Can Clayton lure new businesses?
A few new businesses are trickling into Clayton County. At a time when much of the attention is focusing on problems in the school system, it’s refreshing to learn new jobs are being created. Read my latest blog entry on Wordpress
Home > Clayton.Talk > Archives > 2007 > September
September 2007
Homeowner associations: Friend or foe?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
My husband was skeptical about moving into a covenant community. I was too, based on similar past experiences.
We previously lived in a condominium. Although we paid a mortgage and maintenance fees, we only felt like homeowners when repairs needed to be made and at tax time.
There were rules and regulations in place that we initially thought we could live with. After a few years we got tired of having to ask permission to do things to our home.
For example, if I wanted to put a wreath on my front door during Christmas, I had to get clearance from the condo board.
So far, we’ve had no problems with our subdivision’s bylaws. I like that they enforce rules to help keep our community looking nice and that we have neighbors who seem to want the same.
I can definitely see a difference compared to others in the area that are not as well maintained.
We learned a lot about Clayton via the HOA meetings, which gave us a chance to meet our representatives when we first moved here and find out whom to call on for various issues. We also receive a quarterly newsletter which keeps us informed of future neighborhood events and HOA financial details.
I also like that we can see where our fees are being utilized. The HOA makes sure homeowners cut their lawns when necessary. Our subdivision’s entrance and common areas are landscaped nicely, the clubhouse and playground are in good shape and our guests are always eager to use the pool during their stay.
The only thing we have not done yet is christen the tennis courts, something to look forward to in summer 2008!
Do you prefer a community with or without a homeowner’s association? Do you feel the HOA fees you pay are being spent well?
Permalink | Comments (64) | Post your comment | Categories: Kimberly Allen
When customers attack!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
An off-duty Clayton County police officer trying to detain a shoplifter was ignored and assaulted when she requested assistance from the public, according to recent news reports.
Officer Sue Bennett was shopping at Wal-Mart on Jonesboro Road when a cashier called out to a woman attempting to leave without paying for merchandise. When the woman refused to stop or show employees a receipt, Bennett got involved.
Bennett flashed her badge and identified herself as she caught up to the woman. After some tussling, the cop gained control and started to dial 911 on a cellphone.
The alleged shoplifter took this opportunity to bolt. Bennett gave chase, catching the woman at the door and a fight erupted between them.
As customers and Wal-Mart employees gathered, Bennett again identified herself and asked for help from the spectators. Not one person came to her aid. Instead, some customers decided to assist the thief by pulling Bennett’s hair and holding her down.
The suspect bit Bennett on the arm before escaping, and is still at large. Had Bennett remained “off-duty” and done nothing, she probably would be vilified for not getting involved and accused of not caring about Clayton and/or it’s citizens.
Officer Bennett has resided in, and served Clayton county for two years. Even more impressive, she was recently promoted as the first female member of the SWAT team.
What does this say about security at the Morrow Wal-Mart? If a police officer can get attacked on their premises and receive no assistance, that doesn’t bode well for the rest of us. Let’s also pray the dormant attitude of those who did nothing to help represent the minority.
Could you stand by, watch someone get assaulted, and do absolutely nothing? Will you continue to patronize this Wal-Mart?
If you have any information on this case, please call (770) 477-3631, and thank you to Officer Bennett for going above and beyond!
Permalink | Comments (30) | Post your comment | Categories: Kimberly Allen
Life after Sept. 11
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I will never forget how September 11, 2001 began - as an absolutely gorgeous fall morning.
Weatherwise, a perfect New York City day.
Despite all the tragedy on that day, it was also a perfect example of how unforeseen circumstances can change or save a life and how blessed we are even when it’s not obvious.
We were blessed that we lost no one close to us, although we have a few acquaintances who have not been seen or heard from since the towers collapsed.
I was extremely blessed to not be in Manhattan that day since I worked nights at the time. It was also a blessing that although telephone lines worked sporadically, every time my husband called I got to hear him say “Hello,” so at least I knew he was alive.
Thankfully, our loved ones who worked in or around the towers are alive and well today due to circumstances that forced them to break routine.
I have four relatives who worked in the towers. One cousin took a different route to work that day because of traffic, ended up running late and watched history being made from the safety of his car on the Brooklyn Bridge. Another cousin woke up, saw what a beautiful day it was going to be, decided to take a “mental health day” and called in sick.
Although many people lost their lives and loved ones, when I hear of stories like these it reminds me of all the blessings received that day as well.
So I try to remember all the lives that were spared on 9/11 by some crazy coincidence, as well as honor those whose lives were lost senselessly.
Clayton County, are you counting your blessings? Has an unexpected change in plans ever been a blessing in disguise for you?
Permalink | Comments (4) | Categories: Kimberly Allen
Dear city of Lovejoy: I’m jealous!
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
I recently attended a Lovejoy work session/zoning meeting. I wanted to see what they were planning since we live nearby and patronize businesses there.
Lovejoy residents are being given a unique opportunity to have some input on what future development will look like in the Panhandle.
In order to get to the meeting, I had to turn off of Panhandle Road (which showcases some lovely homes) onto North Bridge Road. Although there is some building going on there, this is a section of Clayton County that has managed to retain a residential and country feel. I can only imagine how picturesque this area was before developers got hold of it.
I was even more in awe once I arrived at the J.W. Smith Community Building at the reservoir. This lake area is so beautiful and serene, even the air smells different there. It was hard to believe that I was less than five miles from home because my neighborhood is practically built out.
Lovejoy residents would like to see horse trails, homes on one-acre lots that are not within a subdivision, four-sided brick homes with side-entry garages, but no wooden steps or porches. They would also like to preserve farmland and green space and see no type of businesses in the area whatsoever, especially anything vaguely resembling a strip mall.
I must admit, I was envious. I along with many Clayton residents I’m sure would love a chance to help shape what their neighborhood could look like. I wish Lovejoy success with their future plans for the Panhandle.
Lovejoy residents - is there anything else you’d like to see (or not see) in your community?
To everyone else - if you could help improve the look of your neighborhood, what types of changes would you suggest?
Permalink | Comments (25) | Categories: Kimberly Allen
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