Five Tips To Help You Stay Fraud-Free

(NAPSI)-Give a thief your wallet and he'll steal for a day. Give him your personal information and he'll steal for life. Nobody wants to become the victim of fraud. Here are Radialpoint's five tips to stay protected:

1. Stay on top of your financial activities. A lot can happen when you're not paying attention. Check your bank statements often and carefully, and don't wait until the end of the month to review them. Make sure to report anything suspicious immediately.

2. If a friend sends you an IM (instant message) with a link requesting you to download a file from an unknown source, do not download the file. What sounds like a harmless invitation to view a funny photo on the Web may actually be a computer virus.

3. You wouldn't leave your house unlocked or your keys in your car, so why would you leave your PC unprotected? Make sure your firewall and anti-virus software are updated regularly. So you can stay protected against new forms of threats, such as viruses and spyware, that crop up daily, use a service such as Verizon Security Advisor, available to all Internet users via www.veri zon.net/securityadvisor.

4. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of unsolicited callers promising dream vacations in return for a seemingly small fee. Never make arrangements to send any money over the phone.

5. Be on the lookout for e-mails that begin with phrases such as "please verify your account" or "dear valued customer" or "your account will be closed in 48 hours if you do not..." The truth is that a bank would never request your information or password via e-mail.

Don't deceive yourself into thinking you needn't worry about fraud. Staying alert can help to keep you fraud-free.

You wouldn't leave your house unlocked or your keys in your car, so why would you leave your personal information unprotected?

Actions Taken by the Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers and Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers at its March 19 Meeting

The Georgia State Board of Registration of Used Motor Vehicle Dealers and Used Motor Vehicle Parts Dealers held its meeting on Wednesday, March 19, 2008.

The Board voted to issue Final Decisions on each of the following cases:

Acceptance Auto Sales, Lithia Springs: $24,000 for 24 instances of failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale; 24 instances of failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date. In addition, the car dealer had 28 instances of failure to post FTC Buyer’s Guides on each vehicle offered for sale. The total fine is $31,000.
Cars and Credit (Atluc, LLC, dba), Decatur: $15,000 for 15 instances of failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale and 15 instances of failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date.
Georgia Car Mart LLC, Roswell: $250 for one instance of possession of an open title not properly assigned as prescribed by O.C.G.A. Title 40.
Jay’s Used Cars LLC, Tucker: $11,000 for 11 instances of failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale; and 11 instances of failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date.
Quality First Used Cars LLC, Tucker: $250 for one instance of failure to post FTC Buyer’s Guides on each vehicle offered for sale. In addition, the car dealer had 21 instances of failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale, and 21 instances of failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date. The total fine is $21,250.

The Board accepted Public Consent Orders in the following cases:

Bis Auto Sales, Inc., Chamblee: Failure to correctly answer question regarding criminal arrests or convictions on Used Motor Vehicle Dealers application. Respondent was fined $1,200 and placed on probation for six months.
Chris Motors Auto Sales, Stone Mountain: Inspection citation for failure to apply for seven titles in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale; and seven failures to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date. The total fine is $7,000.
Fair Guys Automotive Used Car Dealer, LLC, Riverdale: Inspection citation for failure to apply for two titles in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale; and two failures to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date. The total fine is $2,000.
Spires Auto Sales, Macon: Inspection citation for six failures to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale; six failures to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date; and one instance of failure to post FTC Buyer’s Guide on each vehicle offered for sale. The total fine is $6,260.

The Board accepted Orders Accepting Fine Monies & Settling Inspection on each of the following:

BMVW Inc., Union City: Inspection citation of $1,000 for failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale, and failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date.
Car Corner, Cartersville: Inspection citation of $2,000 for failure to apply for two titles in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale, and failure to furnish appropriate documents required for two tag transfers to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date.
Cars You Want Inc, Austell: Inspection citation of $1,000 for failure to post four FTC Buyer’s Guides on each vehicle offered for sale.
J And D Auto Sales, Dalton: Inspection citation of $1,000 for failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale, and failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date.
Key Auto Sales Inc, Buford: Inspection citation of $1,000 for failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale, and failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date.
Payless Car Sales, Lagrange: Inspection citation of $1,000 for failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale, and failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date.
Second Chance Motors LLC, Marietta: Inspection citation of $1,000 for failure to apply for a title in the retail purchaser’s name within 30 calendar days after the date of sale, and failure to furnish appropriate documents required for tag transfer to the retail purchaser within 30 days of purchase date.

The Board accepted a Voluntary Surrender of license on each of the following:

Auto Bargains Inc., Jonesboro
C.I.S. Auto Sales, Stone Mountain

The Board accepted the Voluntary Cease & Desist Order on each of the following for unlicensed practice:

Arthur C. Phillips, Dallas
The Honda Guys Inc & East Coast Auto, Acworth
Black River Garage, Newnan
Bulldog Equipment Sales, Alpharetta
Grey Rock Auto, Inc., Douglasville
Jacob’s Pre Owned Autos, Macon

The Board will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, April 23, 2008 at 9 a.m. at the Professional Licensing Board in Macon to hear appeals to inspection citations.

The Georgia State Board of Registration for Used Motor Vehicle Dealers will hold their next meeting on Wednesday, May 21, 2008 at 10 a.m. at the Professional Licensing Boards in Macon.

AMERICAN RED CROSS ADDS DISASTER ASSISTANCE CENTER

The American Red Cross will open an additional Disaster Assistance Center tomorrow, March 20, 2008 to help families affected by last weekend’s tornado and severe weather. The new Center is in the Reynoldstown neighborhood of Atlanta and is located at:

Lang Carson Recreation Center
100 Flat Shoals Ave. SE
Atlanta, Georgia 30316

The Red Cross also has a Disaster Assistance Center at:

Beulah Baptist Church
170 Griffin Street NW
Atlanta, Georgia 30314

Hours of Operation for both locations are: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. until further notice. Both centers will also be closed on Easter Sunday (March 23)

The Red Cross shelter is located at:

Central Park Recreation Center
400 Merritts Ave. NE
Atlanta, GA 30308

Anyone still in need of emergency help after last weekend’s severe weather in metro Atlanta is urged to call the Red Cross at: 404-870-4440.

AMERICAN RED CROSS PUBLISHES NEW PHONE NUMBER SPECIFICALLY FOR ATLANTA TORNADO VICTIMS

The American Red Cross has published a new phone number specifically for Atlanta tornado victims. For emergency assistance, residents may call 404-870-4440.

Governor Perdue Signs Executive Order Strengthening State’s Information Technology Security

Governor Perdue today signed an executive order to protect state data by standardizing information security reporting.

“This executive order is a critical part of the larger plan I announced in December 2007 to transform the state’s technology and shore up the underpinnings we found lacking,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “As I stated then, technology is the foundation of a well-run, modern-day enterprise. This action will go a long way toward addressing our security gaps and giving the state the secure IT infrastructure it requires to responsibly serve Georgia’s citizens.”

The Executive Order calls for a single set of information security reporting standards for all agencies to follow. Currently, state agencies use a variety of reporting standards, making it difficult to measure information security across state government or to track progress from year to year.

Governor Perdue has directed the Georgia Technology Authority (GTA) to work with the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget to develop a reporting format and required content for agency information security reports. Each agency will be responsible for reporting to GTA at the end of the fiscal year. GTA will compile agency reports into a single Enterprise Information Security Report, available by October 31 of each year.

“Our security systems block more than 10,000 attempts every day to break into state information systems,” said GTA Executive Director Patrick Moore. “Governor Perdue’s executive order is a critical part of our ongoing efforts to ensure greater information security and improve the ability of the state to manage its technology. Our goal is a stable, secure and well-governed IT environment for state government that ensures Georgians receive the services they need and expect.”

The text of the Governor’s Executive Order is below:

Whereas:

The continuous and efficient operation of state government data systems is both vital and necessary to the mission of providing essential and non-essential governmental services in Georgia; and

Whereas:

The Georgia Technology Authority and the various state agencies have the responsibility for providing critically important, coordinated, robust and effective information technology security in order to protect the state’s data, to protect the citizens and to ensure the efficient operation of state government; and

Whereas:

There are currently many different information security reporting standards and many different mechanisms for security reporting within Georgia state government, and there is a need for a single, coordinated mandatory statewide information security reporting standard for the improvement of information technology security; and

Whereas:

The National Institute of Standards and Technologies (NIST) has provided a model for information technology security in its implementation of the Federal Information Security Management Act (FISMA) of 2002; and

Whereas:

An effective mechanism to improve the oversight of state agency information security programs will:

- Provide state decision makers with information to oversee the security of the State’s information assets,

- Provide a comprehensive framework to ensure the effectiveness of the State’s information security controls,

- Allow for differing requirements of state agencies and their federal partners,

- Identify risks without exposing vulnerability information to inappropriate parties, and

- Control associated expenses.

Whereas:

The Georgia Technology Authority’s Office of Information Security is developing technical security standards and services for use by all agencies that are consistent with the information security risk management model produced by NIST in support of FISMA.

Now, therefore, pursuant to the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Georgia, it is hereby

Ordered:

That, in coordination with the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts and the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, the Executive Director of the Georgia Technology Authority shall develop a reporting format and the required content for agency information security reports, which shall be made available to the agencies by March 31st of each year.

It is further Ordered that:

The Executive Director of each agency shall report on the status of their agency information security program as of June 30th of each year using the format and content requirements as specified by the Executive Director of the Georgia Technology Authority, and that this report is to be delivered to the Georgia Technology Authority on or before July 31st of the same year.

It is further Ordered that:

The Georgia Technology Authority shall compile the agencies’ information security status reports into a single Enterprise Information Security Report, which will be available by October 31st of each year.
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LexisNexis Risk & Information Analytics Group Launches Solution For Law Enforcement to Proactively Monitor Sex Offenders Across Jurisdictions

LexisNexis Risk & Information Analytics Group today announced the release of Sex Offender Alerts, a solution that provides law enforcement officials with automated notification of the location of sex offenders, especially as they move from one law enforcement jurisdiction to another. The Alerts solution supports law enforcement agencies’ efforts to enforce the Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act, a law that mandates strict registration requirements for sex offenders.

With over 600,000 known sex offenders in the United States, law enforcement agencies are challenged with consistently monitoring their location. The Alerts technology notifies law enforcement when a sex offender moves into their jurisdiction, and identifies and locates not only registered sex offenders, but also non-compliant sex offenders that fail to register their most current address as required by law.

“Sex Offender Alerts will further enhance law enforcement’s ability to create safer communities, especially during times of rapid population shifts — such as natural disasters like a flood, wildfire or hurricane,” said Norm Willox, chief executive officer, LexisNexis Special Services Inc, a group devoted to classified and unclassified government and law enforcement solutions. “Society has witnessed offenders taking advantage of the chaos and moving undetected into new communities.”

More than 7,000 federal, state and local government and law enforcement agencies depend on LexisNexis® for its investigative solutions every day to locate suspects, find fugitives and solve crimes. In the commercial sector, the company last year announced an alliance with Sentinel, a leader in online verification, to provide a solution to enable the detection and identification of sexual predators on social networking sites such as MySpace.com. For more information, visit: www.risk.lexisnexis.com and www.lexisnexis.com/government.

About LexisNexis

LexisNexis® (www.lexisnexis.com) is a leading global provider of business information solutions to a wide range of professionals in the legal, risk management, corporate, government, law enforcement, accounting and academic markets. LexisNexis originally pioneered online information with its Lexis® and Nexis® services. A member of Reed Elsevier [NYSE: ENL; NYSE: RUK] (www.reedelsevier.com), LexisNexis serves customers in more than 100 countries with 13,000 employees worldwide.

About LexisNexis Risk & Information Analytics Group

LexisNexis Risk & Information Analytics Group is a natural extension of the core competencies and technologies proven in the LexisNexis online products from the past 30 years. The LexisNexis Risk & Information Analytics Group builds on the LexisNexis tradition as a trusted provider and custodian of quality information, and leverages new cutting-edge technology, unique data and advanced scoring analytics to create total solutions to address client needs.

LexisNexis Risk & Information Analytics Group is specifically designed to serve the multi-billion dollar risk information industry which is comprised of professionals and organizations such as law enforcement, government agencies, financial services firms, collection agencies, insurance and health care providers, hiring managers, and other professionals.

Governor Perdue Recognizes 9-1-1 Professionals, Young Heroes

Governor Sonny Perdue recognized 9-1-1 professionals and 13 young 9-1-1 heroes from around the state today, proclaiming “9-1-1 Day in Georgia.” The annual ceremony, held in the State Capitol, acknowledges the dedication and commitment of approximately 2,500 professionals who operate local and regional 9-1-1 centers throughout Georgia.

“When you’re in an emergency, seconds can make up the difference between life and death,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “Today, we’re recognizing the men and women from across the state who provide that life-saving service.”

The program also recognizes children, 12 and under, from across the state who successfully used 9-1-1 during the past year to save a life in an emergency.

“We are proud to have 13 young Georgians with us today,” said Governor Perdue. Some of them responded to house fires and accidents, and many of them called 911 when an unconscious parent or grandparent could not.

This year's 9-1-1 Heroes are: Rainee Baker of Tift County; Rachel and Jason Eisenberg of Forsyth County; Nicholas Genova of Forsyth County; Elijah Guardiola of Gwinnett County; Shanteria White and Tyqierra Hines of Tift County; Paige Hood of Newton County; Wendy "Nicole" Jordan of Madison County; Karlee House and Maddox Lewallen of Habersham County; Robert James Kent of Madison County; and, Dixie Marie Sims of Madison County.

"9-1-1 is the front line of emergency response," said Georgia Emergency Management Agency Director Charley English. "We honor the 9-1-1 professionals who work tirelessly to operate the system. They have earned and deserve our gratitude. We also commend these fine young people who activated the system to save lives."

Access to 9-1-1 in Georgia has been greatly improved in recent years. In early 2004, only 121 counties had enhanced 9-1-1 services that allowed dispatchers and call-takers to identify the location of a call. Today, 154 counties either have, or are in the process of implementing enhanced 9-1-1 service.

The names of the children honored and their stories are below:

Name: Rainee Baker
Age at the Time of the Incident: 11
9-1-1 Center: Tifton-Tift County E-911 and Emergency Management Agency
Call-taker: Sonja Parrish

Rainee Baker and her family enjoyed a backyard cookout on February 2, 2007, but unbeknownst to them, a glowing coal had fallen into the bag of charcoal. Throughout the evening, the coal slowly smoldered. The bag ignited as the family slumbered that night, and they were jarred awake by the sound of breaking glass and the smell of smoke. Rainee remained calm and called 9-1-1. “Had Rainee not kept her cool and remembered she needed to call 9-1-1, the fire could have easily spread throughout the house, causing major damage,” says Call-taker Sonja Parrish.

Names: Rachel and Jason Eisenberg
Ages at the Time of the Incident: 9 and 12, respectively
9-1-1 Center: Forsyth County 9-1-1 Center
Call-taker: Cheri Collett

Rachel and Jason Eisenberg were home alone on August 11, 2007, when Jason, who is allergic to stings, was stung several times by yellow jackets. He called out to his sister, who dialed 9-1-1. Rachel gave all the necessary information to ensure a swift response to Call-taker Cheri Collett and then handed the phone to her brother. Jason remained on the line with Collett until his mother returned and help arrived.

Name: Nicholas Genova
Age at the Time of the Incident: 10
9-1-1 Center: Forsyth County 9-1-1 Center
Call-taker: Heather Day

Not all children can remain calm when their mothers are having a medical emergency, but Nicholas Genova did just that. On July 28, 2007, Nicholas was awakened by his mother’s moaning. He went to investigate and found that she was in diabetic shock. Nicholas was well-versed in what to do in this type of crisis and he knew he should bring her some candy, but when he couldn’t find any he realized he should call 9-1-1. He successfully answered all of Call-taker Heather Day’s questions and followed her instructions until help arrived. His mother was revived at the scene.

Name: Elijah Guardiola
Age at the Time of the Incident: 9
9-1-1 Center: Gwinnett County Police Department
Call-takers: Lenora Taylor and Susan Gifford

A 9-1-1 call from a deactivated cell phone may have saved one little boy’s life. On March 14, 2007, Call-taker Lenora Taylor received a call from Elijah Guardiola that began, “Um, excuse me, do you know where Charter Oaks is? I’m in an emergency, me and my dog.” Elijah and his dog were lost in the woods behind his home. After questioning the boy and learning his name, age and general location, an officer was dispatched while Call-taker Taylor used an aero atlas map to pinpoint his position. Fortunately, Elijah was able to provide his mother’s cell phone number, enabling Call-taker Susan Gifford to contact his parents. Gifford remained on the line with his father as he searched for Elijah. Thanks to these efforts, Elijah soon was reunited with his family. “Elijah is a very smart, level-headed and courteous young man who provided excellent information about his location, which aided in his return,” says Taylor. “I commend him for his quick thinking and making the smart decision to call for help.”

Names: Shanteria White and Tyqierra Hines
Ages at the Time of the Incident: 11 and 9, respectively
9-1-1 Center: Tifton-Tift County E-911 and Emergency Management Agency
Call-taker: Sonja Parrish

Shanteria White demonstrated extreme presence of mind when she called 9-1-1 on March 15, 2007, after her mother passed out. She answered all of Call-taker Sonja Parrish’s questions about her mother’s condition and carefully relayed medical instructions to her sister, Tyqierra Hines, who followed them exactly until help arrived. “These girls acted quickly and as a team to get their mother the help that she needed,” says Parrish.

Name: Paige Hood
Age at the Time of the Incident: 12
9-1-1 Center: Covington-Newton County 9-1-1 Communications
Call-taker: Laurel Roysden

Paige Hood was at home with her grandmother on December 19, 2007, when she realized that something was wrong. Knowing that her grandmother had recently been hospitalized, Paige immediately dialed 9-1-1 to get help. She conveyed all of the necessary information to Call-taker Laurel Roysden and stayed on the line until first responders arrived. Thanks to Paige’s actions, her grandmother was transported to the hospital and continues to have a successful recovery.

Name: Wendy “Nicole” Jordan
Age at the Time of the Incident: 9
9-1-1 Center: Madison County 9-1-1 Center
Call-taker: Josh Smith

When Nicole Jordan spotted smoke billowing from her uncle’s truck, which was parked by her home, on June 20, 2007, she rushed inside and alerted him. By that time, the truck was ablaze, and he shouted for Nicole to call 9-1-1. Fortunately, Nicole had learned about calling 9-1-1 at Danielsville Elementary School, and had even practiced writing her address and reciting it before the class. This assignment certainly paid off, as Nicole calmly and deliberately relayed the nature of the emergency to Call-taker Josh Smith and accurately provided her address. Smith, a captain with the Hull Volunteer Fire Department, immediately grasped the urgency of the situation and help arrived minutes later. Although her uncle’s truck was lost, if Nicole had not acted when she did, the fire could have spread to her home.

Names: Karlee House and Maddox Lewallen
Ages at the Time of the Incident: 7 and 8, respectively
9-1-1 Center: Habersham County 9-1-1
Call-taker: Jennifer Moulder

The quick actions of Karlee House and Maddox Lewallen on June 26, 2007, saved Karlee’s little brother, Taylor, from drowning. The children were playing in the pool at their apartment complex when they noticed 3-year-old Taylor lying at the bottom of the shallow end. Karlee and Maddox worked as a team to pull him out of the pool, and then Maddox ran to the apartment’s office to notify personnel of the situation while their babysitter called 9-1-1. Tyler spent several days at the hospital, but thanks to Karlee and Maddox’s swift actions, he did not suffer any permanent injury.

Name: Robert James Kent
Age at the Time of the Incident: 11
9-1-1 Center: Madison County 9-1-1 Center
Call-taker: Lynn Nix

Robert James Kent called 9-1-1 on April 29, 2006, asking Dispatcher Lynn Nix to “please hurry” after his grandmother, Dorothy Kent, experienced difficulty breathing. Though obviously frightened, Robert remained as calm as possible, answering all of Nix’s questions and keeping her appraised of his grandmother’s condition until first responders arrived. Ms. Kent was transported to the hospital, where she was treated for a heart attack. Sadly, about three months after she was released from the hospital, Ms. Kent suffered another heart attack, and unfortunately, despite the same efforts by Robert and emergency responders, she did not survive. However, before her death, Ms. Kent expressed her appreciation for her quick-thinking grandson, calling him “my little hero.”

Name: Dixie Marie Sims
Age at the Time of the Incident: 10
9-1-1 Center: Madison County 9-1-1 Center
Call-taker: Renee Epps

An evening of stargazing on May 29, 2007, came to an abrupt halt for Dixie Sims and her friend when they went inside to turn off the lights to see the stars better and found Dixie’s mother lying on the couch, suffering from an apparent seizure. Although she was urged to call relatives, Dixie remembered the lessons she learned in school on how and when to use 9-1-1, and instead did what she had been taught. Although she was understandably upset, Dixie maintained her composure throughout the call and gave Call-taker Renee Epps all the information she needed to ensure a quick and proper response. As a result, Dixie’s mother was transported to the hospital, where she was treated for cardiac and seizure-related issues. Thanks to ongoing medical care, Ms. Sims is now leading a healthy life.
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Hands on Atlanta to Coordinate and Dispatch Volunteers to Vine City, Old Fourth Ward, Cabbagetown and East Atlanta Today

Hands On Atlanta, a local non-profit volunteer organization, will dispatch 28 volunteers to Vine City and East Atlanta today to assist residents in the recovery efforts.

The group of volunteers is meeting today in the parking of Mt. Gillard Missionary Baptist Church located at 561 Spencer St NW starting at noon.

Workers will be dispatched in the Vine City community to severely impacted properties including:

Two homes located on Vine Street near the intersection of Vine and Thurmond Street
Homes directly across from Kennedy Middle School at 225 James P. Brawley Drive
A home on the 200 block of Sunset Avenue

“The work today is focusing debris removal and waterproofing houses,” said Tracy Hoover, executive director for Hands on Atlanta.

Hands On Atlanta is also working with The Home Depot to get supplies where they are needed. On Saturday morning Home Depot delivered supplies to Cabbagetown and two truckloads of supplies were delivered today to Vine City, Hoover said.

Residents across the city are recovering after Friday’s tornado left a path of destruction starting from Vine City to the west, through the Fairlie-Poplar neighborhood, along historic Sweet Auburn/Edgewood Avenue, before hopping southeast to Cabbagetown.

The destruction was coupled by severe weather again on Saturday.

Clean-up efforts are continuing across the city from the Old Fourth Ward to Cabbagetown, Vine City to East Atlanta. Many homes in the impacted areas have been damaged. The Red Cross (1-866-RC-HELPS) is assisting families that have been displaced.

Hands on Atlanta volunteers will also be at 1393 and 1427 Glenwood Avenue today and tomorrow. Both houses suffered severe damage due to fallen trees.

The agency is also working to coordinate volunteer clean-up efforts in the areas impacted by the tornado and severe weather. For more information on how to volunteer, please go to www.handsonatlanta.org.

For more information on Hands on Atlanta’s recovery efforts today and throughout the week call Tracy Hoover, executive director for Hands on Atlanta at 404-226-5669.

City of Atlanta Storm Updates

The City of Atlanta and Mayor Shirley Franklin would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to our government and community partners for their assistance during the severe weather conditions over the weekend:

Government Agencies

Atlanta Fulton County Emergency Management Agency.
Atlanta Housing Authority

Georgia Power
Atlanta Gas Light
Georgia State Patrol
MARTA
FEMA
GEMA
Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport
American Red Cross
Salvation Army
Atlanta Police Department & Sheriff Departments of Fulton and Rockdale Counties
Fire Departments from DeKalb, Cobb, Clayton and Gwinnett Counties
Fulton and Cobb Public Works

DeKalb County K-9 units.

Community Partners

Kroger
Salvation Army
Home Depot
Wal-Mart
Beulah Baptist Church
City of Denver, CO
City of Baltimore, MD
City of Seattle, WA
U.S. Conference of Mayors
Congressman John Lewis
Senator Johnny Isakson

City of Atlanta Storm Updates

Parks and Recreation

- Members of The Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs are still working with other city agencies to get an assessment on the damages caused by Friday’s tornado.

- Starting Friday, members of the department were out clearing trees and cleaning up debris. Early Saturday, they were accessing additional damage and providing emergency services by providing access to recreation centers.

- We worked with the Red Cross to provide a shelter at Central Recreation Center and it will remain open until Tuesday.

- In the initial reports, 78 trees that were down were located in right-of-way areas throughout the city. We are continuing to remove the trees that block paths and throughways. The Office of Parks is still evaluating the amount of park trees that are down.

We can provide only estimates on the possible costs for damage; we are still ascertaining the damage to the following facilities:

Historical Oakland Cemetery $4M

Butler Park $250K

Hurt and Woodruff Parks $500

JFK Natatorium $1M

JFK Park $750K

MLK Natatorium $100K

Old Flat Shoals Maintenance Facility $50K

Parks in Cabbagetown Undetermined - no access

Parks in Vine City Undetermined – no access

Total estimate: $5.6M

The Butler Recreation Center and JFK Natatorium remains closed due to tornado damage.

Hartsfield International Airport

-No external damage to the airport.

-There was some hail and a funnel cloud sighted, but nothing touched down

-Close to 3,000 passengers were inconvenienced Friday night according to Delta (largest carrier). Around half were in hotels, and others stayed in the airport

-Passengers are catching rescheduled flights yesterday and this morning, resulting in security wait times of up to one hour

-Passengers are encouraged to check with their airlines for updated flight information and to also check www.atlanta-airport.com for security wait times

Public Works

-Solid waste efforts concentrated downtown, Vine City, Cabbagetown and Southeast Atlanta

-91 individual signal heads at about 44 different locations were repaired/replaced

- The Department of Public Works is assembling damage assessment teams to complete a comprehensive and thorough condition assessment. Teams are schedule to complete their assessments by Monday evening.

Watershed Overtime Costs

10 dump trucks for 10 hours at $108 p/hr: $10800
8 front end loaders for 10 hours at $135 p/hr: $10800
5 light plants for 10 hours at $3.60 p/hr: $180
22 personnel for 10 hours at $36.50 p/hr: $78.84

Police

-About 30 injuries in total; one firefighter injured

-No less than 20 streets are blocked off in a large area of downtown

-Traffic lights are still inactive at many intersections and are being treated as 4-way stops; downtown expressway ramps will be closed intermittently

-At least a dozen additional buildings have been identified with glass hazards; in addition to the many landmark buildings in the downtown area

-Public Safety moving forward: Stay away from affected area if at all possible; Motorists must be cautious, take extra time, be patient and careful; Pedestrians should wear boots, and watch for falling glass

Fire

-Operations are back to normal

Georgia Power

-Majority of power is restored with the exception of homes that were completely destroyed

Red Cross

3,000 meals served since Friday

1,000 grocery boxes will be distributed today at Beulah Baptist Church, 170 Griffin Street

AMERICAN RED CROSS UNIFIED SERVICE CENTER OPEN 9:00 AM-6:00 PM DAILY UNTIL ALL NEEDS ARE MET

The American Red Cross, in conjunction with the City of Atlanta and the Salvation Army, opened a Unified Service Center Monday March 17 at Beulah Baptist Church, 170 Griffin St, Atlanta, Georgia 30314, for people impacted by the recent tornado. The Red Cross will continue to provide mental health services, health services, and case workers for one-on-one assistance until all emergency needs are met. The Salvation Army will provide family food boxes and lunches to clients. The Center will be open everyday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Please contact the Red Cross directly for individual emergency assistance at 1-866-724-3577 (1-866-RC HELPS).

Plan limits traffic in downtown corridors

The Atlanta Police department has created a traffic plan to ensure areas hit hardest by the tornado on Friday evening will be kept clear in order for public safety and clean-up crews to continue their work.

Traffic will be severely limited in an area bordered by: Andrew Young International Blvd., Phillips Drive NW, Centennial Olympic Parkway Dr. NW, Marietta Street NW/Decatur Street SE, and Peachtree Center. Consider planning a route that does not travel through downtown and plan extra time to get to work.

Police advise motorists coming to the city from the south, who work north of Harris Street, to continue on 75/85 past downtown and double back in to avoid the worst-hit areas. Those living north of the city, and working south of Marietta Street should plan to travel past the downtown exits and travel back. Exits to avoid off the 75/85 are Edgewood and Andrew Young International.

The following street closures are still in effect as of 5:30 pm:
Jessie Hill from Coca Cola to Armstrong
Auburn Ave from Bell Street to Jesse Hill
Coca Cola Pl. from Jesse Hill to Pratt Street
Boulevard – Gartrell to Memorial
Jackson – Gartrell to Todd Streets
Park Pl – Edgewood to Auburn Streets
Marietta St – Peachtree to Fairlie – westbound only
Luckie St – Peachtree to Forsyth
Peachtree – Marietta to Harris St.
Andrew Young International Blvd – Peachtree to Spring Street
Harris St. – Spring to Peachtree
Marietta Street – Centennial Olympic Parkway to Andrew Young International Blvd
Spring Street – ML King to Walton

Police are also encouraging people to use MARTA to get to work, and are asking pedestrians to pay particular attention to sidewalks where they may be debris and keep an eye on buildings where glass and other debris may still fall.

Motorists are being asked to be particularly cautious, patient and courteous. Police officers will be stationed at the busiest signaled intersections. Police also advise motorists NOT drive around barricades that have been erected for the public’s safety. Police also remind motorists that inactive traffic signals or those flashing red are to be treated as 4-way stops, with traffic proceeding one for one, giving right-of way to the right.

Street and sidewalk closures will be fluid – changing as clean-up crews and Public Works crews move from street to street repairing street lights and clearing away debris. Motorists are asked to use particular caution around work crews.

Red Cross Unified Service Center Opens Monday at Noon

The Red Cross, in conjunction with the City of Atlanta and the Salvation Army, will open a Unified Service Center Monday March 17 at noon at Beulah Baptist Church, 170 Griffin St, Atlanta, Georgia 30314, for people impacted by the recent tornado. The Red Cross will provide mental health services, health services, case workers for one-on-one assistance for emergency needs caused by the disaster. The Salvation Army will provide family food boxes and lunches to clients. The Center will be open from noon to 6 pm Monday.

Please contact the Red Cross directly for individual emergency assistance at 1-866-724-3577 (1-866-RC HELPS).

Atlanta Street Closings fro Atlanta Police Dept.

GPSN Note: We believe the earlier email included all of these, but just to be on the safe side we're posting the following:

The following is a list of street closures from the Atlanta Police Department as of 10:00 a.m. Sunday, March 16, 2008. Police are urging motorists to stay out of the affected areas to allow public works crews to continue their clean-up efforts.
Jessie Hill from Coca Cola to Armstrong (wires down on Jesse Hill)
Auburn Ave from Bell Street to Jesse Hill
Collapsed building on Auburn Avenue next to Auburn Avenue APD Precinct
Coca Cola Pl. from Jesse Hill to Pratt Street
Boulevard – Gartrell to Memorial – north and south)
Jackson – Gartrell to Todd Streets
Park Pl – Edgewood to Auburn Streets
Marietta St – Peachtree to Fairlie – westbound only
Luckie St – Peachtree to Forsyth
Peachtree – Marietta to Harris St.
Andrew Young International Blvd – Peachtree to Spring Street
Harris St. – Spring to Peachtree
Marietta Street – Centennial Olympic Parkway to Andrew Young International Blvd
Spring Street – ML King to Walton

TRAFFIC ISSUES EXPECTED MONDAY

Atlanta Police are urging motorists to use extreme caution when returning to work Monday morning as numerous traffic lights remain out of order, and city crews continue to clear debris from the areas affected by the severe weather on Friday and Saturday.

The following streets remain closed to traffic as of noon today:

Jesse Hill Boulevard from Coca Cola to Armstrong (wires down on Jesse Hill)

Auburn Avenue from Fort Street to Jesse Hill

Coca Cola Pl. from Jesse Hill to Pratt Street

Boulevard from Gartrell to Memorial Drive (north and south)

The area between Gartrell, Jackson, Todd and William Holmes Borders Sr. streets

Park Place from Edgewood to Auburn streets

Marietta Street from Peachtree to Fairlie (westbound only)

Marietta Street – Park to Centennial Olympic Parkway

Luckie Street from Spring Street to Centennial Olympic Parkway

Peachtree Street from Marietta to Harris streets

Andrew Young International Boulevard from Courtland to Spring streets

Harris Street from Spring to Peachtree streets

Spring Street from Marietta to Harris streets

Nassau Street from Spring Street to Centennial Olympic Parkway

Forsyth Street from Marietta to Walton streets

There are still approximately 159 signal lights needing repairs. Drivers should treat these intersections as 4-way stops. Stop at the corner, and proceed one by one, giving the right-of-way to the driver on the right.

Lane control signals are also not functional at various entrances to freeways. Use courtesy in merging onto the freeways.

Atlanta Police are working on a detailed plan for Monday’s rush hour traffic, ensuring police will be on scene at problem intersections directing traffic. The public is asked to use extreme caution and patience when driving in the city tomorrow.

Department and assisting agency updates as of noon today:

Department Public Works Solid Waste and Maintenance Divisions

· The Traffic Signal Division has completed 112 signal repairs, 35 of which were direct replacement of actual traffic signal heads. They have also completed 77 other repairs which include such things as repairing/resetting signal controllers, conduit repair, realigning signal heads, etc. There are 159 repairs pending:

· Intersections with severely damaged signal heads

· Intersections that need new traffic controllers

· Intersections that need fiber repair to re-establish signal communications

· Three crews are supporting the Parks Department in efforts to clear trees from public streets. There are still 36 trees blocking streets (12 in the NW, 22 in SE, 1 in NW, And 1 in SW)

· Cobb County and Fulton County are assisting City efforts and have provided a contingency of 19 and 10 employees respectively

· Vine City has 13 crews, 7 Solid Waste Services and 6 Cobb County. There are also 3 chainsaw operators from Cobb County assisting in this area.

· Cabbagetown has 9 crews, 7 Solid Waste Services, 2 Fulton County and 4 chainsaw operators from Fulton County

· Tree and debris removal efforts will primarily be concentrated in the Vine City and Cabbagetown areas

· Efforts are also being supported by 4 crews from the Department of Watershed Management

· Damage assessments are ongoing, and teams are gauging what remains to be completed

Department of Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs

· 30 of the 78 downed trees have been removed

· Central Park Recreation Shelter is still open and staffed by the Red Cross

Atlanta Fire-Rescue

· Responded to approximately 300 calls during the storm

Red Cross

· Staffing Central Park Recreation Center

· Working to open a service center open in Vine City

Salvation Army

· Continued commitment to feed first responders and properties that were and may still be without power

· Three mobile canteens roving disaster areas providing hot meals and beverages

· Prepared to provide an additional 1,000 meals through lunch and dinner

Georgia Power

· 60 properties left without power

City of Atlanta Storm Updates

A 135-mile-per-hour, F-2 tornado swept through Atlanta with little warning at approximately 9:45 pm last night, cutting a swath of destruction six miles long and 200 yards wide, according to the National Weather Service.

Fire, police, public works, watershed, parks and emergency services personnel across the city continue to provide services, lend assistance and staff the Atlanta Fulton County Emergency Operations Center under the direction of the Atlanta Fulton County Emergency Management Agency. GEMA, MARTA, Georgia Power, FEMA, Atlanta Gas Light, the National Weather Service, the Red Cross and the Salvation Army are represented at the EOC and working closely with city departments.

The City Departments of Public Works; Watershed Management; Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs; Fire-Rescue; and Police have been working around the clock to locate and aid the injured, clean debris and maintain calm. DPRCA reports that 14 of 74 trees have been removed from the public right-of-way. DPW has cleared 60 percent of debris on public streets and is working with DPRCA as trees are cut to remove the debris. The City is evaluating damage to the DPRCA facility at Lake Allatoona in Cherokee County.

APD reports the following street closings: Joseph E. Lowery Boulevard closed due to debris. 1020 Bolton Road closed due to downed power lines. Edgewood Avenue and Auburn Avenue are closed due to debris and bricks falling from crumbling buildings. Access to Grady Hospital is available via Gilmer Street, Piedmont Avenue and Courtland Street.

Mayor Shirley Franklin has declared a State of Emergency and has asked Gov. Sonny Perdue for a disaster declaration.

The City has been in close contact with our congressional representatives, particularly the offices of Senator Johnny Isakson and Congressman John Lewis.

The Sheriff’s Departments of Fulton and Rockdale counties; Fire Departments from DeKalb, Cobb, Clayton and Gwinnett counties; Fulton & Cobb Public Works, DeKalb County K-9 units; GEMA; Georgia Power; the Atlanta Housing Authority; MARTA and the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency have provided personnel, equipment and other aid.

Georgia Power reports that power has been restored to 20,000 homes; outages continue to affect 21,000 homes.

The tornado touched down in downtown Atlanta, the Edgewood Boulevard corridor, Oakland Cemetery and the community of Cabbagetown, downing tree and power lines and damaging homes in its path.

Atlanta police and fire personnel have found no fatalities. Approximately 30 people were injured, most not seriously.

Corporate support has been provided by WalMart, Home Depot, Kroger and others.

The Red Cross has staffed two emergency centers and can be reached at 1-866-RC-HELPS (1-866-724-3577).

City officials evacuated the Antoine Graves senior housing residence to the Helene S. Mills Senior Center. The Atlanta Housing Authority is coordinating temporary housing and will continue to assess residents’ needs. After the seniors’ move is complete, the Red Cross will close the center unless further needs arise.

The Salvation Army has deployed three mobile disaster canteens to provide emergency meals, beverages and counseling to affected communities. An additional 22 mobile canteens are on standby to be deployed to ensure that the 21,000 remaining residences without power have access to food and water. For additional information or to donate, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (1-800-725-2769).

To donate to relief efforts, visit www.afcema.com and click on “Donate.”
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Organizers of the Atlanta Home Show and the Fuller Center offer repair assistance to low-income homeowners whose homes were damaged

Organizers of the Atlanta Home Show and the Fuller Center offer repair assistance to low-income homeowners whose homes were damaged by this weekend’s severe weather
30th annual home showcase event canceled due to extensive storm damage; Volunteers will repair the damage to the Williams family home at 223 Vine Street today and Sunday

Organizers of the Atlanta Home Show and the Fuller Center for Housing of Greater Atlanta are offering repair assistance to low-income homeowners devastated by the tornados and strong storms that have swept across the area.

The effort is being coordinated by the office of Atlanta City Councilmember Mary Norwood, the Atlanta Home Show and the Fuller Center for Housing of Greater Atlanta. For more information about obtaining assistance visit www.fullercenter.org or call Mark Galey, President of the Fuller Center for Housing of Greater Atlanta, at 404-867-3258 or the office of City Councilmember Mary Norwood at 404-330-6302.

The Fuller Center is a non-profit agency that reaches out to homeowners in need. The agency was participating in the 30th Annual Spring Atlanta Home Show, when Friday’s storm struck.

Volunteers are beginning to repair the damage to the Williams family home at 223 Vine Street today. They will out again on Sunday, said Galey of the Fuller Center.

“We anticipate there are people who don’t have insurance and will need our help to do the necessary repairs to put their homes back together,” he said.

Galey said his agency is currently assessing the damage at other homes in Vine City, one of the hardest hit areas of Atlanta from Friday night’s F2 tornado.

“There are trees on the roof of some homes and they need to removed,” Galey said.

The 30th Annual Spring Atlanta Home Show, which was set to run through Sunday at the Georgia World Congress Center, was canceled because of storm damage to the building.

“The response by all residents of our city and beyond has been overwhelming and heartfelt,” said City wide representative Mary Norwood, who spent the day assessing damage across the city. “We appreciate the Atlanta Home Show, the Fuller Center and all organizations and individuals who are assisting.”

Members of the Atlanta City Council also today joined Mayor Shirley Franklin in encouraging residents to follow the advice of emergency personnel and to allow recovery efforts to continue by staying away from areas hardest hit.

The Friday night tornado left a path of destruction starting from Vine City to the west, through the Fairlie-Poplar neighborhood, along historic Sweet Auburn/Edgewood Avenue, before hopping southeast to Cabbagetown, which is located in District 5.

District 5 City Councilmember Natalyn Archibong said residents of Antoine Graves High Rise and the Cabbagetown Lofts had to be evacuated because of structural damage sustained during the storm. The American Red Cross is assisting the displaced residents.

There has been no reported loss of life in Atlanta as result of the severe weather. At least two people are dead in North Georgia, one person in the Rockmart area and another person was killed in Floyd County, according to early reports.

Archibong represents Atlanta’s Cabbagetown neighborhood, another hard hit area. In addition to extensive structural damage to some homes and buildings, power loss of another concern, she said. Power was out as of midday Saturday.

“The part of District 5 without power is the most critical,” Archibong said. “We are currently without power in East Atlanta and the East Atlanta Village commercial district. We are concerned about the security of these properties come nightfall but we are holding out hope that power can be restored to these communities expeditiously.”

City officials are also currently accessing several other damaged structures including Fulton Bag and Cotton Mill Lofts at 170 Boulevard.

The Helene S. Mills Senior Center, located at 515 John Wesley Dobbs, has been opened by the Red Cross as a shelter for residents.

A location at 466 Northside Drive NW has been set up as a staging area for District 3 residents impacted by the storm.
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Governor Perdue Declares State of Emergency

Today Governor Sonny Perdue issued an executive order declaring a state of emergency in the affected Atlanta area damaged by a tornado that struck last night.

“Last night’s storms struck our capital city, a center for business, tourism and government, and we are working with city officials to support them during this disaster,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “State resources are being made available to assist in the cleanup efforts. I have also spoken to FEMA Administrator David Paulison, and we will continue to coordinate closely to marshal federal, state and local resources as we recover.”

The executive order allows for state resources to be available for response and recovery activities, and calls for the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) to activate the state’s Emergency Operations Plan.

The Georgia Emergency Management Agency has activated the State Operations Center (SOC) to support the City of Atlanta in its response and recovery efforts to a severe weather system that hit downtown Atlanta on Friday night. The system produced one tornado, injuring at least 20 people and damaging dozens of homes and businesses.

“GEMA deployed resources to the impacted area, including six search and rescue teams, to support response efforts in collapsed structures,” said GEMA Director Charley English. “In addition, public safety agencies, utility companies and the volunteer community are continuing to work together this afternoon to begin the process of recovery.”

Joint local, state and federal assessment teams will begin work today to determine the full scope of the damage to businesses, state facilities and residences. Many state facilities were damaged, including the Georgia Dome, Georgia World Congress Center and Georgia State University. Number 2 Peachtree Street, which houses several state offices including the Department of Human Resources and the Department of Community Health, was also damaged.

The SOC will be activated until further notice to provide assistance and will continue to monitor the situation. Agencies standing by to assist local communities include GEMA - Office of Homeland Security, Georgia Building Authority, Georgia State Patrol, Georgia Department of Transportation, Georgia Technology Authority, Georgia Forestry Commission, Georgia Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner’s Office, Georgia Department of Human Resources, Georgia Department of Defense and the Georgia Department of Agriculture. In addition, the American Red Cross (ARC) has opened shelters in Atlanta. Also, several adjacent counties provided mutual aid assistance.

GEMA is the lead state agency for coordination of emergency and disaster response activities. For more emergency information and updates, contact GEMA at 1-800-TRY-GEMA (1-800-879-4362) or visit www.gema.ga.gov.

The text of Governor Perdue’s executive order is below:

Whereas: On March 14, 2008, a severe weather system, including tornadoes, moved into the State of Georgia resulting in numerous injuries and caused major destruction and damage to areas in the City of Atlanta - Fulton County; and

Whereas: The assistance of the government of the State of Georgia is necessary to protect the public health, preserve the safety of the public, keep property damage to a minimum, and to restore the social and economic welfare of the citizens in the City of Atlanta - Fulton County; and

Whereas: In light of these circumstances and in conjunction with the authority vested in the Governor by virtue of Article 3, Section 38-3-51, of the Georgia Emergency Management Act of 1981, as amended, to promulgate reasonable orders, rules and regulations as are deemed necessary to protect public health, safety and welfare, and to bring the emergency situation under control within the acknowledged limitations of the powers of the Governor.

Now, therefore, pursuant to the authority vested in me as Governor of the State of Georgia, it is hereby

Ordered: That a State of Emergency exists in the City of Atlanta - Fulton County and that personnel and equipment resources of the State of Georgia be made available to assist in the response and recovery activities currently being undertaken in the City of Atlanta - Fulton County, and that the Georgia Emergency Management Agency activate the Georgia Emergency Operations Plan.

This 15th day of March, 2008.
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APD asks Atlantans to stay away from Cabbagetown

(3:10 p.m.) Major Renee Propes, commander of APD Zone 6, which includes Candler Park, Inman Park, Kirkwood, Reynoldstown and Cabbagetown, has issued an urgent plea for residents to stay away from the Cabbagetown community, which was heavily damaged in last night's tornado. "We appreciate the fact that people may want to help," Major Propes said. "But, in most instances, they are hindering our efforts and possibly putting people and property at risk."

Additionally, Major Propes warned that new weather systems have developed west of Atlanta and urged people to remain close to their homes or in safe places.

New severe weather cells currently in Alabama are expected to his Atlanta within the next few hours.

The Atlanta City Council encourages residents to remain vigilant

Members of the Atlanta City Council are joining Mayor Shirley Franklin in encouraging residents to follow the advice of emergency personnel and to allow recovery efforts to continue by staying away from areas hardest hit by Friday night’s F2 tornado and storm.

“We are working to ensure that every victim of last night’s storm has food and shelter and that essential services are restored quickly,” said City Councilmember Kwanza Hall, District, 2. “This storm pushed its way through some of the most historically significant neighborhoods in our city: Vine City, Fairlie-Poplar, Sweet Auburn, and Cabbagetown. We are especially grateful to Atlanta Fire and Rescue, the Atlanta Police Department, and the city's Public Works Department for all that they are doing.”

The tornado left a path of destruction starting from Vine City to the west, through the Fairlie-Poplar neighborhood, along historic Sweet Auburn/Edgewood Avenue, before hopping southeast to Cabbagetown, which is located in District 5.

District 5 City Councilmember Natalyn Archibong said fortunately no lives were lost as result of the severe weather. Archibong represents the Cabbagetown neighborhood as well as the Antoine Graves High Rise at 126 Hilliard Street, which was being evacuated because of structural damage.

The current injury tally is approximately 30 people.

Many homes in the Vine City and Cabbagetown communities have been damaged. The Red Cross (1-866-RC-HELPS) is assisting families that have been displaced.

Four teams of public safety and public works personnel are working severely affected area. More than 350 emergency services personnel, along with hundreds of other emergency workers and volunteers, are also helping.

City officials are also currently accessing several other damaged structures including Fulton Bag and Cotton Mill Lofts at 170 Boulevard.

The Helene S. Mills Senior Center, located at 515 John Wesley Dobbs, has been opened by the Red Cross as a shelter for residents.

A location at 466 Northside Drive NW has been set up as a staging area for District 3 residents impacted by the storm.

Firefighters and police officers continue to work with Public Works and Parks crews to clean up the worst hit areas.

The performance of Fannie Lou Hamer: “This Little Light” scheduled for today at 3 p.m. at the Georgia Pacific Auditorium, hosted by District 3 City Councilmember Ivory Lee Young Jr., has been canceled due to extensive damage caused by last night’s storm.

“This is truly devastating for the residents of my district and the entire city,” Young said, who represents neighborhoods near the Georgia Dome and other affected neighborhoods. “We are asking residents to exercise caution and safety.”

Young and Hall have been assessing the extensive damage sustained in their respected council districts and seeking assistance for the impacted residents.
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Statement from Governor Perdue Concerning Atlanta’s Severe Weather

Governor Sonny Perdue released the following statement today concerning the severe weather that impacted downtown Atlanta last night:

“I am very proud of the state’s response, and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency will continue to coordinate the state’s efforts to assist local officials in responding to the needs imposed by last night’s destructive storm,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “The state will continue to utilize every resource at our disposal, including asking our federal partners for assistance if necessary, to mitigate the impact of this severe weather.

I am deeply grateful for the courageous, professional response from emergency personnel who immediately answered the call to help our residents and visitors. This storm hit a highly populated area, but their actions kept the number of injuries to a minimum.”
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From Mayor Shirley Franklin:

Public Safety, Public Works, Watershed Management and Parks personnel continue to work diligently to return the City of Atlanta back to normal after severe weather ripped through a large portion of Atlanta, causing significant damage.

“On behalf of the City Council, I want to say we are thankful that we have had no reports of lives lost to this storm,” said Mayor Shirley Franklin. “I also want to praise the City’s emergency services personnel, public works and parks crews who have worked diligently throughout the night to ensure the safety of our citizens and visitors and clean dangerous debris from our streets.”

At daylight, officials began surveying the damage, and emergency services personnel continued their search for victims of the storm. Four Georgia Search and Rescue teams continue their search at the Fulton Cotton Mill Lofts at 170 Boulevard. Personnel from the DeKalb, Cobb, Clayton, and Gwinnett fire departments make up this specialty team. DeKalb K-9 units are also assisting in the search.

City officials announced that the Washington Tennis Center and Natatorium, the Butler Park Recreation Center and Central Park are closed because of power outages.

Police are urging people to stay out of Downtown, as well as Vine City, Cabbagetown and the area around the Fulton Cotton Mill Lofts, which were heavily damaged. “The best way people can help public safety today is to stay out of the affected areas and report downed power lines and trees,” said Assistant Chief Alan Dreher of the Atlanta Police Department.

“Officers and public safety officials from Atlanta, Fulton County, the Atlanta Housing Authority, Georgia Power, Georgia State Patrol, MARTA, GEMA and the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency have teamed up and are working with fire officials to mitigate this emergency,” said Fire Chief Kelvin Cochrane.

The current injury tally is approximately 30 people. The initial search indicates no one was trapped or killed in the Fulton Cotton Mill Lofts.

Many homes in the Vine City and Cabbagetown communities have been damaged. The Red Cross (1-866-RC-HELPS) is assisting families that have been displaced.
Four teams of public safety and public works personnel are working severely affected area. More than 350 emergency services personnel, along with hundreds of other emergency workers and volunteers, are also helping.

Mayor Shirley Franklin has expressed the City's gratitude to the Rockdale and Fulton County Sheriff's Departments, the Georgia State Patrol, MARTA police, GEMA and the Atlanta-Fulton County Emergency Management Agency. There has been an outpouring of support from the military, private business and local governments, which are providing emergency supplies and support. Anyone wishing to donate to a disaster assistance fund can visit www.afcema.com, and click on “Donate.”

City officials are keeping in close contact with the National Weather Service as another band of storms approaches from the west.

Lans Rothfusz of the National Weather Center says the center anticipates that line of storms to hit the City between 2 pm and 3 pm, potentially bringing more tornadoes, hail and high winds.
Mayor Franklin has signed a Declaration of Emergency and is asking Gov. Sonny Perdue to provide disaster assistance.
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Tornado, bad weather, Atlanta, emergency, fire & police...

What a fantastic job our fire, emergency and police did last night and today! I had family at the SEC game and so had an almost minute-by-minute via cell phone. My husband and I were glued to computers and television while the weather raged.

I started getting updates from Atlanta's Mayor Shirley Franklin fairly early in the process. She and her trusty Media Relations queen were on top of it all and were great about keeping the world updated.

The city seems to have pulled together and I've seen a lot of folks stepping up to help. There's never a good time for bad weather, but with all the sports action and convention action in the downtown area, this weekend's weather had particularly bad timing.

Today was a bit hairy also. We had more bad weather and I had more family members who were affected by the hail, wind and rain.

Weather like this can really make a person realize how insignificant and weak we humans are in the scheme of things. Seeing the downed signs, damaged buildings and destruction caused by the storms I'm amazed we didn't see more injuries.

Everyone I've talked to who personally experienced the events in Atlanta last night talked about how great the emergency personnel handled the situation. Kudos to all those who helped out in whatever way they could last night and today. Now it's the cleanup crews who'll be out doing the hard work... hopefully everyone else is getting a bit of well-deserved rest.

Senate Approves Chambliss Legislation to Restore Critical Law Enforcement Funding

The Senate on Thursday approved by unanimous consent an amendment offered by U.S. Senator Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., to the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Resolution that would provide $906 million in federal funding for the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) program which helps pay for drug task forces, courts and treatment programs, police salaries, innovative technologies and gang prevention strategies. The program, which members of Georgia’s law enforcement and judicial communities have said is critical to their efforts, was severely cut last year in the Fiscal Year 2008 Omnibus Appropriations Act.

“Our sheriffs, prosecutors, drug court professionals, and many of the other public servants in the law enforcement community rely on these grants to fight gangs, crime and drugs in their jurisdictions, and they’re making their communities safer because of these grants,” said Chambliss, who has led the bipartisan effort to restore the funding since arriving in the Senate. “This program has produced tangible results in Georgia and across the nation. Lives are being saved, more drugs are being confiscated, more bad guys who are manufacturing and distributing drugs are being locked up and put away because of this program. I’m pleased my colleagues in the Senate joined me in supporting this critical legislation on behalf of our law enforcement community who put themselves in harm’s way each day to make sure our communities are safe.”

In Georgia, the Byrne/JAG program has been credited with the following successes:

multi-jurisdictional task forces were able to make 5,600 drug arrests and seize almost $50 million in drugs;

2,500 law enforcement officers were trained in more than 100 different classes offered by the Georgia Public Safety Training Center through its Drug Enforcement Training Program;

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation’s State Drug Task Force led a cooperative investigation resulting with an inter-state drug enforcement effort with Alabama that received national recognition;

The Georgia Information Sharing and Analysis Center is Georgia’s Homeland Security state-level fusion intelligence center. The Center expanded its “Southern Shield” initiative and widened the focus for intelligence integration in the region by coordinating with 12 other states within the southeast on intelligence collection and dissemination.

Nine drug court programs were supported as was a Mental Health Court Diversion Program.
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Fayette Benevolent Society Hosts Public Safety Lunch Social

The Fayette Benevolent Society (FBS) invites all departments of public safety employees in Fayette County to attend a lunch social on Fri., March 28 from 11:00 a.m to 2:00 p.m. at the Historic Train Depot & Welcome Center. Reverend Derek Porter of Brooks First United Methodist Church will kickoff the awareness campaign program at noon. Lunch is provided by My Chef Nancy and Pacific General Financial.

“The FBS is seeking to enhance the quality of life and needs of public safety members,” said Captain Mitch Warren, Officer and Fayette County Firefighter. “The lunch social is designed for attendees to discover the benefits of the program and raise awareness of the society. We hope public safety employees will be able to drop-by during the day to hear what we’re all about and how we can benefit them.”

The FBS was founded in 2005 and has more than 144 members. It is a self-funded, member-driven society. The first annual FBS Golf Tournament fundraiser will be held at Fayetteville Golf Club, Wed., May 7 at 12:00 p.m. For more information about FBS, please contact Captain Mitch Warren at 678-794-0635.

The Historic Train Depot & Welcome Center is located at 250 Lanier Avenue West, Fayetteville, Georgia.
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FBI Gotcha Archive

The FBI has lots of really interesting, and helpful, information scattered across their website. Here's a sampling from the Gotcha Archive (http://www.fbi.gov/gotcha/archive/gotarchive.htm)

March 7, 2008 - Katrina Internet Scam - II
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February 29, 2008 - Katrina Internet Scam - I
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February 22, 2008 - Bank Bilked for $5.6 Million - II
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February 15, 2008 - Bank Bilked for $5.6 Million - I
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February 8, 2008 - Hat Bandit/Mad Hatter - II
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February 2, 2008 - Hat Bandit/Mad Hatter - I
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January 25, 2007 - Undercover - II
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January 18, 2007 - Undercover - I
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January 11, 2007 - Elderly Taken for Lots of Money - II
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January 4, 2007 - Elderly Taken for Lots of Money - I
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December 28, 2007 - Bankruptcy in a Fraudulent Way - II
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December 21, 2007 - Bankruptcy in a Fraudulent Way - I
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December 14, 2007 - Cattle, Money & Fraud - II
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December 7, 2007 - Cattle, Money & Fraud - I
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Building Baby Safety From the Ground Up

A warm bath, lullaby and bedtime stories are staples in your child's nighttime routine.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) urges parents and caregivers to add a safe sleep environment to the daily routine of placing baby to sleep.

CPSC staff is aware of 97 crib related deaths from 2002 through 2004. A CPSC staff analysis of reports of deaths related to cribs found that about half of the deaths were in cribs containing pillows, quilts and other bedding. About half of these were due to suffocation when infants ended up face down on pillows or face down in a crib with pillows, quilts and other bedding. Thirty-percent of crib deaths were attributed to entrapment between components of old cribs that were in bad condition, with broken ormissing parts or loose hardware, and entrapment in spaces generated between the sides of a crib and an ill fitted mattress. The remainder of the deaths were associated with accessories situated in/around the crib (such as window cords or curtain tie backs), falls out of cribs, alterations made to cribs, or entrapment when the child became wedged between the crib and other furniture or a wall.

As CPSC works to remove defective products from the marketplace, parents and caregivers are being asked to take action as well. The CPSC is urging parents:

To reduce the risk of SIDS and suffocation, place baby to sleep on his or her back in a crib that meets current safety standards To prevent suffocation never use a pillow as a mattress for baby to sleep on or to prop baby's head or neck.

Infants can strangle to death if their bodies pass through gaps generated between loose components, broken slats and other parts of the crib and their head and neck become entrapped in the space. Do not use old, broken or modified cribs; Regularly tighten hardware to keep sides firm

Infants can suffocate in spaces generated between the sides of the criband an ill fitted mattress; never allow a gap larger than two fingers at any point between the sides of the crib and the mattress Never place a crib near a window with blind or curtain cords; infants can strangle on curtain or blind cords. Properly set up play yards according to manufacturers' directions. Only use the mattress provided with the play yard. Do not add extra mattresses, pillows or cushions to the play yard, which can cause a suffocation hazard for infants. Routinely check nursery products against CPSC recall lists and remove recalled products from your home

Sign-up for automatic e-mail recall notifications at www.cpsc.gov The CPSC has been working since 1973 to improve crib safety with the publication of mandatory standards for full-size cribs and non-full size cribs. CPSC staff has also been involved in the development of voluntary standards for cribs addressing issues such as corner posts and structural and mechanical failures. The work of the CPSC has contributed to an 86% decrease in crib related deaths.
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Reports: Arrest of 'Person of Interest' Possibly Linked to Auburn Freshman's Murder

Alabama media are reporting that a person arrested near the Georgia border in Phenix City, Ala., is connected to the high-profile murder of an Auburn University student.
Meanwhile, Auburn police have scheduled a news conference for 10 a.m. Saturday CST. It wasn't immediately clear what new information would be disclosed.
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,336078,00.html

Georgia State Board of Pharmacy Issues Order to Close Pharmacy

The Georgia Drugs and Narcotics Agency on Friday closed the Santa Fe Pharmacy in Duluth following a Georgia State Board of Pharmacy Order of Summary of Suspension. The Board had received reliable information that the pharmacy had filled a significant number of fraudulent prescriptions.

In addition, the Santa Fe Pharmacy had fired their pharmacist in late February; had not employed a pharmacist; and did not have a pharmacist in charge, which is a violation of Georgia law.

“Pharmacies and pharmacy owners are expected to maintain certain standards of practice to prohibit the distribution of controlled substances,” Secretary of State Karen Handel said. “An investigation proved that this pharmacy failed to meet those standards.”

Manual Lozano, the owner of the pharmacy, was arrested in late February and charged with unlicensed practice of medicine.

A copy of the Order of Summary Suspension can be found on the Board’s website at: http://sos.ga.gov/_press/2008_0453_phre009404_001.pdf.

Karen Handel was sworn in as Secretary of State in January 2007. The Secretary of State’s office offers important services to our citizens and our business community. Among the office’s wide-ranging responsibilities, the Secretary of State is charged with conducting efficient and secure elections, the registration of corporations, and the regulation of securities and professional license holders. The office also oversees the Georgia Archives and the Capitol Museum.
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Statement from Governor Perdue Concerning the Murders of Lauren Burk and Eve Carson

Governor Sonny Perdue released the following statement concerning the murders of Lauren Burk and Eve Carson:

“Mary and I are deeply saddened by the senseless, tragic murders of these two bright and talented Georgians,” said Governor Sonny Perdue. “We are praying for their families and friends as well as the campuses and communities that are mourning these painful losses. Georgia is Lauren and Eve’s home state and we will do everything we can to help authorities in Alabama and North Carolina pursue, capture and convict those responsible for their deaths. To aid in these investigations, I have asked GBI Director Vernon Keenan to offer any and all assistance necessary to solve these crimes.”
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Chambliss, Isakson Announce Funding for Emergency Food and Shelter Program

U.S. Senators Saxby Chambliss, R-Ga., and Johnny Isakson, R-Ga., today announced that the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency has awarded $4,335,431 to Georgia as part of the Emergency Food and Shelter Program, which provides supplemental funding to shelters, soup kitchens and food banks. One-month awards for rent, mortgage and utility assistance are also available through the program to help individuals and families with non-disaster, temporary emergency needs.

“Countless Georgians in communities across our state work each day to help our fellow citizens have access to food, shelter, and other critical services during times of need, and it is important that we continue to support these local organizations,” said Chambliss.

“These vital funds aid local communities by helping those who need it most,” Isakson said. “I will continue to work with my colleagues in support of the programs that mean so much to so many Georgia communities.”

Additional jurisdictions in Georgia may be selected at a later date by the Emergency Food and Shelter Program State Set-Aside Committee.

Funding for jurisdictions in Georgia is listed below:

Atlanta/DeKalb, Fulton Counties
$940,476

Macon/Bibb, Jones Counties
$108,822

Appling County
$11,032

Baldwin County
$27,545

Banks County
$7,186

Ben Hill County
$11,585

Berrien County
$9,120

Brantley County
$8,038

Brooks County
$7,992

Bryan County
$12,874

Bulloch County
$30,217

Burke County
$15,938

Butts County
$11,285

Carroll County
$58,269

Chatham County
$119,140

Chattooga County
$13,082

Clarke County
$55,160

Cobb County
$347,379

Coffee County
$22,409

Colquitt County
$20,866

Cook County
$9,397

Crawford County
$7,117

Crisp County
$14,740

Decatur County
$16,214

Dodge County
$10,479

Dougherty County
$55,298

Douglas County
$66,905

Elbert County
$13,634

Emanuel County
$12,667

Fannin County
$9,788

Floyd County
$52,258

Franklin County
$12,368

Gilmer County
$11,539

Glynn County
$33,741

Grady County
$11,354

Greene County
$9,282

Gwinnett County
$373,956

Habersham County
$18,793

Hall County
$72,847

Haralson County
$14,233

Hart County
$16,813

Houston County
$61,562

Jackson County
$23,768

Jasper County
$7,048

Jeff Davis County
$8,775

Jefferson County
$10,525

Lamar County
$9,788

Laurens County
$26,854

Liberty County
$30,700

Lowndes County
$45,901

Lumpkin County
$12,068

McDuffie County
$15,224

Macon County
$8,752

Madison County
$13,243

Meriwether County
$14,302

Mitchell County
$11,930

Murray County
$21,880

Muscogee County
$111,010

Peach County
$14,924

Pierce County
$7,946

Polk County
$21,557

Putnam County
$10,640

Rabun County
$12,183

Richmond County
$128,007

Screven County
$8,084

Spalding County
$38,301

Stephens County
$16,398

Sumter County
$23,215

Tattnall County
$10,871

Telfair County
$8,545

Thomas County
$21,718

Tift County
$23,630

Toombs County
$15,546

Troup County
$40,696

Turner County
$7,508

Union County
$9,212

Upson County
$17,757

Walker County
$31,944

Ware County
$17,227

Washington County
$10,756

Wayne County
$15,016

Whitfield County
$48,964

Wilkes County
$7,531

Worth County
$12,713

State Set-Aside Committee, GA
$639,374

Georgia Total
$4,335,431

National Guard Team Plays Key Role in Ricin Response

A National Guard civil support team was on scene within an hour last night after Las Vegas authorities sought help with a suspicious substance that later turned out to be deadly ricin.

The incident happened at an Extended Stay America hotel on Valley View Boulevard in west Las Vegas, said Army Capt. April Conway, the Nevada National Guard's public affairs officer.

The Nevada National Guard's 92nd Civil Support Team provided support with identifying the suspicious substance and assisting with decontamination, Conway said.

The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department asked for support from the Nevada National Guard's 92nd CST about 5 p.m. Within 30 minutes, a 19-member team and half a dozen vehicles from the 92nd CST were out the door, and they were on scene less than 60 minutes from the initial request, Conway said.

The vehicles provide communications, laboratory and other on-scene support for the team.

"They worked in conjunction with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Clark County fire and hazardous materials teams to collect samples and analyze samples on site," Conway said. "Initial tests came back indicating that the substance that they were testing was ricin. More samples were sent to the Nevada public health laboratory for additional testing."

Because CST members regularly train side by side with civilian responders, they already know each other and don't have to exchange business cards during a crisis, Conway said.

"The role of the Nevada National Guard in this incident was very significant," Conway said. "We work very well with Las Vegas Metro police and very well with other Clark County first responders. They have a very good relationship, and it's very easy for our folks to go in there and be of use."

The Nevada National Guard's CST is one of 52 certified units nationwide mandated by Congress to support local and state authorities at domestic incidents by identifying agents and substances, assessing current and projected consequences and advising on response measures, Conway said.

CSTs can respond rapidly to assist local first responders in determining the nature of an attack and to provide medical and technical advice. They provide initial advice on what agents may be present and assist first responders in the detection and assessment process.

They generally are the first military responders on the ground.

"They can test air; they can test water; they can test powder substances and help first responders right off the bat know (that), 'Hey this might be a more dangerous situation than you initially thought.' That's really the asset that the CST brings to the table," Conway said.

The 95th CST of California and that state's chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high explosive response force package also stood by in case additional assistance was needed, Conway and National Guard Bureau officials said.

Author Army Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill serves at the National Guard Bureau. Army Sgt. 1st Class Bryan Rotherham contributed to this report.
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