Jim Brooks Kicks Butt

Sorry for the tacky blog post title, but I thought and thought, and it really seemed the most appropriate.

Jim Brooks took over as Interim City Manager of Snellville in May 2007, after Jeff Timler resigned. Jeff Timler was making an estimated $80,000 in salary, and Jim Brooks is making an estimated $110,000. Jim Brooks' contract expires February 13, 2008, but some are voicing a desire to have Mr. Brooks continue in this job permanently.

Here's why:

When he took over as City Manager in May, Snellville had a 1.26 Million budget deficit.
He has the budget deficit reduced to $387,000.

He is a bargain if he can produce results like that.
We like results, and that is why Jim Brooks kicks butt.

Wayne Mason paying Robert Jenkins water bill

You can read all about it in this AJC Article: LINK
But please come back here and read the rest of this blog post so we can discuss!

Apparently, a company that developer Wayne Mason owns has been paying the water bill for the house Robert Jenkins rents from Mason. Robert Jenkins is on the city council, and some people think it's a conflict of interest.

Label me undisturbed by this. I'll tell you why.

I've seen pictures of the house. It's not fancy. The water bills must be a MAX $50 per month.
Do you really think that is enough to buy favors?!? I doubt it seriously.

Also, it's often a rental agreement that the homeowner will pay the water bills - it's actually a protective measure for the landlord, because if the tenant does not pay the water bill, the landlord is the one who ends up in hot water with the County.

It's something that Jenkins' enemies on the Council would like to stir up as a big deal when it's really not an issue. They try to paint it as a horrific conflict of interest situation, knowing that the average person just sees something negative about someone in the press, and the press just loves the stories of Snellville infighting apparently - so when election comes around, we may not remember exactly what it was, we just think we remember something ethically iffy.

The man needs to live somewhere - he is paying rent (I think he should buy, since there is such a great buyer's market here in Snellville right now! But that's his business)

If it comes out that a developer is paying for evenings out for council members at a girlie club, then yes, media, please let us know about it. But save the news space for real news.

This is just one Stupidly Happy person's opinion...what's yours?

72 pound turkey takes 15 hours to cook

"It actually tastes pretty good!" Rich Portnoy said, gloating a bit after he and two other men pulled the turkey from the oven after 15 hours of roasting. USA Today Story Link

Da-aang, that's one biiig turkey. It was a grudge-match between Rich and his sister, over who could cook the biggest turkey. His 36" wide professional grade oven helped give him advantage.
Can you imagine basting a turkey for 15 hours? I don't like to do anything for 15 hours.

Snellville 78 Accident Update

I have more details on the accident that happened yesterday morning on Highway 78 near South Crestview and Summit Chase.

You can hear the Gwinnett Fire and EMS dealing with the accident on the ScanGwinnett Feed Archive HERE but I listened and made some notes, so if you don't have time to listen, you can just read my notes here in the blog.

Select Gwinnett Fire & EMS, then select date of 11/29/2007 and select time of 7:37 to 7:52 am.
About 2:55 minutes in, you will hear the EMS personnel reporting in details of Patient 1 and Patient 2.

Patient 1 was a male, hit at the side/front of his car. He suffered an open fracture of the Femur.
An open fracture is when the bone has protruded from the skin of a patient. The Femur is the bone between the hip joint and the knee. EMS stated no head trauma and no chest injury.

Patient 2 was a 40-45 year old female driving a Honda CRV. She had front impact. Possible nose fracture.

Both these patients were pinned in the vehicles, so it did take some time for them to be extricated before they could be fully evaluated.

The patients were taken to Gwinnett Medical Center in Lawrenceville.

During all this, EMS on scene had some radio communication problems with dispatchers - low volume noted, but dispatchers quickly got on a portable unit of some kind, and it is good to know how reactive (but not panicky) our emergency personnel are.

There is probably a lot more information, if you listen to feed archive of additional times for that date.

Yesterday's blog post about the Snellville accident can be seen here: LINK

What's wrong with this sentence?

"Police said Carman attempted to flea but she was arrested in nearby woods."

Pool Cue Bandits Story on WSB

What the heck?!? Did she make herself really small and try to bounce around from host to host?
Don't you just hate it when criminals morph into insects?

Accident Snellville US78 near Summit Chase and South Crestview

Well, after posting to the blog yesterday about driving safety, there was a really bad accident on US78 near Summit Chase this morning. What, not everybody is reading this blog?!? Just kidding....but seriously, I know there were injuries and I hope that there wasn't anything life threatening and that the hurt people are on the mend.

Ironically, one of the things that I really hate - scraping frost and ice off my car windshield, may have kept me out of that accident. Every annoying thing that happened this morning probably kept me from being right in that spot at the time of the accident. So I am going to make a mental note on a piece of paper* to be thankful for life's little annoyances.

*one of my dad's phrases

Snellville Drivers

As I watched the car in front of me on Highway 78 swerve once to the left and twice to the right today (not drunk, just clearly occupied with something other than driving) - I thought about the fender bender I witnessed just yesterday at 78 and Rockdale Circle.

Clearly, people aren't paying attention to what they're doing while they're driving - OR, they are paying too much attention to everything else at the expense of their driving.

We would never want to get in an airplane if we thought the pilot was chit-chatting on his cellphone, reading a newspaper, text messaging, smoking,or eating. Why, we would be outraged! That would be grounds for a lawsuit.

We simply would not stand to have our safety compromised in such a way, would we?
Yet even the same people who would join us in our outrage will drive like this themselves - and there are a heckuva lot more objects and vehicles in close range of cars.

Too many drivers are taking their driver's license for granted. It's an everyday occurrence for them, like brushing their teeth - they think they can do it half asleep. It is a responsibility that we should all take seriously.

Oh, and if you see the young woman in the white Camaro that I saw a few weeks ago heading toward Loganville - she'll be the one speeding and doing radical lane changes, be sure to be nice to her. She's not going to live very long.

Justin Gaines news

Official Justin Gaines Website www.JustinGaines.com
WSB Article on Justin Gaines
WSB Video
Family gathers to remember Justin Gaines
Forensic astrologer looks at Justin Gaines case
Justin Gaines' mother launches foundation
Justin Gaines is still missing, and why you should care
Search for Justin Gaines
Justin Gaines disappearance - new updates
Search for Justin Gaines expands to Cherokee County
Difficult Christmas for Justin Gaines' family
Grainy video of Justin Gaines at Wild Bill's has surfaced

Justin Gaines previously unknown arrest reported

According to a news report by Channel 46 in Atlanta, missing 18 year old Justin Gaines was arrested by the Athens-Clarke County police June 21, 2007 in Athens GA for driving intoxicated, having an open container of Vodka in his car, and for fake ID. He was scheduled to appear in court on November 16th, but he went missing November 1st. His parents didn't know anything about the arrest.

You can read the entire news story here. LINK

Note inaccuracies in the news report - if you notice that the report says he was arrested earlier this month. He wasn't arrested earlier this month - he was arrested in June, but his court appearance was to be this month. I think they meant to say he was arrested earlier this YEAR.

His stepfather doesn't think the arrest is related to his disappearance.
Because Justin didn't show up for the court appearance on November 16th, there is a Warrant out for his arrest. To his family, this just puts more power behind finding Justin, because it means that law enforcement will be looking for Justin Gaines more intensely.

See www.JustinGaines.com, the official Justin Gaines search website, for updates and information about the searches and how you can help.

Holy Development on Hold Batman

Oh sorry, the Batman part really has nothing to do with this.

"A Loganville developer has scrapped plans for a 25-acre church complex at U.S. 78 and Rosebud Road in Snellville.

Danny Herrmann of Diversified Development said he will formally withdraw plans for the religious complex at a Tuesday night meeting of the Snellville Planning Commission.

[snip]

The church proposal would have included a 40,000-square-foot sanctuary, a 30,000-square-foot community center and seven church office buildings totaling about 42,000 square feet. Herrmann said the church that wanted to locate to the property could not secure financing. He would not name the church.

It would likely have drawn significant opposition, largely due to traffic concerns, had it gone before the Planning Commission Tuesday.

A traffic study conducted as part of Herrmann's rezoning request found that the project would generate 8,829 car trips each Sunday and 5,560 each weekday — including 619 during the evening rush hour."

Read the entire AJC Article here: LINK

Georgia State Defense Force looking for new members

The Georgia State Defense Force is looking for new members.

MySnellvilleBlog reader and GSDF member OC O'Dwyer writes, "The larger the GSDF becomes, the more soldiers we can deploy to missions like this particular search.[the Justin Gaines missing person search] The GSDF is one of the three branches of the GA Dept of Defense that report up to the Governor: Air National Guard, Army National Guard, and GA State Defense Force."

More info on joining is available at http://www.ga-statedefenseforce.info

The photo was sent to me by OC O'Dwyer and shows some of the area that they searched on Saturday when looking for signs of Justin Gaines or clues to his disappearance. You can see how small the humans look, compared to the terrain.

See their website for details on joining. I am SO glad there are folks like this in the world.

For updates in the Justin Gaines disappearance, please visit www.JustinGaines.com

PHOTO CREDIT: CPL Bridges

Recommended Reading How to Reduce Stress

This is one of the best online articles I've ever read about tactics to deal with or reduce stress.
Do yourself a favor and read the entire article from HelpGuide, but here's a snippet:

Not all stress can be avoided, and it’s not healthy to avoid a situation that needs to be addressed. You may be surprised, however, by the number of stressors in your life that you can eliminate.

• Learn how to say “no” – Know your limits and stick to them. Whether in your personal or professional life, refuse to accept added responsibilities when you’re close to reaching them. Taking on more than you can handle is a surefire recipe for stress.
• Avoid people who stress you out – If someone consistently causes stress in your life and you can’t turn the relationship around, limit the amount of time you spend with that person or end the relationship entirely.
• Take control of your environment – If the evening news makes you anxious, turn the TV off. If traffic’s got you tense, take a longer but less-traveled route. If going to the market is an unpleasant chore, do your grocery shopping online.
• Avoid hot-button topics – If you get upset over religion or politics, cross them off your conversation list. If you repeatedly argue about the same subject with the same people, stop bringing it up or excuse yourself when it’s the topic of discussion.
• Pare down your to-do list – Analyze your schedule, responsibilities, and daily tasks. If you’ve got too much on your plate, distinguish between the “shoulds” and the “musts.” Drop tasks that aren’t truly necessary to the bottom of the list or eliminate them entirely.

Cyber Monday Discounts and Deals from Toys R Us

Toys R Us Cyber Monday Deals
ONE DAY ONLY!!!!

Save 30% on Dream Life Superstar at ToysRUs.com. Online Only. Offer Ends 11.26.07

Save 25% on an Enchanted Tales Kitchen at ToysRUs.com. Online Only. Offer Ends 11.26.07

Save 30% on a Country Cottage Playhouse at ToysRUs.com. Online Only. Offer Ends 11.26.07

Crayola Paint Your Own Soccer Ball-Only $9.98 at ToysRUs.com..ONE DAY ONLY-11.26. Offer only available online.

Crayola Do it Yourself Puppet Pals-Just $9.98 at ToysRUs.com. ONE DAY ONLY-11.26. Offer only available online

Save 25% on Dora's Get Ready Kitchen at ToysRUs.com. Online Only. Offer Ends 11.26.07

Once Upon a Time Mirror-Just $9.98 at ToysRUs.com. ONE DAY ONLY-11.26. Offer only available online

Cyber Monday Discounts and Deals Galore

Cyber Monday Deals from various online merchants, keep in mind that most of these sales run Monday November 26, 2007 only...Enjoy!

Buy.com:Thanksgiving Event! Black Friday - 3 Days of HUGE Discounts! exp 11/27/07


30% OFF orders $30+ at Snapfish (coupon code: AFFORDER30)

Save Big with Cyber Monday and Beyond Online Specials at Walmart.com

BABY:

Get Free Shipping on All Orders Today Only at BabyCenter Store.

KIDS and Adults Who Don't Want To Grow Up:

If your children wish for some of the following for Christmas: Ben 10 toys, figurines, Foster's Home for Imaginary Friends, Samurai Jack, My Gym Partner's a Monkey, Grim Adventure s of Billy and Mandy, Squirrel Boy, PowerPuff Girls, Camp Lazlo, etc.....then The Cartoon Network Shop is the place for you! Free ground shipping offer too:
Free Ground Shipping for the holiday on orders of $75 or more at CartoonNetworkShop.com !!!

TRAVEL:

Don't forget to book your holiday travel this Cyber Monday. Great deals on Total Trips with Travelocity

JEWELRY:

JewelryImpressions.com offers:
20% Off ANY Purchase through 11/26! Enter Code: cjturkeyday.

JewelsForMe offers:
10% off on Sparkling Gemstone Jewelry

Toys R Us Cyber Monday Deals
ONE DAY ONLY!!!!

Save 30% on Dream Life Superstar at ToysRUs.com. Online Only. Offer Ends 11.26.07

Save 25% on an Enchanted Tales Kitchen at ToysRUs.com. Online Only. Offer Ends 11.26.07

Save 30% on a Country Cottage Playhouse at ToysRUs.com. Online Only. Offer Ends 11.26.07

Crayola Paint Your Own Soccer Ball-Only $9.98 at ToysRUs.com..ONE DAY ONLY-11.26. Offer only available online.

Crayola Do it Yourself Puppet Pals-Just $9.98 at ToysRUs.com. ONE DAY ONLY-11.26. Offer only available online

Save 25% on Dora's Get Ready Kitchen at ToysRUs.com. Online Only. Offer Ends 11.26.07

Once Upon a Time Mirror-Just $9.98 at ToysRUs.com. ONE DAY ONLY-11.26. Offer only available online

My Snellville Blog Offers Snellville Message Board

I started a Yahoo group forum for this blog, in case anyone wants to talk about anything! To join, just click here to sign up: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MySnellvilleForum/

Holiday Shopping Safety

Sylvia Carlan of Lawrenceville GA was shopping at Gwinnett Place Mall recently, when she did what most of us do when we go to the mall - she ate lunch at the food court. When she got up to leave, she noticed her purse was much lighter. Someone had lifted her wallet right out of it, and she lost $600 in cash, not to mention the headache of a lost credit card, insurance cards, and other important documents. The noisy, bustling food court is a perfect spot for thieves to do their 'work.' See Video Here

This is the time of year that we all need to be especially careful.

Here are some tips - some I have read or heard about, others are from my own personal experience. Of course, this is not a comprehensive list, so if you have anything to add, please post a Comment to benefit everyone by your knowledge!

• Don't count your money in a public place, especially near ATMs.
• Divide up your cash - some in your pocket, some in your purse, for example.
  
• Shop in the daytime whenever possible
• Don't leave your packages in full view in your car - lock them in the trunk.
• If you are shopping in different stores in the same shopping center, move your car even when you don't 'really' need to; this prevents someone from watching you stow your purchases and then waiting until you go back in the store to break into your car.
• Don't go digging into your purse for coupons, keys, etc while walking. Do that after you get in the store or in your car - don't walk while occupied with your head down. This makes you an easy target.
• Get your car entry key out and ready to use long before you arrive at your vehicle - preferably get the right key in your hand while you're in the store.
• Avoid using a purse whenever possible - keep wallet in a pocket close to your body.
  
• Get a loadable debit card to use instead of cash or credit card (offers the convenience of a credit card) I love the "Electric Orange" debit card I have from INGDirect.com - I decide how much to load on it - keeps me on budget and keeps loss at a minimum. I have all the credit card convenience but no interest charges. Even if someone cracks the code, they will only get what you have loaded into your card, they won't be able to deplete your entire checking account, because the money on the card is pre-loaded.

Tomorrow I'll have some "Cyber Monday" shopping deals for you, so make sure you check this blog before you do any online shopping. I am on so many stores' email lists, it's ridiculous, so I will have a lot of good deals to share with you. I may be able to post them later tonight, but I think some of the deals are definitely valid tomorrow only. If you are careful to shop at only reputable websites, shopping from home can be a very safe and less tiring experience!

Charles S. Gibson Art Collection Charitable Auction

Dr. Mark Taylor, who has the blog www.MarkSaves.com is auctioning a large family collection of pencil and ink drawings by artist Charles S. Gibson (1892-1973) not to be confused with Charles Dana Gibson (1867-1944), who created the Gibson Girl, but they are still really nice artworks.

Proceeds from this fine art auction will fund a new foundation to help in funding searches for missing adults. This page of Dr. Taylor's site will give you more information, but here are some snippets of the basic information, edited and formatted a bit by me for increased readability.
Be sure to read the information about how your winning bid could be tax-deductible.

"as a contribution from ALL OF THE TAYLOR FAMILY we are offering this valuable and very personal collection for auction 75 pieces of art. For details please call Dr. Mark Taylor at 404-287-0414 for details on these cases of Kyle Fleischmann, Justin Gaines go to www.helpfindkyle.com or www.justingaines.com or www.marksaves.com HOME OF ATLANTA LIVE MEDIA for live broadcasts, and current info on these cases.

THIS AUCTION STARTS AT 2 PM on MONDAY NOVEMBER 25 2007, AND ENDS SUNDAY DECEMBER 2nd 2007 AT 2 PM. BIDS START AT $ 7,000.00"

Dr. Taylor continues:

"This is a collection of Charles S. Gibson. 1892-1973.
We have had several art enthusiasts give a value for insurance purposes, and the collection was valued between; $ 18,000.00 - $ 25,000.00, depending on the enthusiast. This collection includes pictures from his childhood to his very last piece that he actually wrote on the bottom he knew he was dying and it was his last drawing. This collection has been in our family for nearly 100 years.

"You will view some of these Pen and Ink masterpieces and see that they are created by an extremely, and unprecedented artist. The only knowledge we have of the whereabouts of any more of these are 3 which are kept by relatives. We know there are some others, but have know way of knowing where. Charles' mother was very careful to preserve as many as possible as she saw his talent early on, and knew he would become a very talented artist. She was correct as you can see. Also included is a family genealogy which he is on as well as my family that carries the family back to England in the early 1800s. We are grafted into the family by marriage, as our ancestry has been traced to Scotland exclusively, both mother and father.

Dr. Taylor has put photographs of the artworks in a Kodak picture gallery HERE

GA State Defense Force Joins Search for Justin Gaines

I have been trying to keep up with the latest news in the disappearance of a Gwinnett teenager named Justin Gaines, who has been missing since the beginning of November.
Justin graduated from Brookwood High School here in Snellville.

The latest I have heard is that the Georgia State Defense Force, a volunteer group, will be joining the searches. This is a good thing, because the numbers of searchers have been dwindling - maybe it's because of the holiday, I'm not sure - but it could be the creeping sense of dread that I have written about previously. People are all gung-ho to go on searches in the beginning, and then later I think people get so depressed about the lack of progress that they just find it hard to face it anymore. I know it makes me sad - I wish I could do more about it than just work here and there when I can on my blog to get some word out about the latest news and updates on Justin Gaines.

When I check my blog hit-counter, 90% of the hits to this blog lately have all been searching for news on Justin, so I work to continue to provide it. I do still feel though, that for the most accurate and up-to-date information, people should regularly check Justin Gaines' website at www.JustinGaines.com . Please check there for information on donating money to make sure you will be sending to the correct places. Unfortunately, there are unscrupulous people in the world, and you want to make sure your donation does go to the family as you intend it to.

The Georgia State Defense force will add 100 searchers. They are citizen-soldiers, they are not armed, but they are trained in search and rescue missions.

WSB Story
Channel 46 related news video

Black Friday Discounts and Deals

Save 60% on Restaurant.com Gift Certificates today!
60% off sale
Use the link above and the code THANKS to pay only $4 for a $25 certificate

Brookstone Deals:

Get 65% off the 6-in1 LED Multi-Tool - a $20 value, now only $6.99! From 11/21/07 to 11/25/07.

Get 20% off the Super-Sized TV Remote - a $25 value, now only $19.95! From 11/21/07 to 11/25/07.

-------

FansEdge Offers FREE SHIPPING 11/23/07 (Black Friday) on Over 60,000 Products!
Fans Edge is a great place to buy things for the sports fanatic.



JC Penney is offering free shipping on orders $49 or more from jcpcom or the JCPenney Catalog through November 28th. The promo/discount code is TURKEY

15% off all merchandise until 11/30 at Improvements


Zappos is a great place to order shoes and handbags. They offer free shipping (both directions) ... meaning, if you need to return something, you don't have to worry about having to pay shipping! They're awesome. Check out the clearance section at Zappos.com


Stacks and Stacks -- $10 off orders $75 & up until 12/31 Stacks and Stacks has great stuff for organizing.

I will post more as I get them. Hope you find some of these helpful!

Fox 5 News Report on Domingo Alfredo Espinal

This page from Fox 5 Atlanta has more information about the robbery turned homicide of Domingo Alfredo Espinal. If you look to the left of the text, there is a little video box so you can see the news report. LINK

Donate to Justin Gaines Search Fund

You may have heard that there is a $50,000 reward for the return of Justin Gaines to his family, and there is a $10,000 reward for valid information that leads the search to Justin.

Keep in mind that those are just reward funds, funds earmarked only for rewards. That is not money for the family to live on while they conduct the search. It is traumatic emotionally as well as financially. Obviously it has been impossible for Justin's parents to work during this time.

Even if you can only send $5, that is worthwhile. Every little bit adds up.

"We have two banks set up one in GA and one in OH for donation to be used for the search for Justin and for unexpected expenses that the family is experiencing during their time of need searching for Justin and not being able to work."

Checks should be made out to: Justin Gaines Search Fund

and here are the banks

Peoples Bank
c/o Michael Wilson
P.O. Box 1277
Lithonia, GA 30058

and

National City Bank
c/o Justin Gaines Search Fund
34305 Center Ridge Rd.
North Ridgeville, Ohio 44039

ER Snell of Snellville submits bid to build bypass around Rome GA

E.R. Snell Contractor Inc. of Snellville GA has submitted the low bid of 54.6 million dollars to build the first leg of the southwest portion of the proposed bypass around Rome GA.

The Georgia Department of Transportation expects to award the contract for the 5.48-mile project on Nov. 30, according to its Web site.

The DOT has estimated a $60 million price tag for the first phase, previous reports stated.

Read story from Rome News Tribune: LINK

Good luck, of course we are all wanting ER Snell to get this job!

Snellville Shooting Update

UPDATE on Snellville Auto Dealer Shot

The shooter wore a Halloween mask from the movie Scream.
Mr. Espinal's 17 year old son witnessed his father's shooting.

Do you know anyone who owns a mask like that and fits the description? Anyone fitting the description, has a mask like that, and has been acting odd lately? Keep your eyes open, this is not someone we want running around.

The suspect was wearing dark, possible black clothing and possibly wearing a hoodie. The suspect is described as being 6'1" - 6'3", weighing around 240 pounds with a muscular build.

My prayers are with the Espinal family.

WGCL Story
WSB TV Story

Snellville Crime Tip Line
(770) 985-7212
Callers may leave their contact information, or, may choose to remain anonymous.

Justin Gaines Tribbit Page

I have tried out the Tribbit website that I mentioned yesterday. It is incredible and very easy to use.

I made a page for Justin Gaines today, so if you will contribute to the page, that would be great.
By 'contribute,' I mean add comments or messages, photos, etc.

The page URL is: http://www.tribbit.com/JustinGaines
or Click Here. The more traffic the page gets, the more people will see it, and maybe the 'right' person will see it and be moved to tell what they know about Justin's disappearance. It certainly can't hurt.

Justin is 18, and his acquaintances probably use the Internet quite a bit.
There are already MySpace users who have changed their MySpace Avatar (personal image) to Justin's picture, blogged about his disappearance, and are adding each other to their MySpace friend's list and adjusting their 'Top Friends' to show other MySpace users who have changed their picture to Justin's. This is a great free way of getting the word out.

Snellville business owner shot and killed

I am sorry to share this sad news with you today, this story from 11AliveNews:

11/18/2007 8:45:42 PM

The Snellville Police Department is investigating a robbery that ended with the death of a business owner Sunday evening.

According to Snellville Police, a suspect wearing a mask went into the A&B Autos on West Main Street attempting to rob it. During the alleged robbery, the owner of the business was reportedly shot and killed.

The victim has been identified as Domingo Alfrado Espinal, 52, of Lawerenceville.

The suspect was wearing dark, possible black clothing and possibly wearing a hoodie. The suspect is described as being 6'1" - 6'3", weighing around 240 pounds with a muscular build.

Another article:

By Saeed Ahmed
Atlanta Journal Constitution
Published on: 11/19/07

A 52-year-old auto shop owner was killed Sunday during an attempted robbery in Snellville —- the first homicide in the Gwinnett County city in at least three years, the police chief said.

Domingo Alfredo Espinal of Lawrenceville was at an auto dealership he co-owned on Main Street West when a masked man, dressed in dark clothing, went inside intending to rob him about 3:30 p.m., police said.

After the would-be robber pulled out a revolver, Espinal fought him and was shot, Chief Roy Whitehead said. The shooter ran away without taking any cash.

The chief could not immediately say how long ago Snellville had its last homicide. But at least three years had gone by without a murder in the city, he said.

UPDATE: Apparently, the shooter wore a Halloween mask from the movie Scream.
Mr. Espinal's 17 year old son witnessed his father's shooting.

Do you know anyone who owns a mask like that and fits the description? Anyone fitting the description, has a mask like that, and has been acting odd lately? Keep your eyes open, this is not someone we want running around.

My prayers are with the Espinal family today.

Create free unlimited and interactive greetings that everyone can contribute

I have just become aware of a new site called Tribbit. The best way I can explain what it is is to say that it's like a collaborative, interactive greeting card. The site is free to use.

It's an online interactive card that allows you to celebrate and recognize special people and events. You can set up the basic page to honor people (for birthday, anniversary, wedding, new baby, retirement, etc) and then you invite other people who know that person to come to the page and add their thoughts, pictures, poems, stories, even voice files!

You give everyone a certain time to add their input to the page. Then, you send the page link off to the lucky recipient. It must be very touching to receive a Tribbit page - just knowing that everyone worked together to honor you would be very special! You can also use it for memorial tributes. The website has all kinds of ideas for uses. You can even set up a Thanksgiving page.

(singing in Opera Man voice) "Frrreee free free-eeeeeeEEE!"
Methinks Opera Man like.

Snellville Post Offices, UPS Stores, FedEX, Kinkos

So, you probably will want to mail a package or two out from Snellville around this time of year.
It is sometimes hard to locate a Post Office when you are new to a place, so I decided to do this blog post to help a few folks out.

Also, people who have lived in Snellville a long time might not really know about all the options they have now. I hope I can save you some stress and hassle - especially when it's not necessary! Because I mail out a lot of my artwork, I have learned a lot about shipping options.

First things first, for those who just like to go right to the Post Office, here's the link to the United States Postal Service's website with the post office locations that are in Snellville and closest to Snellville. LINK .... In case they move the website page, the two Snellville locations we have are 2250 Oak Road in Snellville (map this) and 3375 Centerville Highway in Snellville. (map this) Many people from Snellville also may find the Loganville GA location at 4160 Logan Drive to be quick - at least it used to be - but now so many more people know about it!
It depends on your holiday attitude - some people find waiting in line with their packages at Christmastime to be part of the tradition, and there's nothing wrong with that.

But if you want to avoid the long lines at the Post Office, you can have your Priority Mail packages picked up right at your house at no extra fee. The best way to go about this is to order the Priority Mail Packaging from the U.S. Post Office website at www.USPS.com - but the downside of this is that you must order the packaging in bundles of 25. If you just need a few boxes, then you can just pick up some Priority Mail packaging at the Post Office, but I'd hurry in for the best selection. Priority Mail packaging is completely free, even if you order it online - but you must agree that you will only use the packaging to ship your packages by Priority Mail. In most cases, Priority Mail is the best mailing option, factoring in time of delivery and cost, anyway.

Snellville Post Office Tip #1: The Oak Road location (and most of them I think) open at 8:30 am. For shortest line, try arriving at 8:40 am. By that time, you have missed the rush of people who know the location opens at 8:30, but you're ahead of the people who think the Post Office opens at 9 am.

Snellville Post Office Tip #2:
Park on the side of the Post Office (by North Road)....most people don't realize that parking is there, and it's a lot easier to back out when you want to leave.

Wow, I bet I'm really going to regret blogging those two tips...lol

You can take your prepared packages to the Post Office, and if the regular line is long, give that USPS kiosk a try - that's the shipping machine located in the lobby. You can pay by debit or credit card. It is very easy to use.

To ship your packages from home using USPS, you will need a printer, and some clear package tape, a credit card to pay online, and a postage scale. Postal scales are getting cheaper all the time - I was able to get mine from Ebay very inexpensively, and it has saved me a lot of time and money, because now I don't put too much postage on things as often. You will need to set up an account at the Post Office website, then you enter the recipient's mailing information, the weight of the package and so on, and you can print the postage and label right onto a normal sheet of computer paper. You then tape the label onto your package. If the Priority Package is small enough, you can leave it in your mailbox with the flag raised - for your postal carrier to get it, but often mine are too large to do that, so I leave the package on my covered porch and leave the postman a note in my mailbox to let him know I have a pickup. The extra advantage of shipping Priority Mail from your home, besides just being so gosh darn convenient, is that you also get Delivery Confirmation included at no extra fee, but if you pay for Delivery Confirmation at the post office, it's $1.45

For other mailing options, there are at least two UPS Stores close to Snellville. One is in Snellville on Scenic Highway, the other one is actually in Loganville, but it's in the Kroger Shopping Center at Rosebud Road and US78 so it's very easy to access. Definitely use UPS Store if you have an item you don't know how to pack, and if it's extremely valuable to you or breakable. They'll know how to pack it well. Yes, it's premium price but if you need peace of mind, this is what you want. I also just LOVE that UPS Tracking Number, and being able to check exactly where the package is, especially if it's valuable. As an artist/small business owner, I also like being able to give my clients that extra layer of customer service when I can let them know where the package is and when they can expect it.

We also have a Kinko's mail and copy center in the Kroger Shopping Center on Scenic Highway in Snellville. I haven't been there recently, but I think they can mail out FedEX.

Deliciously Politically Incorrect Thanksgiving

Yesterday my son's preschool had their Thanksgiving dinner and pageant. It was wonderfully politically incorrect. My son is two years old, so he had a headband made out of construction paper that looked like a turkey.

But the older kids were dressed as Indians (AKA Native Americans) and Pilgrims (AKA "white oppressors who tricked the Native Americans out of their land, corn, and decimated them with Smallpox.")

But, there wasn't any of that "Politically Correct" stuff...just kids in construction paper costumes, having fun, no political agendas. It was, honestly, a breath of fresh air. It was like something out of Charlie Brown's Thanksgiving

Until my son's turkey hat lost its accordion-folded construction paper leg whereupon my son pitched a huge tantrum, and we had to leave early.

Jocelyn Negron Snellville Artist Opens Store in Athens GA

Local seamstress Jocelyn Negron, a fifth-year digital media major from Snellville, is setting up shop exclusively in Dynamite Clothing (143 N. Jackson St.), said Lori Taluck, owner of the vintage clothing store.

Since Nov. 3, a space previously used for storage now serves as the designer's own studio, called "Dynamite Refinery," where she will create custom designs from used and vintage garments.

Negron has sold her designs at Fortsons Clothiers and Agora and is a member of the Serge design collective, which recently held a fashion show at Go Bar.

"She's taking vintage clothes and reworking them into more contemporary, interesting, wearable creations that still totally have a vintage flair," said Taluck, who also owns 283 Bar.

Read entire article by Valentina Tapia of Red and Black, the student run newspaper of University of Georgia

Southeast Gwinnett Co-op Reopens

A tip of the hat to all who helped the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry shake off more than a year of homelessness and get back on its feet.

The cooperative opened its doors in late September at its new location, 1200 Athens Highway (U.S. 78) outside Snellville’s city limits.

Read Full AJC Article

UPDATE January 31, 2008:

FOR INFORMATION ABOUT HOW YOU CAN HELP OR TO GET HELP, CLICK HERE

Operation Sandbox

Pearson bought a few toiletries and treats and packed them in a box. She asked her daughter to write the Marine a letter. The package got shipped and Pearson didn't think anything more about it.

But soon, one good deed led to requests for thousands more.

On Thursday, Pearson and a group of about two dozen volunteers with Operation Sandbox Ga. — an organization she began with her daughter Julie to support the troops — held a packing party at Park Place Baptist Church in Snellville. The group stuffed tables of care packages with 2,000 pounds of goodies — snack food, letters, DVDs, candy and more — to help make the holidays happy for troops away from home.

To help Operation Sandbox Ga. or for more information, call 770-761-9544 or visit www.operationsandboxga.com.

Read Full AJC Article

11Alive Report on Operation Sandbox

Christmas Tree Traditions

I grew up with artificial Christmas trees. It was pretty traditional though, considering I grew up in the 70's. I think until I convinced my mom that the lights she has are a fire hazard last year, my mom still used those huge Christmas tree lights. You know, the kind that were the size of eggs?!? The kind you can sear body parts on. Ow! I do not like those lights. Hubs grew up with real trees, so for the last few years we have had a 'real' tree. It doesn't matter to me much one way or another, as long as we have a tree of some sort.

I have heard some reports that real Christmas trees are going to be more expensive this year, due to the drought. Have you heard this? I guess it makes sense. Even last year, I think we got a "deal" on a tree for about $60. I still thought that was pretty high for something we would use one time. Then, when I was lifting it out of the base to get rid of it, I ended up hitting our ceiling fan/light with the tree. The ceiling fan has never been the same since. Wow, what a deal that tree was, huh? I think I can pass on any more deals like that. But now we can be comforted by the "wub-wub-wub" noise the fan makes as it wobbles.

So once again, I am considering the value of an artificial Christmas tree. For one, they are so much lighter than a real tree. I found that out firsthand last year during the ceiling fan incident! It's also convenient to know you already have a tree, and where it is. No more remembering to water the dang thing, either - or when you do inevitably forget to water it, those sharp pine needles all over the floor. Wait, it seems like that happens whether I watered or not!

So ever on the prowl for stuff, I did find some trees at Buy.com
I really like to have stuff brought right to my door whenever possible. No hassle of tying anything to the car. No more mess being tracked all over the house.

I also like that once it's paid for, you can use it for several years, so it is more cost effective than a cut real tree.

Everlasting Evergreen Pre-lit Christmas Tree, 4 1/2-ft. Clear
This one's great if you just want a smallish one

Blue Spruce Prelit Christmas Tree
I think this one is my favorite of these artificial Christmas trees. I like Blue Spruce and this looks pretty realistic.

Christmas Tree Storage Bag
Finally, a way to keep it nice and dirt/dust free, and the carry handle makes it even more convenient.

36" Pre-lit Wall Hanging Christmas Tree
This one hangs on your wall, to add a little more festive flair to your house, or those with small spaces or grabby little kids and devilish pets might find this a very useful tree to have. It comes already lit and decorated. Ah yes.

Free Shipping on Photo Christmas Cards Discount Code from Snapfish

I have a couple of great offers from Snapfish to pass along to you. If you don't know what Snapfish is, it's a company that's a division of Hewlett Packard (HP)...they do a wonderful job printing photos! You can also order photo gift items. I think they are great and I have used them several times. Here are the links to get these deals:

Free Shipping on photo cards at Snapfish. Valid Nov. 16-22 (coupon code: GETCARDCRAZY)


30% OFF orders $30+ at Snapfish (coupon code: AFFORDER30)

Command Center for Justin Gaines search

GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. -- Family and friends of a missing Gwinnett County teen are now getting some help from a professional team of searchers.It has been two weeks since 18-year-old Justin Gaines disappeared from a Duluth bar. Thursday, dozens of volunteers scoured the area for any sign of Gaines.

Texas EquuSearch last helped find the missing grandson of an Alabama senator in Georgia. Now, they’ve set up a command center at Berkmar United Methodist Church to find Gaines.

Full story from AJC

Now from me:
Berkmar United Methodist church is on Pleasant Hill Road. The search is going on today. It started at 8:30 am. Volunteer searchers were advised to wear very warm clothes, closed-toe shoes, hats, etc. The search is being guided by the professional searchers from Texas EquuSearch, who have arrived from Texas. The founder of EquuSearch lost his own daughter in 1984, and that was the impetus for starting the search organization. It is non-profit, they do it out of the goodness of their hearts, because they have been there.

Folks on the ScanGwinnett forums are working on getting some donations of catered food, drinks, ice, etc from local businesses like Chick-Fil-A of Snellville, Frontera of Snellville, Papa John's and Pizza Hut. I think they said Frontera is donating the ice. As you can imagine, it's a big deal to feed and support a lot of hungry searchers. So if you know anyone who manages or owns a food establishment, maybe you can ask them if they can help. The location to take the things would be the Berkmar Methodist Church. I imagine they will continue to search tomorrow.

Updated information on Justin Gaines disappearance

Erica and Steve Wilson, the mother and stepfather of 18-year-old Justin Gaines, have done everything they can think of to find their son since he vanished from Wild Bill's nightclub in Duluth two weeks ago. They've organized search parties, hired a private investigator, collected $50,000 for a reward fund for his safe return and just this week set up a toll-free tip line at 1-877-270-9500.....

Gwinnett police say they have no reason to suspect Gaines was a victim of foul play, and they are still treating the disappearance as a missing-person case. The investigation has slowed over the past week because some associates of Gaines have been uncooperative, said Cpl. Illana Spellman, spokeswoman for the Gwinnett County Police Department.

Anyone with information on Gaines' whereabouts is urged to contact the department's Criminal Investigations Section at 770-513-5300

AJC Article Link

Audio Feed Frequently Updated with Newest Information (thanks Mark)

Happy Winds Day

Like the mug? Click on it for more details!

It has been very windy this morning,
made me think of Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day.

Piglet: I don't mind the leaves that are leaving. It's the leaves that are coming.

Winnie the Pooh: Happy "Winds-day", Piglet.

Piglet (being blown away) Well... it isn't... very happy... f-for me.

Winnie the Pooh: Where are you going, Piglet?

Piglet: That's what I'm asking myself, where? W-Whoops! P-P-P-Pooh!

It's time to take the brick off the gas pedal

On North Road, there is a lighted sign up to remind drivers that the Speed Limit is 30. The sign also says to Buckle Up, It's the Law.

This sign is serving as a reminder, and you can bet there will be a crack-down on speeders on North Road in coming weeks, so watch your speed there.

Since the sign's on North Road, I wish they would add scrolling instructions for how to navigate a 4-way stop. I also think the time has come to have street lights at some of the cross roads of North Road, since people have so much trouble with 4-way stops (seems simple enough to me, but it seems to baffle a lot of folks - maybe if they put the cell phone down and paid attention it would help.)

But I often think that our air quality could be better if there weren't so many 4-way stop intersections with so much traffic. Imagine all those cars starting and stopping in 4 directions, if your house was nearby. If my house was there, I'd never open the windoww of my house - we'd all be killed by carbon monoxide poisoning!

Hey, It's not called U-Haul-It-and-keep-it-as-long-as-you-want

That name would be too long...lol

The customer ain't always right

A U-Haul manager in Snellville called police after a customer screamed at him and struck him. The manager said the woman had rented a truck and agreed to return it later that day. However, the customer never showed up and didn't respond to several phone calls asking her whereabouts. Instead, the customer returned the truck the next day and acted as if nothing had happened. The manager told her there was an additional charge due to the late return. The customer became irate, called the manager racist and reached over the counter to smack him in the face. The woman refused to leave the store and continued to scream profanities. She was arrested. - AJC Link

Lost in translation products

If you like seeing the English language messed up on packaging as much as I do, you will love the site called www.Engrish.com

Just be prepared, you might end up looking at the site for a long time, and you will probably laugh out loud. This Cat Smack is one of my favorites, but I also enjoyed looking at the Chocolate Chokies cookies! The Toiletries section is full of good ones, like these Tissues.
A lot of the examples are made even funnier by the webmaster's comments, like this one.

Sarcasm backfires in email

Excerpt:
A Lawrenceville mother called for the resignation of a Gwinnett County library board member Monday, saying he dismissed her concerns regarding easy access to pornography on the system's computers.....

Brett Taylor, the only member to respond to her complaint until three weeks ago, accused her of misrepresenting what she had seen and suggested she join with him in having Internet access removed from the library entirely. In fact in an e-mail addressed to her, Hardy said, Taylor stated he didn't understand why the library bothers buying books.

"Someone with such disdain for the concerns for the public he serves has no place representing the community on our library board," she said in a packed meeting room at the Five Forks branch.

Full AJC Article

Here's my blog post about this from Monday!

Lowe's refuses to call them "Christmas trees," chooses to call them "Family trees"

I looked this email up on Snopes.com: LINK

If you look near the bottom, it tells Lowe's side of the story, which I personally think is pretty weak. They said all the Christmas trees were referenced as Family Trees as they designed the ad, and it was a proofreading error that caused them not to be changed to Christmas Trees. They say that in their television ads, the trees are called Christmas trees.

Happy Un-Sales to Lowes.

I'm still trying to get over the term X-Mas, which really should be even more offensive to Christians, because Christ's name is 'X'd' out.

Lowe's refuses to call them "Christmas trees," chooses to call them "Family trees"

In an effort to avoid the use of the term "Christmas tree," Lowe's has renamed their Christmas trees and are now calling them "Family trees."

In their Holiday 2007 catalog, containing 56 pages of Christmas gifts, Lowe's advertises hundreds of gift items, including scores of "Family trees." In fact, the word "Christmas" only appears two times in the entire holiday catalog. The ads mentioning "Christmas cover only 12 square inches of the 5236 square inches available.

Lowe's even has one of their Family trees turned upside down on a stand. We are not sure what the significance of that is.

Lowe's evidently did not want to offend any non-Christians, therefore they replaced "Christmas tree" with "Family tree." Of course, if Christians are offended that is evidently ok.

An on-line search of Lowe's does reference some "Christmas" items. In fact, a word search of their Web site gives the exact same number 174 of the word "Christmas" as it does the word "holiday." Most of the items mentioning Christmas appear to use the promotional line given by the manufacturer.

Their Holiday 2007 catalog features scores of products, including lights, wreaths, trees, and yard decorations. Most people would associate these items with Christmas, but not Lowe's! Except for two obscure references, they refer to everything in their catalog as "holiday."

Click here to see the front cover of the catalog and a page featuring their "Family trees." catalog ad.

Justin Gaines: Donations needed to increase reward

The Early County News of Blakely GA is on the Justin Gaines story. Read it here: LINK

Bloggers spread word about Justin Gaines

Because the mainstream media isn't doing it!

Bloggers in the area are helping to get the word out about Justin Gaines.
This post by the Bay Creek Homeowner's Association has very up to date information as of this writing. LINK

Even bloggers outside the Atlanta metro area are spreading word about Justin's disappearance - this blogger in Ohio links to the local Cleveland OH news station's website.

It is amazing to me that CNN Headline News is not reporting this story. I get so frustrated at news channels. If Justin was a cute blue eyed blond toddler, his photo would be all over the news, 24/7. Because he's a young man, it's felt by many that he is in control and can take charge of a situation and take care of himself.

That really is a sexist assumption. He is a teenager, and he probably needs help.

His photo(s) need to be circulated to get the word out. I have been married 22 years and I have two boys, and I guess I take it personally because Justin could very easily be my son missing, and I would like to see more done!

The official website for Justin Gaines information is http://www.JustinGaines.com

I just typed 'CNN Justin Gaines' in Google and the first two listings were MySnellvilleBlog.
Flattering to me, that I must be doing something right with this blog, but upsetting that there isn't ANY article from CNN on Justin Gaines!?!? Then I went to CNN.com and typed in Justin Gaines and it returned no results. Click Here to check again.

MRSA Staph Bacterial Infection

I feel a bit like Chicken Little-Revere, shouting "the Staph/MRSA is coming!" But I really don't think that enough about this is being told. Do you even know what I'm talking about when I say Staph and MRSA?

Why is that? Mainstream media doesn't talk about it much because it isn't "fun" news - (but they would talk about it a lot if alcohol based hand gel was an expensive product advertised on their channel!)

No, a bacterial infection that is resistant to almost all our present-day antibiotics is scary. We don't really want to hear about it, do we? It used to be that this was mainly a problem for older people, sick people, or anyone with a weak immune system. But there have been cases of perfectly healthy middle school aged children who are fine one day and the next day they're on life support. One boy finally beat the infection, after a hospital stay and several antibiotics given intravenously. He has permanently lost all hearing in one ear, but he survived.

You can read more about MRSA/Staph from this earlier blog post I did: LINK

Also check out the Centers for Disease Control's website for MRSA in the Workplace
Scroll down for pictures.

The Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences & Technology has a great infectious disease map that really deserves your attention. It is here: Health Map - Global Disease Map

On the left, under Alerts by Country, select United States. Above that, you will see a list of the outbreaks/diseases. They are automatically all selected, but go to the top of the box and select None. Then go back down the list and select MRSA and Staph. The map will pinpoint areas in the country where problems are occurring. When you click on those 'pins,' you will see links to news stories. Check a few of those out.

What can we do today? I think a very simple first step we can all do is to buy bottles of alcohol gel hand cleaner. Get a few for your house (keep out of reach of young children) and get a few to take into your child's school or daycare. They will really appreciate having this, and it is one simple way of keeping infectious problems at bay. You can get the Kroger hand gel for only about $1 each bottle. Also check the earlier post about MRSA and Staph that I wrote for tips from the CDC on reducing your risk.

MLK Day Approved for City of Snellville

Original Art Ink Dot Portrait of MLK Jr

The Snellville City Council on Monday unanimously agreed to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr.'s birthday as an official holiday.

Monday's decision will make Snellville the 11th city in Gwinnett County to honor the national observance. Members of the Gwinnett branch NAACP and residents in the city of Snellville have been pushing the city to shut down for King Day.

Previously
The Snellville City Council in September voted to gauge the cost and level of employee support for shutting down city government for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which is held on the third Monday in January. The measure was backed by Mayor Jerry Oberholtzer.

The latest
The Snellville city council voted unanimously 6-0 in favor of celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day as a city holiday.

What's next
Acting City Manager Jim Brooks will look at the options and recommend to the city council how he thinks the holiday should be paid for in the budget.

Source: AJC; Read Full Article

Internet Porn at the Gwinnett Public Library

Imagine visiting the Gwinnett Public Library with your kids. Not a strange occurrence, but imagine now a man using the Library's computers and you glance at the screen and see porn. Not just a picture, but actual film of a sexual act going on.

Well that's what happened to a visitor to the Collins Hill Library Branch* in Lawrenceville recently. She also noted that a boy about 10 years old was sitting next to the man, viewing the same webpage.

"Parents, if you're concerned about what your children see in the library, not just on the Internet or what they do in the library, the library's a public place. And so we do have to ask parents to take some responsibility,” said Boyd.

"I feel like Gwinnett has not taken that step at all to protect the children and they are hiding behind their policy,” said Hardy. AJC Article Link

Rhonda Boyd spoke on behalf of the library system, and I do understand (to a point) the problem of parents just dropping off children at a public place and not supervising them - my point of view having been shaped by working in a college library and from my eleven years working for Waldenbooks. (I could tell you some wild stories! LOL)
I also believe strongly in our First Amendment rights.

BUT, I do agree with Ms. Hardy that the library is "hiding behind their policy."
That's to be expected by most companies, and certainly by the Gwinnett Public Library, a bureaucratic government institution.

I also agree with Ms. Hardy that our taxes should not be going to pay for some guy to sit in the library and view porn. His First Amendment Rights may say he has the right to view porn, but he certainly doesn't have the right to force other people to view it as they pass by. I'm all on supporting his 'rights' as long as his rights don't infringe on anyone else's rights.

Does the Gwinnett Public Library system purchase copies of Penthouse Magazine? (I seriously doubt it)...and if they do, would they sanction someone sitting in the middle of the public library, opening the magazine centerfolds up wide where everyone passing by, even children, could see it? (again, I seriously doubt it)...and I don't see why looking at porn on the Internet in the library in full view should be any different.

Wouldn't viewing pornographic images in view of children be considered by the police under the charge of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor? If not, I just don't get it.

*Although the branch in question was the Collins Hill Library branch, it's all part of the Gwinnett County Public Library System - the same system and policies we have for libraries in Snellville.

Justin Gaines disappearance mystery

There is a website now up for help in the search for Justin Gaines, the Gwinnett 18 year old who disappeared during a night out at Wild Bill's in Duluth GA on November 1st.

The official search website of the family is www.JustinGaines.com

Other relevant links about the Justin Gaines disappearance:
(more will be added and this blog post updated as I find more)

WSB Article Online
Scan Gwinnett Forum Message Thread on Justin Gaines Search
Justin Gaines' MySpace Page

True Crime Blog - Justin Gaines

The True Crime Blog author is in Australia (I think) and I agree with him that somebody knows something about Justin. They are probably afraid to come forward, but they need to. If you know anything, you could even drop an anonymous note in the mail to the police. Anything you know about Justin might be helpful. If you know anything, it is your duty to tell.

Gwinnett County Police Department: 770-513-5300

Don't cuss at your toilet

...or anywhere near an open window, if your neighbor is a police officer.

I am just glad I don't have these neighbors! LINK

But I'm wondering why the toilet would overflow so badly. There are at least 2 easy ways to stop a toilet from overflowing. You can turn off the water at the toilet, or you can lift up the 'float,' whatever type of float your toilet might have. I have fixed a lot of toilets in my time. I should teach a class.

Kid talk

It was time to take my 4 year old son to Pre-K. We were actually early so there was no rush. I said, "well, are you ready to mosey?" My son replied with a serious face, "No, I don't have time for that, Mommy. I need to go to school!"

Find lowest gas prices in Snellville

If you are concerned about the rising gas prices, there is a site you should know about. It's called AtlantaGasPrices.com. THIS LINK will take you directly to a list of gas stations and their prices in the Snellville area.

I have also linked this on the right sidebar of this blog, below the animated driving dog.
He's so cheerful isn't he? If you look at him long enough, you might be able to forget that it takes nearly $80 to fill up your car.

There are some tips I have for you. When do I not have tips, right? LOL!

• Try to combine trips and think ahead before just jumping in the car
• Put a cooler in your car trunk, so you can buy frozen or refrigerated food on your errands and not have to come all the way back home to put it in the freezer or fridge right away.
• Gas up during the coolest part of the day (it has something to do with expansion...you'll get more for your money)

Anyone else have any tips or good websites to share? Please post a comment, we'd love to hear from you.

Photo Credit: http://www.just-stuart.com/

Justin Gaines Website

There is a website now up for help in the search for Justin Gaines, the Gwinnett 18 year old who disappeared during a night out at Wild Bill's in Duluth. The website is www.JustinGaines.com

Other relevant links about the Justin Gaines disappearance
: (more will be added and this blog post updated as I find more)

WSB Article Online
Scan Gwinnett Forum Message Thread on Justin Gaines Search
Justin Gaines' MySpace Page
True Crime Blog - Justin Gaines
Audio Feed mp3 Updated Frequently
11-27-2007 NEW BLOG POST

Enter your search terms Submit search form

Missing Loganville Teen Tammy Nelson

Tammy Nelson
Date of Birth May 4, 1992
Height 5'7", Weight 140

Tammy was last seen at the Huntington Ridge Subdivision in Loganville GA on Saturday November 10, 2007 at 11 am. Anyone with information should call Brandy Nelson at 770-466-0214 or Detective Jim Preson, Loganville Police Department, at 770-466-8087, or dial 911

UPDATE 12 November 2007 : Tammy was located at a friend's house - apparently a friend unknown to her family. Tammy is safe.

Snellville Santa Claus Rick Hyman

A Snellville resident 'fills in' for Santa Claus at Discover Mills Mall.

Rick Hyman is a retired federal employee and has been playing Santa for about 37 years now.

"It's just magic," says Santa, also known as Rick Hyman of Snellville, as he waves to families from his fanciful lair.

The jolly 61-year-old has been taking wishes from children for nearly four decades and has been at Discover Mills the past two years." ~ AJC

If you want to visit Santa Claus, you can see him at Discover Mills Mall, 5900 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville. Directions/Map

Rick (AKA Santa) says, "I learned that the suit doesn't make the Santa...Santa Claus comes from your heart - you can't do it any other way." ~ AmericanProfile.com

Hannah Montana Ticket Madness

Miley Cyrus, AKA Hannah Montana is set to perform later this month at the Gwinnett Arena. You've probably already heard about the ticket sellers grabbing up all the tickets so now they are going for astronomical prices. This AJC article about some tickets selling for over $5,000 isn't as upsetting, since the auctioning of the tickets benefited the March of Dimes. That's a worthy cause at least, but still I am shocked at all the hubbub about the Hannah Montana tickets.

I've watched the Hannah Montana show many times because my twin daughters are fans of the show, but they are almost 14 years old, so they are a little old for the concert, and even they say "it's probably all just lip-synched anyway." But even if they did care a lot about the concert, there would be no way I would pay that kind of money. Sometimes we just have to tell kids no. They need to learn that just because they want something, it doesn't mean they deserve it or will get it. There's entirely too much instant gratification going on. They need to deal with not getting everything they want.

The only way I might consider paying $5,000 and up for tickets for a concert is if John Lennon and George Harrison were resurrected and the Beatles reunited.

Cruel Halloween Pranks

I was skimming the comments in Rick Badie's AJC blog article about Halloween and found this comment. Please tell me he was joking, but this is pretty darn funny!

By Mark

November 2, 2007 11:51 AM

"As usual, I gave out ice cubes for Halloween. It’s cheap, and also fun to watch the little brats cry when the bottom of their bag gives out a few doors later."

Places for kids birthday parties Snellville GA

There are several places in and near Snellville GA that are nice for kids' birthday party celebrations.

A lot of people like CiCi's Pizza, which is in the K-Mart Shopping Center at the intersection of Hwy 78 and Wisteria. There is also a Stevie B's Pizza (also all you can eat) on Scenic Hwy/124 in Snellville. These two places do not give you a separate party room, so it can be a bit hectic, but it's affordable. If I personally was to choose between these two for a kid's party, I would choose CiCi's, because the location is easy to access and the management there has always bent over backwards to please us and other customers. I didn't get anything like that feeling at Stevie B's.

If you want an indoor jumping type activity, then a popular place is Jump Zone(Sept. 2009: now called Dream Jumpers) in Loganville GA in the Faith's Crossing Shopping Center right off of US78. It is a very nice facility, and I have been there several times for parties. Their Loganville location can be reached by phone at 404-419-6235. Separate party rooms, so you can cut off the noise and have a private birthday party - the party rooms are on same floor as play area.

There is also another indoor jumping facility called Kidz Jump 4 Joy.
Kids Jump 4 Joy is located at 2150 Paxton Drive, Lilburn GA (Hwy 78, next to Home Depot and Petsmart, near Killian Hill.) It's just between Snellville and Stone Mountain. Their phone number is 770-979-9998. Although a lot smaller in size than Jump Zone, Kids Jump 4 Joy does have an upstairs party room, which allows you to have a more quiet, private party.

If you don't mind driving a bit farther, a favorite party place is Chuck E. Cheese Pizza.
If your party is on the small side, you don't even need reservations. They have a location near the Mall of Georgia in Buford. They also have Chuck E Cheese in Conyers, Alpharetta, and on Jimmy Carter Boulevard in Norcross. Click this LINK for the list of addresses and phone numbers for Chuck E Cheese locations closest to Snellville. Chuck E Cheese has a great kid check security system, in which they stamp your child's hand with a number that matches your party. The stamp can be seen under ultraviolet light and is checked when you leave to make sure you are leaving with the right children. It's not 100% child protection, but it's a nice feature. The kids always have a blast playing all the games. It is probably the least-stress, most fun option and is still very reasonably priced.

If you are looking for something a little different, you might want to try a petting zoo type party. Theresa Russell of Pet Parties Plus offers this.

If you need a birthday cake made, there are two great bakers I know - Lorna DeShay of Create A Cake Bakery, located in the Provino's / Big Lots shopping center at Hwy 78 and Scenic Hwy. Create a Cake also offers children's cake decorating parties.

Shupan Abraham also makes great custom cakes. She is located in Lawrenceville GA and her company is called Cakes by Shupan.

If the whole idea of party planning seems overwhelming, then you can always get help! Jamilia Ervin Johnson has an event planning service called Simply Phenomenal, and Teresa Kay Milner has a business called I Run, You Play - Teresa will do all your errands for you and can be that second pair of hands.

If you have any recommendations or additions, feel free to post a comment!

UPDATE: Loganville GA near Snellville: Oasis Bowl Bowling Alley - Read Post

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Snellville Calendar Upcoming Events

Coming events and new events added to the My Snellville Blog Calendar are:

Saturday Nov 10, 2007:

• Brookwood Arts & Crafts Festival, 9 am
• Seminar for parents: how to break into show business, $35, 2 pm
  

Sunday Nov 11, 2007:

• Prayer vigil for missing Gwinnett teen Justin Gaines at Grace Fellowship Church, 9 am
• Passion test workshop, $35, 2 pm
  

See the calendar for these and other upcoming events.

How to get rid of toxic stuff

No, I'm not talking about your mother in law.

This post is for people who are too busy to read the little yellow insert that arrived inside the water bill from Gwinnett County Public Utilities. You see it as extra junk in your bill, I see it as "Yee-haw! Blog content!!!"

The timing is perfect, because the weekend in the Fall is a popular time for cleaning out of garages, where we store most of this dangerous stuff.

Examples of hazardous household wastes are:

• paints
• solvents
• batteries
• automobile fluids
• herbicides and pesticides

Do NOT:

• pour these things down the household drain
• throw in the garbage
• pour into ditches, storm drains, or gutters
• dump or bury
• burn

DO:

• use it up
• give the product to someone else who can use it (I'd use Freecycle.org)
• avoid buying hazardous products in the future

To report the illicit discharge of Household Hazardous Wastes, or any other pollutants to the storm sewer system, please call Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources 24/7 at 678-376-7000.

For information about reducing, recycling, and disposing of Household Hazardous Wastes in Gwinnett County, contact Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful at 770-822-5187 or visit the website at www.gwinnettcb.org - they can provide helpful tips and disposal locations

For general information about the disposal of HHW, consult the Guide to Best Management Practices for Household Hazardous Waste and Radon by visiting the Pollution Prevention Assistance Division (P2AD) website at www.p2ad.org

The Recount Confirmed Oberholtzer Re Elected as Mayor of Snellville

The title of this blog post says it all pretty much, but if you want to read more, here's where to go - the AJC - as usual, better reporters than I am. LOL

For those who thrive on drama, here's a tidbit:

"Garraway and his attorney said the fight wasn't over. The challenger had complained of possible ethics violations." ~ Atlanta Journal & Constitution

Oh okay you don't have to twist my arm. Here's the link. Knock yourself out. LINK

Introducing SnellvilleShops.Blogspot.com

I have a new site that will (hopefully with your help) be full of great discounts and specials from Snellville businesses. The site is www.SnellvilleShops.Blogspot.com

I just want to have a place to list discounts, specials, freebies, etc that we can get from Snellville businesses by mentioning we saw it on SnellvilleShops.Blogspot.com!

So if you know of any good deals or know someone who has a Snellville business who would like to have a special offer listed, just tell them to email me the information.

I am excited that SnellvilleShops.Blogspot.com will give us all a place to look before going out to eat, shopping for gifts, etc...to be able to support a Snellville business and family while also getting a really wonderful deal!

Car heater that plugs into cigarette lighter

Kat posted a comment to this blog and asked about the car heater I ordered. I am finally getting around to giving you my two cents about this car heater, after trying it out for about 3 days. I didn't like it the first time I used it, but I felt it would only be fair to give it some more testing.

It is enough for one person to warm his/her hands with. It can be used to defrost a 4 to 5-inch section of your windshield at a time, so it's usable and I'll keep it. I can see that on a longer trip than my usual short trips, it should heat up even more.

Now keep in mind, my car is 10 years old, and maybe my cigarette lighter doesn't work at the best capacity. I am open to that idea and user error too! If anyone knows how to clean the outlet for best results, let me know.

I also lent more weight to the Coleman brand name than I should have. Coleman has always been a good brand, so that "sold" me on the Coleman car heater faster than if it had been a no-name brand. But it's the same old 'Made In China' stuff, regardless of the brand name.

But here are some other car heaters as well as car seat covers that are heated and plug into the cigarette lighter of a car that you might want to check out:

Portable Car Heater Defroster

12 Volt 300 Watt Deluxe Car & Truck Heater

ThermTec Road Worthy Auto Heat 12V Portable Car Heater

Car-Seat Heater

Rent House or Apartment in Snellville GA

If you are looking for a house or apartment for rent in Snellville GA, here is the link to Craigslist.
I have already put in the search term for you, so this link will take you directly to only Snellville rentals. LINK

Kroger esaver paperless coupons

If you have always wanted to use coupons to save a bit of money, but you just don't want to deal with the cutting and sorting, you might enjoy this new venture between Kroger and Proctor & Gamble called e-Saver.

It works like this:

• You register at that site, putting in your Kroger Plus Shoppers Card. The Kroger Plus Card is free, if you do not have one.
  
• You select the coupons you would like pre-loaded to your card. You can print out a list of the offers if you like (I opted not to - if I end up buying any of the items it will just be a bonus.)

You don't have to print out coupons or anything - it's all on your card. So why not select every offer to be loaded to your card just in case? Right now there is $69 worth of discounts there, if you were to take advantage of every offer. I'm sure the selection process is just for their marketing purposes (ie if you click a dog food, they'll know you have a dog)

We should also be able to use a manufacturer's coupon for the same item in the same transaction, so that can really be a bargain!

This may be the way all coupons will be done in the future, if this venture is successful.
Proctor and Gamble has this deal with other grocery store chains, but Kroger is the only one in the Atlanta area.

For more information on how to save a lot of money using coupons and a lot of good couponing links, visit my Using Coupons page!

Snellville Mayoral Vote Recount

The votes for Snellville Mayor were/are being recounted. This report on the AJC is very good, I almost felt like I was actually there! LINK

I'm sure that 200 people out of the 11,000 registered voters in Snellville who actually voted are just on pins and needles. The rest are quietly enjoying their apathy.

"The count was still ongoing about 5 p.m., as a small audience of about 20 people — city and county staff, high-powered Atlanta attorneys and interested Snellville neighbors — looked on.

Garraway asked for the recount. Only 19 votes separated him from Oberholtzer at the polls. The vote Tuesday was 1,101 to 1,082.

"The law says if it less than one percent and it's a proper request, then a recount is authorized," said Snellville's interim city manager Jim Brooks.

Oberholtzer did not attend the recount. He was represented by his attorney Adam M. Walters of Powell Goldstein of Atlanta.

"Jerry is in Augusta working, he has an emergency project," explained Walters in between vote counts. "We have no problems with doing a recount." "

Your Opinion of Fruitcake?

Ask someone how they feel about fruitcake, and you'll likely get a pretty definite answer from them as to whether they love it or hate it. There's usually no middle ground on their opinion.

For me, it depends on who makes the fruitcake.

Here in Georgia, we have a company called Claxton Fruitcake Company. (It's sort of a point-of-pride that we have a company that makes fruitcakes.) Laugh all you want, but that's the way it seems to be. I'm not a big fan of fruitcakes, but I might buy this one, just because it's from Georgia. It's not my favorite fruitcake though - the Claxton Fruitcakes are rectangular ('just right for a doorstop'...oh my gosh what a terrible thing to say!) They run about $18.

When and if I eat fruitcake, I like the ones from Collin Street Bakery of Corsicana, Texas.
It's sort of a family tradition, because Grandma Anderson used to send them every year. After she passed away, (it was a non-fruitcake-related death) my mother started sending them.

Collin Street Bakery has been making their DeLuxe Fruitcake since 1896, never veering from their original recipe. Why mess with a good thing?
If fruitcake isn't your thing, they have all kinds of other cakes - pecan cake, apple cinnamon pecan cake, pineapple pecan cake, etc. The DuLuxe Fruitcake is about $22 and comes in a beautiful round decorated tin. One of my favorite things about it is that the cake part is just delicious, and the pecans are never bitter. It makes a gorgeous presentation but I still can't get my kids to eat it (picky)

A little Georgia trivia for you, we pronounce pecan as "pea-CAN"... up North, it's often pronounced "p'cawn," but I think in Texas, it's a combination of the Northern and the Southern and comes out as "pea-cawn"

Oops - I went off on a tangent there.

Here's more information about fruitcakes, the tradition and origin of fruitcakes, from Merry-Christmas.com:

"Like many Christmas traditions, the idea of giving fruitcakes as gifts is thought to have originated in ancient times. No one ever recorded who took the first cake and added fruit, honey, nuts, and alcohol to make an edible gift for their family, but records indicate that this tradition was occurring in Rome prior to the birth of Jesus (B.C.).

One of the main reasons fruitcakes were given as gifts in early times is that the ingredients combined in such a way as to greatly reduce the spoiling of this food. This was a huge advantage when the average family had very little control over their food supply, and allowed people to travel longer distances since they could carry a food supply with them that would not spoil.

The fruitcake as we know it today evolved from plum cake recipes in England. It became a natural food to have for holiday celebrations, since it could be made in advance (sometimes many months in advance) and then families could be prepared to give their visitors a treat."

GIVEAWAY: 50 coupons, TAKEN

UPDATE: The coupons have been claimed by D.K. of Snellville. They'll be in the mail tomorrow. Thanks for reading www.MySnellvilleBlog.com!

I have another envelope full of manufacturer's coupons - this time there are at least 50 coupons. They are all good coupons, I just can't use them and want them to go to someone in Snellville who would like them.

No catch, and I love to have blog visitors from everywhere, but this time they are only going to go to someone with a Snellville mailing address. So if you live in Snellville and would like these coupons, just email me with your name and address and I'll get them in the mail to you right away!

Related links:

• How to save the most money using coupons
• Where to find the store's sale circulars online
• Where to print free manufacturer's coupons online
• Get someone else to clip coupons for you

Who is Tod Warner?

Want to know more about Tod Warner, who is now on the Snellville City Council? He was unapposed. This Article in the AJC Snellville Talk Blog is pretty thorough. I like that.

No need for me to interview anyone, or basically do any work at all. All I need to do is send you the link. Ah, life is good when you have bronchitis and are lazy like me.

Most of all, I like that Susan Gast spelled his name right. I have seen it wrong all over the place.
It's Tod, not Todd.

People at the door

ahermitt, our Lawrenceville Blogger AKA Nosy Neighbor, had this recent post about people coming to the door. She talked about evangelists talking to her 13 year old son while she was in the shower!

How do you feel about strangers coming to your door? I agree with ahermitt, that there was a time when I felt more comfortable opening my door, but now if someone comes to the door that I'm not expecting, I talk to them through the window of my door. I can see and hear them fine, and vice versa, so it may seem overly paranoid, but there's no reason to open the door really.

I will never hire someone to do home repair who comes up to my door. To me, it's too much of a risk. I don't care how good the "deal" is. I prefer to pay full price for a quality job by an insured person or company. The guy always talks a good spin "we just wanted you to know that we'll be doing some work in your neighborhood...." and, "oh no, we're not trying to SELL anything....we're just trying to let you know about our services..."

My standard answer is, I don't buy anything door to door. If you would like to mail me some of your materials, I'll be glad to look it over.

ahermitt's article talks about the door to door evangelists. They can be a pain sometimes, and if you do take a publication, it's kind of like feeding a cat - they'll be at your door again and again.
My aunt was a Jehovah's Witness, so I know the point of view they have - their belief is that, if your neighbor's house was on fire, you would do anything you could to tell them to save them, even if they shut you out. So that is part of the reason they are so insistant, and let's face it - if you are not a Jehovah's Witness, it can be irritating, but once I understood the reasoning, it made it less irritating to me.

If you want to repel visitors from your doorstep, a "Shh...Baby's Sleeping" sign is more effective and kinder than a "No Soliciting" sign, and a No Soliciting sign means nothing to people who are evangelizing. I will probably have my "Shhh...Baby's Sleeping" sign on my door even when my baby is 45 years old!

Joyful Movement Class for Women at Snellville Senior Center

Joyful Movement, a 6 week course, started November 6th at the Snellville Senior Center. Set to international music, this gentle dance class for women combines stretching with yoga and ballet, strengthening with weighted balls and lyrical dancing with scarves. You will need a mat, a 3 lb weighted ball, socks and comfortable clothes. (Some balls and mats may be available in class)

Cost is $10 for Snellville Senior Center members and $15 for guests. Tuesdays from 11 am to 12 pm.

Snellville Keenagers Club Seeking Donations for Flea Market

The Snellville Keenagers Club is having its 1st Annual Craft Show on Saturday November 17, 2007. There will be a bake sale, flea market, and they will be selling lunch. See the MySnellvilleBlog Calendar for all the event details.

They are seeking donations for the flea market, so this is a great time to clean out your closets, attic, and garage and donate any good condition items for the Keenagers to sell in their fundraising efforts.

You can drop off your donations at the Snellville Senior Center on Friday November 16th, between 9 am and 4 pm.

Snellville Senior Center Memberships

Did you know that you can get a membership to the Snellville Senior Center when you are only age 49? I was surprised - I thought we would have to be much older to join. I'm not old enough yet, but I'm so excited to not be old enough for something!

The Snellville Senior Center has all kinds of activities, it's not about sitting around knitting doilies!

Wayne Sanders, the Program Assistant, gave me the Senior Center calendar for November, and I will probably get carpal tunnel syndrome once I get everything from it put into the MySnellvilleBlog calendar!

If you are 49 or older, or, you are going to turn 49 this year - you need to check out everything the Senior Center has to offer. If you have been thinking about a cruise to Hawaii or Alaska, you can join the Senior Center and get some fantastic group discounts!

Membership fee for Senior Center in 2008 is $25 per person; City Limit Residents can join for only $15 per person. Additional persons in same household receive a $5 discount. Volunteers who work more than 25 hours from the previous year pay only $5 per person. Membership runs from January through December.

The senior center is at 2350 Oak Road, Snellville, right next to the Snellville City Hall.
Why not stop by and pick up a newsletter and see everything they have to offer?

Contact information for the Snellville Senior Center:

Kathi Clotfelter, Program Supervisor - email: kclotfelter [AT] snellville.org
Wayne Sanders, Program Assistant - wsanders [AT] snellville.org
Phone number: 770-985-3580, 9 am - 4 pm

Giveaway - 75 Coupons - TAKEN

I have an envelope full of 75 manufacturer's coupons here, and I will send them free to the first person to (coupons have been taken) with their mailing address and tell me they want it!

There's all kinds of coupons in it, even some restaurant coupons. No catch, I just can't use them and I want to give them to someone who can.

Related links:

• How to save the most money using coupons
• Where to find the store's sale circulars online
• Where to print free manufacturer's coupons online
• Get someone else to clip coupons for you

UPDATE: the coupons have been claimed by L.A. of Newburgh, Indiana! Enjoy them!

Who won the Snellville Mayoral and City Council elections?

Jerry Oberholtzer has won re-election as Mayor of Snellville. It was a very close race - Mayor Jerry Oberholtzer had 1,101 votes and Bruce Garraway had 1,082.

For Snellville City Council Post 1, Kelly Kautz was the victor, with 1,230 votes. Marilyn Swinney had a decent showing with 951 votes.

If you would like more data, as well as election results for other counties, see this LINK

The Mayor's race was so tight that there could possibly be a recount. Here are some recent articles about the Snellville election:

Snellville Mayor retains his seat - AJC

ELECTION 2007: Recount likely in 19 vote win - AJC

Trivia tidbit: Snellville has 11,000 registered voters and only 20% showed up to vote

Of note: Loganville voters approved the liquor by the drink referendum. LINK
"I feel that the public has spoken about what they want," said city councilman Chuck Bagley, who has helped to rally support for the referendum. "They really saw it as an economic issue, not an alcohol issue.".....

..... "Neal Byrd, a realtor, said he was relieved that the grassroots fight against it didn't work this time. He stood on a corner rallying votes for the "economic development tool" early Tuesday morning.

Already, there is talk of new restaurants moving to Loganville now that the referendum has passed, said Byrd."

Snellville Election Results 2007

I don't have any information at this time (7:41 pm) about who has won the Snellville elections yet, but when I find out I'll be sure to post the data here. The Atlanta Journal & Constitution has a special page for the elections HERE....and I believe that is the webpage to watch.

I also expect that it will be posted on this page of the City of Snellville's official website when the results are available.


AJC Excerpts:

"In Snellville, where challenger Bruce Garraway is trying to defeat incumbent Mayor Jerry Oberholtzer, interim city manager Jim Brooks said the day's voting went like clockwork.

"The turnout, by all accounts, is above average," he said." LINK

95 year old blogger

I just read about this Spanish lady who is 95 years old, and she's quite the blogger. She's turned into a cyber celebrity! This interview is so nice: LINK

....and due to the publicity, check out her blog visitor map! I have never seen a map like this so filled up! LINK

We hear a lot of stories about how harmful the Internet is, and I know it can be - but this shows how it can ease isolation and bring people of all ages closer together.

Proof that I am a twit

I'm kind of embarrassed that this is my blog's reading level - I guess I should assist the facilitation of efficacious communication by leveraging multilingual platforms, ergo subsequently resulting in an influx of expeditious enterprise which defracts the subvectoring of effective eCommerce capitalization techniques in the future,
Dangit.

Special thanks and more impressive woids here LINK

Snellville Elections Today

Well it's that day.
Time to go and vote at Snellville City Hall. The polls are open until 7 pm.

If you need to visit the candidate's websites or check out some other links relating to the vote, see this page: LINK

I hope you will find it helpful.

I have some snarky comments to make about some of my recent recorded phone calls from candidates and their wives, but I'll keep them to myself since it's election day. Enjoy it, I don't keep snide comments to myself very often so this is a special day.

Antibiotic Resistant "Superbug" Staph Infection Deaths May Surpass AIDS Death Toll

I was just looking up the Superbug called MRSA, and it's creepy that they knew this much about it 3 years ago (the date of the article is 2004) and yet, here we are in trouble with it...if you read the whole article it's really good, but shows how the drug manufacturers are just out to make a buck and not really caring about peoples' welfare...very scary that we have a looming problem on our hands. I know that to me, it's been sort of frightening and I've sort of avoided learning more about it, but I think we should get educated to protect ourselves.

If you only have time to read or listen to one, I suggest the 2nd, highlighted link below.

60 Minutes Article from 2004

CDC Podcast on Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA)

October 2007: Superbug in McDonough GA Henry County Schools

Experts: Drug Resistant Staph Deaths May Surpass AIDS Toll

Tips from the CDC Podcast on how to protect yourself:

• Use good hygeine, wash hands often or use alcohol based hand gels.
• If you participate in sports, shower immediately afterward.
• Keep all cuts and abrasions covered with clean bandages until healed.
• Avoid sharing of items that involve direct skin-to-skin contact, like towels and razors.
• If you use weight training or exercise machines, use a towel as a barrier between your body and the equipment.
• Surfaces that come into contact with skin regularly should be cleaned well.
  

These tips apply to households and businesses...the CDC specifically mentioned households as a place of risk. I'm stocked up on Lysol wipes but I really should get crackin' and using them more!

UPDATE 8 November 2007: here is a map of health issues and infectious disease outbreak 'hot spots'
Select North America and then on the side area you can select which disease you would like to track. Staph is on the list. LINK

Nancy Grace gives birth to twins

ATLANTA (AP) — Nancy Grace is now the mother of twins, after doctors induced labor two months before her due date. Grace, host of legal affairs talk show "Nancy Grace" on CNN Headline News, gave birth to a boy, John David, and a girl, Lucy Elizabeth, on Sunday, said CNN spokeswoman Janine Iamunno.

John David weighed 5 pounds, 1 ounce, and Lucy Elizabeth weighed 2 pounds, 15 ounces at birth.

Grace, 48, had developed pulmonary edema — fluid in the lungs — and doctors told her it would be better for her health, and that of the children, if labor was induced, CNN said.

Iamunno said Monday that Grace and the children are doing well.

Grace, a former prosecutor with the Fulton County District Attorney's office, plans to return to hosting her CNN show as soon as possible, Iamunno said.

Grace's husband, David Linch, is an Atlanta investment banker.

LINK

Welcome to the twins club! My twins are almost 14 now. I have always wondered what it would have been like if we had a nanny and a housekeeper. But, never could afford that. It's cost me my sanity, I guess you can tell.

Do you know "Slim?" ... Rules for young men

A group of 3 young men (allegedly Brookwood football players) took a joy ride (aka "allegedly" stole) a car belonging to a Ms. Cundiff, ran down Mr. Boring's fence, and yet nobody has been charged with a crime as of the date of this news report: LINK

Two of the boys were caught, and they say they don't know "Slim's" real name.
Mr. Boring has put up a sign to announce why the fence is damaged.

He's fed up that kids seem to be running wild.

Rule number one for young men (or any kids)

...you DON'T GET IN A CAR WITH SOMEONE YOU BARELY KNOW, OR ONLY KNOW HIS/HER NICKNAME!

you DON'T GET IN A CAR WITH SOMEONE YOU BARELY KNOW, OR ONLY KNOW HIS/HER NICKNAME!

you DON'T GET IN A CAR WITH SOMEONE YOU BARELY KNOW, OR ONLY KNOW HIS/HER NICKNAME!

you DON'T GET IN A CAR WITH SOMEONE YOU BARELY KNOW, OR ONLY KNOW HIS/HER NICKNAME!

Sick person finally gives in

I finally crumpled and went to the doctor today. I decided to give Reagan Medical Center (on Five Forks Trickum near Ronald Reagan Parkway) a try, because I had heard good things, but also because I realized I could get there and be seen in the amount of time it would take me to just get through the voice mail tree of my regular physician!

I was feeling so much better, but last night and this morning, I had difficulty swallowing. I knew that was not a good sign. Sometimes when you can't swallow easily, it's a sign of Strep. Luckily it turns out I don't have strep. I have pharyngitis and bronchitis. I'm now on Augmentin, a huge antibiotic pill. I can't resist finding it funny that they give a huge pill like that to someone who's having trouble swallowing.

Have you ever wondered why strep is a concern? I did, so I looked it up. It's because it's a bacterial infection and it can damage your heart valves if you have strep and it's left untreated.
There was something else, but I forget (maybe it was forgetfulness?)

I am so stubborn - I should have gone earlier. I don't even have the cost of going to the doctor as an excuse. I have a $15 copay! I'm just a hard-head.

Anyway, I really liked Reagan Medical. I saw the Physician's Assistant there.

Well I'm going to fix some brownies now. And then I plan to eat them.

My art in another book!

I received word yesterday from Renee Mallett, an author, that at least one - but perhaps two of my artworks appear in a new book called Fairies, Mermaids, and Other Mystical Creatures (Schiffer Publishing) ... click the book title and you can see the book on Schiffer Publishing's website.

I was very excited to submit work for this book, because I know Schiffer Publishing from my days working for Waldenbooks and I know they only make very high quality books. Schiffer is mainly known for their military history books.


If you want to order or pick up a copy in a bookstore, then an easy way to order is to use this ISBN 9780764328039 ... that's all you need usually. They can look up the book by that number. When it is available from more sources, I'll link it here. It has an official publication date of December 2007 and retail price of $29.95. Barnes and Noble's website shows a discounted price.

My Website

John Cebuly Information

I use a hitcounter for this blog through Sitemeter and I noticed a lot of hits to this blog due to searches for John Cebuly. I did a search, because I didn't recognize the name and I knew I hadn't blogged about him, yet search engines are sending people here for his information, apparently because he was formerly from Snellville but died on October 30, 2007 in Ohio.

So this post is primarily a public service announcement, to help friends and family who might be looking for this information. My condolences during this difficult time, and the link below will give you the information you are looking for.

John Cebuly Funeral Information
Memories from a friend of John Cebuly

Fall Out Boy Concert Gwinnett Arena Duluth GA

My twin daughters turn 14 near the end of this month, so last night I took them, along with one of their friends, to the Fall Out Boy concert at the Gwinnett Arena. Opening acts were the Plain White T's and rap group Gym Class Heroes (they're the ones who have the song called Cupid's Chokehold, that samples Supertramp's Breakfast in America. Original and still best, in my opinion.

I had never been to the Gwinnett Arena before. They were very efficient and it's a nice place. Clean bathrooms. I should know, I was in them twice LOL....I would definitely go to the Gwinnett Arena for a concert again.

I think the last time I went to a rock concert was in about 1986...it was Sting, in Savannah GA...and I think it was the Dream of the Blue Turtles tour.

A lot has changed since then...the security level first of all - the Fall Out Boy concert involved metal detector wanding and bag searches. No chain jewelry, no chains connected to your key rings, no large purses, no food, and of course - no drugs, no alcohol, no guns.

As I had my bag checked, one of the security guys asked me, "how did you end up here? Did you lose a bet or something?!?"

Another thing that has changed is nobody waves their lighter in the air anymore - they wave their cell phones. It's a lot safer than the lighters and can look just as cool, but that was a little strange to see.

FOB (Fall Out Boy) also invited people to post a text message to them to be 'crawled' across the two sidescreens. The messages ranged from the typical "FOB Pete Wentz will you marry me?" to "Kristal I don't love you David" (some punctuation would be helpful in some of the messages!) One message that had everyone laughing was "Meredith, I love you. Meet me under the stage in 10 minutes. j"

As I watched the Plain White T's and Gym Class Heroes, I thought to myself how the stage production hasn't really changed that much. I really thought it would have advanced a LOT since my last concert...but it seemed not very advanced or different.

But when Fall Out Boy came out, it was a whole different thing. Torches in the back of the stage blasted so fast and tall that we could feel the heat from it all the way in our seats in the mid-level, section 119. They shot off gunpowder...and each song had lighting in different colors. One time in rainbow colors that went over the crowd at ground level. I saw at least 4 people get carried off from being overcome in the crowd down there. Three of those people had trouble right after the crush of excitement when Fall Out Boy came on the stage.

I looked over at my daughters and their friend, and they looked just like the films you've seen of the Beatles when they first came to America and the girls went wild. They were all screaming their heads off at a high pitch and my daughter was pulling at her hair on each side. No kidding, it looked like Beatlemania!

If you are over 40 like me, or sensitive to noise, I recommend you take some earplugs though...it was all very loud! But in the end, it was the kids who wanted to leave early!

A major negative of the concert from a mom's point of view is, all of the band front men liked to use the "F-word" a lot. After it was used in the most insignificant way possible for the 20 thousandth time, I realized that they were just doing that because it shocks the parents and if it shocks the parents, the kids really love it. So I stopped being shocked and just smirked at how stupid that was.

Oh yes, and my daughter just came in here and I told her I was blogging about the Fall Out Boy concert, and it is of earth shattering importance to her that I tell y'all that Pete Wentz's ankle is broken. Ok so there I told you.

Fire Weather Watch, Gwinnett County

Fire Weather Watch

Issue Date: 1040 AM EDT FRI NOV 02 2007
Expiration: 645 PM EDT FRI NOV 02 2007

GAZ001>009-011>016-019>025-027-030>039-041>062-066>076-078>086-
089>098-102>113-022245-
/O.CON.KFFC.FW.A.0032.071103T1600Z-071103T2300Z/
DADE-WALKER-CATOOSA-WHITFIELD-MURRAY-FANNIN-GILMER-UNION-TOWNS-
CHATTOOGA-GORDON-PICKENS-DAWSON-LUMPKIN-WHITE-FLOYD-BARTOW-
CHEROKEE-FORSYTH-HALL-BANKS-JACKSON-MADISON-POLK-PAULDING-COBB-
NORTH FULTON-GWINNETT-BARROW-CLARKE-OCONEE-OGLETHORPE-WILKES-
HARALSON-CARROLL-DOUGLAS-SOUTH FULTON-DEKALB-ROCKDALE-WALTON-
NEWTON-MORGAN-GREENE-TALIAFERRO-HEARD-COWETA-FAYETTE-CLAYTON-
SPALDING-HENRY-BUTTS-JASPER-PUTNAM-HANCOCK-WARREN-TROUP-
MERIWETHER-PIKE-UPSON-LAMAR-MONROE-JONES-BALDWIN-WASHINGTON-
GLASCOCK-JEFFERSON-HARRIS-TALBOT-TAYLOR-CRAWFORD-BIBB-TWIGGS-
WILKINSON-JOHNSON-EMANUEL-MUSCOGEE-CHATTAHOOCHEE-MARION-SCHLEY-
MACON-PEACH-HOUSTON-BLECKLEY-LAURENS-TREUTLEN-STEWART-WEBSTER-
SUMTER-DOOLY-CRISP-PULASKI-WILCOX-DODGE-TELFAIR-WHEELER-
MONTGOMERY-TOOMBS-
1037 AM EDT FRI NOV 2 2007

...FIRE WEATHER WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY AFTERNOON
THROUGH SATURDAY EVENING...

A FIRE WEATHER WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM SATURDAY AFTERNOON
THROUGH SATURDAY EVENING FOR ALL OF NORTH AND CENTRAL GEORGIA DUE
TO LOW RELATIVE HUMIDITY AND LOW FUEL MOISTURE VALUES..

THIS WATCH INCLUDES THE CHATTAHOOCHEE AND OCONEE NATIONAL
FORESTS.

DRY FUEL MOISTURE CONDITIONS WILL COMBINE WITH 25 PERCENT OR LESS
RELATIVE HUMIDITY AND WINDS OF 10 MPH TO POSSIBLY CREATE
DANGEROUS FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS ON SATURDAY.

A FIRE WEATHER WATCH MEANS THAT THERE IS HIGH POTENTIAL FOR THE
DEVELOPMENT OF A RED FLAG EVENT IN 12 TO 72 HOURS. LISTEN FOR
LATER FORECASTS AND POSSIBLE RED FLAG WARNINGS.

PLEASE ADVISE THE APPROPRIATE OFFICIALS OR FIRE CREWS IN THE
FIELD OF THE FIRE WEATHER WATCH.

Donations needed for harvest festival

Snellville United Methodist Church is seeking donations from individuals and businesses to use for their live and silent auction at their 61st Annual Harvest Festival on Saturday, November 17, 2007 from 5 pm to 7 pm.

I'm sure if you want to donate something, they will want to hear from you right away. This is a nice way to promote your business and it should qualify as a tax deductible donation.

Proceeds for the event "will enhance children's worship services with new state-of-the-art technology, continue to remodel our facilities to accommodate our growing number of children and youth, provide scholarship opportunities for summer music camps, and fully launch our community concert series with well-established artists."

They are seeking donations of:

• Gift certificates
• Homemade items
• Home baked goods
• Theme baskets
• Furniture
• Collectibles
• Your vacation home for a week or weekend
• Business services
• Sports memorabilia
• Other goods and services

If you have anything to donate, please contact Lisa Gilbreath at 678-430-6015 or email Lisa at lgilbreath[AT]snellvilleumc.org

Along with the auctions, the church will have Catered Dinner and Entertainment. Tickets are $5 per person. Childcare will be available for infants through 5th Grade. Cost per child is $5 with a $15 per family maximum. This cost includes dinner. It is recommended that you reserve your seat early.

Getting a Georgia Driver's License

If you're new to Snellville, you may wonder how you go about getting a Georgia driver's license.

You need to get a Georgia driver's license within 30 days of establishing residency.
Even if you have a valid out of state license, you will need to take an eye exam and have legal documentation of your name, date of birth and proof of Georgia residency.

Once you get your Georgia driver's license, it is good for 4 years. A general driver's license (for driving passenger car) is $15 and a learner's permit is $10. They accept CASH only. (You will need to VERIFY this information is current)

Georgia driver's licenses are issued by the state at different locations. If you have a valid out of state license or just need a renewal of your Georgia license, you can go to satellite offices that are located in certain Kroger stores. In the past, I know I have used a location that is in the Kroger store at US78 and Killian Hill Road in Snellville. I'm not 100% sure that it's still there, so call 678-413-8400 if you need information.

For information on Georgia driver's licenses, contact the Georgia Department of Motor Vehicle Safety at 678-413-8400 or visit their website.

Old Lutheran goes undercover at Catholic church event

Did you do anything for Halloween?
We went to the 'trunk or treat' event at St Oliver's Catholic Church for the first time.
The weather was wonderful and the people were great. They've totally gotten over Luther's 95 thesis thing. LOL

A trunk or treat is basically trick or treating, but church members park their vehicles and have their trunks/hatchbacks etc decorated. I don't think I'll ever take my kids door to door again, this was so much more fun, because everyone involved wanted to be there, and I didn't have to be so concerned about candy safety or traffic!

I put a few photos here : LINK