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Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Will you put out a save-my-space blanket for PTC fireworks?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
This is a press release issued May 15th by the Peachtree City government. What do you think of the practice of putting out blankets to save spots for the Fourth of July fireworks?
Here’s the official release:
City Asks Residents To Change One 4th Tradition
Time honored traditions that evolve from a community’s special events are usually embraced and encouraged. Those attending Peachtree City’s annual 4th of July festivities are asked to change one established habit.
In the past, residents have laid claim to their favorite spot to watch the evening fireworks display by laying out blankets, anchored to stay in place until they arrive. The problem is, because crowds are becoming larger each year and favorite spots more scarce, the blankets are showing up early - even the day before.
Blankets anchored on the grass for hours can kill the grass underneath. Blankets anchored around City Hall Plaza can hit underground utility cables and cause outages or injuries.
Last year, there was significant damage to some grassy right-of-ways. The unattended blankets also have raised complaints from residents that show up at a more reasonable time to claim a spot only to find hundreds of blankets and chairs out with no owners anywhere in sight.
Festivity organizers asks that no blankets be laid before 3 p.m. on July 4th. While a “no-save” rule would be preferable, residents will have to follow their own honor system. If this issue becomes a persistent problem, other measures may be considered in future years.
Registration for the 4th of July parade begins June 1st for Peachtree City residents and businesses and June 8th for Fayette County entries. For more holiday information, call the Recreation Department, 770-631-2542 or check out the website, www.ptcrecreation.org.
Permalink | Comments (7) | Categories: Talk of the Town
Do you have a problem with bicyclists?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
With the price of gasoline hovering around the $3 mark, I won’t be surprised if more people take to riding bicycles around the county to save a few dollars.
But just like people that drive cars, cyclists must obey the rules of the road, too. And let’s face it, there are bad drivers and bad cyclists — those who simply drive/ride with little regard for others on the road.
Mark Anderson, who has owned Bicycles Unlimited in Peachtree City for 10 years, said he’s heard complaints from cyclists and drivers.
“The most common complaint I hear from cycists are the rude comments and threats,” he said. “Drivers don’t seem to truly understand the consequences if the two meet.”
Anderson has never been struck by a vehicle while cycling, but has had plenty of “close calls.”
“I have been screamed at and had bottles thrown at me.”
From the drivers, Anderson said he occasionally hears “we (cyclists) don’t have the right to be on the road.”
“In Peachtree City. drivers will yell, ‘Get on the path.’ In the county, you’ll hear, ‘Get off the road.’ “
As a cyclist for more than 15 years, Anderson said he just wishes there was more education for drivers and cyclists.
“Both sides need to learn and understand each others’ point of view.”
Personally, I’ve never had a run-in with a cyclist. The ones I’ve seen flying down Ebenezer Church Road have been courteous and respectful of the road.
What about you? Have you ever been driving and gotten into it with someone on a bicycle? Do you find most cyclists in the county road hogs or “road” scholars?
Permalink | Comments (8) | Categories: Abby Brunks
