Power’s interactive Outage Map provides near real-time information, allowing users to see where outages are occurring across the state and track estimated restoration times. The company is also posting regular updates with localized estimated restoration times on the Outage Map.
  • Georgia Power Mobile App: Download the Georgia Power mobile app for Apple and Android devices to access storm and outage information on the go.
  • @GeorgiaPower on Twitter: Follow @GeorgiaPower on Twitter for storm tips, outage updates, customer service and more.


Atlanta City Studio lecture: "Atlanta's DNA: The Capture of land on the West Side, 1930–1963"

TUESDAY, July 31st from 6:30pm - 8:00pm

Join the Atlanta City Studio for a talk by PHYLLIS LAWHORN about a long-forgotten story—the capture of land on the West Side of Atlanta for black middle-class homes in the 1930s to 1960s. It is a fascinating story of the unlikely alliances and compromises city leaders made, all with the goal of keeping Atlanta the “Jewel of the South.”

To RSVP Email atlcitystudio@atlantaga.gov

NPU-S General Meeting This Thursday, July 19, 7pm, at VICARS

Greetings, fellow NPU residents!

Tomorrow will be our NPU General Meeting for July 2018, held, as always, on the third Thursday of each month.

This particular meeting has many presentations:
  • Georgia Heirs Property Law Center will be there to speak on the Generational Poverty Law Project, a 3-year joint venture between Atlanta Legal Aid Society, Georgia Heirs Property Law Center, and the Pro Bono Partnership of Atlanta, collaborating to protect homes and families in metro-Atlanta. 
  • ELEVATE 2018 plans to talk about their upcoming events in the neighborhoods of Adams Park, Cascade Heights, Venetian Hills, Cascade Road, Beecher Hills and Audubon Forest.
  • BeltLine Rail Now is seeking the NPU's support on their petition.
  • More MARTA is looking for feedback on their proposed projects ahead of the projects being presented to the MARTA Board;
  • and Ryse Interactive is seeking a letter of support for their proposed acquisition of the former Arkwright Elementary School to build a studio.

And, of course, reports from the police, code enforcement, public works, and many more!

See you there!

When: Thursday, July 19, 2018, 7-9pm
Where: VICARS, 838 Cascade Rd SW
Agenda: http://bit.ly/NPUSagendaJuly2018

Historic Preservation Workshop - Wednesday, July 18 6pm


The City of Atlanta, Department of City Planning invites you and your neighbors to join us at our Historic Preservation Workshop on Wednesday, July 18, 2018 at 6:00pm. The workshop will take place at the Atlanta City Studio and will be targeted to residents of the Cascade, Peyton Forest and Audobon Forest Districts.

8th Annual Homeless Initiative

The Fulton County Sheriff's Office and the Sheriff's Office's Chaplaincy Program are asking for volunteers and donations for their 8th annual Homeless Initiative.


The picture above shows dozens of people who came to receive items from the Homeless Initiative in 2017. Donations are needed by August 8, 2018 for this year's Homeless Initiative. Items needed include: soap, socks, baby wipes, towels and trash bags. You can request a donation pickup or volunteer for the event by calling Lt. S. Edwards at 404-612-3113 or Sgt. J. Price at 404-612-3480. The items will be dispersed during the Homeless Initiative on Saturday, August 11, 2018, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. on the steps of the Fulton County Courthouse.

Needed items include:
  • Soap
  • Deodorant
  • Washcloths
  • Petroleum Jelly
  • Nail Clippers
  • Towels
  • Hand Sanitizer
  • Toothbrushes
  • Cotton Swabs
  • Feminine Products
  • Lotion
  • Toothpaste
  • Shaving Cream
  • Tissue
  • Combs and Brushes
  • Band-Aids
  • Socks
  • Trash Bags/Ziplock Bags
  • Baby Wipes
  • Foot Powder
  • Adult Diapers

Fulton County Emergency Services Launches Text to 9-1-1

Fulton County Emergency Services is pleased to announce the successful launch of Text to 9-1-1 service on July 1, 2018. Fulton County’s Text to 9-1-1 uses the latest state-of-the-art technology allowing hearing and speech-impaired residents, as well as those in potentially dangerous situations, to reach out for help.

Text to 9-1-1 requires a cell phone that has the capability to send text messages. Location services must be enabled and text messages should be brief, easily understood, and should not contain abbreviations, emoji’s, or slang. Currently, the texting service is only available in English; other language solutions are in development and will be implemented as soon as they become available. The system cannot receive photos or videos at this time.

For more information go to http://www.fultoncountyga.gov/latest-news/9165-fulton-county-emergency-services-launches-text-to-9-1-1

Reminder: Your Solid Waste Pickup Day is Changing THIS week!

For years, the day of the week our trash has been collected has been Wednesday - the day for Southwest Atlanta. However, the City has created new, more efficient collection routes that are not based on quadrant.

Starting this week, July 9th, the new pickup days go into effect!

To find out which day of the week your house will be serviced, go to

https://www.atlantaga.gov/government/departments/public-works/office-of-solid-waste-services