Atlanta Real Estate

In response to the worst drought experienced in North Georgia, Dr. Carol Couch, Director of the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), declared a Drought Response Level 4 for 61 Counties in North Georgia. Following a summer of increasingly tight water restrictions, and several counties (including Cobb) preemptively declaring total bans on outdoor water use, Dr. Couch mandated a total ban on outdoor watering on September 28, 2007. All of the 61 affected counties are classified in exceptional or extreme drought status. The drought, which began in 2006 as a shortage of rainfall and exceptionally dry soils, became a severe hydrologic drought in 2007, when water resources began to be affected. The total water ban will not be without socioeconomic impacts. Areas of the state face water shortages, and businesses dependent on water face stringent restrictions with serious financial ramifications.

In Cobb County, Lake Allatoona, one of our two sources for the County's drinking water, is almost 8 feet below average for this time of year and 16.5 feet below full pool. Since 1981, Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority (CCMWA) has made multiple appeals to the Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) for additional allocation for drinking water from Lake Allatoona for its service area, which includes Cobb and Paulding Counties, and portions of Cherokee, Douglas and Fulton Counties.  Multiple factors, including the impact on downstream flows and interstate legal disputes over use of the region's water resources, have had a significant bearing on CCMWA's ability to withdraw additional water from Allatoona. 

Allatoona Facts:

•        Allatoona average elevation for this time of year is approximately 832.4 feet above mean sea level (MSL).  Current elevation is 824.5 MSL, almost 8 feet below average, and is expected to continue to decline.

•       CCMWA has a withdrawal permit issued by Georgia EPD for 57 million gallons per day (mgd) annual average.

•        From October 2006 through September 2007, CCMWA's average net withdrawal [gross flows less net returns] was 31 mgd, which converts to 48 cubic feet per second (cfs).
•        From October 2006 through September 2007, the Corps' average release from Allatoona was 934 cfs.
•        CCMWA's storage contract with the Corps provides CCMWA with 4.61% of Allatoona's conservation storage (or that portion of the lake dedicated to hydropower).

The remainder of Cobb County's water is drawn from the Chattahoochee River. This river basin is one of the smallest in the United States to serve a major metropolitan area. The Chattahoochee basin, which includes Lake Lanier, provides water to more than 70% of Metropolitan Atlanta. Lanier, another Corps reservoir, has also been significantly impacted by the drought and interstate legal disputes, as well as by large releases from the reservoir for downstream flows as directed by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service for threatened and endangered species. Lanier is currently almost 8 feet below average for this time of year, and over 13 feet below full pool

Climatologists predict that the drought will persist in North Georgia through the winter and into the spring of 2008. The anticipated extension of the drought, coupled with high releases from these headwaters reservoirs, leaves the possibility of much greater challenges meeting future demands for drinking water as we move into 2008.

Chattahoochee Facts:

•        Lanier average elevation for this time of year is approximately 1065.5 MSL.  Current elevation is below 1058 MSL, almost 8 feet below average, and is expected to continue to drop at a rate of 1.5 feet per week.
•        CCMWA has a permit issued by Georgia EPD for 87 mgd annual average withdrawal from the Chattahoochee River.
•       From October 2006 through September 2007, CCMWA's average withdrawal from the Chattahoochee was 53 mgd, which converts to 82 cfs.
•       From October 2006 through September 2007, the Corps' average release from Lake Lanier for all downstream uses was 1221 cfs.

Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority's average daily demand during the winter is 80 to 85 million gallons.  From May through September of this year, prior to the Level 4 declaration, CCMWA's daily demand on "dry" Fridays was 103 million gallons. The Level 4 declaration has resulted in a 16% drop in demand from 116 mgd (September 2007 prior to declaration) to 97 million gallons a day (October to date).

As Cobb County and the rest of North Georgia face new water supply challenges, conservation of our existing resource becomes essential.  In 1988, CCMWA became the first utility in the state of Georgia to hire a water conservation specialist.  CCMWA's conservation education programs have continued since that time, and its current program, waterSmart (www.watersmart.net), has been adopted for use by the Georgia EPD in its statewide public education efforts for water conservation.  In March of 2004 the Cobb County Board of Commissioners approved The Cobb County Water Efficiency Plan. The water efficiency program includes education and outreach, water saving fixture distribution, and outdoor water use initiatives. Cobb County was the first county in the metro area to establish a position dedicated to the creation and management of a water conservation program. A toilet rebate initiative is being developed to assist customers with the cost of replacing their old high flow toilets.  Additionally, our leakage rate and water tier conservation pricing methodology is very effective in conserving water.

It's important to note that in CCMWA's 1988 50-Year Water Supply Master Plan, growth was anticipated in per capita demands to 190 gcd.  When that report was being written, the region was in the midst of a drought that changed its perspective on conservation.  Conservation became a focus of long-term water supply planning, and the upward trend in per capita water use reversed.  Per capita water demands for Cobb County dropped from 146 gallons per capita per day (gcd) in 1990 to 130 gcd in 2000 to 123 gcd in 2006.

The sacrifices our citizens are making by foregoing outdoor watering, washing cars, and filling pools, are both necessary and difficult. With the possibility of tighter restrictions in the near future, the role of each individual in managing water becomes critical.  Small changes in behavior, adherence to the restrictions in place, and the retrofitting of high water consuming fixtures in the home, will and do make a difference and help extend limited resources.  "Though we understand how difficult this is for our citizens, this is an issue of public health and safety.  It is a time for personal sacrifice for the greater community good" explained Sam Olens, Chairman of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners. 

With the help of Senators Isakson and Chambliss and our Congressional delegation, we must impress upon the Corps and the courts the need to reduce the flows from both Lake Allatoona and Lake Lanier.  We must all share the pain of this record-breaking drought.

Atlanta Real Estate

New Health Alert: Salmonella Outbreak Impacts 30 States

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) is collaborating with public health officials in multiple states across the United States and with the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service to investigate an ongoing multi-state outbreak of Salmonella.

Advice to consumers

At this time, CDC recommends that people do not eat any Banquet pot pies or pot pies made by ConAgra Foods that have a printed code ending in "P9." Other brands of pot pies made in the ConAgra Foods factory that makes Banquet brand pot pies and sold under other brand names may also be contaminated with Salmonella. These other pot pie boxes also have a printed code ending in "P9". If you have any of these products at home, the safest thing to do is to discard them.

Consumers with questions about these products may contact the ConAgra hotline at (866) 484-8671

Clinical features of Salmonella
Most people infected with Salmonella develop diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12-72 hours after infection. Infection is usually diagnosed by culture of a stool sample. The illness usually lasts four to seven days. Although most people recover without treatment, severe infections may occur. Infants, elderly persons, and people with impaired immune systems are more likely than others to develop severe illness. In severe infection, Salmonella spreads from the intestines to the bloodstream and then to other body sites and death can occur if the person is not treated promptly with antibiotics.

Atlanta Real Estate

Country Music legend George Jones brings his unmistakable voice to the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on Friday, December 7.

Known as one of the finest voices in the history of country music, George Jones began his illustrious career in 1955 when he made his chart debut with "Why, Baby, Why." That single helped to plant the seeds of a career spanning over five decades and earning him more charting singles (166) than any artist in any format of music. His unmistakable voice has graced some of country music's most enduring hits such as "White Lightning," "She Thinks I Still Care," "Good Year For the Roses," "The Race Is On," "Who's Gonna Fill Their Shoes," and two Grammy award winning songs, "Choices" and the classic "He Stopped Loving Her Today."

At age 76, Jones shows no signs of slowing down. As a recording artist, his most recent projects include Hits I Missed.And One I Didn't in 2005, and 2006's Jones Sings Haggard, Haggard Sings Jones: Kickin' Out the Floodlights Again. In addition, Jones maintains an active tour schedule, headlining nearly 100 concert dates a year.
Event times: Dec 7, 2007 (Fri)
8:00 PM
Ticket Information: Tickets go on sale: Oct 5, 2007 10:00 AM
Ticket Prices: $43.50

More info website: http://www.georgejones.com/

John Fogerty will be appearing at Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre on Tuesday, December 4th at 8:00 PM for one night only. Fogerty is touring in support of his new album, Revival, due in stores this Tuesday, October 2nd.
Event times: Dec 4, 2007 (Tue)
8:00 PM
Ticket Information: Tickets go on sale: Oct 6, 2007 10:00 AM
Ticket Prices: $39.50 - $59.50
More info website: http://www.johnfogerty.com/

Atlanta Real Estate  

Atlanta Real Estate

Cobb County Crime Alert

At the request of the Cobb County Fire Investigations Unit, we would like to make everyone aware of recent arson fires in Cobb. The Georgia Arson Control Program offers up to $10,000 for any information that results in the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for planning or committing arson. Please call (770) 499-3887 or 1-800-282-5804 if you have any information regarding this or any other arson fires.

Zone 4
On 09/23/2007 at 4:40 am, 2 vehicles parked in the driveway at 5338 Timber Ridge Road, Marietta, Georgia were intentionally set on fire.

Zone 5
On 09/24/2007 between the hours of 6:28 am and 10:40 am, 2 structure fires were reported to Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services. The first fire was reported at 3156 Colorado Drive, Powder Springs, Georgia. The second fire was discovered at 2758 Aruba Drive, Powder Springs, Georgia. Both fires were determined to be Arson.

Zone 5
On 10/01/2007 at 6:17 pm, a commercial building fire was reported to Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services. The fire was intentionally set inside the Super Wal-Mart located at 6520 Ernest Barrett Parkway, Powder Springs, Georgia.

Atlanta Real Estate

FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. - The Falcons Tuesday placed tackle Wayne Gandy on injured reserve, signed offensive lineman Harvey Dahl off the San Francisco 49ers practice squad and waived defensive end Kevin Huntley.

The move comes following a 20-13 loss to the Tennessee Titans where Gandy, a 14-year veteran and team captain suffered an injury in the fourth quarter. Gandy, 6-5, 308 pounds, had started in 94 consecutive games on the offensive line dating back to the 2001 season.

"It's discouraging," Head Coach Bobby Petrino said Monday when asked about Gandy's injury. 'It's certainly something that would really hurt us because he's been a very good leader for our football team and he's done a really nice job of providing leadership for our offense. That will be a tough one if the news comes out negative."

Dahl, 6-5, 313 pounds, was signed by the Falcons from the San Francisco practice squad. The second-year tackle joined the Dallas Cowboys as an undrafted free agent in 2005 and was later signed by the 49ers after being waived by Dallas in the same year.

Dahl played in four games last season for the 49ers and saw his first NFL action against the St. Louis Rams on September 17, 2006.

Huntley, 6-7, 270 pounds, was originally signed to the Falcons  practice squad on Sept. 12, 2007. www.AtlantaFalcons.com

Atlanta Real Estate 

Opportunities for a Lifetime - Planning for an Increasing Senior Population

Register now for Cobb County Development Symposium Nov. 7

Population growth by seniors is expected to boom over the next two decades. Experts predict the senior population in metro Atlanta will increase by a remarkable 127 percent by 2030. Along with this anticipated growth comes the need to properly plan for the future. In order for the planning process to be truly successful, the community must be informed and involved. Therefore, Cobb County will host a development symposium titled "Opportunities for a Lifetime: Planning for an increasing senior population" Wednesday, Nov. 7, at Kennesaw State University Center. Residents are encouraged to attend the symposium because it will inform them of the unique opportunities and challenges of this growth and cover important topics such as innovative transportation and housing options and community partnerships that benefit seniors.

The symposium runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and registration includes continental breakfast, lunch, vendor exhibits and admission to all sessions. Senior registration, for ages 65 and older, is $35 and regular registration is $40. Registration must be postmarked, faxed or completed online by Oct. 27. For more information, or to register online, visit http://www.cobbcountyga.gov/.

Atlanta Real Estate News  

Atlanta Boy Choir

This year the Atlanta Boy Choir is celebrating it's 50th Anniversary with several very special concerts. The first is coming up on October 19th, when the gorgeous, world renowned opera diva, Elizabeth Futral, will perform with the Choir. We invite you to click on the links below and purchase your tickets to this benefit recital commemorating the start of this celebratory year. Every ticket that is purchased supports the Choir and their consistent efforts to remain a gem of the Atlanta music scene, and one of the best boy choirs in the United States. Please join us on October 19th at CEPAC to watch these ordinary boys come together and sing as the extraordinary Atlanta Boy Choir with Elizabeth Futral.

Join us for the opening celebration of the Atlanta Boy Choir's 50th Anniversary Season, featuring world-renown soprano, Elizabeth Futral.

Experience the Grammy-award winning Atlanta Boy Choir paired with the stunning vocalism, ravishing beauty, and vast dramatic range of one of the great Divas of the 21st century.

In the past five decades, the Choir has entertained audiences around the world, earning international acclaim, recognition and awards. Under the direction of David R. White, nearly 130 skilled singers currently comprise five performing choirs. In honor of this anniversary year, numerous concerts and celebrations are scheduled. The season that begins with Futral's magical voice, will culminate in May with the world premiere of a specially commissioned major work for choir and orchestra by the highly regarded Stephen Paulus, former Composer-In-Residence of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Don't miss a moment of this extraordinary season. To learn more about the Atlanta Boy Choir, its 2007-2008 concert schedule or to purchase tickets and CDs, please go to http://www.atlantaboychoir.org or call 404-378-0064.

Event times: Oct 19, 2007 (Fri)
7:30 PM
Ticket Information: Tickets on sale now!
Ticket Prices: $30 - $250
$250 Patron level tickets include a reception with the artist immediately following the recital.

Outdoor burning ban extended indefinitely due to drought

The countywide outdoor burning ban, which was set to end Sept. 30, has been extended indefinitely due to the current level four drought conditions and total outdoor water ban.

One of the rules for open burning requires a garden hose be available and ready for use at every burn. However, the use of garden hoses is prohibited during periods of level four water restrictions.

Additionally, lack of rainfall and generally dry conditions have left much of the area prone to fires. A single spark into dry pine straw, grass or undergrowth can quickly become an uncontrolled fire leading to property damage and/or injury.

"The drought has contributed to daily ‘fire danger' ratings in the class four and five range for this area," Cobb County Fire Chief Rebecca Denlinger said.  "The highest rating is five, signifying the danger of fire and rates of growth and spread are greatly increased over the norm."

Limiting open burning also helps decrease pollutants and improves the air quality in Cobb County. The only exceptions to the open burning ban are recreational fires, bonfires with permit, cooking fires and fires in outdoor fireplaces, fire bowls or chimeneas.  Alternatives to burning debris include chipping, composting and taking debris to a commercial or municipal grinding/composting facility or landfill. For more information about the extended burning ban, visit fire.cobbcountyga.gov/marshal.htm or call 770-528-8000. For more information on the outdoor water ban, visit cobbwater.org.

Cobb County Crime Alert

Ladies and Gentlemen,

We have a current crime trend of business burglaries where the perpetrator is accessing the business by removing the roof HVAC system and dropping through the roof.

All of the below through the roof business burglaries are along Johnson Ferry Rd between Lower Roswell and Roswell Rd. The M.O. has changed at Big Peach Running Company because the owner has taken corrective action. The perpetrator is believed to be white, wearing a ski mask and gloves. Case Agents are Sergeant Davidson and Detective Clere. If you are a business owner or know a business owner in this area, please be aware of this trend. We would appreciate any investigative information pertaining to these incidents.

Lt Chenoweth

415 Beat
082307 2030 hours to 0740 hours - 1062 Johnson Ferry Rd Suite C, Big Peach Running Company/ Entry was made through a roof vent and exit through the rear door. A large screen television, lap top and currency were taken.

090707 0330 to 0400 hrs- 1062 Johnson Ferry Rd (Big Peach Running Company)- alarm activation. Attempted entry through a rear door by a prying tool. No entry made, nothing taken.

090607 2300 to 090707 0900 hrs- 1205 Johnson Ferry Rd (Edward Johns Jewelry)- entry through the roof by removing HVAC unit. No alarm activation although 360 degree motion sensors were set. Nothing taken. It is believed that this business was used to access the next door business (River Nails) which was entered and items taken.

090607 2030 to 090707 0930 hrs- 1205 Johnson Ferry Rd (River Nails)- entry made through the roof from the adjoining business (Edward Johns Jewelry). LG 42" LCD TV, $1100 cash and a DVD player taken. Suspect left through a rear door.

091807 2020 to 091907 0100 hrs- Attempted Burglary. 1062 Johnson Ferry Rd (Big Peach Running Company)- unknown person attempted to remove the pins from the hinges on the rear door which resulted in an alarm call at 0100 hrs.

092407 2215 to 092507 0652 hrs- 1255 Johnson Ferry Rd (Palm Beach Tan)- perpetrator entered from the roof and dropped from the ceiling into a tanning room. Suspect then kicked out a sheetrock wall inside the room to gain entrance into the storage area where the phone lines and other lines were cut in an attempt to disarm the alarm system. This would indicate the suspect had knowledge of the store layout. The suspect then went to the front counter and took the cash register, which only held miscellaneous change. Suspect is picked up on video wearing all black clothing, a mask and gloves. Suspect appears to be a W/M.

092407 2030 to 092507 0645 hrs- 1255 Johnson Ferry Rd (Marine Fish)- entry through rooftop HVAC system (see the above). Forced entry into a rear office and forced entry into a locked file cabinet resulted in loss of cash and a Motorola cell phone.

Level four drought restricts all outdoor water usage

The Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority has declared a level four drought response across its service area, restricting all outdoor water usage other than for activities exempted by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division. The level four drought status is effective immediately.

Under the declaration, watering of newly installed landscape by homeowners is prohibited. For new landscape installed prior to the drought response level four declaration, homeowners may complete their 30 watering days between the hours of midnight and 10 a.m. Proof of landscape purchase prior to the declaration date (Sept. 20) is required. Watering of new landscape installed by certified or licensed professionals may be watered for 30 days. Landscape and irrigation professionals are exempt from restrictions when on the property. Irrigation of personal food gardens is allowed.

The drought declaration was made following consultation with the CCMWA Board and state officials. After an extensive analysis regarding the current and projected drought conditions and lake levels at Lake Allatoona and Lake Lanier, the Authority determined a level four drought response was necessary to ensure long term water needs of customers are met as well as to ensure adequate fire protection, public safety and health of the community. The current drought, as well as increased water releases by the United States Army Corps of Engineers, is expected to result in a draw down of Lake Allatoona to the winter pool lake elevation of 823 feet by October, instead of the normal December time frame.

More information about exemptions and the outdoor water use schedule can be found at http://www.cobbwater.org/. To learn more about water conservation, visit http://www.watersmart.net/. Detailed information on the drought can be found at http://www.georgiadrought.org/

Atlanta Real Estate 

Make-A-Wish 5K and Cobb Family Fun Fest Oct. 13

The Cobb Family Fun Fest is being combined with the annual Cobb County Make-A-Wish 5K to make an event for the whole family on Saturday, Oct. 13. Registration begins at 7 a.m. and the charity 5K starts at 8 a.m. The course begins and ends at the Marietta Square. Registration is $15, children 12 and under are $10, groups of 10 or more are $12 each and kids under 5 are free (no T-shirt). Registration after Oct. 8 is $20. All registered participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt. "Phantom runners" who want to participate in spirit can donate $20 and indicate their T-shirt size on the registration form. Proceeds from the race benefit the Make-A-Wish foundation to help grant wishes of children in Cobb County who have life-threatening medical conditions. For more information, visit http://www.cobbmakeawish5k.org/ or call 770-528-2620.

The Cobb Fun Fest, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., will include live music, arts and crafts, storytelling, inflatable carnival rides and free game booths with prizes. Government departments, including police and fire, will be on hand to give interactive presentations. Cobb County and the City of Marietta are co-sponsoring the event. Magicians, balloon artists and face painters will roam Marietta Square throughout the day. The Cobb County and Marietta school districts will also partner in the event and distribute health-related materials. Admission is free. For more information, call 770-528-8800.

Atlanta Real Estate

County siren system provides important warnings
When you hear one of the 74 emergency warning sirens anywhere in Cobb County, you need to take immediate action. The county will sound these sirens for three to five minutes when:

• The National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm warning with a tornado watch.
• The National Weather Service issues a tornado warning.
• A tornado has been spotted or reported by public safety officials.
• Additional weather warnings are issued.
• National Security events.
• Hazardous material incidents where evacuation or other action may be warranted.

Several county sirens have the capability of broadcasting voice messages. However, the majority of Cobb's sirens will not specify the type of storm or emergency. Therefore, you need to tune into your local radio or television station for further information.

Cobb County's sirens are tested at noon on the first Wednesday of every month for three to five minutes, weather permitting. If the weather is questionable on that Wednesday, the test will be conducted on Thursday. If Thursday's weather is questionable, that month's siren test will be canceled.

September is designated National Preparedness Month and each week Cobb County Emergency Management Agency has offered tips to help your family properly prepare for crisis situations. For more information, visit http://eba.cobbcountyga.gov/ or http://www.ready.gov/.

Atlanta Real Estate

Honoring those who protect and serve

Cobb County will honor public safety personnel during the ninth annual Public Safety Appreciation Week, Oct. 1-7. The celebration honors individuals whose commitment, dedication and sacrifices ensure all Cobb County residents are safe and secure.

The weeklong festivities kick off Monday, Oct. 1, with the Cobb Chamber's 13th annual Salute to Public Safety Breakfast at the Cobb Galleria Centre with keynote speaker Lt. Gov. Casey Cagle. Outstanding employees from Cobb's public safety agencies will be recognized and rewarded for excellence. For more information, call the Cobb Chamber of Commerce at 770-980-2000 or visit cobbchamber.org.

Atlanta Real Estate

Cobb Senior Services offers 2008 calendar
Cobb Senior Services now has 2008 calendars available featuring the theme "Where the Past Meets the Present." The vintage black and white 13-month calendar highlights senior adults at various Cobb County landmarks. The calendars are $10 each and proceeds benefit programs and special events at neighborhood centers, which are open to all county residents age 60 and older. Online orders are also available for $12 (includes shipping) at http://www.cobbseniors.org/ For more information, call 770-528-5352.

Atlanta Real Estate News

Rivers Alive cleanups planned for this Saturday

On Saturday, Sept. 29, there will be a stream and park cleanup at Olley Creek at Sweetwater Park, 2447 Clay Road in Austell. All ages are welcome. There will be a snake education show held. The event begins at 9:15 a.m. and is sponsored by Adopt-A-Stream, Keep Cobb Beautiful and the Cobb County Parks Natural Resource Management Unit. For more information, visit  kcb.cobbcountyga.gov. To register or call 770-528-1135. Lunch will be served at both events.

Atlanta Real Estate News

Tops in Blue performs at Mable House Oct. 9
The United States Air Force Services will present the 2007 world tour of Tops in Blue's performance "The Fly-By" at Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre Tuesday, Oct. 9. The performance is a musical tribute to 60 years of proud Air Force history. Tops in Blue serves as an expeditionary unit to provide quality entertainment, with priority to Air Force personnel stationed worldwide at remote and deployed locations, while simultaneously promoting community relations, supporting recruiting efforts and serving as ambassadors for the nation and the United States Air Force. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. and is free. Mable House is located at 5239 Floyd Road in Mableton. For more information, visit http://www.themhba.com/

Atlanta Real Estate News

Cobb County Events

Sept. 24 - Cobb County Board of Commissioners Chairman Sam Olens will host a town hall meeting at West Cobb Regional Library, 1750 Dennis Kemp Lane in Kennesaw, beginning at 7 p.m. All county residents are encouraged to attend. For more information, call 770-528-3300.

Sept. 24 - Public Library Board of Trustees meeting. 7:30 p.m. Lewis A. Ray Library.

Sept. 25 - Board of Commissioners regular meeting. 7 p.m. BOC Room, second floor, 100 Cherokee St., Marietta.

Sept. 26 - Cobb/Marietta Career Expo. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cobb County Civic Center, 548 South Marietta Parkway, Marietta. Sponsored by Marietta City Councilman Anthony Coleman, City of Marietta, Cobb County Government, Georgia Department of Labor, Cobb/Cherokee Career Center and CobbWorks!, Inc. For more information, visit www.cobbworks.org or http://www.dol.state.ga.us/  

Sept. 26 - Blake Shelton concert. North Georgia State Fair, Jim Miller Park. 8 p.m. Show included with fair admission. Adults: $5, students ages 7-18: $2, children 6 and under: free. For more information, visit northgeorgiastatefair.com or call 770-423-1330 or 770-528-8989.

Sept. 27 - 2005 One Percent SPLOST Citizens Oversight Committee meeting. 3:30 p.m. BOC Conference Room, third floor, 100 Cherokee St., Marietta.

Sept. 27 - Craig Morgan concert. North Georgia State Fair, Jim Miller Park. 8 p.m. Show included with fair admission. Adults: $5, students ages 7-18: $2, children 6 and under: free. For more information, visit northgeorgiastatefair.com or call 770-423-1330 or 770-528-8989.

Sept. 28 - Nominations for Senior Services' Best Practices Award due by 4 p.m. All companies and organizations in Cobb County are eligible for the award which celebrates companies and organizations that support Cobb County's older residents. Finalists will be honored guests at Cobb Senior Services' annual volunteer recognition luncheon on Nov. 8. Nomination forms may be downloaded at http://www.cobbseniors.org/  For more information, call 770-528-5355.

Sept. 28-30 - Stamp show. Hudgins Hall, Civic Hall. For more information, call 770-962-5888.

Sept. 29 - Chris Cagle concert. North Georgia State Fair, Jim Miller Park. 8 p.m. Show included with fair admission. Adults: $5, students ages 7-18: $2, children 6 and under: free. For more information, visit northgeorgiastatefair.com or call 770-423-1330 or 770-528-8989.

Oct. 1 - Park Bonds Citizens Advisory Committee meeting. 7 p.m. Third floor board room, 100 Cherokee St., Marietta.

Oct. 4 - Celebrating Cobb County's 175 anniversary photo and art exhibit. West Cobb Senior Center. 2 p.m. Exhibit features senior artists' paintings and drawings of Cobb landmarks. On display through November. For details, call the center at 770-528-8200.

Oct. 5-6 - Cobb County Classic Rodeo. Jim Miller Park 8 p.m. Adults: $15, children: $12, under 5: free. For more information, call 770-684-7277.

Oct. 6 - Life University hosts 13th annual Kids Day America in collaboration with open house celebration for new Center for Health and Optimum Performance. Noon to 4 p.m. Features ID cards for children, free child fingerprinting provided by Marietta Police Department, "McGruff" the Crime Dog, fire safety tips, free spinal exams and scoliosis screenings, food, and giveaways. For more information, contact Dr. Brian Flannery at bflannery@life.edu.
Oct. 8 - Board of Elections and Registration meeting. 4 p.m. West Park Government Center, 736 Whitlock Ave., Marietta.

Oct. 8 - Historic Preservation Commission work session/public meeting. 6:30 p.m. Second floor, 100 Cherokee St., Marietta.

Oct. 9 - Board of Commissioners regular meeting. 9 a.m. BOC Room, second floor, 100 Cherokee St., Marietta.

Oct. 10 - Board of Zoning appeals hearing. 1 p.m. BOC Room, second floor, 100 Cherokee St., Marietta.

Oct. 11 - District One Commissioner Helen Goreham town hall meeting. North Cobb Senior Center, 4100 Highway 293/Old Highway 41, Acworth. Dana Johnson, planning division manager, will discuss the District One Livable Communities Coalition Report. For more information, call 770-528-3313.

Oct. 12-14 - Cobb County Library book sale. Jim Miller Park. Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, call 770-528-2342.

IMPORTANT GAME DAY BULLETIN

Security Enhancements
The NFL, your Atlanta Falcons and the Georgia Dome are dedicated to providing a great and safe game day experience.  To ensure fan safety, the National Football League has implemented programs throughout the league to maximize the security of its patrons and facilities on game day. 

A vital part of this security effort is the patron screening procedure which was initiated in 2005 and stipulates that you and your belongings may be searched upon entry in to the stadium.  The NFL policy states that by rendering your ticket and entering the stadium, you consent to such searches and waive any related claims that you might have against the NFL, its member clubs, their affiliates and stadium landlord, or their agents.  If you elect not to consent to the searches, you will be denied entry into the stadium.

The fan inspections in some instances may cause longer lines so fans are encouraged to arrive early to the game to minimize delays entering the Dome.

Restricted Level Access
The sold out Georgia Dome wants to ensure that all of the 72,000 excited Falcons fans can enjoy the game day experience to the fullest. In response to fan feedback, and as a concern for safety, a best practice among stadiums encourages fans to enter and remain on their ticketed level. This allows everyone to access their seats, concessions, restrooms and merchandise areas safely and conveniently. Upon entering the Georgia Dome main entrances this season fans will be directed to proceed to the appropriate level designated on their ticket(s); either Lower (100), Mezzanine (200) or Upper (300) level.  Fans that approach the Dome from the East side of the building (Falcons Landing, Marta, World Congress Center, CNN Center) and possess a 300 level ticket are recommended to enter the building at either at Upper Gate D or Upper Gate C; those 300 level patrons that choose to enter the Dome at Lower Level Gates A, B, C or D will be directed to the nearest internal walking ramp that will allow access the 300 level. Patrons with 200 level tickets will be directed to the nearest internal staircase allowing access to the 200 level.  Patrons with 100 level tickets can access the 100 level via any gate.  Access to the main concourse on the 100 level will be limited only to patrons with 100 level tickets.

NFL Flexible Scheduling
This fall the NFL will continue Flexible Scheduling for the final eight weeks of the season.  During those eight weeks the NFL has the flexibility to move the start time of any Sunday home game to 4:05pm or 8:15pm.  Our games on Nov. 18th vs. Tampa Bay and Dec. 30th vs. Seattle are eligible for the 4:05pm or 8:15pm move.  Check atlantafalcons.com for Flex Scheduling bulletins.

Season Ticket Holder Yearbook Pickup
Season ticket holders' complimentary issue of the Atlanta Falcons Yearbook will be available for pickup at any Georgia Dome Service Center (located near the entrances inside the Dome) starting with the 1 regular season home game on Sunday, September 23rd.  Your season ticket holder ID must be presented when picking up your yearbook.

The Cobb County Family Fun Fest will combine with the annual Cobb County Make-A-Wish 5K to make an event for the whole family on Saturday, Oct. 13.

Registration for the charity 5K begins at 7 a.m. and the event starts at 8 a.m. The course begins and ends at the Marietta Square. Registration is $15; children 12 and under are $10; groups of 10 or more are $12 each; and kids under 5 are free (no T-shirt). Registration after Oct. 8 will be $20. All registered participants will receive a commemorative long sleeve T-shirt. "Phantom runners" who want to participate in spirit can pay $20 and indicate their T-shirt size on the registration form.

Proceeds from the race go to the Make-A-Wish foundation to help grant the wishes of children in Cobb County who have life-threatening medical condition. For more information or to register, visit CobbMakeAWish5K.org, or call 770-528-2620.

The Cobb Fun Fest, which runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m, will include live music, arts and crafts, storytelling, inflatable carnival rides and free game booths with prizes. Admission is free.

Government departments, including police and fire, will be on hand to give interactive presentations. Cobb County and the City of Marietta are co-sponsors of the event. Magicians, balloon artists and face painters will roam Marietta Square throughout the day.

Next year will likely bring a second annual decline in existing home sales, the National Association of Realtors predicted Monday.  Sales of existing homes are expected to decline 8.6 percent to 6.47 million for 2006 and contract another 1 percent to 6.40 million units next year.  Still, the housing sector should see a rebound by the end of next year, said David Lereah, the association's chief economist.  About three-quarters of the country will see a sluggish expansion of existing home sales next year, Lereah remarked.

The year-long slump in the housing market may be near a bottom, say home builders though it could take a while before prices rebound.  Jerry Howard, CEO of the National Association of Home Builders said a turnaround should begin in the first quarter of 2007. "The market," he says, "is at the bottom now."  "Fifteen months into the current slowdown, we may be seeing a floor in some markets where deposits and traffic, although erratic from week to week, seem to be dancing on the bottom or slightly above."

Mortgage applications rose as interest rates fell to their lowest level in 14 months, an industry trade group reported Wednesday.  The Mortgage Bankers Association said its seasonally adjusted index of mortgage application activity for the week ended Dec. 1 rose 8.1 percent to 647.6, from 599.0 a week earlier.  The 30-year fixed-rate mortgage fell to 5.98 percent, its lowest level since October 2005, from 6.13 last week.